Murder Mystery Project: A Hands-On Forensic Science Challenge

The Dual Credit courses in Advanced Biological Principles and Anatomy and Physiology recently took on an exciting two-week project designed to stretch their critical thinking, analytical skills, and collaboration. Students tackled a staged Murder Mystery, where they became forensic scientists investigating a crime scene.

The project began with a simulated crime scene, where students collected evidence and analyzed it through complex laboratory tests. These tests were conducted on both the crime scene evidence and additional samples collected from the suspects’ rooms. The suspects—played by staff members from the office, Student Services, IT department, and teaching staff—enthusiastically joined the fun, adding intrigue and authenticity to the experience. This annual event has become a highlight for staff, who love getting into character and providing students with challenging, real-world scenarios.

Students didn’t just rely on scientific tests; they had to think critically to develop questions and interview the suspects. Each response was compared against their lab findings to determine the suspect’s means, motive, and opportunity.

The project culminated in an immersive final presentation. Each student team acted as if they were presenting their findings to a grand jury, working collaboratively to ensure every member played an integral role. They were tasked with laying out their evidence clearly and convincingly, imitating the professionalism of official investigators seeking an arrest warrant. Students carefully detailed their lab results, interview responses, and logical conclusions to establish a solid case against one individual suspect. Their presentation required not only reliability and accuracy but also enough persuasiveness to leave no doubt in their teacher’s mind about the guilt of their chosen suspect.

This interactive project showcased the rigor and challenge of these Dual Credit courses, blending biology, forensic science, and real-world problem-solving. Not only did students gain deeper insights into the scientific process, but they also strengthened their public speaking, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

The Murder Mystery Project exemplifies how we prepare students for college-level coursework while engaging them in hands-on, applied learning experiences—and it’s an event that both students and staff look forward to every year!