New Public Safety and Forensics Institute Opens at MSSU in Missouri
On February 26, 2026, Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) proudly marked a significant advancement in educational facilities catering to law enforcement and forensic science with the grand opening of its new Public Safety and Forensics Institute. The event took place at the Mills Anderson Justice Center, where university faculty, students, and community leaders gathered to celebrate this milestone meant to enhance the region's public safety education and workforce readiness.
Dr. Tim Wilson, MSSU’s Emergency Manager and Chair of Justice Studies, led the ceremony by highlighting how this state-of-the-art facility embodies the university's commitment to immersive learning. During his opening remarks, Dr. Wilson emphasized that the institute will play a vital role in not only educating students but also bolstering Missouri’s public safety workforce. Following his address, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, giving attendees the chance to explore the advanced features of the new facility.
"Our students aren't just learning about public safety and forensic science; they are actively engaging with real-world scenarios in an environment equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology," said Dr. Wilson. "This immersive experience is essential for their transition into the workforce."
The Public Safety and Forensics Institute is designed with multiple advanced laboratories tailored for students training in both public safety and forensic science. One notable feature is an alternate light source lab, which allows students to detect and analyze critical evidence like bodily fluids and trace materials effectively. Additionally, a crime scene scanning lab is equipped with the latest digital imaging and 3D scanning technologies, facilitating comprehensive crime scene documentation and reconstruction.
Further enhancing the educational experience, the facility includes a specialized lab dedicated to unmanned aircraft systems, where students learn to operate drones for various applications such as documenting crime scenes, conducting search and rescue missions, and assisting in accident investigations. An impaired driving investigation lab is also part of the institute; it teaches students about utilizing new oral fluid detection technology aimed at identifying drug impairment in drivers, thus keeping the community safe.
Students have access to various resources at the institute, including a fingerprint scanning lab and ballistics comparison tools, enabling them to analyze firearms evidence and match bullet and cartridge markings. Each of these elements contributes to a rigorous academic curriculum that prepares graduates for successful careers in law enforcement and forensic science.
The establishment of the Public Safety and Forensics Institute was made possible through the MoExcels workforce development grant program from the State of Missouri, alongside matching support from MSSU. "We are incredibly thankful to the State for their investment through the MoExcels program," remarked MSSU President Dr. Dean Van Galen. "The opening of this institute will provide transformative learning experiences for our students and further solidify the university's leadership in immersive learning across the state."
For those keen on pursuing a career in Justice Studies and benefiting from innovative learning initiatives, MSSU invites you to explore its programs further by visiting mssu.edu. This new institute is not just a building; it's a testament to the university's commitment to creating a safer community through education and advanced training in the fields of public safety and forensic science.
Dr. Tim Wilson, MSSU’s Emergency Manager and Chair of Justice Studies, led the ceremony by highlighting how this state-of-the-art facility embodies the university's commitment to immersive learning. During his opening remarks, Dr. Wilson emphasized that the institute will play a vital role in not only educating students but also bolstering Missouri’s public safety workforce. Following his address, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place, giving attendees the chance to explore the advanced features of the new facility.
"Our students aren't just learning about public safety and forensic science; they are actively engaging with real-world scenarios in an environment equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology," said Dr. Wilson. "This immersive experience is essential for their transition into the workforce."
The Public Safety and Forensics Institute is designed with multiple advanced laboratories tailored for students training in both public safety and forensic science. One notable feature is an alternate light source lab, which allows students to detect and analyze critical evidence like bodily fluids and trace materials effectively. Additionally, a crime scene scanning lab is equipped with the latest digital imaging and 3D scanning technologies, facilitating comprehensive crime scene documentation and reconstruction.
Further enhancing the educational experience, the facility includes a specialized lab dedicated to unmanned aircraft systems, where students learn to operate drones for various applications such as documenting crime scenes, conducting search and rescue missions, and assisting in accident investigations. An impaired driving investigation lab is also part of the institute; it teaches students about utilizing new oral fluid detection technology aimed at identifying drug impairment in drivers, thus keeping the community safe.
Students have access to various resources at the institute, including a fingerprint scanning lab and ballistics comparison tools, enabling them to analyze firearms evidence and match bullet and cartridge markings. Each of these elements contributes to a rigorous academic curriculum that prepares graduates for successful careers in law enforcement and forensic science.
The establishment of the Public Safety and Forensics Institute was made possible through the MoExcels workforce development grant program from the State of Missouri, alongside matching support from MSSU. "We are incredibly thankful to the State for their investment through the MoExcels program," remarked MSSU President Dr. Dean Van Galen. "The opening of this institute will provide transformative learning experiences for our students and further solidify the university's leadership in immersive learning across the state."
For those keen on pursuing a career in Justice Studies and benefiting from innovative learning initiatives, MSSU invites you to explore its programs further by visiting mssu.edu. This new institute is not just a building; it's a testament to the university's commitment to creating a safer community through education and advanced training in the fields of public safety and forensic science.
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