Crime Scene Unit Internship

Spring is here, bringing new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and the start of another college semester. The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office is proud to enter its fourth semester of the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) Internship Program, and we are looking forward to another successful term as we head into summer.

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office college internship program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience within the Crime Scene Unit. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in real-world investigations while learning the fundamentals of crime scene processing, including evidence collection, documentation, and proper handling procedures. Students will also gain an understanding of how evidence is submitted to the North Carolina State Crime Laboratory for analysis.

Throughout the internship, students may assist with a variety of cases, including residential and commercial breaking and entering, assaults, drug-related offenses, property crimes, and death investigations. This program offers valuable, practical experience for those pursuing a career in crime scene investigation or related fields.

Application Timeline

The internship application will close on April 22, 2026. All required materials must be submitted to the Crime Scene Unit Supervisor by May 1, 2026, to be considered for the Summer 2026 semester.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age
  2. Be currently enrolled in a four-year degree program
  3. Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
  4. Be a law-abiding citizen of high moral character and integrity
  5. Maintain a favorable credit history
  6. Have working knowledge of word processing and basic computer programs
  7. Be enrolled in an accredited North Carolina college or university, or be a North Carolina resident attending an equivalent institution out of state

Program Details

At this time, the Crime Scene Unit will select one intern for the Summer 2026 semester. The selection process is competitive, with preference given to well-rounded, highly qualified applicants.

This is an unpaid internship offered in either:

  1. Full-time (30 hours per week), or
  2. Part-time (16 hours per week)

Work schedules are flexible and designed to accommodate academic commitments.

Additional Required Forms

In addition to the online application, applicants must submit the two forms linked below. Using the buttons, please download these forms and enter your information. At the end of the online application, there will be a space to upload the completed forms.

Internship Application:

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Pre-Screening Questions

Have you ever committed, been charged or convicted of a felony?*
Have you ever committed, been charged or convicted of a DWI in the past five (5) years?*
Have you used marijuana within the past two (2) years?*
Have you ever committed, been charged or convicted of four (4) or more misdemeanor crimes in the past?*
Have you committed, been charged, or convicted of any SERIOUS misdemeanors within the past five (5) years?*

Required Documentation for Internship Consideration

  • Cover Letter; this letter needs to include the reason why you are interested in the Internship program at the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office and why you chose our agency. Attached to the cover letter you will need three academic references.
  • Internship Application must be completely accurate; false statements may cause application process to be discontinued
  • Release of Personal Information
  • Criminal Records Release of Information.
  • Driver's License
  • Social Security Card
  • Birth Certificate and/or Certificate of Naturalization
  • College/University Transcript.

Internship Responsibilities

Internship Responsibilities of the Student Intern:
As the student intern enters the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office he/she is expected to assume, as much as possible, the role of a regular staff member. These responsibilities include:
1. Adhering to company work hours, policies, procedures and rules governing professional staff behavior.
2. Adhering to company policies governing the observation of confidentiality and the handling of confidential information.
3. Assuming personal and professional responsibilities for his/her actions and activities.
4. Maintaining professional relationships with department employees, county public and so forth.
5. Utilizing a courteous, enthusiastic, open minded, and critical approach to policies and procedures within the profession.
6. Relating and applying knowledge acquired in the academic setting to the sheriff’s office setting.
7. Developing a self-awareness in regard to attitudes, values, behavior patterns, and so forth that influence work.
8. Preparing for and utilizing conferences and other opportunities of learning afforded in the sheriff’s office.
9. 9. Being consistent and punctual in the submission of all work assignments to the Crime Scene Unit Supervisor.
10. To follow guidelines set forth by the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Dress Code by presenting myself in an orderly and professional manner. Dress appearance will be clean, free of wrinkles and worn neatly at all times. Faded, worn, damaged, or tight-fitting clothing is not permissible. Either business casual or BDU pants with a collared shirt will be dependent upon the activities scheduled for the day.
Student Signature
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Frequently Asked Questions

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