Course Overview
This course will introduce you to geographic information systems (GIS) and discuss how GIS software programs can be used for crime investigation and intelligence analysis. Even if you have no experience with GIS software applications, you will learn how to create a basic map. You will explore the various applications of GIS in both crime analysis and intelligence analysis. Using that information, you will then create intermediate-level maps that are commonly used in crime investigations and intelligence analysis. The course includes various exercises to help you learn how to use visualization and spatial analysis technologies in order to detect criminal patterns and to forecast the probability, time, and location of future criminal events.
Prerequisite(s)
- Admission to a Forensic credential program or permission of the Program Coordinator.
Credits
3.0
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course. Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Domestic fees
$870.35
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Discuss theories of crime analysis and crime mapping as they relate to intelligence analysis.
- Create basic GIS maps using simulated crime or intelligence data.
- Explain relevant findings based on a search of a GIS database.
- Create basic cartographic maps and related vector graphics.
- Create a basic crime profile using maps, geo coding, temporal analysis, pin mapping, pattern analysis, hot spot analysis, choropleth mapping, and buffer analysis.
- Detect and analyze crime events and patterns using crime analysis spatial software.
- Analyze crime hotspots and explain their significance to crime reduction efforts.
- Assess the major strengths and weaknesses of GIS tools and techniques used in crime mapping and analysis.
Effective as of Winter 2024
Related Programs
Crime Mapping (FSCT 8434) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Computing and Academic Studies
- Forensic Investigation (Crime and Intelligence Analysis Option)
Advanced Certificate Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Crime and Intelligence Analysis Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of FSCT 8434 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 58967
Dates
Apr 14 - Jul 07 Loading
- CRN 58967
- $870.35 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 14 - Jul 07 | Tue | 18:00 - 21:30 | Online |
Duration
13 weeks
Instructor
Alison Granholm
Course outline
Important information
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- This course will be taught ONLINE for the Spring/Summer 2026 term for 13 weeks every Tuesday from 6:00pm - 9:30pm. Students should check their BCIT email frequently prior to the start date of the class for messages from the instructor. For the textbook please check: www.bcitbookstore.ca/bcit/buy_textbooks.asp? (DE-FSCT) for more details. Attendance is required (synchronous).Students who have been accepted into the program where this course is a part of the program matrix may register without any further approvals. Students who are not currently accepted in a Forensics program or, if this course is NOT part of your program matrix, please contact the Program Assistants for departmental approval @ BCIT_Forensics@bcit.ca.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
No approval yet? Request approval Departmental approval is required for this course. You will not be able to register without it.
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.