Course Overview
This course provides instruction in forensic biology with a focus on current short tandem repeat (STR) technologies. The design of the course follows the logical progression of a forensic DNA case by including instruction in: evidence gathering and preservation techniques, the identification of biological evidence including presumptive and confirmatory testing, the extraction, quantitation and PCR amplification analysis strategies for common types of biological evidence (bodily fluids, hard and soft tissues and "touch" DNA), and the interpretation methods utilized for single-source profiles, mixed profiles, parentage and kinship scenarios. Each module also includes practical interpretation exercises based on real case work scenarios in order to underpin the theoretical aspects of this applied forensic discipline.
Prerequisite(s)
- 3 credits of university/college biology course
Credits
3.0
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course. You must have approval from the department to register. Students accepted into a program can register directly.
Domestic fees
$894.84
International fees are typically 3.4 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:
- Compare and contrast “historical” and contemporary DNA Typing technologies.
- Select proper evidence collection and handling techniques from a given crime scene (from the perspective of the forensic biologist).
- Determine proper evidence recovery techniques for evidentiary items submitted to the laboratory for forensic DNA analysis.
- Justify the choice of presumptive and/or confirmatory tests for specific types of DNA evidence.
- Interpret the results of presumptive and/or confirmatory tests for biological fluids.
- Explain proper DNA extraction (purification) methods.
- Justify the choice of DNA purification method, consistent with the type of DNA evidence.
- Differentiate the current DNA quantitation methods for DNA evidence.
- Interpret DNA quantitation results with respect to subsequent DNA analysis methods.
- Contrast the PCR-STR’s methods utilized for human identification applications.
- Evaluate the quality of a single-source and mixed STR profiles for human identification applications.
- Apply the statistical analysis methods pertinent to a forensic DNA analysis.
- Interpret a single-source STR profile for human identification applications.
- Interpret a mixed STR profile for human identification applications.
- Conduct Random Match Probability, Likelihood Ratio, and Combined Probability of Inclusion calculations.
- Discuss the fundamentals of DNA separation and detection utilizing a genetic analyzer.
- Interpret challenging DNA profiles that are the result of degraded, low template or mixed DNA.
- Justify alternative applications of STR technologies including the use in kinship and parentage cases.
- Discuss the role of quality assurance in the lab and how it can help prevent or recognize laboratory errors.
- Outline the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and explain the importance of DNA databases.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2015
Related Programs
Forensic Biology: DNA Typing Theory (FSCT 8150) 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
- Combined Honours in Biochemistry and Forensic Science
Bachelor of Science Full-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Advanced Certificate Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Course Offerings
Fall 2026
Below is one offering of FSCT 8150 for the Fall 2026 term.
CRN 45942
Dates
Sep 08 - Dec 04 Loading
- CRN 45942
- $894.84 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
Duration
13 weeks
Instructor
TBD
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
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.
- Georgia Lush is co-teaching this HYBRID offering of FSCT 8150. ONLINE: Sept 8 - Dec 4, 2026, 2.5 hours per week. (asynchronous – students can work through the course material and assignments at a time that is convenient for them).The rest of the course will include recorded lectures, discussions, and assignments. There will be five (5) in-person classes Friday (Sept 11, Oct 16, Oct 30, Nov 6, Nov 27) from 6:00pm-9:00pm (1800-2100). The midterm and final will be in person on Friday Oct 23rd and Friday Dec 4th respectively. For details on the required textbook, please check: www.bcitbookstore.ca/bcit/buy_textbooks.asp (BCIT-FALL 2026 TERM / FSCT / 8150 / HYBRID). Materials available for purchase at the BCIT Bookstore on Monday, 19 July 2026 (Approx.). Students who have been accepted into a Forensics program where this course is a part of the 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 at BCIT_Forensics@bcit.ca.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
No approval yet? Request approval You must have approval from the department to register. Students accepted into a program can register directly.
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
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