Course Overview
This course serves as an introduction to the analysis, interpretation and reporting of common drugs encountered by a practicing forensic toxicologist. Other topics that are explored include laboratory techniques and instrumentation, pharmacology and pharmacokinetics of common drugs including cannabis, CNS stimulants, Opioids, CNS depressants and novel psychoactive drugs, the application of forensic toxicology to post-mortem, sexual assault and impaired driving cases, and presenting expert testimony in court. Directed reading, practical quiz and participatory discussions will introduce you to the science of forensic toxicology.
Prerequisite(s)
- 3 credits of university/college chemistry course.
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$847.92
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:
- Explain, in detail, the analytical process for extracting, screening, confirming and determining a level for a particular drug or drug group. Be able to illustrate how the process was contamination free, samples were not mixed up and that the analysis was accurate.
- Compare the scientific instruments used in Forensic Toxicology including their scientific principles and components, as well as how they are used to confirm that a drug is present.
- Differentiate the pros and cons of the different analytical techniques utilized during analysis, and what techniques are better for certain drugs and drugs groups and why.
- Evaluate in detail the chemical properties, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics of commonly encountered drugs or drug groups including alcohol, CNS depressants, CNS stimulants, opioids, cannabis and hallucinogens.
- Describe the specific issues and concerns encountered in Forensic Toxicology including drug stability and storage, post mortem redistribution, post mortem production of alcohol, time between sample collection and sample analysis, use of particular vials/additives for analysis.
- Contrast which components of driving are and are not affected by drugs as well as any risk factors associated with a drug or drug groups after reviewing the scientific literature.
- Outline the elements of giving expert testimony and the type of evidence expected for qualifications, direct or cross examination as well as how to prepare an expert CV.
Effective as of Winter 2024
Related Programs
Forensic Toxicology (FSCT 8240) 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
Winter 2027
Below is one offering of FSCT 8240 for the Winter 2027 term.
CRN 47557
Dates
Jan 07 - Apr 15 Loading
- CRN 47557
- $847.92 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 07 - Apr 15 | Thu | 19:00 - 21:30 | Online |
Duration
14 weeks
Instructor
Kimberly Young
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Registration requirements
Departmental approval is required to register for this course offering. You must have approval from the department to register. Students accepted into a program can register directly.
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.
- Co-instructor is Elizabeth Hird. This course will be taught ONLINE and consists of weekly live and/or recorded lectures which will be available in the weekly course content. There will be no class on Feb 18, 2027. Lecture materials will be released each week along with assigned reading from the required textbook (www.bcitbookstore.ca/bcit/buy_textbooks.asp? DE-FSCT), as well as a weekly quiz or assignment. The details of the course structure will be posted in the online course material. Students who have been accepted into a Forensic Science 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 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.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.