Introduction to Forensic Science FSCT 7320

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Describe the principles of scientific methodology, comparison, and identification.
• Describe the techniques used by the forensic identification specialist to document the crime scene.
• Describe the techniques used by the forensic identification specialist to detect, recover, and analyze evidence.
• Explain the methods used by the forensic identification specialist to minimize the impact on the crime scene and maintain continuity and integrity of evidence.
• Identify biological evidence suitable for forensic DNA analysis.
• Explain the overview of forensic DNA analysis.
• Describe the methods used by the forensic entomologist to determine time since death.
• Describe features of the human skeletal system used by the forensic anthropologist to determine sex, age, stature, and race.
• Describe unique features of the human skeletal system used by the forensic anthropologist to aid in the identification of human skeletal remains.
• Discuss the applications of trace chemical evidence.
• Describe the classification and identification methods used by the trace chemical evidence expert.
• Describe the principles and procedures in making firearm and tool mark identifications.
• Explain the responsibilities of the BC Coroners Service.
• Describe the principle of facial recognition and the use of facial reconstruction as an investigative tool.
• Describe the fingerprint Henry Classification System, levels of friction ridge detail, and the philosophy of fiction ridge individualization.
• Describe the methods and techniques used by the forensic video analysis expert for the scientific examination, comparison and/or evaluation.
• Describe the methods and techniques used by the forensic toxicologist to analyze and interpret the presence of drugs/poisons from biological fluids and tissues.

Effective as of Winter 2012