Introduction to Forensic Sciences FSCT 9320

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

• Evaluate the principles of scientific methodology, comparison, and identification.
• Distinguish the techniques used by the forensic identification specialist to document the crime scene.
• Evaluate the secure management of information and evidence related to collection, storage, and transmission, and access to forensic evidence on computer systems.
• Defend the techniques used by the forensic identification specialist to detect, recover, and analyze evidence.
• Analyze the methods used by the forensic identification specialists to minimize the impact on the crime scene and maintain continuity and integrity of evidence.
• Synthesize the knowledge required to bridge the application of forensic science to forensic health sciences.
• Identify biological evidence suitable for forensic DNA analysis.
• Synthesize scientific explanations of forensic DNA analysis.
• Distinguish 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.
• Analyze unique features of the human skeletal system used by the forensic anthropologist to aid in the identification of human skeletal remains.
• Evaluate the applications of trace chemical evidence.
• Describe the classification and identification methods used by the trace chemical evidence expert.
• Distinguish the principles and procedures in making firearm and tool mark identifications.
• Evaluate the responsibilities of the BC Coroners Service and its role in the field of forensic science.
• Assess 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.
• Evaluate the methods and techniques used by the forensic video analysis expert for the scientific examination, comparison and/or evaluation.
• Distinguish 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 Fall 2018