Course Overview
This course is intended to develop the student's advanced research and analytical skills. It will focus on the theory of inquiry, the logic, reality, and structure of investigative enquiry, as well as data analysis, methodologies of measurement models and reporting of results. Emphasis will be placed on data gathering and statistical techniques. The student will be introduced to statistical analysis techniques for applications in the law enforcement and forensics fields. Various models of measurement, including quantitative, qualitative and data mining techniques with hands on data sets will be covered. Groups will be required to prepare a mini research project using all the statistical applications covered in class.
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
$822.09
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:
- Explain the strengths and limitations of applied investigative research and research methodologies.
- Examine the significance of conceptualization and measurement models and analysis.
- Identify the differences between qualitative and quantitative research, and assess the suitability of each type of research for different applications.
- Identify the methodological issues when using public safety data.
- Articulate research findings in the law enforcement context.
- Apply statistical crime research methods and advanced data analysis techniques using predictive analytics.
- Identify a suitable research topic to be explored in the capstone research project course.
- Assess the ethical and methodological implications of using AI-driven analytics in public safety research.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2025
Related Programs
Research Methodology and Measurement Models (FSCT 7910) 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 (Crime and Intelligence Analysis Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Option)
Bachelor of Technology Full-time/Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of FSCT 7910 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 61893
Dates
Apr 10 - Jul 03 Loading
- CRN 61893
- $822.09 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 10 - Jul 03 | Fri | 18:00 - 21:45 | Online |
Duration
13 weeks
Instructor
Ahmed Awad
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.
- This course is online. For the two optional textbooks: www.bcitbookstore.ca/bcit/buy_textbooks.asp? (DE-FSCT) for Writing for Computer Science. The second book is only available for purchase on Amazon.ca: tinyurl.com/4z3xmbjx . 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 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.