Introduction to Forensic Science

The course addresses four major evidence types: drugs of abuse, DNA, firearms and impression evidence, and discusses these through the exploration of a case-based scenario presented across a six-week modular framework.

You will learn forensic science through a theoretical murder case set on the murky shores of Loch Lomond. As the case unfolds each week, a number of evidence types, and the forensic science approaches that may be used to evaluate the evidence, are explored. All will be revealed in the final week, so make sure you are there to find out the identity of the murderer!

No special knowledge or previous experience of studying is required, just a desire to learn forensic science. Warning: Some of content presented in this course may be distressing to individuals, particularly younger learners. Notwithstanding, the material is representative of that encountered by forensic scientists and we have presented it in an objective and professional manner.

No special knowledge or previous experience of studying is required, just a desire to learn forensic science. Warning: Some of content presented in this course may be distressing to individuals, particularly younger learners. Notwithstanding, the material is representative of that encountered by forensic scientists and we have presented it in an objective and professional manner.

• Describe the fundamental principles applied to any investigation where forensic science is involved.
• Summarise the basic principles of crime scene investigation.
• Explain the theory of fingerprints, blood pattern analysis, DNA, footwear and tool mark impression evidence, and drugs of abuse in the context of Forensic Science.
• Explore the nature and limitations of the evidence that scientific tests deliver.
• Interpret the evidence presented as part of a case study by considering the subjective and objective nature of the evidence and what this may mean to the strength of your conclusions.
• Reflect on the use of forensic science in the criminal justice system.