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With the advent of popular shows such as "CSI" there has been an enormous increase in interest forensic science.  Although this type of recreational programming may not adhere to scientific principles, it has in fact brought significant attention to the sciences in a dramatic fashion.  This course is intended to provide a basic understanding of the real activities of forensic science, and expand awareness of this fascinating field.

 

While the tools of science are the usually the same,  it is the context of forensic science that is significantly different. The forensic scientist often must acquire and interpret data from crime scenes involving extreme violence, or attempt to identify extremely decomposed human remains.  It requires a solid professional focus and a well-adjusted individual to maintain objectivity under such conditions.  This course will provide an introduction to the environment of the forensic scientist.

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COURSE OUTLINE:

CBST-1060 -  Forensic Science - an Introduction

Prerequisites: none

Department: Chemical and Biosciences Technology

Program: Life Sciences

Academic Prerequisites: High School equivalency or instructor approval

Course Equivalencies: none

Course Description:

This course provides an introduction into the fascinating world of forensic science. A broad range of topics will be examined in order to provide a general background of the many areas of forensics.  Example topics include BPA (blood pattern analysis), ballistics, anthropology, entomology, toxicology,  reconstruction, DNA analysis, as well as many other key areas. 

Course Format/Delivery Methods:

Total Hours:   40  Credit Hours: 3

Delivery Methods: on-line, learner-directed

 

The following communication tools will be used in this course:

Communication Tool	Explanation
Email	One-on-one instructor discussions and support
Discussion Board
Scheduled Chats
Unscheduled Chats
Teleconference Calls
Other	Email word attachment documents

Course Format: On-line internet based curriculum supported by one-on-one instructor support

Effective Date: May 14, 2010     Last Revised: NA

 

Instructor Information:

Facilitator's name: David Blicq

Email: dblicq@rrc.mb.ca

Office phone: (204) 632-2577  Office location: A425M Office hours:  7AM-3PM

 

Student Readiness:

Technology & Equipment Readiness

Computer	Internet capability (high speed connection preferred), email competency
Plug-ins	Java script enabled on internet browser
Internet	High speed connection preferred
Digital Camera
VHS Player
DVD Player
Other

Student Commitments and Contact Times   

Weekly Daytime Attendance	Variable – student led
Weekly Evening Attendance	Variable – student led
Online commitments	As required / based on learner requirements

Course Resources:

Textbook: None

References: Provided on-line as part of curriculum.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course of study, you will be able to understand....

1. The historical development of forensic science

2. The application of BPA (blood pattern analysis) in forensic science

3. The role of anthropology in forensic science

4. The basic concepts of ballistics and ballistic analysis

5. The role of the forensic laboratory

6. The use of DNA analysis in forensics

7. The role of entomology in interpreting crime scene events

8. The use of facial reconstruction in forensics

9. The nature of toxicology testing in forensics

10. The application of digital evidence in forensic analysis

11. The basic role of the forensic scientist in court