Forensic Science (FSC)

An overview of the basic elements of forensic sciences and criminalistics, crime scene procedures and documentation. Methods of laboratory analysis for studies in specialized areas of science applied to solving criminal problems. Includes an introduction to forensic applications of science, including DNA profiling, pathology, serology, trace evidence, toxicology, and the role of the forensic laboratory. Laboratory activities included.

Comparison and individualization of physical evidence by chemical and physical properties will be presented in lectures and carried out in laboratories. Theories and practices of chemical, instrumental, and biological analysis are applied with available equipment. Course deals specifically with impression evidence, including fingerprints, footprints, tire marks, and tool marks as patterned evidence. Hands-on laboratory procedures are stressed.

Comparison and individualization of physical evidence by chemical and physical properties will be presented in lectures and carried out in laboratories. Theories and practices of chemical, instrumental, and biological analysis are applied with available equipment. Course deals specifically with FIREARMS, GLASS, SOILS, PAINT, FIBER & HAIR as patterned evidence. Hands-on laboratory procedures are stressed.

Detailed advanced microscopic and instrumental methods with extensive hands-on experience provided by laboratory analysis of blood, blood spatter, and DNA. Principles and methods of analysis of microscopic and macroscopic evidence of biological materials, particularly blood, bodily fluids, DNA, and forensic pathology.

Introduction to the basics of general biology as applied to the resolution of forensic problems. Included will be analysis of materials from the study of cells, genetics, human biology, plants and poisons, zoology of microorganisms and insects, systems and functions within the body, and serology. Emphasis on the mechanisms of solving biological problems that arise in the legal system. Concentration on use of microscope as major tool for biological analysis. Laboratory activities included.

Introduction to the general concepts of chemistry as they apply to the solution of forensic problems. Includes topics from inorganic, organic, and biochemistry, with emphasis on mechanisms of applications to chemical problems. Topics include atoms, molecular studies, poisons and toxins, chemical pollutants, chemistry of blood, trace element analysis. Major instruments of chemical analysis are investigated and used as appropriate. Laboratory activities included.

Comparison and individualization of physical evidence by chemical and physical properties will be presented in lectures and carried out in laboratories. Theories and practices of chemical, instrumental, and biological analysis are applied with available equipment. Course deals specifically with QUESTIONED DOCUMENTS, TOXICOLOGY, POISONS, ARSONS AND EXPLOSIVES, AND ENTOMOLOGY as patterned evidence. Hands-on laboratory procedures are stressed.

Topics of a specific nature will be presented in each course. Courses may include: arson and explosives; bio-medical methods in forensics; facial and body reconstruction; forensic geology; forensic toxicology; and forensic engineering; forensic entomology. Expected to be offered: Sufficient demand

Focusing on the idea of truth as different societies perceive it. The effects of drugs and poisons on the development and survival of cultures will be investigated. There will be two aspects of the course: the history of medical usage of botanicals, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals, will be traced, used as a background for investigating the effects of drugs and poisons (both accidental and deliberate) on the human organism and their use in developing or destroying societies. Individual Societies will be used as examples, coupled to forensic investigations as to the rise of current usage and popularities of drugs in American society. This course will also present an in-depth approach to the medical and legal aspects of drug enforcement. Student will learn 1)historical component to a variety of diverse drugs to include identification of dangerous drugs, 2)the physiological and psychological effects of the drugs on the human body, 3) knowing the proper generic and pharmaceutical name brands, and 4) recognizing the various street names of the drugs. Prerequisite: CRJ 100 OR FSC 200

Introduction to a detailed study of the information gained from human skeletal remains. Topics include determination of sex, age, time of death, causes of death, racial determination, osteology of humans, Extensive laboratory work in bone identification and analysis.

Intensive internship taken by students in their senior year, working with one of the local or regional laboratories or with physicians involved in forensic work.

Preparation and presentation of a capstone paper resulting from work undertaken during internship or from work as independent study on one of the diverse areas of forensic sciences. The student will be expected to show competency in gathering evidence, scientifically analyzing evidence, and preparing valid conclusions. Pre-requisite: Consent of instructor