CJ& 240 - Introduction to Forensic Science

5 credits

Recommended Preparation
MATH 060 or higher, placement into READ 090 or higher.

Introduction to Forensic Science is a one quarter course design for science and non-science majors. It focuses on the techniques used in the forensic evaluation of the physical evidence obtained from a crime. The course is intended to be a broad overview of the field of forensic science, but an emphasis is placed on the science behind the analytical techniques used in evaluating the physical evidence. Topics covered may include glass and soil analysis, drug analysis, hair, fibers and paint analysis, fire investigation, fingerprints, firearms, toolmarks, and other impression evidence, forensic toxicology, and bloodstain analysis.

Theory Hours
5 theory hours.

Vocational Program Course
Vocational Program course.

AA Specified Elective
Satisfies specified elective requirement for the AA degree.

Course Outcomes

Understand and apply concepts involved in the application of the basic scientific principles necessary to understand forensic science techniques and some of the issues that arise.
Describe the key forensic science techniques used in the analysis of physical evidence, what actual scientific data can be collected from each technique, and what some of the potential problems might be with each technique.
Perform an actual physical experiment of each technique, for as many as possible, to understand how evidence is collected and the problems associated with evidence collection.
To understand the complexity of forensic science issues and the difficulty in finding solutions.
Describe the key features and details of a number of high-profile cases where forensic evidence has played a key role and explain the value and limitations of this evidence.