Forensic Pathology

Catalog description

Semester 2: IFSL 560?565 Forensic Anatomy & Pathology II This course builds on the integrated foundation from Forensic Anatomy & Pathology I, providing a more advanced, systems-based exploration of human anatomy, disease, injury, and medicolegal death investigation. Students will deepen their understanding of organ systems and regional anatomy while applying this knowledge to specific forensic topics such as blunt and sharp force trauma, transportation deaths, asphyxia, gunshot wounds, environmental injuries, toxicology, and natural disease with medical treatment effects. The course will emphasize correlation between antemortem and postmortem findings, differentiation of injuries from postmortem artifacts, and the integration of scene information, radiologic studies, and autopsy data in determining cause and manner of death. Learners will further engage with forensic autopsy protocols, evidence collection and chain-of-custody principles, organ and tissue recovery considerations, and professional interactions within the medical examiner or coroner system. Through lectures, case presentations, and applied assignments, students will synthesize anatomical, pathologic, and medicolegal concepts to communicate findings clearly and accurately in written and oral formats suitable for investigative and legal settings. Completion of both semesters equips students with an integrated framework in forensic anatomy and pathology that supports advanced study or professional roles in forensic and allied disciplines. This course may be taken upon successful completion of undergraduate studies and Forensic Anatomy & Pathology I.