Introduction to Forensic Science

Catalog description

This course provides an introduction to the scientific techniques used for the analysis of common types of physical evidence encountered at crime scenes. Using critical thinking and laboratory experiences, students become crime scene investigators. They are charged with the task of solving a mock crime. The investigations include fabric analysis, ink analysis, blood analysis, DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, ballistics, and/or blood alcohol analysis. The lecture part of the course focuses on exploring the underlying chemical principles behind the techniques and includes discussion of historical case studies. Note: This course counts as a science core course but does not satisfy requirements for the chemistry major or minor.