CJFS 3560 - Survey of the Forensic Sciences

Goals: The primary learning objectives of this course are to examine the roles and responsibilities of forensic scientists in the criminal justice and legal systems of the United States; understand the scope, scientific foundation, and techniques of a variety of the scientific disciplines practiced in crime laboratories; experience applying relevant analytical techniques to the examination of physical evidence, and practice oral and written communication through mock expert testimony and report writing.

Content: Course content will focus on defining “forensic science”; recognizing practices of legitimate, junk, and fraudulent science; examining the properties of physical evidence; discussing the scope, potential, and limitations of a variety of forensic sciences; practicing analytical techniques applied by forensic scientists; evaluating the criteria for admissibility of scientific evidence; and discussing the ethical responsibilities of forensic scientists.

Taught: Annually.

Prerequisites: BIOL 3050 and 3060, or CHEM 1130 and 1140.

Corequisite: CJFS 3560L.

Credits: 4 credits