Online Forensics Course

Generally speaking, forensic science is the application of any scientific knowledge to the law. It draws on principles and methods of traditional sciences as well as specific forensic science techniques such as anthropometry, fingerprinting, and blood stain analysis. Evidence gathered using scientific principles is prepared for submission in courts where it must be presented impartially, and the ultimate test is how well it stands up in court.

Lesson Structure

There are 10 lessons in this course:

1. The Nature of Forensic Science
2. Forensic Science and Law
3. Evidence Collection
4. Analysis of Evidence
5. Specialist Forensic Services
6. Criminology
7. Psychological Disorders and Crime
8. Criminal Profiling and Intelligence
9. Presenting Evidence in Court
10. Ethical Issues

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school's tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Aims

• Define forensic science and its various offshoots.
• Describe the application of forensic science to the investigation of crimes and legal process.
• Explain crime scene investigations, different categories of evidence, and their collection procedures.
• Explain how different types of evidence are tested and analysed on site and in the laboratory.
• Explain the roles of individuals working in specialist forensic sciences and the services they provide.
• Understand theories underlying criminal behaviour in men, women and children.
• Explain psychological disorders and how this can relate to criminal behaviour in adults.
• Explain how assessment and data collection is used in forensic sciences, law enforcement and psychology to profile criminal offenders.
• Understand how evidence is presented in court and issues surrounding eye witness testimonies.
• Explain how ethical issues can influence collection of evidence, use of data and profiling.