FORENSIC SCIENCE: COURSES
57-201. Introduction to Forensic Science
This course will survey the many specialties of Forensic Science, including forensic pathology, entomology, anthropology, biology, botany, geology, etc. Special guest lectures by practicing forensic scientists will give students direct contact with the role they play in the extraction and meaning of evidence.
57-301. Laboratory in Forensic Science
Laboratory methods used by forensic scientists are very broad. This course is a survey of the instruments used and the interpretation of the results. The goal of the course is to familiarize the student with not only the instruments, but also their limitations, and the range of practices employed by professionals for the analysis of evidence. (Prerequisite: 57-201 and enrollment in this course is limited to Bachelor of Forensic Science Program Majors.)
57-302. Expert Witness in Forensic Science
Examination of current concepts and controversies in the collection, preservation, and analysis of forensic evidence, and the role of the expert witness. While exploring various forensic specializations students will practice the presentation of evidence in various formats and contexts including short and long presentations, reports, cross-examination, mock trials, etc. (Prerequisite: 57-201. Enrolment in this course is limited to Bachelor of Forensic Science Program Majors and majors in BA Combined Forensics.)
57-303. Forensic Identification
Practical application of principles and protocols used in forensic identification. Topics range from the expectations of the public in forensic practices to the legal responsibilities of crime scene specialists for evidence identification. Fingerprint theory and practice, image capture and enhancement, crime scene protocols and management, biometrics, and identification as contrasted to systematics are studied. (Prerequisite: 57-201 and enrollment in this course is limited to Majors in Forensic Science and Forensics and Criminology.)
57-304. Insect Evidence
Use of insects in forensic investigations covers a range of topics. Students will become familiar with insect taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, behaviour and ecology and apply this knowledge in studying the utility of insects within a legal context. The course will cover the detection, collection, identification and analysis of insect evidence, as well as the current state of knowledge in the use of insect evidence.
(Prerequisites: 57-201, 55-210)
57-313. Digital Photography in Forensic Science
Use of photography in forensic investigations covers a range of techniques. This course builds on students’ introduction to forensic photography from 57-303 Forensic Identification. Students will become familiar with different methods of solving problems of focal length, lighting conditions, lens and filter considerations and apply this knowledge in the practical application of crime scene photography. The course will cover the equipment, methodology and preparation of photographic evidence, as well as the current state of technology in the use of digital photography and photographic evidence.
(Prerequisites: 57-303).
57-400. Theory and Practice in Forensic Sciences
Develop a viable research project which may be pursued in 57-402 and possibly during 57-401. Students will also complete projects and assignments to develop skills for working on a complex project as part of a larger team. (Prerequisite: a 300-level Forensic Science course (57-3XX). Enrolment is limited to majors in Forensic Sciences and majors in B.A. Combined Forensics.)
57-401. Practicum in Forensic Sciences
Students are assigned a mentor in the profession of Forensic Science. The student will be required to spend 100 hours during the semester with the mentor. This time will be utilized to develop skills in a laboratory setting or related facility (Prerequisite: A 57-3XX course. Instructor approval required. Enrolment limited to majors in Forensic Sciences and majors in B.A. Combined Forensics.)
57-402. Research Thesis in Forensic Sciences
Research on an approved topic should be original and make a contribution to the body of knowledge known generally as forensic science. (Prerequisite: 57-400. Instructor approval required. Enrolment limited to majors in Forensic Sciences and majors in B.A. Combined Forensics.)