Introduction to Forensic Science

Online Course

University of Strathclyde

Future Learn

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Introduction to Forensic Science

What is the course about?
Prerequisites & Facts
Cost, Certificate & Degree
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What is the course about?

Introduction to Forensic Science

The course Introduction to Forensic Science is an online class provided by University of Strathclyde through Future Learn. It may be possible to receive a verified certification or use the course to prepare for a degree.

Learn forensic science online, from crime scene investigation to reporting evidential value within a case.

Course description

6 weeks

The course addresses four major evidence types: drugs of abuse, DNA, firearms and impression evidence, and discusses these through the exploration of a case-based scenario presented across a six-week modular framework.
You will learn forensic science through a theoretical murder case set on the murky shores of Loch Lomond. As the case unfolds each week, a number of evidence types, and the forensic science approaches that may be used to evaluate the evidence, are explored. All will be revealed in the final week, so make sure you are there to find out the identity of the murderer!

Explore the methods underpinning forensic science, from crime scene investigation to reporting evidential value within a case
Examine the four major evidence types: drugs of abuse, DNA, firearms and impression evidence
Learn how the initial crime scene is processed
Review various types of evidence including drugs of abuse, fingerprints, DNA, footwear marks and firearms
Formulate (and defend!) opinions on the case, based on your evaluation of the evidence

Describe the fundamental principles applied to any investigation where forensic science is involved.
Summarise the basic principles of crime scene investigation.
Explain the theory of fingerprints, blood pattern analysis, DNA, footwear and tool mark impression evidence, and drugs of abuse in the context of Forensic Science.
Explore the nature and limitations of the evidence that scientific tests deliver.
Interpret the evidence presented as part of a case study by considering the subjective and objective nature of the evidence and what this may mean to the strength of your conclusions.
Reflect on the use of forensic science in the criminal justice system.

No special knowledge or previous experience of studying is required, just a desire to learn forensic science. Warning: Some of content presented in this course may be distressing to individuals, particularly younger learners. Notwithstanding, the material is representative of that encountered by forensic scientists and we have presented it in an objective and professional manner.

University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde is a leading international technological university located in Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, committed to useful learning.

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Prerequisites & Facts

Introduction to Forensic Science

Course Topic

Law, Science, Engineering & Maths

University, College, Institution

University of Strathclyde

Course Skill Level

see course summary

Course Language

English

Place of class

Online, self-paced (see curriculum for more information)

Degree

Certificate

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Degree & Cost

Introduction to Forensic Science

To obtain a verified certificate from Future Learn / University of Strathclyde you have to finish this course or the latest version of it, if there is a new edition. The class may be free of charge, but there could be some cost to receive a verified certificate or to access the learning materials. The specifics of the course may have been changed, please consult the provider to get the latest quotes and news.

University of Strathclyde

Introduction to Forensic Science

provided by Future Learn

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