CRJ 1050 - Intro to Forensic Science

Credit Hours: 3

Forensic science applies scientific principles and techniques to the field of criminal justice. This introductory survey course is designed to expose students to the broad scope of forensic science. Special attention is paid to the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence in criminal investigations across various scientific disciplines, as well as the introduction and presentation of evidence in a court of law. Topics discussed include: (a) the history of criminalistics; (b) crime scene documentation and investigative practices; c) the properties, collection, and categorization of physical evidence; e.g. fingerprints, bodily fluids (serology), DNA, hair, soil, plants, fiber, tool marks, firearms and projectiles (ballistics); (d) the analysis of documents, voice, and digital evidence; (e) biometric identification systems; (f) scientific instruments used in crime labs; (g) forensic evidence in judicial proceedings; and, (h) careers in the field of forensic science.