FSC-20003 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2021/22

This is a core module of the principal Forensic Science course at level 5. This module will provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA profiling and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored and the students understanding of human identification will be extended. It will emphasise the importance of DNA profiling and its application in forensic investigations and of the presentation of DNA evidence in court. This includes a mock-court cross-examination exercise.

This module aims to provide the essential background knowledge of the molecular tools used for identifying individuals by DNA profiling and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Forensic Science. The principle concepts in DNA profiling will be explored with the aim of extending the students understanding of human identification, its importance and application in the forensic context, analytical techniques and processes, population genetics and the presentation of DNA evidence in court.

Intended Learning Outcomes

explain the principles and significance of nucleic acid hybridisation: 1,2,3
describe and explain the development and application of LTDNA-typing and its advantages and limitations regarding degradation and contamination: 1,2,3
apply a working knowledge of population genetics to calculate profile frequencies, evaluate their statistical significance and present this information appropriately as an expert witness in court: 1,2,3
critically evaluate the significance of different sources of DNA and appropriate approaches to collection, storage and analysis of the samples with reference to contamination avoidance procedures: 1,3
differentiate and critically assess types of polymorphism and DNA lineage markers and their importance in a forensic context: 1,2,3
communicate the outcomes of a short scientific study under oral examination in the court context: 3
explain the principles of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing and DNA profiling and their application in Forensic Science: 1,2,3

Study hours

Laboratory Classes: 10 hours
Tutorials/problems classes: 10 hours
Content study: 10 hours
Independent study: 60 hours
Assessment completion: 60 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment