FSC-30019 - Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis
Coordinator: Kristopher Wisniewski Tel: +44 1782 7 34593
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 6
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This final year module provides you with theoretical knowledge and practical experience of selected specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course at Levels 4 and 5. Topic areas will include the current common practical analysis of the forensic laboratory practitioner workplace. An emphasis will be made on the examination of forensic physical trace evidence that will be usable in court.

Aims
This module aims to teach students key theoretical and practical issues of some specialist areas of Forensic Science which complement the core curriculum of the course. Topic areas will cover advanced forensic trace evidence analysis such as ballistics, paint, glass, fibres and their proper handling procedures.

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate a critical understanding of the specialist topics presented and how they can be applied to forensic crime solving: 1,2
1
write professional laboratory examination notes on forensic evidence from seized material: 1
gain the advanced practical laboratory skills required to be a forensic laboratory analyst: 1
demonstrate forensic documentation, photography, evidence handling and non-contamination of evidence:

Study hours

Pre-laboratory familiarisation material: 15 hours
Theoretical lectures: 5 hours
Preparation and summary lectures: 10 hours
Practical laboratories: 5 x 3h = 15h
Guided independent study: 105 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Practice Based Assessment weighted 75%
Portfolio
Assessment consisting of selected forensic science practicals undertaken with a student degree of choice, equivalent to 3000 words.

2: Class Test weighted 25%
Class tests
Student will complete multiple choice questions tests based on module content. Students will have a 1.5 hour period to complete their answers.