About

Forensic science applies science to law and it has become a fundamental part of criminal investigations. This introductory course explores the processing and reconstructing of a crime scene, fingerprinting, DNA and even understanding blood splatter analysis. 

Discover the basic principles that are applied, and the different techniques and technologies that are used in the process of criminal investigations and the court cases that follow them. If you have an interest in criminology, forensic psychology, science, criminal law, or crime writing - this is the course for you. 

Requirements

International Open Academy courses are designed for anyone with an interest in learning. No formal qualifications are required to study with us. Our courses are suitable if you want to learn new skills, start a new career, or if you’re already working in a particular industry and wish to upgrade your talents and enhance your resume.

Lessons

Module 1: Historical Development and Role of Forensic Sciences

• Introduction to forensic sciences and basic principles
• Special areas and contributions of the forensic sciences
• Development of medico-legal investigation
• Forensic pathology and toxicology

Module 2: The Crime Scene

• Processing the crime scene
• Reconstruction of the crime scene
• Legal considerations of the crime scene
• Using science to link crimes
• The significance of physical evidence

Module 3: Fingerprinting

• Fundamental principles of fingerprinting
• Classification of fingerprints
• Methods of detecting and preserving fingerprints
• Digital imaging techniques
• Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS)
• Case study: product tampering and Stella Nickell

Module 4: DNA Analysis

• The nature of DNA
• Collecting DNA samples
• DNA Typing
• Analysis of DNA evidence
• The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
• Case study: the exoneration of Earl Washington

Module 5: Toxicology

• What is forensic toxicology?
• Techniques used in toxicology
• The significance of toxicological findings
• Toxicology and identification of poisons
• Toxicology and identification of drugs

Module 6: Arson and Explosion Investigations

• The Chemistry of Fire
• Investigating the Fire Scene
• Type of Explosions
• Collecting and Analyzing Explosives
• Case Study: Is Daniel Dougherty Guilty of Arson?

Module 7: Serological Evidence

• The Nature of Blood
• Stain Patterns of Blood
• Forensic analysis of blood, semen, and other bodily fluids
• Collection and Analysis of Rape Evidence

Module 8: Firearms

• Forensic ballistics
• Gunpowder residue
• Bullet and cartridge casing comparisons
• Striations and tool marks
• Gunshot wounds
• Case study: family murderer Christopher Vaughn proven guilty

Module 9: Time Of Death Determinations

• Stages of decomposition
• Body temperature calculations
• Stomach contents
• Decomposed skeletonized remains
• Forensic entomology (insects)
• Case study: the murder of Leanne Tiernan

Module 10: The Forensic Scientist as Expert Witness In Court

• Preparation for testimony
• Testimony and cross-examination
• Admissibility of Scientific Evidence
• Ethical Considerations

Module 11: Collaboration In Criminal Investigations

• Working with detectives
• Working with forensic psychologists
• Working with the prosecutor or defense
• Conducting research
• Lecturing and consulting

Career

Who is this course for?

• Anyone investigating a career as a detective, criminal profiler, or forensic scientist
• True crime lovers with a morbid interest in learning about forensic science

Career path

As technology advances there has been a surge in the demand for forensic scientists and their niche expertise. Other areas you might develop an interest in after taking this course are law enforcement, criminology, forensic psychology, or criminal law.

You might also take this course to elevate your crime writing to the next level or why not start a blog or podcast about crime? With the popularity of crime drama growing by the day there might even be an opportunity to write your own or support the production of others. The opportunities are plentiful and varied for this very special area of expertise.

Certification

Creator

Matthew Kimmel

Expertise: Education, Business, Job Training, Personal Health

Matt Kimmel is a professional educator and writer who specializes in writing about education, travel, personal health, business, and job training. As an English teacher, Matt enjoys introducing new material to his students, making it entertaining and accessible to all. It is this love of connecting with people that makes his writing unique and effective. His experiences with his students has prepared him to adjust his instruction to engage students of all age-levels, skill-levels, and levels of English language acquisition. Matt brings all of these experiences to his writing to give it richness, depth, and authenticity.