CJS 101 Introduction to Forensic Science

This course provides a broad and sound overview of forensic science. It is an in-depth survey lecture based on the study of methods and techniques used in the collection, analysis and interpretation of physical evidence in the crime lab.Starting from the historical perspectives of Forensics, it is designed to introduce sub-disciplines peculiar to forensics: Evidence Receiving, DNA profiling Serology and Combined DNA Index System, Firearms and Ballistics (Combined Ballistic Identification System), Latent Prints (Statewide Automated Fingerprint Identification System), Toxicology, Drugs,Trace Evidence including Palynalogy Questioned Documents. Chemical analysis will be discussed emphasizing forensic applications of biomolecular assays, arson, pharmacology and toxicology, fibers, explosives and fingerprints, blood stains, drugs, glass and paint by wet chemistry and instrumental methods. Furthermore, a lecture on Moot Court and the `science of contact evidence' will be presented. Fall, Spring

Credits

3