Forensic Degrees Online

Course Descriptions

FSC 140 Introduction to Forensic Science 3 hours
Forensic science is the application of science to the law and encompasses various
scientific disciplines. This course will introduce various methodologies and applications used in the forensic context. Topics discussed include organic and inorganic chemical analyses of physical evidence, principles of serology and DNA analysis, identification of fresh and decomposed human remains, ballistics, fingerprint analysis, facial reconstruction, drug analysis, and forensic entomology.

FSC 240 Forensic Biology and Chemistry 3 hours
Prerequisite: BIO 150; CHM 140; FSC 140
The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the biological and chemical aspects to forensic science as it applies to criminal investigation and laboratory preparation. Part one of this course looks at the instrumentation and chemistry associated with crimes. We will look at how the instrumentation is used, what type of evidence it can process, how to read the results and the properties of the chemical evidence. Part two of this course is an introduction to the basic principles of forensic anthropology. Topics will include study of human skeletal and dental remains, trauma to the human body, facial reconstruction, forensic entomology and botany, hair and fiber analysis, fingerprinting, pathology used in identification, and toxicology.

FSC 340 Crime Scene Investigation and Analysis 1 4 hours
Prerequisite: FSC 140; CHM 140; BIO 139
This course is designed to provide students with the basic theoretical and philosophical understanding of the investigatory process as well as fundamental investigation techniques such as crime scene analysis, collection, preservation, and testing of evidence, modus operandi, use of technology, types of evidence, and the science of criminalistics. Analysis of problems encountered in interviewing, interrogating, evidence collection, and admissibility will be examined. Application of investigation theories to the administration of justice will also be developed. Laboratory course.

FSC 341 Crime Scene Investigation and Analysis 2 4 hours
Prerequisite: FSC 340
This course is a continuation of Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence Collection 1. Laboratory course.

FSC 385 Genetic Analysis 2 hours
Prerequisite: BIO 139
Study of hereditary material, its biological, chemical and physical nature. Transmission and function will be emphasized. Students will become versed in the tools of human molecular genetic analysis, the nature of DNA and its applications.

FSC 440 Toxicology 3 hours
Prerequisite: CHM 325; FSC 340
A comprehensive study of general principles and fundamentals of forensic toxicology, poisons, action, toxicity, postmortem characteristics, samples required for toxicological analysis and methods of collection, methods of preservation and analysis. Chemical, toxicological and pathological characteristics of commonly abused drugs, including the following: ethanol, barbiturates, narcotics, stimulants, and hallucinogens. Details of the methods employed for analysis, such as color test, Chromatography (GC, GLC, HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS), GC-MS.

FSC 388 Cooperative Field Experience 1-4 hours
Prerequisites: Junior standing, forensic science major, departmental approval;
Term: 1, 2, summer
Supervised work experience in activity related to area of specialization. This is planned in consultation with advisor, co-op supervisor and employer. Recording, reporting and evaluation of experience will be required.

FSC 496 Senior Seminar 2 hours
Prerequisites: Senior standing; FSC major; ENG 312; Term: 1, 2
Investigation of a significant forensic science problem with the direction of a faculty member. Topics include use of computer for library informational searches, scientific writing, illustrations, tables, graphs, figures, photographs and word processing. An
oral presentation and a final research paper required.

Forensic Science degree

According to the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD), the pursuit of a career in the forensic sciences has grown exponentially in the past few years. While some crime labs do not require a Bachelors degree (e.g., crime scene processing, photography, document examiner, & firearms examiner), most do. A bachelors degree is essential in the forensic disciplines of drug analysis, toxicology, trace evidence, and biology, including DNA analysis. Currently, most positions in a crime lab are held by persons with degrees in the physical sciences, since few colleges or universities have majors specifically in Forensic Science. In addition to positions in crime laboratories, opportunities such as crime scene technician, police photographer, sketch/composite artist, fingerprint examiner, forensic psychologist, arson investigator, accident scene reconstruction, and police officer, exist in law enforcement agencies. The ASCLD suggests that the major or area of emphasis one chooses should reflect the discipline in which the person wishes to work. For example, drug analysts should have a heavy emphasis in chemistry, while DNA analysts should have an emphasis in molecular techniques. Programs that provide laboratory courses are essential for students pursuing careers in the forensic sciences (ASCLD). For those persons whose career paths are other than the laboratory, an understanding of the principles and techniques used to analyze trace evidence are helpful in identifying and collecting certain types of evidence, and preparing the case.

Forensic Science BSc (Hons)
Course summarySubject area: Forensic Science
Location of study: Cambridge
Length of study: 3 years
UCAS code: F411
Entry requirements: 200 tariff points at A Level or equivalent. A levels required include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Course overview
Forensic Science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are:
to give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
to enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.
Throughout your three years of study, the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our on-campus “crime-scene” under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners.

A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosion Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:
demonstrate your understanding of the essential principles and concepts of forensic science
demonstrate your command of the principal techniques of forensic investigation and their application to different types of evidence.
This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though, is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field – which should make your abilities very attractive to a range of potential employers.
Module guide
Year one core modules:
Introduction to Forensic Methodologies
Introduction to Biology and Forensic Chemistry
Physical and Quantitative Chemistry for Forensic Scientists
United Kingdom Legal Systems and Law for Forensic Scientists
Introduction to Police and Forensic Photography
Year two core modules:
Introduction to Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory Quality Management
The Forensic Analysis of DNA and Biological Material
Spectroscopic Techniques for Forensic Science
Project Preparation
Scene Laboratory Investigation
Year three core modules:
Advanced Forensic Methodologies
Undergraduate Major Project
Associated careers

This course is specifically designed to prepare you for a career in forensic science.
Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, essays, work portfolios, presentations, poster presentations, role play and evaluation of work from practical classes.
Other courses in the Forensic Science subject area:Course title Length of study UCAS code Total tariff points Specific entry requirements
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) 3 years F411 200 A levels required include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Criminology BSc (Hons) 3 years FL43 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Medical Biology BSc (Hons) 3 years FB49 200 Required subjects include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Psychology BSc (Hons) 3 years FC48 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Forensic Science and Psychology BSc (Hons)
Course summarySubject area: Forensic Science
Location of study: Cambridge
Length of study: 3 years
UCAS code: FC48
Entry requirements: 200 tariff points at A Level or equivalent. 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Course overview
Forensic Science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are:
to give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
to enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.
Throughout your three years of study, the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our on-campus “crime-scene” under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners.

A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosion Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:
demonstrate your understanding of the essential principles and concepts of forensic science
demonstrate your command of the principal techniques of forensic investigation and their application to different types of evidence.
This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field – which should make you very attractive to a range of potential employers.
Module guide
Year one core modules:
Introduction to Forensic Methodologies
Introduction to Biology and Forensic Chemistry
Physical and Quantitative Chemistry for Forensic Scientists
United Kingdom Legal Systems and Law for Forensic Scientists
Introduction to Police and Forensic Photography
Year two core modules:
Introduction to Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory Quality Management
The Forensic Analysis of DNA and Biological Material
Spectroscopic Techniques for Forensic Science
Project Preparation
Scene Laboratory Investigation
Year three core modules:
Advanced Forensic Methodologies
Undergraduate Major Project
Associated careers

This course is specifically designed to prepare you for a career in forensic science.
Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, essays, work portfolios, presentations, poster presentations, role play and evaluation of work from practical classes.
Other courses in the Forensic Science subject area:Course title Length of study UCAS code Total tariff points Specific entry requirements
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) 3 years F411 200 A levels required include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Criminology BSc (Hons) 3 years FL43 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Medical Biology BSc (Hons) 3 years FB49 200 Required subjects include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Psychology BSc (Hons) 3 years FC48 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Forensic Science and Medical Biology BSc (Hons)
Course summarySubject area: Forensic Science
Location of study: Cambridge
Length of study: 3 years
UCAS code: FB49
Entry requirements: 200 tariff points at A Level or equivalent. Required subjects include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Course overview
Forensic Science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are:
to give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
to enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.
Throughout your three years of study the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our on-campus “crime-scene” under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners.

A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosion Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:
demonstrate your understanding of the essential principles and concepts of forensic science
demonstrate your command of the principal techniques of forensic investigation and their application to different types of evidence.
This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field – which should make you very attractive to a range of potential employers.
Module guide
Year one core modules:
Introduction to Forensic Methodologies
Introduction to Biology and Forensic Chemistry
Physical and Quantitative Chemistry for Forensic Scientists
United Kingdom Legal Systems and Law for Forensic Scientists
Introduction to Police and Forensic Photography
Year two core modules:
Introduction to Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory Quality Management
The Forensic Analysis of DNA and Biological Material
Spectroscopic Techniques for Forensic Science
Project Preparation
Scene Laboratory Investigation
Year three core modules:
Advanced Forensic Methodologies
Undergraduate Major Project
Associated careers

This course is specifically designed to prepare you for a career in forensic science.
Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, essays, work portfolios, presentations, poster presentations, role play and evaluation of work from practical classes.
Other courses in the Forensic Science subject area:Course title Length of study UCAS code Total tariff points Specific entry requirements
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) 3 years F411 200 A levels required include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Criminology BSc (Hons) 3 years FL43 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Medical Biology BSc (Hons) 3 years FB49 200 Required subjects include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Psychology BSc (Hons) 3 years FC48 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Forensic Science and Criminology BSc (Hons)
Course summarySubject area: Forensic Science
Location of study: Cambridge
Length of study: 3 years
UCAS code: FL43
Entry requirements: 200 tariff points at A Level or equivalent. 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

Full-time A-Z courses listing | Related courses
Course overview
Forensic Science is the application of scientific disciplines and techniques that may be used to produce evidence acceptable in a court of law. Recent advances in forensic science, most famously in DNA analysis, have combined to greatly increase the investigating powers of practising forensic scientists, making this a field of increasing importance and relevance.

The main aims of this degree are:
to give you a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic science
to enable you to carry out investigations and research, and to assess the reliability of your results.
Throughout your three years of study, the focus will be on providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to operate as a forensic scientist. You will have the opportunity to hone these skills in our on-campus “crime-scene” under the guidance of teaching staff who are, in many cases, professional forensic practitioners.

A range of module options, including Forensic Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and Advanced Fire and Explosion Investigation, will allow you to develop specialisms within the field.

When you graduate you will be able to:
demonstrate your understanding of the essential principles and concepts of forensic science
demonstrate your command of the principal techniques of forensic investigation and their application to different types of evidence.
This academically challenging course delves into some important and fascinating areas of science. The real focus of this course though is on providing you with the practical skills used by professionals within the field – which should make you very attractive to a range of potential employers.
Module guide
Year one core modules:
Introduction to Forensic Methodologies
Introduction to Biology and Forensic Chemistry
Physical and Quantitative Chemistry for Forensic Scientists
United Kingdom Legal Systems and Law for Forensic Scientists
Introduction to Police and Forensic Photography
Year two core modules:
Introduction to Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory Quality Management
The Forensic Analysis of DNA and Biological Material
Spectroscopic Techniques for Forensic Science
Project Preparation
Scene Laboratory Investigation
Year three core modules:
Advanced Forensic Methodologies
Undergraduate Major Project
Associated careers

This course is specifically designed to prepare you for a career in forensic science.
Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, essays, work portfolios, presentations, poster presentations, role play and evaluation of work from practical classes.
Other courses in the Forensic Science subject area:Course title Length of study UCAS code Total tariff points Specific entry requirements
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) 3 years F411 200 A levels required include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Criminology BSc (Hons) 3 years FL43 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Medical Biology BSc (Hons) 3 years FB49 200 Required subjects include Grade C Biology OR Chemistry
Forensic Science and Psychology BSc (Hons) 3 years FC48 200 200 points at GCE/VCE A Level or equivalent, including including Grade C Biology OR Chemistry

forensic science

Overview

Forensic Science is the application of scientific principles to matters defined by civil and criminal law. It is a compilation of all the hard core sciences, including the fields of chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and mathematics in the solving of crimes by the evidence left behind at a crime scene. All three of the major tracks and the minor are designed to prepare students with a strong scientific background directed to the recognition, identification, individualization, and evaluation of physical evidence. The major, minor and tracks focus on the main elements of criminalistics, including analysis of blood, fibers, glass, paint, soils, hair and the fields of toxicology, DNA analysis, serology, forensic anthropology, human pathology and numerous other areas germane to the scientific study of evidence.

Career Preparation
Unique to UGF
Student Stories
Majors
Minors
Curriculum Planner

Career Preparation

The major tracks prepare the student to work either as a crime scene investigator or in a laboratory environment or to continue their education at the graduate school level.

What Makes this Program Unique?

Forensic Science at UGF is unique compared with the many other programs in the USin that most programs spend their time on criminal justice topics. UGF’s program spends the majority of time on forensic sciences, hard-core sciences, and mathematics necessary to be a well-rounded and educated forensic investigator or laboratory expert. This is reinforced by the numerous laboratory classes for the diverse areas of forensic investigation.

The entire range of forensic sciences topics are covered at UGF, ranging from the most useful, such as fingerprint analysis, DNA analysis, serology, and blood spatter analysis, to the less well-studied, such as evidence and lab analysis of hair, glass, soils, bones, drugs, poisons, and some thirty other areas. The current literature in a variety of fields is used to ascertain the students know the most up-to-date techniques and methods applicable, either in field investigations or for laboratory analysis. As an additional aid to becoming proficient in the field, numerous opportunities have been developed for internships during the summer, including working at real crime laboratories in Montana, other states, and for the federal government.

In addition to the courses offered, the unique character of the program depends on the faculty. Dr. Arthur Alt has ten degrees, including a doctorate in science education and degrees in chemistry, mathematics, anthropology, archaeology, history, and computers, with minors covering other sciences, and a passion for teaching that has sustained him for more than 30 years. A tremendous variety of teaching techniques in addition to lectures, are applied. This forces students to become creative and develop abilities in critical analysis and problem-solving. Dr. Diane Lund is an expert in biology and chemistry, with special expertise in DNA analysis and cellular biology. She has a wide range of interests in student undergraduate research. Dr. Craig Ganster has over 25 years of experience as a practicing police/homicide investigator and brings a wealth of knowledge to the program on dealing with forensic investigations. Professor Cynthia Matthews, head of the Criminal Justice program, reinforces the learning for students on criminal procedures and dealing with the legal system. Finally, Professor Steve Nelson teaches the law and how it applies to solving crimes, procedures in court, and being a competent witness for forensic investigations.

forensic science

Overview

Forensic Science is the application of scientific principles to matters defined by civil and criminal law. It is a compilation of all the hard core sciences, including the fields of chemistry, biology, physics, geology, and mathematics in the solving of crimes by the evidence left behind at a crime scene. All three of the major tracks and the minor are designed to prepare students with a strong scientific background directed to the recognition, identification, individualization, and evaluation of physical evidence. The major, minor and tracks focus on the main elements of criminalistics, including analysis of blood, fibers, glass, paint, soils, hair and the fields of toxicology, DNA analysis, serology, forensic anthropology, human pathology and numerous other areas germane to the scientific study of evidence.

Career Preparation
Unique to UGF
Student Stories
Majors
Minors
Curriculum Planner

Career Preparation

The major tracks prepare the student to work either as a crime scene investigator or in a laboratory environment or to continue their education at the graduate school level.

What Makes this Program Unique?

Forensic Science at UGF is unique compared with the many other programs in the USin that most programs spend their time on criminal justice topics. UGF’s program spends the majority of time on forensic sciences, hard-core sciences, and mathematics necessary to be a well-rounded and educated forensic investigator or laboratory expert. This is reinforced by the numerous laboratory classes for the diverse areas of forensic investigation.

The entire range of forensic sciences topics are covered at UGF, ranging from the most useful, such as fingerprint analysis, DNA analysis, serology, and blood spatter analysis, to the less well-studied, such as evidence and lab analysis of hair, glass, soils, bones, drugs, poisons, and some thirty other areas. The current literature in a variety of fields is used to ascertain the students know the most up-to-date techniques and methods applicable, either in field investigations or for laboratory analysis. As an additional aid to becoming proficient in the field, numerous opportunities have been developed for internships during the summer, including working at real crime laboratories in Montana, other states, and for the federal government.

In addition to the courses offered, the unique character of the program depends on the faculty. Dr. Arthur Alt has ten degrees, including a doctorate in science education and degrees in chemistry, mathematics, anthropology, archaeology, history, and computers, with minors covering other sciences, and a passion for teaching that has sustained him for more than 30 years. A tremendous variety of teaching techniques in addition to lectures, are applied. This forces students to become creative and develop abilities in critical analysis and problem-solving. Dr. Diane Lund is an expert in biology and chemistry, with special expertise in DNA analysis and cellular biology. She has a wide range of interests in student undergraduate research. Dr. Craig Ganster has over 25 years of experience as a practicing police/homicide investigator and brings a wealth of knowledge to the program on dealing with forensic investigations. Professor Cynthia Matthews, head of the Criminal Justice program, reinforces the learning for students on criminal procedures and dealing with the legal system. Finally, Professor Steve Nelson teaches the law and how it applies to solving crimes, procedures in court, and being a competent witness for forensic investigations.

Curriculum

Master of Science in Forensic Science degree
Core courses in the Master of Science in Forensic Science curriculum offer a broad exposure to forensic laboratory equipment and instrumentation as well as exposure to criminal procedures and expert testimony, forensic biology, forensic chemistry, trace evidence, physical evidence, professional ethics, quality assurance, and current topics in research and development within the forensic sciences. In addition, students entering this program specialize within the field. Students are required to select a concentration track by the end of their first semester. Tracks offered include forensic biology, forensic chemistry/drugs and toxicology, forensic chemistry/trace, and the forensic physical (evidence) track. Regardless of the track selected, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for a career in a forensic science laboratory setting.

The Master of Science in Forensic Science requires 36 semester hours of course work; this includes 24 semester hours from required core course work and 12 semester hours from the specialized course work designed for each track. The graduate program is a full-time, two-year program designed to accommodate only full-time graduate students. Courses will vary depending on the track selected; however, required and elective courses are offered at various times throughout the weekdays (morning, afternoon and evening). The 2008-09 bulletin is available online at http://www.vcu.edu/bulletins.

Course requirements and descriptions

Master of Science in Forensic Science degree

Core Requirements (24 credits)

FRSC 570 Forensic Science Seminar (attend 3 semesters)
FRSC 661 Analysis of Pattern Evidence -OR-
FRSC 662 Firearm and Toolmark Identification
FRSC 670 Forensic Evidence and Criminal Procedure
FRSC 671 Instrumentation in Forensic Chemistry
FRSC 673 Forensic Microscopy
FRSZ 673L Forensic Microscopy Laboratory
FRSC 675 Forensic Serology and DNA Analysis
FRSZ 675L Forensic Serology and DNA Analysis Laboratory
FRSC 677 Expert Testimony in Forensic Science
FRSC 793 Forensic Science Laboratory Internship

Tracks (12 credits – choose one track)

Forensic Biology track
FRSC 676 Advanced Forensic DNA Analysis
BIOL 516 Population Genetics -OR-
STAT 543 Statistical Methods I
Approved electives (6 credits)

Forensic Chemistry/Drug analysis and Toxicology track
FRSC 672 Advanced Drug Analysis
PHTX 644 Forensic Toxicology
Approved electives (6 credits)

Forensic Chemistry/Trace analysis track
FRSC 681 Analysis of Fire Debris and Explosives
FRSC 682 Forensic Analysis of Paint and Polymers
Approved electives (6 credits)

Forensic Physical track
FRSC 661 Analysis of Pattern Evidence -OR-
FRSC 662 Firearm and Toolmark Identification
FRSC 665 Scientific Crime Scene Investigation
Approved electives (6 credits)

The Master of Science in Forensic Science program is designed to prepare students for careers as forensic scientists in government and private laboratories. Students receive in-depth exposure to specializations within the field, including drug analysis, DNA analysis, trace evidence, criminalistics and legal issues. A strong emphasis on laboratory courses provides students with significant hands-on experience prior to graduation. Several of the required lab courses are taught at the Virginia Department of Forensic Science Lab, which is nationally accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors.