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.

Required Classes for a Bachelor’s Degree

BIO 151 General Biology I
BIO 152 General Biology II
BIO 211 General Zoology OR
BIO 280 Microbiology
BIO 212 General Botany
BIO 311 Genetics
BIO 499 Senior Thesis OR
FSC 498 Senior Project
CHM 111 General Chemistry I
CHM 112 General Chemistry II
CHM 261 Organic Chemistry I
CHM 262 Organic Chemistry II
CHM 401 Biochemistry I
CRJ 100 Intro to Criminal Justice System
FSC 201 Intro to Forensic Science
FSC 300 Physical Evidence (with lab)
FSC 301 Advanced Forensic Science I (with lab)
FSC 302 Advanced Forensic Science II (with lab)
FSC 340 Forensic Biology & Microscopy
MTH 119 Mathematics for Sciences OR
MTH 241 Calculus I
MTH 205 Elementary Probability & Statistics
CRJ 231 Criminal Law
12 Credits of approved electives

Required Classes for a Bachelor’s Degree
BIO 151 General Biology I
BIO 152 General Biology II
BIO 211 General Zoology OR
BIO 280 Microbiology
BIO 212 General Botany
BIO 311 Genetics
BIO 499 Senior Thesis OR
FSC 498 Senior Project
CHM 111 General Chemistry I
CHM 112 General Chemistry II
CHM 261 Organic Chemistry I
CHM 262 Organic Chemistry II
CHM 401 Biochemistry I
CRJ 100 Intro to Criminal Justice System
FSC 201 Intro to Forensic Science
FSC 300 Physical Evidence (with lab)
FSC 301 Advanced Forensic Science I (with lab)
FSC 302 Advanced Forensic Science II (with lab)
FSC 340 Forensic Biology & Microscopy
MTH 119 Mathematics for Sciences OR
MTH 241 Calculus I
MTH 205 Elementary Probability & Statistics
CRJ 231 Criminal Law
12 Credits of approved electives

forensic biology track

Required Classes for a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Biology

BIO 151 General Biology I
BIO 152 General Biology II
BIO 211 General Zoology OR
BIO 280 Microbiology
BIO 212 General Botany
BIO 311 Genetics
BIO 499 Senior Thesis OR
FSC 498 Senior Project
CHM 111 General Chemistry I
CHM 112 General Chemistry II
CHM 261 Organic Chemistry I
CHM 262 Organic Chemistry II
CHM 401 Biochemistry I
CRJ 100 Intro to Criminal Justice System
FSC 201 Intro to Forensic Science
FSC 300 Physical Evidence (with lab)
FSC 301 Advanced Forensic Science I (with lab)
FSC 302 Advanced Forensic Science II (with lab)
FSC 340 Forensic Biology & Microscopy
MTH 119 Mathematics for Sciences OR
MTH 241 Calculus I
MTH 205 Elementary Probability & Statistics
CRJ 231 Criminal Law
12 Credits of approved electives

MSc Forensic Science

This course concentrates on the practices, procedures and analytical techniques of forensic science, and how they are applied in support of the investigation of crime and the criminal justice system as a whole.
Course aims

You’ll be equipped with a knowledge of forensic science and investigation in order to apply scientific methods to the investigation of crime. You’ll benefit from our links with practitioners and organisations working in the field. In addition key members of staff are former forensic scientists or crime scene scientists with considerable operational experience. Expect to carry out analytical and practical work in the University’s on-campus Crime Scene House which is fully equipped with CCTV, the specialist analytical laboratories and the forensic DNA analysis facilities.
Course structure

Over the first eight months of the course you will study:

Forensic Biology
Forensic Chemistry
Introduction and Professional Studies
Legal Issues and Evidence Reporting
Principles of Crime Scene Science

and either

Drugs and Toxicology

or

Forensic DNA Analysis and DNA Statistics.

You will then complete a 60-credit major project.
Careers

Employment opportunities exist in the field of forensic science and forensic investigation with forensic science providers and law enforcement agencies. Other roles include scientific investigation where the application of science in a legal or regulatory context is important.
Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have an honours degree (at least 2.2) in an appropriate related discipline, professional membership of an appropriate chartered institution or an equivalent relevant qualification. Holders of an appropriate higher national diploma plus several years’ relevant experience may also be accepted.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section.
Industrial experience

On each master’s degree you’ll complete a project related to professional practice. This, along with the involvement of practitioners and academics in the delivery of these courses, ensures that they are relevant to the requirements of the criminal justice system.
Intermediate awards

Our master’s degrees can lead to the award of a postgraduate certificate at Stage 1 (60 credits – 3 modules), a postgraduate diploma at Stage 2 (120 credits – 6 modules) or, on completion of a research project, the MSc.
Block release study

Our master’s degrees are available on a block-release basis: you’ll study for one week between 9.00am and 6.00pm with follow-up days in the next four weeks and accompanying assignment work.

MSc Forensic Genetics

This degree is specifically targeted at professionals currently in the field or related disciplines and therefore offers the opportunity of professional development to MSc level for practitioners.
Course aims

On completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of forensic DNA analysis, particularly the technology, procedures, regulation and admissibility of DNA evidence. You will also have the skills to interpret and evaluate biological and DNA evidence within the context of a scientific investigation using appropriate statistics, and present these in a suitable format for legal proceedings.
Course structure

The course comprises the following six taught modules followed by a 60-credit major project:

Forensic DNA Analysis and DNA Statistics
Applied Molecular Genetics
Contemporary Issues in Forensic Genetics
Forensic Biology
Introduction and Professional Studies
Legal Issues and Evidence Reporting.
Careers

This degree offers those in molecular biology professions and forensic science practitioners the opportunity to widen their career prospects in forensic genetics and/or to add another dimension to their expertise.
Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have an honours degree (at least 2.2) in an appropriate related discipline, professional membership of an appropriate chartered institution or an equivalent relevant qualification. Holders of an appropriate higher national diploma plus several years’ relevant experience may also be accepted.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section.

Industrial experience
On each master’s degree you’ll complete a project related to professional practice. This, along with the involvement of practitioners and academics in the delivery of these courses, ensures that they are relevant to the requirements of the criminal justice system.

Intermediate awards
Our master’s degrees can lead to the award of a postgraduate certificate at Stage 1 (60 credits – 3 modules), a postgraduate diploma at Stage 2 (120 credits – 6 modules) or, on completion of a research project, the MSc.

Block release study
Our master’s degrees are available on a block-release basis: you’ll study for one week between 9.00am and 6.00pm with follow-up tasks and accompanying assignment work.

Students studying part-time will study the 6 taught modules using blended learning, with 3 modules studied in parallel each year and therefore only one block week per year attendance at the University will be required.

Forensic Science

Forensic Science is the study of physical evidence in a modern legal context. It is best defined as “science in service to the courts.” There are many subfields of Forensic Science including Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Computer Science, Forensic Psychology, etc. The single, unifying paradigm of Forensic Science is the search for truth and the meaning of evidence in both criminal investigations and through courts of law. U of T Mississauga’s Forensic Science BSc program, the first of its kind in Canada, is designed to provide the student with an understanding of scientific analyses, theories, laboratory skills, applications, and field techniques — while allowing the student to emphasize one particular area in greater detail. This is accomplish through the requirement of a either a Forensic Science Major program — which must be pursued together with a second science major program in an approved area of study (see below for listings of approved second science majors) OR a Forensic Science Specialist program where students pursue one of the streams of specialization (see below for listings of areas of specializations).

Entry into the Forensic Science programs is limited. Students are urged to read program information in this calendar very carefully.

ALL students contemplating Forensic Science as their intended area of study MUST first complete the required introductory university level courses (see specific FSC program for min. requirements) before they can apply to be considered for admission into the program.

The selection of the second science major is limited. While other majors must be approved by the FSC Faculty Advisor, the following are approved:
Anthropology B.Sc. with emphasis on forensic and biological anthropology
Biology with emphasis on forensic biology and molecular biology
Chemistry with emphasis on forensic chemistry
Computer Science with emphasis on forensic computer science
Psychology with emphasis on forensic psychology

Each of these approved second science majors has basic departmental requirements that must be fulfilled (Students must check individual departmental listings for specific second science major program requirements.) In addition to these basic requirements, there are provisions for a number of options. Students are strongly advised to consult with the Forensic Science program advisor who can provide recommended courses among these options to direct student preparation for a career in their chosen field of interest. Students are also advised to consult with the individual departmental faculty student advisor for recommended guidelines for course selection within their second science major.

In addition to the Forensic Science (Double) Major program, the following Forensic Science Specialist programs are available for more directed study: Forensic Science-Anthropology; Forensic Science-Biology; Forensic Science-Chemistry and Forensic Science-Psychology.

Prerequisite Requirements

Students who wish to enter the master’s program in Forensic
Science must have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science or biotechnology-with a science/math grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a four-point scale and must meet the following course prerequisites.
Biology I (course with lab component is preferable)
General Chemistry I and II (with lab)
Organic Chemistry I and II (with lab)
Physics I and II for science majors (with lab)
Calculus (3 credit hours)
Statistics (3 credit hours)

Applicants interested in the Forensic Chemistry track should have the following coursework:
Analytical/Quanitative chemistry
Instrumental Analysis
Physical Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
All the above courses should have a lab component.

Applicants interested in the Forensic Biology track should have the following coursework:
Biochemistry
Molecular Biology
Genetics
Population Statistics
Cell Biology
Microbiology

Two of the above courses should have laboratory components. Students not possessing the required undergraduate courses in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics and Population Statistics may combine graduate coursework with undergraduate coursework to make up the difference.

Forensic Science Courses

Below is a list of the courses that comprise the core curriculum for the Forensic Science degree.

FSCI 500
Survey of Forensic Science
This survey course is a graduate level introduction to the many ways in which science and the law interrelate. It will provide the student with an understanding of the two primary arenas of Forensic Science-The Lab and The Courtroom. Topics covered will include forensic chemistry, forensic biology, the expert witness, physical evidence and the crime scene. Topics related to employability as a forensic scientist and workplace demands will also be introduced. In this course, students will begin to explore in detail their specific areas of interest within the broad discipline of Forensic Science. Three credits.

FSCI 610
Physical Evidence
The student will learn to identify physical evidence and recognize its value as it relates to the solution of crime. The concepts of Identification, Individualization, and Association will be discussed. The categories of physical evidence studied will include fingerprints, drugs, documents, soil, arson evidence, gunshot residue, hair, fiber, and the biological evidence categories, such as blood, saliva, and semen. The value of DNA evidence will be discussed. Four credits.

FSCI 615
Safety/Quality Control/Quality Assurance
This course prepares the student to be knowledgeable in the stringent safety and Quality Assurance procedures routinely in operation within an accredited forensic laboratory. Additionally, students will learn about the Quality Criteria that govern the work product of an accredited forensic lab. The course will emphasize the practices that protect the work product through good QC/QA with emphasis on current accreditation criteria, and those policies that protect the most important aspect of the lab-the employee. Two credits.

FSCI 655
Practicum Rotations
The student will rotate through forensic science disciplines at a local crime laboratory facility or law enforcement agency. The practicum rotation will provide students with first-hand experience in observing the activities of a working forensic laboratory. When possible, the student will be assigned a project in a forensic area. Three credits.

FSCI 720
Seminar in Forensic Science I
This course will cover a broad range of topics within the forensic science disciplines. The student will prepare presentations based on papers from peer-reviewed scientific journals and will present these papers to his/her peers for discussion and critique of the scientific merit of the paper. In addition, visiting forensic scientists will present periodically on new techniques, topics and research in the forensic sciences. Topics related to professional practice will also be emphasized, including standards for ethical behavior, workplace demands, and professionalism. One credit.

FSCI 721
Seminar in Forensic Science II
This course is a continuation of FSCI 720. A great emphasis on student presentations will be emphasized. One credit.

FSCI 760
Research and Thesis I
This is laboratory-based research project that will culminate in a formal master’s thesis or a formal scientific paper. This course is the first half of a two course, year-long sequence that will conclude with FSCI 761. The student will conduct a forensic science research project on campus or at one of the local police forensic science laboratories. Under the direction of the host mentor, each student will perform independent and original research that is part of the host laboratory’s ongoing research program. The student will develop a formal research proposal which he/she will then present to the faculty and fellow graduate students. The student will complete a minimum of 300 hours of laboratory work during this course toward the completion of the thesis. Written requirements include keeping a formal laboratory notebook, preparing the introductions/literature review section of the thesis, and completing initial drafts of the methods and results sections of the thesis. Three credits.

FSCI 761
Research and Thesis II
This is a laboratory based research project that will culminate in a formal master’s thesis or a formal scientific paper. This course is the second half of a two course, year-long sequence that began with FSCI 760. The student will complete the forensic science research project begun in FSCI 760 on campus or at one of the local police forensic laboratories. Under the direction of the host mentor, each student will perform independent and original research that is part of the host laboratory’s ongoing research program. The student will complete a minimum of 200 hours of laboratory work during this course toward the completion of the thesis. Requirements include keeping a formal laboratory notebook, and completing and defending the final draft of the Master’s thesis. Additionally, the student will present his/her research results to the scientific community in the form of a seminar and poster presentation. Three credits.

FSCOR 701
Mock Trial Capstone
This course prepares students to testify in court proceedings by requiring them to undergo examination in a mock grand jury setting, a mock trial cross-examination and/or a mock deposition. Oral communication skills as they relate to eliciting and giving testimony will be stressed. The effective use of exhibits as aids to testimony will be emphasized. Students will learn how to present physical and documentary evidence using technology that includes a document camera, SmartBoard, and projection media. Students will also prepare CVs. Class will focus on discussion of the American Court system, courtroom procedures, relevant Fourth Amendment cases, the admissibility of expert testimony, ethics and objectivity as they pertain to experts, and how to be an effective testifying expert. Legal cases will be analyzed with respect to the proper collection, analysis and presentation of evidence in court. Students will have the opportunity to discuss with practicing forensic scientists, technicians and members of the defense bar, issues that pertain to proper evidence collection and testifying in court. Prerequisites: 33 graduate credits, including all FSCOR courses. Four credits.

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)