Revised 08/2018

ADJ 172 - Forensic Science II (4 CR.)

Course Description

Introduces student to crime scene technology, procedures for sketching, diagramming and using casting materials. Surveys the concepts of forensic chemistry, fingerprint classification/identification and latent techniques, drug identification, hair and fiber evidence, death investigation techniques, thin-layer chromatographic methods, and arson materials examination. Part I of II. Lecture 3 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an exposure to crime scene investigations, selected areas in forensic science and an in-depth review of forensic issues in the courtroom.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: ADJ 171

Course Objectives

• Upon completing the course, students will be able to: a) critically analyze forensic science issues in the courtroom. b) understand proper identification, collection, and preservation techniques of forensic evidence. c) recognize quality assurance and control measures by forensic professionals. d) describe various instruments used by forensic scientists. e) define serology, entomology, pathology, and anthropology and the subject’s relationship with modern forensic science.

Major Topics to Be Included

a) latent fingerprint identification and evidence techniques b) serology c) pathology d) DNA analysis e) blood spatter evidence analysis f) trace evidence analysis g) tool mark and ballistic analysis h) anthropology i) entomology j) arson evidence k) crime scene searches l) proper identification, collection, and preservation techniques m) mock crime scenes n) microscopy o) photographic and sketch evidence p) controlled dangerous substance identification and evidence q) courtroom issues associated with forensic science