SHS82106-1: Introduction to Forensic Science
Dr Mark Tonge, Dr Dave Rogers and Mr Hilton Middleton (30 Credits)

This module gives an introduction and overview to what forensic science is and what forensic scientists do, along with how their work interfaces with that of the police and the legal system in resolution of both criminal and civil legal disputes. The module outlines the roles and duties of the forensic scientist and scenes-of-crime officer, and sets their work in context, illustrating the important points by examination of case studies. The basic principles of crime-scene investigation are introduced, and the practical considerations of crime scene protection, documentation, search, recovery and packaging of physical evidence are discussed. The module also introduces the key concepts of chain of custody, continuity of evidence and quality assurance. Again the key principles will be illustrated by examination of case studies.

 

SHS82105-1: Crime Scene Documentation
Mr David Flatman-Fairs, Mr Graham Barlow and Mr Hilton Middleton (15 Credits)

This module focuses on the documentation of crime scenes, which is a vitally important aspect of crime scene investigation. Students will learn the basic principles, skills and techniques of photography, and their practical application to photographing crime scenes. Students will also develop skills in sketching, note-taking and logging techniques, and an appreciation of the appropriateness of these techniques to different situations.

 

SHS82100-1: Chemical Principles for Forensic Science
Dr Graham Harrison and Dr Andy Platt (30 Credits)

This module builds on previously acquired chemical knowledge to develop the theoretical understanding and practical skills which underpin the many techniques of chemical analysis used in forensic investigation. The module covers the fundamentals of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, and helps to develop essential laboratory skills and good laboratory practice. The fundamental principles of chemical analysis are introduced, with emphasis on classical wet-chemical techniques, i.e. titrimetry and gravimetry. Numerical, mathematical and statistical skills, required for the analysis and interpretation of scientific data, will be introduced. Topics covered include experimental uncertainty, significant figures, differentiation and integration, analytical precision and accuracy, selectivity and sensitivity. The module also helps to develop a range of core skills, such as written and oral communication, team-working and information retrieval. These skills are all essential to subsequent studies and an important part of the graduate skills programme built into the course. The theoretical understanding and practical skills developed in this module are a vitally important preparation for the subsequent study of instrumental techniques of forensic examination at level two.

 

SHS82107-1: Biological Principles for Forensic Science
Dr Harry Mountain, Dr Kevin Reiling, Dr David Skingsley and Dr Sue Bird (30 Credits)

This module provides an introduction to how biologically useful information is stored through generations, and translated into macromolecules, cells and organisms. The module describes the structure of DNA and how its structure relates to its function, and explains how the information in DNA is translated into proteins through intermediate molecules and structures. The major life-support processes of living organisms, such as gas-exchange, nutrition, growth, reproduction, support, communication and waste-management are also examined. The module also helps to develop a range of biological laboratory skills, such as preparing calibration solutions, and using a basic microscope, which complement the theory covered in other modules, and which are an essential preparation for subsequent biological laboratory work. This module is an essential preparation for the study of forensic biology at level two.

 

The above are all core modules. Option modules from forensic science include:

Basic Chemical Principles
Chemical Pollution
Periodicity