SHS82201-2: Methods of Crime Detection
Dr Graham Harrison, Dr Andrew Jackson, Dr Andy Platt and Miss Sarah Fieldhouse (30 Credits)

This module examines various methods of crime detection. Topics include the visualization, lifting and interpretation of fingerprints, ear prints, lip prints, footprints and footwear impressions, techniques for the recovery, examination and comparison of hairs and fibres, techniques for the examination of questioned documents, the investigation of fire scenes, and the interpretation of bloodstain patterns at crime scenes. The practical application of selected techniques are covered in laboratory practical sessions.

 

SHS82200-2: Methods of Chemical Analysis
Dr Mark Tonge and Dr Graham Harrison (30 Credits)

This module examines the major instrumental techniques of chemical analysis, and their application to forensic science. This includes spectroscopic techniques such as infrared and atomic spectroscopy, separative techniques such as electrophoresis and gas chromatography and others including x-ray, thermal and electrochemical-based techniques. For each analytical technique the theoretical basis, instrumentation, scope and limitations, data interpretation, and forensic applications will be discussed in lectures. The practical application of selected techniques, within a forensic context, are covered in laboratory practical sessions.

 

SHS82206-2: Research Skills in Forensic Science
Dr Mark Tonge (15 Credits)

Good research skills are becoming increasingly important in the workplace, and are an essential requirement for most professional positions. Such skills are developed throughout the three year study programme, and this module provides a further opportunity to enhance such skills, through a variety of forensic-related exercises involving the use of information retrieval, IT and communication skills, etc.

 

SHS82207-2: DNA Profiling and Forensic Biology
Dr Dave Skingsley, Dr Angela Priestman, Dr Stephen Merry, Dr Harry Mountain and Dr John Cassella (30 Credits)

This module introduces the key concepts of genetics, including alleles, loci, complementation, multiple alleles and genes, leading to a discussion of topics such as linkage and genetic maps, ploidy levels and errors in the inheritance of chromosomes. It then moves on to introduce DNA profiling, and to discuss the various DNA profiling techniques, as well as going on to explore the uses of DNA profiling in forensic science and its scope and limitations. The module also introduces the basic principles of forensic botany, and its applications in forensic science. The basic principles of forensic entomology are introduced, including factors affecting body decomposition, and applications including estimation of time-of-death and manner-of-death. The principles of serology, i.e. the study of body fluids, will also be discussed along with forensic applications, such as presumptive tests for the presence of blood, semen and saliva stains.

 

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

Forensic Histories
Experimental Chemistry