In this module you will be introduced to a range of scientific analytical techniques used within Forensic Investigation.
The module consists of an assortment of lectures, tutorials and laboratory practical sessions.
In the lectures you will cover the theory on topics such as chemical analysis (for example chemical compositions, reactions and, presumptive testing), anthropology (including human identification), spectroscopy (including contamination and interference issues) and, case studies exploring the analysis of evidence (such as, paint and glass) within those cases.
The practical laboratory sessions will reflect on, build on and put into practice, the theory obtained in the lectures. You will learn to work alongside your peers to complete the tasks within the laboratory; you will also learn and apply good working laboratory practices.
The tutorials will support your learning and understanding of the topics covered; giving you the opportunity to work in small groups to further understand the techniques.
Mathematical concepts and its application to problem solving will be incorporated into many of the lectures and practical sessions, demonstrating the relevance to real life applications. Some of the mathematical topics will include but not be limited to, algebra, fractions and trigonometry.

1. Students will write a laboratory report based on one of the practical sessions they will complete during semester 1 (LO’s 1-3, 5 and 6).
2. Group practical laboratory assessment stations – Students will work in a group to complete a selection of laboratory based practicals, testing their knowledge of techniques learned during semester 2.
3. As a group, the analysis and results must be summarised in a written report (LO’s 1-6).
4. Written exam – A 1 hour written exam comprising short and long answer questions, covering theory associated with the analytical techniques and mathematical concepts learned throughout semester 1 and 2 (LO’s 1, 5 and 6).

In this module you will get hands-on practical experience in forensic investigation. This module will provide you with the opportunity to explore forensics in a laboratory setting as well as access key theories through lectures. You will get further chance to discuss this in tutorial sessions and gain further skills through problem-solving exercises.

1. Define and explain the application and operation of current analytical techniques within Forensic Investigation.

1) Knowledge and Understanding

2) Learning

7) Application

2. Identify and apply the requirements of good laboratory practices with an emphasis on Forensic Investigation techniques.

1) Knowledge and Understanding

7) Application

3. Describe and discuss the theory learned throughout this module, in the form of clear and informative written reports.

2) Learning

6) Communication

4. Communicate effectively to contribute to group work in laboratory practical sessions and tutorials.

6) Communication

5. Evaluate and examine data to produce an interpretation of results; understanding their significance and the supporting theory.

3) Enquiry

4) Analysis

6. Employ and apply mathematical concepts to solve problems relating to Forensic Investigation techniques.

5) Problem solving

7) Application

Access to laboratories with subject specific equipment and resources

Girard, J.E. (2015). Criminalistics: Forensic Science, Crime, and Terrorism 3rd ed. Burlington: Jones and Bartlett Learning
Jackson, A.R.W. and Jackson, J. (2016). Forensic Science 4th ed. Harlow: Pearson
Langford, A., Dean, J., Reed, R., Holmes, D., Weyers, J. and Jones, A. (2010). Practical Skills in Forensic Science 2nd ed. Harlow: Pearson
Rouessac, F. and Rouessac, A. (2007). Chemical Analysis: Modern Instrumentation Methods and Techniques 2nd ed. United States: Wiley-Blackwell
White, P.C. (ed.) (2010). Crime Scene to Court: The Essentials of Forensic Science 3rd ed. Cambridge: Royal society of Chemistry Publishing

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Have you ever questioned how certain types of evidence are analysed to support criminal proceedings?
This module will introduce you to scientific analytical techniques used within Forensic Investigation. You will learn the theory on a variety of forensic analytical techniques, which you will then put into practice within a laboratory setting. The module will give you basic knowledge and skills in techniques and principles that can be built on in your subsequent years of study and, applied to future careers within a forensic investigation capacity.