CJ& 240 - Forensic Science

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
Survey of fundamental investigative techniques as they apply to specific criminal investigations. Examines the basic principles of the laws concerning evidence in the criminal justice system, with emphasis on the role of the investigator in collecting and preserving evidence, and introducing evidence in court. Formerly: CJ 205.
Course Outcomes:

Research, identify, and demonstrate the European historical origins of American criminal investigation methods.
Define and classify basic aspects of criminal investigations.
Identify and explain investigative methods/techniques which are accepted and effective in criminal court proceedings.
Provide definitions for, and show the differences between, the following investigative techniques: physical exchange principle, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and investigative intuition.
Research and provide definitions for: investigative specific terminology, legal expressions, and rules of evidence.
Identify technological advancements in modern forensic science disciplines.
Research and debate various ethical challenges in modern criminal investigations.

Course Topics:

Historical origins of criminal investigations
Basic concepts
Investigative methods
Report writing
Crime scene focus, interviewing
Sources of information
Court room testimony
Investigative and criminalistic concepts of the future

Course Attribute(s): Social Science