Credits
This is a 3-credit course.
Description
This course is structured to provide the basic concepts of forensic serology as it applies to the collection, preservation and testing of biological evidence. Each module will be supplemented with figures, animations, and links to appropriate websites that will provide the materials necessary for course completion. This course will use an ongoing case study to reinforce concepts and to combine individual topics covered in each module. Grades will be based on performance on the assignments accompanying each module, as well as online quizzes. Other activities will include online discussions of course topics and current issues that relate to forensic serology and biological evidence.
Prerequisites
Please review our recommended course order.
Topics
| Module | Topic |
|---|---|
| Module 1 | Crime Scene Investigation – Biological Evidence |
| Module 2 | Processing Biological Evidence |
| Module 3 | Laboratory Analysis of Biological Evidence (Blood) |
| Module 4 | Laboratory Analysis of Biological Evidence (Semen and Other Biological Evidence) |
| Module 5 | Species of Origin and Serology Separation Techniques |
| Module 6 | Introduction to Blood Spatter |
| Module 7 | Introduction to DNA Analysis |
| Module 8 | Court Room Testimony |
Final exam
This course has a final online exam which students take at the end of the semester. The exam will be proctored using HonorLock (please see technical requirements on this website: https://app.honorlock.com/support/msr-check).
More information about HonorLock including a student orientation is provided on their website. You can check out the student guide tour on the HonorLock website: https://prep.honorlock.com/
In order to take the final exam, you will need the following equipment:
- Web camera or built-in camera for laptops
- Microphone (built-in with web camera or separate)
- Stable (preferably hard-wired) internet connection
If you have any questions, please contact course instructor, Cortney Macdonald.
Recommended Materials
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science
Author: Richard Saferstein
Publisher: Pearson; 13th Edition (2021)
ISBN-13: 9780137542512 (2021 update for e-text)
Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques,
Author: Stuart H. James, Jon J. Nordby Ph.D., Suzanne Bell
Publisher: CRC; 5th edition, 2019
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-1138048126
ISBN-10: 1138048127
Publisher: CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group LLC, Routledge
http://www.crcpress.com
E-text available. Note: Must be logged into the UF Library System to obtain full access to the text.
Library Access
UF online graduate students enjoy the same library privileges as on-campus students. Visit the University of Florida Libraries to find books, journals, and more.