Credits
This is a 3-credit course.
Description
A substantial amount of forensic evidence used in the prosecution of criminal cases is initially established at the crime scene. Recognizing, detecting, recovering, preserving and recording this evidence forms a critical function within forensic science and criminal investigation. This course explores the main aspects of crime scene investigation, including: crime scene processes, recognition of evidence, documentation of crime scenes, evidence detection and enhancement, maintaining evidence integrity and bloodstain pattern analysis. It also covers professional practices associated with evidence handling and case file management.
This course is taught by Western Sydney University as part of a collaborative venture between the University of Florida and Western Sydney University, Australia.
Prerequisites
Please review our recommended course order.
Topics
| module | topic |
|---|---|
| Module 1 | Crime Scene Principles |
| Module 2 | Role of the Crime Scene Examiner |
| Module 3 | Recording the Crime Scene |
| Module 4 | Fingerprints and DNA Evidence |
| Module 5 | General Physical Evidence |
| Module 6 | Bloodstain Pattern Analysis |
| Module 7 | Specialized Scene Examinations |
| Module 8 (optional) | Optional extra credit module: Indigenous Australia – Cultural Awareness and Contributions to Forensic Science |
| Module 9 | Case File Management and Report Writing |
At the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Describe the general approach to crime scene examination.
- Appreciate the range of evidence types that may be present at a crime scene and describe appropriate search, recovery and preservation methods for each evidence type.
- Articulate the requirements of good crime scene photography and case file management practices.
- Understand the importance of professional practices associated with maintaining evidence integrity and continuity.
- Report evidence and conclusions from crime scene investigations accurately and in an appropriate format.
Recommended Materials
Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation
Fisher BAJ & Fisher DR
CRC Press, Taylor and Francis
9th edition, 2022
ebook. ISBN 9780429272011
Additional helpful textbooks include:
- Fisher BAJ & Fisher DR, Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation, Eighth Edition, 2012, CRC Press, ISBN 9781439810057.
- Sutton R, Trueman K & Moran C (Editors), Crime Scene Management: Scene Specific Methods, Second Edition, 2016, Wiley, ISBN 9781119180906.
Library Access
Distance Education and UF Online Students enjoy the same library privileges as on-campus students.
To utilize the University of Florida Library System, click here!