module specification

BE5066 - Criminalistics II (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Criminalistics II
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 150
 
111 hours Guided independent study
39 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 50%   Crime Scene Report (1500 words)
Coursework 50%   Oral Defence
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Tuesday Afternoon

Module summary

This module aims to explore further the themes and concepts introduced in Criminalistics I. Areas of study will include marks and impression evidence and microbial forensics.
 
Students will develop communication and technical skills necessary for forensic scientists and they will be able to distinguish between the defined areas of criminalistics through case studies and practical work. 

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the application of personal responsibility and decision-making.

Prior learning requirements

BE5065 Criminalistics I

Syllabus

Marks and impression evidence e.g. footwear marks and fingerprints.
Crime scene processing
DNA profiling
Microbial forensics LO1- 3

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The module is delivered via lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions (39 hours).  Tutorials will allow informal-teacher led discussions of the issues raised in the lectures and are also used to allow practice in the key skills of communication, interpretation and analysis through case studies.  Practical sessions are designed to allow the students to put the theory from lectures into practice utilising real-time experimental techniques and scenarios.  The remainder of the time allocated will be used for self-directed learning.  Students will be expected to reflect upon taught material in order to demonstrate their understanding of the aspects of forensic science covered in this module.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the collection, preservation, analysis and
interpretation of evidence types and communicate effectively in good written and spoken English using scientific and non-scientific terminology.
2. Show an understanding of how microorganisms could be used to cause potential harm.
3. Display knowledge and understanding of the main methods used in marks and impression evidence.

Bibliography