module specification

BE5065 - Criminalistics I (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Criminalistics I
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%   Laboratory practical
Coursework 50%   Case Study Presentation
Attendance Requirement 0%   Practical Attendance
Running in 2024/25

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

Module summary

This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the broad range of forensic science disciplines. Areas of study will include crime scene processing and an introduction to the British legal system as it applies to forensic science investigations.
 
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

BC4056 Professional Studies

Syllabus

Introduction to criminalistics and the forensic process. 
Crime scene examination, roles and responsibilities.
The UK legal system: the role of the Crown Prosecution Service, forensic science and the law.
Identification of body fluids.
The application of entomology in forensic investigations.
Trace evidence e.g. hair and fibre in forensic examination of samples. 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. Categorise and distinguish disciplines within criminalistics.
2. Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the collection, preservation, analysis and interpretation of evidence types.
3. Apply scientific knowledge to case studies in a forensic context and operate effectively and efficiently within the confines of using scientific equipment to a good standard.

Bibliography