BIOL 1123 - Introduction To Forensic Science
4 Credits
Introduces students to the basic techniques of forensic science. Concepts will be examined with the application of scientific principles and emphasizing molecular biology, cell biology and the human body. Topics will include application of biological concepts to forensics, such as forensic pathology and anthropology, serology, toxicology, DNA profiling and entomology. Labs will include hands-on forensic inquiry and applications, such as identification of skeletal remains, blood splatter analyses, fingerprinting, chromophotograph, DNA and hair analysis. Current issues, advances and questions in forensic science will also be addressed. This course will be of interest to liberal arts, science, paralegal and criminal justice majors, and fulfills the lab science requirement for MnTC.
Pre-Requisites ENG 0099 or ENG 1108
Major Content Areas
History & legal aspects of Forensic Science.The nature of evidence, crime scene investigation.Forensic Pathology & Anthropology.Forensic Biology: Cells, tissues, systems.Forensic Serology & Toxicology.Analytical Tools: Chromatography, Spectrophotometry & Microscopy.DNA evidence & profiling.Fingerprinting & hair as Forensic Evidence.Forensic Entomology.Current issues, questions and advances in the forensic sciences.
Learning Outcomes
Define and describe forensic science, its disciplines, and the role of the forensic scientist.Demonstrate an understanding of the nature & limits of evidence via analysis & interpretation of data. Apply biological concepts and scientific principles when forming and testing hypotheses in the context of forensic science. Describe sources of error and bias in forensic science, societal implications and options for mitigation. Describe current issues and challenges to forensic science, how the history of the forensic disciplines contributed to these issues and how they may be addressed. Demonstrate current standard lab/ field safety practices and procedures.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
03 - Natural Science 02 - Critical Thinking
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