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Updated 9 June, 2010
Certificate in Forensic Science FETAC Logo


Course Details


The aim of this self-study course is to provide a comprehensive guide to crime detection and examines in detail a range of techniques used for scientific evaluation of evidence. Forensic Science means any science which is used as evidence in a court of law.  It is also taken to mean scientific analysis and comparison used in the detection and investigation of crime. The course covers the following topics: (1) scientific disciplines, (2) crime scene investigation, (3) computer based electronic evidence, (4) crime scene equipment, (5) analysis of crime scenes, and (6) evidence presentation.

Your Tutor will support you throughout the duration of the course. You complete the course by undertaking activities and assignments. You will receive the course manual, assignments and study guide plus tutor support. Our student support team are also available for any other queries that you may have whilst completing your course. You can be assured that unlimited support is available for your course, so there is no need to feel isolated during your studies.


Topics Covered in this Course


Unit 1: Introduction to Forensic Science
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Computing

Unit 2: Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)
  • Role of CSI
  • Crime Scene Preservation
  • Documentation
  • Recognition and Recovery of Evidence
  • Transportation and Storage of Evidence
  • Chain of Custody
  • Health and Safety and Crime Scenes

Unit 3: Investigation of Computer Evidence
  • Digital Evidence
  • Common types of devices
  • Recovery of Digital Evidence
  • Transportation of Digital Evidence
  • Written records
  • Principles of gathering Digital Evidence

Unit 4: Crime Scene Equipment
  • General Equipment
  • Optional Equipment
  • Specialised Equipment

Unit 5: Analysis of Crime Scene Evidence
  • DNA Analysis
  • Body Fluid Analysis
  • Bloodstain pattern analysis
  • Fingerprinting
  • Physical impression and imprints analysis
  • Trace Evidence
  • Arson analysis
  • Explosives analysis
  • Ballistics analysis
  • Drug analysis
  • Document analysis
  • Digital equipment analysis

Unit 6: Presentation of Evidence
  • Presenting Findings
  • Written and oral skills
  • Computing Skills




Who should complete this course?

  • People considering commencing a career in Forensic Science.
  • Those who work in related areas such as law, law enforcement or private investigation.


Prerequisites

  • None.


Assessment

  • This course is assessed through a series of tutor marked assignments. There is no exam with this course.


Accreditation

  • At the end of this course, successful learners will receive a level 3 NCFE Award certificate in Forensic Science. That means that it is independently accredited at a level of learning equivalent to level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. A UK Award at level 3 is roughly equivalent to a FETAC Level 5 Award.
  • Please note that there is a EUR60 fee payable for administration, moderation and certification.



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