Aspectos formales

FORS 125 Forensic Science (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course explores the science and art of forensic investigations and the identification, proper collection and recognition of evidence. The student looks at a variety of specialty areas such as firearms, tool marks, fiber tracing, hair paint, toxicology and photography. Crime scenes are explored using critical thinking skills to produce alternative strategies by thinking creatively. Experts in forensics are guest presenters. Fundamentals of the science behind the crime are explored. Case studies are presented as group projects and the student is expected to provide several scenarios and evidence for alternative conclusions. Offered Semester II (Spring), annually.

FORS 160 Introduction to Forensic Computing (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: None

Description: Computers are increasingly critical to forensic investigations. This course introduces the student to the basics of computer-stored data and methods of hiding, erasing and recovering data from storage media. It also explores the relationship between computer technology and crime scene investigation. Offered Semester II (Spring), odd-numbered years.

FORS 270 Crime Scene Investigation (3 semester hours) Prerequisites: None

Description: This is a fundamental course in forensic death investigations. The areas of specialized focus include the causes, manner, physical circumstances, and mechanisms of both natural and unnatural deaths. Death scenes are examined and investigations reviewed, with evidence pertaining to how people die. In addition, the course looks at the various legal considerations and methods germane to concluding equivocal death determinations. Offered Semester II (Spring), annually.

FORS 315 Forensic Entomology* (4 semester hours)

Prerequisites: Minimum of 45 earned semester hours and BIOL 225 or permission of instructor Description: The forensic entomologist can use a number of different techniques including insect species succession, larval weight, length, and technical methods such as the accumulated degree-hour technique. The student is introduced to standard forensic procedures and, when practical, will see and use those procedures. Offered Semester III (Summer), odd-numbered years.

FORS 360 Forensic Case Study (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125 and FORS 270

Description: This course stresses field work and the application of collected evidence in the sometimes messy real world. The student analyzes several case studies, looking beyond the verdicts or newspaper reports to the actual workings of forensic science’s involvement in the prosecution of criminal cases. Offered Semester II (Spring), annually.

FORS 361 Criminal Profiling (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125 and 270

Description: This course examines the process of profiling during the investigation of a crime. The process of psychological profiling was first institutionally used by the Federal Bureau of

Investigation, but there are now multiple models for criminal profiling. The student studies the various models and how they relate both to expert witness standards and scientific methodologies. The course also examines the differences of these models and their application in case studies. Offered Semester I (Fall), annually.

FORS 362 Medico-Legal Death Investigation (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125, BIOL 214 and 215

Description: This course is a study of the process known as medico-legal death investigation. The course introduces the student to the legal systems surrounding the investigation of the cause and manner of death. The role of forensic pathology and the application of pathology to law are studied in relation to crime scene investigation. Natural, accidental, homicide and suicide deaths are explored in the perspective of the forensic pathologies. Offered Semester I (Fall), annually.

FORS 363 Forensic Population Studies (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125 and 270 and MATH 280

Description: This course utilizes large data sets to discern large scale crime patterns. The student is introduced to crime databases and follows criminal activity patterns correlated to such variables as physical area, time or economics. This course involves research design and statistical analysis and is a group project-driven course. Offered Semester II (Spring), odd-numbered years.

FORS 364 Fraud (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125 and 270

Description: This course examines all aspects of fraud investigation, including medical and corporate fraud. Case studies are used and guest speakers employed in the field of fraud investigation are presenters. Practical knowledge of investigation techniques and knowledge of the common traits

FORS 365 Crime Scene Management (3 semester hours) Prerequisites: FORS 125

Description: This course provides a practical introduction to criminal investigation and reflects the most recent investigative techniques and technology. The course outlines the fundamentals of inquiry and detail each element of an investigation. The course covers from the outset of an investigation, case preparation, and prosecution. Offered as needed.

FORS 366 Interrogation Techniques (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125

Description: This course introduces the student to the principles of interview and interrogation by using innovative and effective techniques for obtaining information and detection of deception. The course also develops knowledge necessary to allow the student to understand laws used in dealing

with interviews and interrogations. Offered as needed.

FORS 367 Evidence (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: FORS 125

Description: This course demonstrates how evidence is maintained for legal integrity and

presentation in a court of law. The student studies and applies the Pennsylvania Rules of Evidence in areas such as physical evidence, testimonial evidence (including fact and expert testimony), the procedure to include the introduction of evidence in court, and the scientific standard. Offered as needed.

FORS 380 Special Topics in Forensic Science (3 semester hours)

Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor and academic advisor

Description: This course covers topics in forensic science. It is an in-depth study of a selected specialized area and the content varies by semester. Offered as needed.

FORS 390 Directed Study (1 to 4 semester hours)

Prerequisites: Minimum of 60 earned semester hours

Description: This course is designed for the student who demonstrates an interest in an area of study not offered or who wishes to pursue a discipline in greater depth than possible through existing courses. A directed study counts as an elective and may not be used for accelerated or remedial credit. A learning contract between the student and instructor defines the responsibilities of the parties and specifies the learning objectives and standards for successful completion of the project. A calendar of meeting times and deadlines shall be a part of that contract. Offered as needed.