Undergraduate Winter Session 2008 (scroll down for course description)

SCN3690/01
Crime Science
Professor: William Hebard

Credits = 2 Advanced Liberal Arts
Cost = $2132.
Payment for this course is due: At the time of registration


Meeting Dates: Monday-Friday 1:45 - 3:45 (Jan 3 - Jan 16)

Final: Friday January 18, 2008 1:45pm - 3:45pm

Meeting Room: TBA

Capacity: 20
Course Description:

Criminal Investigators have long utilized Forensic Scientists to fight crime. Now they have the advantage of modern technology to continue their age-old battle.  But, what can and cannot be entered into a court of law under the label of science? This course begins by examining the unique qualifiers that our legal system requires of forensic science. Next, we will survey the forensic field, from its limited beginnings to its modern capabilities. From the many disciplines of Forensic Science, this course will concentrate on Toxicology, Criminalistics, and DNA. Throughout, we will examine how science helped solve historical criminal cases as well as those ripped from today's headlines. A high school level chemistry or biology background will be helpful. Some lab work will supplement the lectures.

 Course objectives include:

1.      Students will understand the legal requirements that define forensic science.

2.      Students will gain understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics as used in forensic science.