Biomedical and Health Sciences: Intro to Forensic Diagnostics (Z1)

About BHSC 1990 Z1

See Schedule of Courses for specific titles.

Section Description

This interactive course immerses students in the science and practice of modern forensic investigation. Through active learning and completing experiments in biology, chemistry, genetics, and physics, students will perform key forensic techniques such as DNA analysis, fingerprint and blood spatter analysis, trace evidence identification, and chemical testing of unknown compounds. The course involves a high level of active learning; students will not only study these methods but also conduct experiments, operate laboratory instruments, and interpret data much like professional forensic scientists.

Students will apply safety standards, engage in collaborative investigations, and analyze findings from simulated crime scenes and real forensic case studies. In addition to structured lab activities, students will complete an independent or small-group project on a new or emerging forensic diagnostic technique. They will research its scientific basis, explore how it is advancing the field, and apply their findings to the analysis of a selected true crime case.

By combining active experimentation, critical analysis, and research, this course provides an authentic, hands-on experience that connects classroom learning to real-world forensic science and the evolving technologies that shape it.

Learning Objectives:
• Acquire foundational knowledge utilized in forensic diagnostics and crime scene investigation while applying the scientific method to critically analyze and evaluate forensic evidence.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific principles of crime scene investigation and reconstruction, including evidence collection, preservation, and proper documentation.
• Understand and explain the role of the forensic scientist and physical evidence in crime scene investigation.
• Analyze evidence related to crime scene investigation by utilizing principles learning during the course and generate a true crime project based on scientifically sound research.
• Activities are designed to allow students to predict and create hypotheses based on observations and previous knowledge. Students will then use a variety of scientific techniques to test these hypotheses and evaluate their results using the scientific method.

Section Expectation

Students will need to have access to a computer that meets the UVM Laptop Requirements to have access to the related course materials that will be posted on Brightspace and for submission of assignments. Students will need to download the Respondus Lockdown Browser for class exams.

Students will also need to have access to some basic household materials to complete some active experiments, such as a dropper, red food coloring or a red liquid, large pieces of paper, inkpad, white paper, etc. Students and the instructor will work together to ensure that materials will be obtained.

Evaluation

Your grade for this course will be calculated based on the following criteria:
• Exams – (30%) – There will be 3 exams that will assess your understanding of the course material. These will be a combination of multiple choice, matching, short answer and written response questions.
• Lab Activities (25%) – Labs will be interactive, and you will be expected to complete a variety of lab activities during the semester. Students will carry out some lab activities using some basic materials and will also be given an online access code to use for simulated experiments.
• Assignments (25%) – A variety of assignments will be used this semester to apply and learn the material.
• Forensic Diagnostic Techniques Research Project (20%) –You will be working to research and present a project based on a new or emerging diagnostic technique and apply this to a forensic case. This will be a collaborative project and will be presented online via voice recording.

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

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