Overview
Description
This course will examine the scientific principles and methods used in analysis of physical evidence in criminal and civil cases. It will consider the advantages, limitations, criticisms and challenges in various areas of forensic science as well as the role of scientific analysis and testimony in the court system.
Requirements
Recommended Preparation
- Non-science students are strongly encouraged to have completed their general education science requirements.
Original catalog text
Recommended Preparation
Non-science students are strongly encouraged to have completed their general education science requirements.
Units
Lecture3
Catalog Details
Offering
Offered: Every Fall and Summer
Terms
fall, summer
Attributes
Standard
Learning Outcomes
- describe how scientific and technological principles, knowledge, techniques and analysis are used in the justice system (both civil and criminal).
- distinguish between science and pseudoscience and between sound and unsound interpretations of scientific information presented in non-scientific contexts such as the justice system.
- employ cogent reasoning methods in their own examinations of problems and issues involving scientific principles, techniques or analysis.
- explain the foundations and basic principles of the scientific techniques commonly applied to forensic analysis.
- analyze the controversies and ethical concerns of forensic science.
- extend the principles in this course to integrate, synthesize, and apply knowledge of the relationship between science and technology and other societal issues.