Master of Science in Forensic Science
About the Program
Master of Science: 72.0 semester credits
The MS in Forensic Science is designed to provide students with a solid foundation within the forensic sciences, while at the same time encouraging growth and leadership in new and emerging applications within the field. The program offers students the opportunity to concentrate within one of three major areas of forensic science: criminalistics; molecular biology; or (under development) cyber crime.
In the past few years film and television has introduced our entire society to the once closed world of forensic science. One of the elements that the entertainment industry has correctly identified as shedding light into the field is that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to allow our criminal justice system to run properly.
The Master of Science in Forensic Sciences provides an introduction to both the scientific and legal aspects of the field, which will then be followed by more in-depth study of specific forensic science fields. The program progresses to allow students the study of one of three current areas of concentration: molecular biology, criminalistics, or clinical forensic medicine. Opportunities for overlapping study within these disciplines are also available. Students will be exposed to both the intricacies of problem solving as well as to the real-world application of the related disciplines within the field of forensic science. A collaborative network of municipal agencies, private enterprise and allied professional programs within the University has been built to prepare professionals who can confront the forensic challenges of the new millennium.
The program is not limited to only those students with undergraduate degrees in criminal justice and topic related fields. The program is designed to attract students at a multidisciplinary level. Students with coursework in the natural sciences, pre-medicine, engineering, computer science, psychology and the social sciences are only a few of the disciplines which will find this program beneficial.
For more information about this program, visit the College of Medicine's Master of Science in Forensic Science web page.
Admission Requirements
Admission into the program requires that the student have a strong background in the sciences. Students are required to have an academic year in each of the following sciences: biology; chemistry; organic chemistry and physics. A minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA is desired, however, all supplemental materials and overall experience will be factored into the acceptance process. Additional course work to strengthen areas of weakness will be reviewed. The following submissions will be necessary for admission to the program:
- An application along with $45.00 fee
- Official transcripts for each College or University
- Three letters of evaluation
- MCAT and/or GRE test scores
Contact information
For additional information on how to apply for this program, contact:
Ms. Thelicia Hill
215.762.4674
thelicia.hill@drexel.edu
Drexel University College of Medicine
Office of Professional Studies in the Health Sciences
Forensic Science Program
Mail Stop 344, 245 North 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102-1192
Requirements
| Year I: Fall Semester | ||
| IHS 999S | Special Topics (Introduction to Scientific Writing) | 2.0 |
| MFSP 550S | Biological Aspects of the Forensic Sciences | 3.0 |
| MFSP 551S | Human Function | 3.0 |
| MFSP 552S | Structure of the Human Body | 3.0 |
| MFSP 553S | Human Structure Lab | 2.0 |
| MFSP 561S | Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation | 3.0 |
| MFSP 575S | Introduction to Criminal Law and Trial Process | 3.0 |
| MFSP 581S | Human Osteology and Calcified Tissue Biology I | 3.0 |
| Year I: Spring Semester | ||
| MFSP 554S | Principles of Forensic Pathology | 4.0 |
| MFSP 556S | Forensic Anthropology and Topics in Human Identification | 3.0 |
| MFSP 557S | Drug Chemistry | 3.0 |
| MFSP 558S | Instrumental Analysis | 3.5 |
| MFSP 559S | Criminal Law and the Court: Use of Evidence I | 3.5 |
| MFSP 560S | Criminal Law and the Court: Use of Evidence II | 3.5 |
| MFSP 582S | Human Osteology and Calcified Tissue Biology II | 3.0 |
| Year I: Summer Semester | ||
| MFSP 555S | Forensic Sciences Summer Practicum | 3.0 |
| MFSP 572S | Forensic Research Project I | 3.0 |
| MFSP 576S | Ethics for the Forensic Scientist | 3.0 |
| Select 3 credits from the following electives: | 3.0 | |
| Footwear and Tire Track Analysis | ||
| Forensic Photography | ||
| Cyber Crime | ||
| Year 2, Fall Semester | ||
| MFSP 592S | Forensic Graduate Seminar | 1.5 |
| MFSP 572S | Forensic Research Project I | 3.0 |
| Select four credits of electives. Suggested electives include: | 4.0 | |
| Forensic Photography | ||
| Cyber Crime | ||
| Concentration Electives | ||
| Students select six credits from the categories below. Not all credits must be from the same concentration. | 6.0 | |
| Criminalistic Concentration | ||
| Arson and Explosive Analysis | ||
| Latent Fingerprint Analysis | ||
| Firearms and Tool Mark Analysis | ||
| Techniques of interview and interrogation | ||
| Vehicle Accident Reconstruction and Analysis | ||
| Footwear and Tire Track Analysis | ||
| Nuclear/Biological/Chemical Terrorism | ||
| Bloodstain Pattern Analysis | ||
| Homicide Investigation | ||
| Criminal Investigative Analysis | ||
| Molecular Biology Concentration | ||
| Basic Techniques for the Analysis of Biomolecules | ||
| Genetics for the Forensic Scientist | ||
| Forensic Microbiology | ||
| Principles of Immunology | ||
| Special Topics in Cell Biology | ||
| Forensic DNA Analysis | ||
| Clinical Forensic Science Concentration | ||
| The Autopsy in Clinical Forensic Medicine | ||
| Introduction to Forensic Radiology | ||
| Clinical Forensic Emergency Medicine and Traumatology | ||
| Introduction to Forensic Pediatrics | ||
| Introduction to Forensic Psychology | ||
| Total Credits | 72.0 | |
Courses
MFSP 510 Forensic Toxicology II 3.0 Credits
A continuation of MFSP 509. A review of the chemistry, biology and pharmacodynamic principles associated with forensic toxicology, with emphasis upon the forensic aspects of alcohol (ethanol), illicit drugs and selected prescription/over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Separation techniques, means of drug identification and qualitative vs. confirmatory quantitative analytical procedures are discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 509 [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 517 Arson and Explosive Analysis 3.0 Credits
Chemistry of fire and relevant terminology for fire scene investigation. Points of origin, detection of accelerants, collection preservation of arson evidence, flammable residues are addressed. Introduction to the science of explosives, review of the collection and analysis of explosive residues/debris. Case students and techniques used in arson/explosion scene reconstruction.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 501 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 504 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 506 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 508 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 510 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 512 [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 518 Latent Fingerprint Analysis 3.0 Credits
Review of the fundamental principles of fingerprinting, with discussion of the history, means of fingerprint classification, and the utilization of Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems. Techniques utilized in the development of fingerprints at the crime scene and fingerprint preservation are addressed, as are relevant case studies and probability analysis applications.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 519 Introduction to Basic Forensic Engineering 3.0 Credits
The use of science, methodology and engineering principles involved in the diagnosis of some common types of accidents and failures. Emphasis is stresses the necessity of the investigators ability to pursue multiple avenues of investigation simultaneously. A foundation of undergraduate pre-calculus and one term of undergraduate physics are presumed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 501 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 504 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 506 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 508 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 510 [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 512 [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 520 Firearms & Tool Mark Analysis 3.0 Credits
The study of class and individualizing characteristics of surface features of inanimate objects and their impressions. Review includes firearms analysis, including bullet and cartridge comparisons, analysis of gunpowder residues, and the collection and preservation of such evidence. Presentation of such evidence in a court room setting is addressed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 521 Techniques ofInterview & Interrogation 3.0 Credits
The current principles used in the art of interviewing and interrogation are examined and discussed. The most popular principles and schools of thought on the topics are presented to provide the student with a multifaceted background. The polygraph and criminal personality profiling is covered.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 522 Trace Materials Analysis 3.0 Credits
Trace materials in the forms of hair, fiber, paint, glass, soil, mineral and botanical evidence are examined and discussed. The proper identification, recovery, analysis and preservation of such materials are examined and practices. Application of such evidence to relevant case studies is presented.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 523 Vehicle Accident Recognition 3.0 Credits
The course familiarizes the student with the basic principles, concepts and tools used within the profession to document and determine traffic accident causation and responsibility. The course relies on real-world motor traffic collisions with forensics pathological correlation. Vehicular occupant, motorcycle and pedestrian accident kinematics are examined, discussed and analyzed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 519 [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 524 Footwear and Tire Track Analysis 3.0 Credits
Utilization of the study of class individual individualizing characteristics of surface features as applied to footwear patterns and tire track impressions. Means of documentation, recovery and analysis as it pertains to the totality of the crime scene is emphasized utilizing relevant case studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 525 Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Terrorism 3.0 Credits
Identification of and historical precedents for nuclear, biological and chemical agents utilized as terrorist weapons are examined and discussed, along with the development and current accessibility nuclear weapons for terrorist purposes. Monitoring/detection equipment/personnel protective equipment is addresses. The multi-agency concept in responding to terrorist incidents are examined as is the international implications.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 526 Bloodstream Pattern Analysis 3.0 Credits
A background in the terminology, pattern recognition, and physical principles involved in bloodstain analysis is addressed. Documentation and proper collection of stain samples are covers along with the ability to accurately reconstruct the events that occurred in a crime scene involving bloodshed. There is discussion/application of contemporary serologic techniques to case studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 530 Forensic Taphonomy 3.0 Credits
Students will learn and apply principles of postmortem changes that human remains undergo. These changes affect estimates of time since death, identification, and the ability to determine cause and manner of death. Students will learn how postmortem environments influence the survival of human remains and other evidence.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 516 [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 532 Forensic Microbiology 3.0 Credits
This lecture based course introduces various aspects of the emerging field of forensic microbiology. The first section will cover basic virology, bacteriology, fungi and protozoa. The second section will focus on the most important organisms and toxins for biocrimes and bioterrorism. Lastly, modern methodology in forensic microbiology will be discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 533 Principles of Immunology 3.0 Credits
This lecture series addresses the immune system. The first section will provide an overview of basic immunologic concepts, such as cellular and soluble components, their interaction and crucial methodology. The second part will discuss how the immune system reacts to specific challenges with a special focus on infectious diseases.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 539 The Autopsy: History, Principles and Applications 3.0 Credits
This course will address the origins of the autopsy, its historical and contemporary importance in medical practice, and its use both as a means of medical quality control and for facilitating medico-legal death investigation. Systemic anatomy/pathology, relevant autopsy techniques, and the ¿virtual autopsy¿ will be highlighted.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 540 Introduction to Forensic Engineering and Science 3.0 Credits
Students will learn to apply fundamental principles of engineering mechanics to problems in accident reconstruction including vehicular accident reconstruction, occupant kinematics, injury biomechanics, industrial accidents, and the analysis/reconstruction of structural collapses due to defective design and/or terrorist attacks. Real world cases and examples will be used to illustrate concepts presented in the course including high profile events.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 541 Introduction to Forensic Radiology 3.0 Credits
To provide a foundation of the history of radiology and basic technological advancements within the field. Subsequent lectures will address radiologic approaches to the assessment of child abuse, elder abuse and various types of inflicted trauma. Applications to human identification challenges and other forensic concerns will be presented.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 542 Introduction to Trauma Surgery/Forensic Applications 3.0 Credits
Overview of the history and epidemiology of trauma, followed by the fundamental approach to the traumatized patient. Subsequent discussion will include assessment and treatment of unintentional/inflicted trauma, diagnosis/treatment of environmental injuries and pediatric trauma, the influence of ethanol and drug abuse, and surgical care of the wartime wounded.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 543 Introduction to Forensic Pediatrics 3.0 Credits
Introductory lectures will focus upon general pediatrics, neonatal and infant assessment and normal child development. Subsequent topics will address the evaluation, treatment and prevention of child abuse and neglect, with emphasis upon diagnosis of inflicted trauma, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, medical neglect and Munchausen by proxy.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 544 Introduction to Forensic Psychiatry 3.0 Credits
Initial lectures will address clinical psychiatry foundations, its history and recent neurological, biochemical and pharmacologic innovations. Subsequent topic areas will focus upon competency to stand trial issues, defenses based on psychiatric illnesses, approaches to sentencing recommendations, risk assessment and management of repeat offenders and assessment of learning disabled offender.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 545 Special Topics in Cell Biology 3.0 Credits
This class covers special topics in cell biology by student presentations and discussions of journal articles covering current research in the field. In addition to presentations, students will write a paper reviewing one of the topics discussed during the course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 546 Forensic DNA Analysis 4.0 Credits
This course combines scientific background with hands-on technical training for DNA analysis in the forensic context. Lectures will cover the science underlying techniques employing DNA. Through laboratory work, students will familiarize themselves with techniques essential for modern forensic science, such as DNA isolation, restriction analysis, hybridization, RFLP and PCR.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 547 Homicide Investigation 3.0 Credits
This course examines, discusses and reviews the protocols and methodologies of investigation the most serious of all crimes. The student will learn the tactics, procedures and forensic techniques involved in a competent, professional and scientific death scene investigation involving the manner, mode and course of death.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 548 Criminal Investigative Analysis 3.0 Credits
The course will review the nature of criminal behavior and the factors that tend to lead to the common behaviors that can be profiled. Profiles will be developed and applied to a wide variety of violent crimes including murder, rape and arson. The organized and disorganized patterned behavior of serial offenders will be examined.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 549 Forensic Graduate Seminar 1.5 Credit
This course is designed to have multiple working professionals within the forensic science disciplines make formal presentations on timely topics of interest to the student body. During the second half of the course the students are required to research timely topics of interest within the forensic sciences and prepare and give a formal presentation to the student body. Presentations include PowerPoint and poster presentations.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 550S Biological Aspects of the Forensic Sciences 3.0 Credits
This course provides an overview of the biological science of forensic pathology, toxicology, anthropology, serological techniques and molecular biology; methods of human identification, time, cause and manner of death; study of the pathology of trauma, sudden and unexpected death; child abuse; acquisition, identification and quantitation of drugs from biological materials.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 551S Human Function 3.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the functions and processes required to maintain the stable internal environment required for normal cell function. Several key themes will be examined throughout the course, including homeostasis and various feedback mechanisms. Each organ system of the body is examined from a physiological standpoint, building upon concepts illustrating how these systems are functionally integrated. This course is closely coordinated with MFSP-552S (Structure of the Human Body), to facilitate an understanding of physiology as it relates to human anatomy.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 552S Structure of the Human Body 3.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a solid basis in human anatomy. The structural basis of the body’s organ systems are examined and discussed – from the cellular to the tissue to the gross level. This course is closely coordinated with MFSP-551S (Human Function), enabling students who simultaneously matriculate into both to enjoy an integrated presentation of the structure and function of the human body. Anatomic complexes and key structural details of relevance to forensic science are discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 553S Human Structure Lab 1.0 Credit
The Human Structure lab enables students taking MFSP-522S (Structure of the Human Body) to examine human anatomical specimens including gross anatomical prosections and microscopic images. Structures of particular importance to the forensic professional are emphasized.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 554S Principles of Forensic Pathology 4.0 Credits
This course is a review of forensic pathology; human identification, time of death, injury causation and analysis, and determination of cause and manner of death. Includes pathology of natural diseases, application of related fields such as forensic toxicology, anthropology and odontology. Integration of scene evident to allow for scene reconstruction.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 550S [Min Grade: C] and (MFSP 552S [Min Grade: C] or MSPP 513S [Min Grade: C])
MFSP 555S Forensic Sciences Summer Practicum 3.0 Credits
The practicum will be conducted at a variety of sites where students will be able to get “hand’s on” exposure to a broad variety of forensic and/or clinical medicine venues in which forensic science principles are applied.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 556S Forensic Anthropology and Topics in Human Identification 3.0 Credits
Discussion of human osteological remains for the purpose of distinguishing human from non-human skeletal identification, injury causation, time of death, and natural disease. Excavation techniques, site reconstruction, taphonomy, and human paleopathology are introduced.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: (MFSP 581S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 582S [Min Grade: C]) or (FCA 507S [Min Grade: C] and FCA 508S [Min Grade: C])
MFSP 557S Drug Chemistry 3.0 Credits
Review of the chemistry, biology and pharmacodynamic principles associated with forensic toxicology, with emphasis upon the forensic aspects of alcohol (ethanol), illicit drugs and selected prescription/over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Separation techniques, means of drug identification and qualitative vs. confirmatory quantitative analytical procedures are discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 558S Instrumental Analysis 3.5 Credits
A continuation of MFSP 557S (Drug Chemistry). Review of the chemistry, biology and pharmacodynamic principles associated with forensic toxicology, with emphasis upon the forensic aspects of alcohol (ethanol), illicit drugs and selected prescription/over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Separation techniques, means of drug identification and qualitative vs. confirmatory quantitative analytical procedures are discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 557S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 559S Criminal Law and the Court: Use of Evidence I 3.5 Credits
A discussion of those procedural rules affecting the collection and use of physical evidence in a court of law, with emphasis upon court opinions defining search and seizure and admissibility of evidence. Court opinions are illustrated through the introduction of relevant case studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 575S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 560S Criminal Law and the Court: Use of Evidence II 3.5 Credits
A continuation of MFSP 559S. A discussion of those procedural rules affecting the collection and use of physical evidence in a court of law, with emphasis upon court opinions defining search and seizure and admissibility of evidence. Court opinions are illustrated through the introduction of relevant case studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 559S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 561S Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation 3.0 Credits
Introduction to the crime scene, with emphasis upon scene protection, means of documentation and evidence identification/collection. Chain-of-custody procedures, evidence submission/retention. Biohazard issued and legal considerations are addressed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 562S Arson and Explosive Analysis 3.0 Credits
Chemistry of fire and relevant terminology for fire scene investigation. Points of origin, detection of accelerants, collection preservation of arson evidence, flammable residues are addressed. Introduction to the science of explosives, review of the collection and analysis of explosive residues/debris. Case students and techniques used in arson/explosion scene reconstruction.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: (MFSP 550S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 552S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 556S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 560S [Min Grade: C])
MFSP 563S Latent Fingerprint Analysis 3.0 Credits
This course reviews the fundamental principles of fingerprinting, with discussion of the history, means of fingerprint classification, and the utilization of Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems. Techniques utilized in the development of fingerprints at the crime scene and fingerprint preservation are addressed, as are relevant case studies and probability analysis applications.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 565S Firearms and Tool Mark Analysis 3.0 Credits
The study of class and individualizing characteristics of surface features of inanimate objects and their impressions. The course will examine firearms analysis, including bullet and cartridge comparisons, analysis of gunpowder residues, and the collection and preservation of such evidence. Presentation of such evidence in a court room setting is addressed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 566S Techniques of interview and interrogation 3.0 Credits
The current principles used in the art of interviewing and interrogation are examined and discussed. The most popular principles and schools of thought on the topics are presented to provide students with a multifaceted background. The polygraph and criminal personality profiling are covered.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 567S Basic Techniques for the Analysis of Biomolecules 3.0 Credits
This course introduces students to basic laboratory techniques used in the analysis of biomolecules. Lectures will reinforce students' understanding of the biochemistry of the major classes of macromolecules, techniques used in their analysis, and applications of those techniques with some emphasis on forensic applications. In addition, students will gain hands-on experience with molecular techniques used to quantify and characterize DNA and proteins.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 568S Vehicle Accident Reconstruction and Analysis 3.0 Credits
College/Department: COM School of Biomedical Sciences & Professional Studies
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 569S Footwear and Tire Track Analysis 3.0 Credits
Utilization of the study of class individualizing characteristics of surface features as applied to footwear patterns and tire track impressions. means of documentation, recovery and analysis as they pertain to the totality of the crime scene are emphasized utilizing relevant studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 570S Nuclear/Biological/Chemical Terrorism 3.0 Credits
Identification of and historical precedents for nuclear, biological and chemical agents utilized as terrorist weapons are examined and discussed, along with the development and current accessibility of nuclear weapons for terrorist purposes. Monitoring/detection of equipment/personnel and protective equipment are addressed. The multi-agency concept in responding to terrorist incidents is examined as are the international implications.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 571S Bloodstain Pattern Analysis 3.0 Credits
Provides a background in the terminology, pattern recognition, and physical principles involved in bloodstain analysis. Documentation and proper collection of stain samples are covered along with the ability to accurately reconstruct the events that occur at a crime scene involving bloodshed. There will be discussion/application of contemporary serologic techniques to case studies.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 572S Forensic Research Project I 3.0 Credits
This is the first of a three-part course series representing a progression in fulfilling the research project requirement for graduation from the Master of Science in Forensic Science program. During this first course, students will actively begin their research. Weekly conferences with an advisor will assist students in troubleshooting any problems as they arise early in the project. It is anticipated that the research project will be well underway and that a large portion of the data necessary to complete the project will have been obtained by the completion of this first course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 573S Forensic Research Project II 5.0 Credits
This is the second of a three-part course series representing a progression in fulfilling the research project requirement for graduation from the Master of Science in Forensic Science program. During this second course, students will complete all data collection and should have conducted a large proportion of their data analysis. Weekly conferences with an advisor will monitor student progress and mentor completion of this phase of the research project.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 572S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 574S Forensic Research Paper 1.0 Credit
Will assist students in organizing, writing, and preparing research paper which represents the culmination of an original research project in the forensic and/or biomedical sciences, required for graduation from the MFS program.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 573S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 575S Introduction to Criminal Law and Trial Process 2.0 Credits
Students learn the principles to substantive criminal law. After exploring preliminary issues such as: why we have criminal law; where the rules of criminal law come from; how to find the rules; and how the statues containing the rules must be written; elements of all crimes are studied – actions, means, reasons, and causation.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 576S Ethics for the Forensic Scientist 3.0 Credits
Ethics for the Forensic Scientist will cover the requirements and the implementation of the ethical behavior in the daily work place, legal system, and law enforcement.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 577S Genetics for the Forensic Scientist 3.0 Credits
This course provides an understanding of the fundamental concepts of genetic science with an emphasis on the molecular basis of genetic traits, patterns and mechanisms of inheritance of genetic traits including human diseases, and the analysis of gene frequencies in populations. Particular attention given to how the forensic scientist uses genetic information and probabilities of inheritance in the identification of individuals based on DNA evidence.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 578S Forensic Photography 3.0 Credits
Students will learn and apply principles of photography in both the film and digital form. Within the field of forensic science, the use and understanding of photography is essential. The areas of aerial, underwater and macro photography as used to document and present criminal investigations are complex and complicated. A full understanding of light and photographic equipment is accomplished through practical exercises.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 579S Forensic Microbiology 2.0 Credits
This lecture based course introduces various aspects of the emerging field of microbiology. The first section will cover basic virology, bacteriology, fungal and protozoa. The second section will focus on the most important organisms and toxins for biocrimes and bioterrorism. Lastly, modern methodology in forensic microbiology will be discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 580S Principles of Immunology 2.0 Credits
This lecture addresses the immune system. The first section will provide an overview of basic immunologic concepts, such as cellular and soluble components, their interaction and crucial methodology. The second part will discuss how the immune system reacts to specific challenges with a special focus on infectious disease.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 581S Human Osteology and Calcified Tissue Biology I 3.0 Credits
This course consists of the study of cartilage, bone, dental and other related tissues and the human skeletal system they comprise. Lectures and laboratories provide students with a detailed knowledge of the gross and microscopic structure of the human skeleton and the tissues interfacing directly with it throughout life.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 582S Human Osteology and Calcified Tissue Biology II 3.0 Credits
A direct continuation of MFSP-581S, this course continues the study of cartilage, bone, dental and other related tissues and the human skeletal system they comprise. Lectures and laboratories provide students with a detailed knowledge of the gross and microscopic structure of the human skeleton and the tissues interfacing directly with it throughout life.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 581S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 583S The Autopsy in Clinical Forensic Medicine 2.0 Credits
This course will address the origins of the autopsy, its historical and contemporary importance in medical practice, and its use both as a means of medical quality control and for facilitating medico-legal death investigation. Systemic anatomy/pathology, relevant autopsy techniques and the “virtual autopsy” will be highlighted.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 552S [Min Grade: C]
MFSP 584S Introduction to Forensic Radiology 2.0 Credits
Course provides a foundation of the history of radiology and basic technological advancements within the field. Subsequent lectures will address radiologic approaches to the assessment of child abuse, elder abuse and various types of inflicted trauma. Applications to human identification challenges and other forensic concerns will be presented.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: MFSP 552S [Min Grade: C] and (MFSP 581S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 582S [Min Grade: C] or FCA 507S [Min Grade: C] and FCA 508S [Min Grade: C])
MFSP 585S Clinical Forensic Emergency Medicine and Traumatology 3.0 Credits
This course bridges forensic techniques and knowledge to the car of living patients. Lectures and skills sessions will provide students with knowledge about abuse and injury as well as the forensic considerations of these patients when caring for them in the emergency department/trauma center. The course will also review the presentation and management of the trauma patient in the resuscitation area.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 586S Introduction to Forensic Pediatrics 3.0 Credits
Introductory lectures will focus upon general pediatrics, neonatal and infant assessment and normal child development. Subsequent topics will address the evaluation, treatment and prevention of child abuse and neglect, with emphasis upon diagnosis of inflicted trauma, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, medical neglect and Munchausen by proxy.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 587S Introduction to Forensic Psychology 3.0 Credits
Initial lectures will address clinical psychiatry foundations, its history and recent neurological, biochemical and pharmacologic innovations. Subsequent topic areas will focus upon competency to stand trial issues, defenses based on psychiatric illnesses, approaches to sentencing recommendations, risk assessment and management of repeat offenders and assessment of the learning disabled offender.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 588S Special Topics in Cell Biology 2.0 Credits
This course covers special topics in cell biology by student presentations and discussions of journal articles covering current research in the field. In addition to presentations, students will write a paper reviewing one of the topics discussed during the course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 589S Forensic DNA Analysis 7.0 Credits
This course combines scientific background with hands-on technical training for DNA analysis in the forensic context. Lectures will cover the science underlying techniques employing DNA. Through laboratory work, students will familiarize themselves with techniques essential for modern forensic science, such as DNA isolation, restriction analysis, hybridization, RFLP and PCR.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 590S Homicide Investigation 3.0 Credits
This course examines, discusses and reviews the protocols and methodologies of investigation of the most serious of all crimes. The student will learn the tactics, procedures and forensic techniques involved in a competent, professional and scientific death scene investigation involving the manner, mode and course of death.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 591S Criminal Investigative Analysis 3.0 Credits
The course will review the nature of criminal behavior and the factors that tend to lead to the common behaviors that can be profiled. Profiles will be developed and applied to a wide variety of violent crimes including murder, rape, and arson. The organized and disorganized patterned behavior of serial offenders will be examined.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 592S Forensic Graduate Seminar 1.5 Credit
This course is designed to have multiple working professionals within the forensic science disciplines make formal presentations on timely topics of interest to the student body. During the second half of the course, the students are required to research topics of current interest within the forensic sciences and give a formal presentation to the student body. Presentations include PowerPoint and poster format.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
MFSP 593S Cyber Crime 3.5 Credits
Principles of handwriting analysis, printing, and duplication procedures, with discussion of paper manufacture, fiber analysis, and techniques utilized to assess document alterations will be covered. Discussion will cover computer technology, principal means of cyber crime and identity theft, and techniques for detection and prevention of the same.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: (MFSP 550S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 552S [Min Grade: C] and MFSP 556S [Min Grade: C]) and (MFSP 554S [Min Grade: C] or FCA 506S [Min Grade: C])
MFSP 599 Special Topics 1.0-6.0 Credit
College/Department: COM School of Biomedical Sciences & Professional Studies
MFSP 999S Special Topics 1.0-6.0 Credit
Special Topics in Forensic Science.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
