What are forensic science courses?
Forensic science courses take the form of in-depth academic programmes ideal for those who are interested in pursuing a career in the field, or else would just like to learn more about the subject. From recreating and understanding crime scenes to learning the basics of criminal psychology, experts will guide you through all the ins and outs of the field, giving you the opportunity to choose the path which interests you the most!
Through a balanced combination of both practical as well as written assignments, these courses will, therefore, provide you with all the knowledge, skills, and understanding that you will require for your journey towards the professional field of forensics and criminology.
Why should you take up a forensic science course?
If you’ve wanted to solve crimes like Sherlock Holmes ever since you were a kid or have just recently started to become interested in starting a whole new career in the field, then these courses are definitely a great first step! Through an extensive hands-on approach, professionals will help you get a basic feel and understanding of the core aspects of many key areas, enhancing your overall knowledge and expectations.
As a result, you will gain all the necessary knowledge and skills required to prepare for and professionally work in anything related to the forensics; from desk tasks to on-site analayses, you will be fully prepared to handle anything that might come your way. So, why not go ahead and have a look at our various courses and see which one is most suitable for your level and needs!
What is covered throughout these forensic science courses?
As can be seen in the guidelines of the numerous courses offered by the several highly-acclaimed institutions around the UK, there are generally several key modules required to undertake and pass before being able to professionally work in the industry. The core modules which will be referred to throughout include:
- Historical Development And Role Of Forensic Sciences
- Introduction to forensic sciences and basic principles
- Special areas and contributions of the forensic sciences=
- Forensic pathology and toxicology
- The Crime Scene
- Photography
- Reconstruction of the crime scene
- Legal considerations of the crime scene
- Fingerprinting
- Fundamental principles of fingerprinting
- Methods of detecting and preserving fingerprints
- Digital imaging techniques
- DNA Analysis
- The nature of DNA
- Collecting DNA samples
- Analysis of DNA evidence
- Toxicology
- An introduction to forensic toxicology
- Techniques used in toxicology
- The significance of toxicological findings
- Arson And Explosion Investigations
- Investigating the Fire Scene
- Type of Explosions
- Collecting and Analyzing Explosives
- Serological Evidence
- The Nature of Blood
- Stain Patterns of Blood
- Forensic analysis of bodily fluids
- Firearms
- Gun wounds
- Gunpowder residue
- Bullet and cartridge casing comparisons
- Time Of Death Determinations
- Stages of decomposition
- Body temperature calculations
- Decomposed skeletonized remains
- The Forensic Scientist As Expert Witness In Court
- Preparation for testimony
- Testimony and cross-examination
- Admissibility of Scientific Evidence
- Collaboration In Criminal Investigations
- Working with detectives
- Working with forensic psychologists
- Working with the prosecutor or defense
Upon completion of these units, you will be able to successfully:
- Understand how forensic science developed and its roles in police work and solving crimes
- Use and analyse blood and fingerprints as evidence
- Determine how long someone has been dead
- Use DNA evidence to help catch a criminal
- Apply expertise in court
- Work in different roles and settings
- Understand how psychology informs an understanding of criminal behaviour and deviance
Following the completion of the curriculum, you will be assessed through four specific ways, primarily an essay-based exam, a practical assignment, laboratory experiments, as well as a crime scene assessment. All corresponding results and feedback will be provided on the same day, allowing you to instantly know whether you have passed the course.
What career options are available with a forensic science certification?
There are many different routes to take if you’re interested in eventually pursuing a career in this field, some of which include:
- Analytical chemist
- Biomedical scientist
- Detective
- Forensic computer analyst
- Forensic scientist
- Scientific laboratory technician/assistant
- Teaching laboratory technician
- Toxicologist
Amongst many others!
What study options are available for forensic science courses?
From institutions and universities to learning centres and mobile classrooms, numerous forensic science courses are offered in various ways and locations, giving you the option to choose the one that best suits you.
Classroom
A classroom course will take place at a designed time and location. This is a great option for the individual who wants to take training into their own hands or a small business who just needs to have a few employees trained.
Online
Online training is an option for those who favor flexibility. Individuals can participate in the course at their own pace and on their own time.
How much do forensic science courses cost?
From slow-paced classes for beginners to the more advanced ones for the pros, you will find anything you might need that ideally suits you and your goals! Fees for these courses differ greatly too.
Want to start your journey towards the forensics but currently on a tight budget? Don't put away your magnifying glass just yet, we have a course at any price point!
