FSC-30031 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of FHEQ level 5 modules or equivalent.

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module will allow you to build advanced skills in collecting and interpreting forensic biological data. This will involve developing your abilities in working with soft tissue, DNA analysis, teeth and entomology. This will involve learning in the lab to grow your practical skills in both collecting and analysing forensic biological evidence. Assessment is similarly aimed at assessing your abilities in a practical sense through forensic reports. This module aims to expand your career prospects in the forensic biology field, and is ideal if you have an academic interest in biology and/or aspirations to work within forensic biology in the future.

This module aims to build on previous knowledge to identify and evaluate advanced applications in forensic biology. This will include practical experience of handling soft tissue remains, including an appreciation for professional and ethical requirements and an understanding of the areas of both forensic odontology and dental anthropology. Forensic entomology concepts and advanced DNA applications will also be explored and evaluated.

Intended Learning Outcomes

analyse and review current concepts in forensic entomology: 1,2
appropriately handle and analyse soft tissue remains in a medico-legal setting in accordance with professional and ethical requirements: 1,2
identify and utilise dental remains in forensic settings and critically analyse the role of forensic odontology and the dental anthropologist: 1,2
evaluate advanced forensic DNA applications: 1,2

Study hours

Active learning hours: 12h active lectures. 6 x 3h = 18h labs = 30h.
Independent study hours: 120h to include private learning (50h), assigned reading (28h), and assessments (50h).

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment