Course overview
The aim of this course is to provide students with an overview of a variety of topics within the area of forensic sciences including pathology, toxicology, anthropology and odontology. It is not intended to provide students with a detailed knowledge of any of these areas, but rather provide insight into how they may be used to investigate crime. Topics to be covered include the changes in the body with death and decomposition; the pathology of wounds; burns; disaster victim identification; sudden death in children and adults; medical misadventure and drug related deaths. A background knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology is expected.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the basis of forensic science and pathology and how these areas interact with the law using specific forensic terminology
- Describe how crime scene investigations, together with forensic toxicology, forensic anthropology, forensic odontology, drug and DNA analysis, can support the investigation of serious crime.
- Describe the features of injuries and injury patterns associated with burns, drowning, electrocution, asphyxia and firearms
- Outline the types and features of natural and unnatural deaths, including those due to medical conditions, homicides, suicides, accidental deaths and sudden infant death syndrome.
- Recognise the relevant issues in a forensic science scenario to determine how investigators would proceed with an investigation
- Demonstrate skills in critical analysis and interpretation of published scientific literature.