GS 111 - Intro to Forensic Science

3 Credit(s)

Prerequisite(s):

MTH 60 or MTH 63 or higher-level math, or designated placement

Corequisite(s):

GS 111L

Recommended Prerequisite(s):

MTH 65

Course Description: This is the lecture portion of a one-term introduction to criminalistic theories and practices, including basic techniques of investigation. Topics include fingerprints, blood typing, photography and casting techniques. This fulfills a laboratory science requirement when taken with GS111L.

Course Learning Outcomes:

CLO#1: Describe proper, offense-specific crime scene processing and evidence collection and custody practices based on types of evidence.
CLO#2: Describe appropriate analytic techniques and tests for various types and classes of physical evidence.
CLO#3: Apply the scientific method to the analysis of evidence and crime scene reconstruction.
CLO#4: Assess the strengths and weaknesses, usefulness and limitations of specific forensic science applications and methods. (ILO: Quantitative Literacy and Reasoning)
CLO#5: Analyze the development, scope, and limitations of fundamental scientific concepts, models, theories, and methods as they apply to the investigation of crime.

Typical Required and Recommended Equipment and Materials: Scientific calculator, ruler, protractor, mechanical pencil, eraser engineering paper.

ACTI Code and Course Type
100 Lower Division Collegiate

Length of Course:
A required state minimum of (30) and a standard RCC delivery of (33) lecture hours per term, not to exceed (36) hours per term.