Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons) BSc (Hons) BSc (Hons)

Digital Evidence Processing

Module code: FORE40358

Policing Theory

The Policing Theory module introduces and enables a critical evaluation of the principles on which the police service of England and Wales operates. This includes gaining knowledge and understanding of the history, structure, values, ethics and objectives of the police force in England and Wales, in comparison with the structure of other police forces. This module also introduces policing science, in particular debates on evidenced-based policing. Further, the module uses contemporary case studies in crime, conflict and deviance to enable evaluation of the main theoretical concepts; providing a foundation for critical analysis. Students will examine the link between theory and practice in evidence-based policing in relation to crime. They will be encouraged to develop their critical thinking skills and look beyond the obvious and using their professional curiosity. Furthermore, students will be able to critically evaluate police powers, including investigation, arrest, stop and search, and emergency powers.Students will consider theories in relation to policing practice, policing strategies and crime prevention initiative, with the view of critically evaluating their success with regards to crime, victimisation and public support. Further, students will review and analyse police reforms impacting on structure, governance, accountability and leadership, with the recognition of an holistic approach to policing in terms of working with other agencies, and introducing students to the importance of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (1984).

Module code: FORE40364

Case Studies In Criminal Justice

Have you ever wondered why miscarriages of justice occur and how many offenders may never be convicted for their crime(s)? This module will enable you to consider a range of factors, challenges, issues and mistakes that can and have influenced criminal justice outcomes and explore how change can overcome and improve these outcomes in both UK and international contexts. You will consider and explore real-world cases from criminological, policing and forensic perspectives by working with students from related courses and staff with subject expertise in these specific criminal justice sectors. As a result, you will be able to consider the contribution of professionals in your subject areas as well as those of others who all work together to deliver justice in society.

Module code: FORE40354

Introduction To Forensic Scientific Techniques

Have you ever questioned how certain types of evidence are analysed to support criminal proceedings?This module will introduce you to scientific analytical techniques used within Forensic Investigation. You will learn the theory on a variety of forensic analytical techniques, which you will then put into practice within a laboratory setting. The module will give you basic knowledge and skills in techniques and principles that can be built on in your subsequent years of study and, applied to future careers within a forensic investigation capacity.

Module code: FORE40355

Crime Scene Processing

This module will provide you with a fundamental understanding of crime scene processing. During the module you will practise digital photography, utilising our Crime Scene House to give you a ‘real world’ setting to develop your skills. Alongside which we will give you the knowledge and skills you need to be able to protect a scene and fully document it through sketching, measuring and logs in addition to photography. You will also be introduced to the collection and appropriate methods of packaging for items of evidence. All of these skills will provide an excellent basis for a potential future career as a Crime Scene Investigator.

Module code: FORE40347

Detection And Analysis Of Drugs

Would you like you know more about the analysis of drugs and alcohol? In this option module you will gain an understanding of what drugs of abuse are, their effects on the body, how they may be made and how they can be tested in an analytical laboratory. You will get practical experience of initial testing of seized samples and consider evidence

Module code: FORE40348

Missing Persons Investigation

This is an optional module that provides a broad but integrated introduction to investigative methods used in the investigation of missing persons. It will enable students to have an understanding of the structure and techniques used during the course of such investigations. It includes a series of weekly lectures and case studies and will provides an overview of the various strategies Police and other agencies use when planning and conducting enquiries to trace missing persons.In addition to the above students are expected to add to the work undertaken in class by independent, directed study. They will also work in small groups, researching and then presenting the issues surrounding a study of a well-known missing persons case.The lectures are starting points providing sound foundations for the module. In addition, students are expected to develop their knowledge and skills through independent study. They will be directed to appropriate independent directed study, via textbooks, web pages and handouts given out during the lectures or distributed via electronic media. Students are expected to prepare for the forthcoming lecture by pre reading material

Module code: FORE40356

Chemical And Biological Interactions In Forensics

This module combines your knowledge of chemistry and biology along with your creative thinking to conside how we could analyse crime scenes in the future, find new ways to interpret biological evidence, and understand the interaction of chemicals with the human body. Explore the latest advancements in science as applied to forensics and think how we can use chemistry and biology together to enhance future practices.

Module code: FORE50360

Forensic Archaeology

This module will examine the role of the forensic archaeologist, both within UK criminal investigations and international mass death scenarios. The fundamental principles of search, recovery and post-recovery analysis will be explored and the various scenarios in which forensic archaeologists can become involved in investigations centred around buried or concealed remains will be discussed. Students will be introduced to the various methods that can be employed by forensic archaeologists at crime scenes, such as intelligence gathering, remote sensing, geophysical survey and excavation. Case studies involving the search for, and recovery of, human remains, drugs, weapons and other clandestinely buried items will be presented, whilst specific sessions focusing on the logistical and environment factors that may hinder these investigations will be delivered. Sessions discussing the variety of trace evidence and samples that can be taken from a grave and their evidential value will allow the students to consider the methods introduced to them in other modules, such as Introduction to Forensic Science and Science For Justice, in the context of the burial environment. Practical sessions in geophysics and excavation will complement the taught components and provide the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of the methods discussed. Lectures by specialist practitioners regularly involved in case work will offer a `real-world' perspective. Additionally, students will be expected to critique specialist reports in order providing an opportunity to understand up-to-date developments within the discipline, and as enhance their research and analytical skills.

Module code: FORE50365

Bodies Of Evidence

The process of DNA analysis starts at the crime scene with DNA collection (including anti-contamination procedures), DNA extraction, DNA interpretation and follows through to reporting the DNA evidence in context to the case.You will learn to identify body fluids at the crime scene through presumptive testing and an awareness of the availability of confirmatory tests; you will gain an awareness of the types of blood spatter patterns at a crime scene, and how to interpret these patterns and relate them to the investigation, including scene reconstruction using 'stringing' techniques and pattern re-enactment.You will gain an appreciation of related biological analyses such as forensic entomology, hair analysis and garment analysis. Specific case studies will be used where physical evidence and injuries such as wounds, burns and bite mark impressions can aid an investigation.

Module code: FORE50363

Forensic Anthropology In The 21St Century

This module will focus on how the analysis of human remains can assist in the identification process. It will also focus upon Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) and the growing field of forensic humanitarianism. In Semester 1, you will learn about the techniques utilised in body identification and identification of pathology, trauma, and taphonomy. You will use a variety of osteological techniques to analyse human skeletal remains, construct a biological profile, and identify and interpret pathology, trauma, and taphonomy. In Semester 2, you will learn about DVI protocols and the value of forensic humanitarianism not only within forensic science, more society more broadly. You will learn about contemporary issues within these fields and how forensics can be used to overcome these challenges.

Module code: FORE50364

Vehicle Collision Investigation

Vehicle collisions are a common occurrence, and their effective investigation involves a range of forensic techniques and investigative processes. The more serious collisions are managed by a Lead Investigating Officer who is responsible for appropriately resourcing the scene and the resulting investigation. The module will initially focus on the roles of the collision investigator and vehicle examiner who are responsible for the collection and preservation of evidence and the reconstruction of the collision. Methods which assist in establishing what factors contributed to the collision, whether they be human, mechanical or environmental, will allow greater understanding of how and why collisions occur. The role of the lead investigating officer will be examined, along with others key roles involved in the investigation of the Collison and the policy decisions made during the investigation.

Module code: FORE50368

Advanced Digital Evidence Processing

Module code: FORE50361

Investigative Skills

Crime scene processing…there is more to it than ‘bagging’ evidence. This module will introduce you to forensic strategies and investigative skills that are applied to process crime scenes. You will learn the concept of forensic strategies, crime scene processing, imaging and management and, how to process evidence from complex scenarios. You will then put this theory into practice in a laboratory environment and at the ‘Crime Scene House’. The module will build on knowledge obtained from previous years of study, as well as providing you with techniques and skills that can be developed in your subsequent years of study. The skills and knowledge gained in this module can also be applied to future careers within a forensic investigation capacity.

Module code: FORE50366

Research Skills In Forensics

Unlock your full potential and enhance your research skills. You'll gain a deeper understanding of research within forensic science and learn how to conduct academic research with ease. With a strong focus on statistical quantitative methods, our module will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to succeed in your Level 6 studies. Our expert team will guide you through the effective use of library and IT resources, helping you to retrieve and process information efficiently. By the end of the course, you'll be fully prepared to design a research project that will set you on the path to success. Not only will you develop valuable research skills, but you'll also be introduced to exciting research areas within the department that may inspire your future career path. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your academic research to the next level.

Module code: FORE50382

Marks And Traces

Marks and traces are a key forms of evidence seen in criminal investigations. This very practical based module will provide you with the knowledge and skills to analyse a variety of evidence types using a range of techniques. This module will cover marks and traces such as fingerprints, footwear impressions, toolmarks, fibres and glass. You will explore their use in casework, understand the methods used to analyse samples and learn to interpret this evidence for the courts. You will learn to apply your skills to mock cases, in which you analyse samples and report results. The practicals and assessments are based on real-world workplace activities and provide you with the skills needed to be a forensic scientist/investigator.

Module code: FORE50367

Intelligence Led Policing And Major Crime Investigation

Intelligence Led Policing and Major Crime Investigation is an optional module which is taught in Semester 1. Students will examine the National Intelligence Model (NIM) which is the foundation upon which policing is based. Students will explore the NIM including the requirement of strategic Intelligence development linked to problem oriented policing and the use of Intelligence functions in Major Crime Investigations. The use of covert and overt techniques of investigation will be examined together with the links to partnership working. Scrutiny of major crime incidents including murder and manslaughter as well as the role of the Home Office Live Major Enquiry System (HOLMES) will be conducted. Students will consider aspects of the Murder Investigation Manual which forms national guidance for Major Crime Investigation. The use of expert witnesses and specialist services together with an examination of policies and procedures and the use of the media in Critical and Major Incidents will be undertaken.

Module code: FORE60370

Mass Death Scenarios

How do forensic archaeologists and anthropologists respond when a mass death incident occurs? On this module you will learn about the variety of search and recovery methods used in the during and after cases of genocide, mass violence, conflict, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, migration and the Covid-19 pandemic. Through a range of case studies from incidents that have occurred in the 20th and 21st century, you will be introduced to the specific challenges posed by these events at a range of crime scenes. You will be taught by forensic practitioners who will share first-hand experiences of working in mass death environments.

Module code: FORE60371

Expert Witness And The Legal System

You will gain an understanding of the England and Wales legal system, with a particular focus on the role of the forensic scientist within this system. You will gain experience of what it is like to be in a court of law and the roles and responsibilities of an Expert Witness. You will also understand the governance and regulations surrounding the production of expert witness statements and be able to produce expert witness statements yourself. This includes an understanding of Court of Appeal rulings and their impact on expert witness evidence and testimony.You will also gain a greater understanding and appreciation of how probability is used in a court of law and pertaining to the criminal investigation. You will gain an understanding of Bayes Theorem and Case Assessment and Interpretation and will gain practical experience of applying these principles in a range of case studies. This will include learning how to find appropriate published studies, as well as how to design your own experimental study to test an hypothesis/competing pair of hypotheses.There will also be a focus on the role of the UK’s Forensic Science Regulator and the guidelines they have produced, and which forensic science expert witnesses are expected to abide by.

Module code: FORE60367

Modern Forensics

In this module you will discuss new and emerging technologies and concepts in forensic science and forensic investigation. All sessions will be interactive, with the opportunity to discuss your ideas with academic staff and experts from the field during an expert panel discussion.You will attend and participate in a modern forensics conference at the university, where you will present your knowledge of a new and emerging technology or concept in forensics and to present your ideas for the future of the discipline, which will be assessed in an evidence based summary. You will also be assessed on your conference presentation and your abstract and biography, which will form part of the conference proceedings.

Module code: FORE60372

Collection And Analysis Of Scene Evidence

This module will put into practice the knowledge and skills you have developed in earlier modules and enables you to experience all aspects of the ‘crime scene to court’ process.Working as a small team, you will go to the crime scene house and, wearing full personal protective equipment, process a range of different mock crime scenes, collecting all the relevant evidence and documenting your actions. You will also analyse the evidence collected in those scenes using the appropriate laboratory equipment and writing scientific reports on the outcomes. For your final assessment, as well as a scientific report you will also create a court report which you will then be cross examined on in a mock court setting.

Module code: FORE60366

Forensic Field School

Gain practical experience of real-world casework and research. This module will give you the opportunity to put into practice the skills you have learnt during your degree program. You will be invited to join active forensic investigators from the School to carry out fieldwork one of their important research projects. You will gain practical experience of the wide range of methodologies used to investigate different crime scenes. Taught by specialists in their field, you will use state of the art technologies. This module represents an important step in your development towards a career in forensics.

Module code: FORE60368

Forensic Research Project

You will devise, plan, execute and report on a substantial piece of independent research work in forensics. The topic will be selected from a list of research projects or you can design your own topic. It will normally include experimental work or fieldwork. The module will allow you to develop skills in defending your work through a viva-voce examination. You will need to select, deploy and adapt techniques, critically interpret and evaluate data, and present your findings both in writing and orally. As part of the viva voce examination you will be expected to give a concise verbal summary of your project, its findings and the significance of the research.

Module code: FORE60369

Academic Skills

What are the core differences between an essay and other types of academic writing? Why is important to make this distinction? How do I improve my own writing skills? In this module, we will be answering all of these questions and more. Law and its application across the justice sector is intrinsically connected to language.. We will be considering how language is adapted to suit a variety of audiences, whether that is writing an academic essay, or writing a formal letter.We will be examining the core features of legal English and its use across the justice sector, which will form the foundations for your degree and future career.

Module code: LAWS31318

Crime In Context

Module code: LAWS31320

Sociology Of Crime

This module is designed to provide students with an introduction to the sociological causes of crime and criminal behaviour. In this module we will explore the role media has to play in crime, moral panic, and theories of crime. We will also explore and critically analyse different crime prevention policies, including situational, environmental and community approaches to crime prevention. Case studies will be used throughout the module to ensure application of theory to contemporary crime challenges.

Module code: LAWS31316

Introduction To Critical Thinking And Argument

Module code: LAWS31322

Theories Of Criminality And An Introduction From Crime Scene To Courtroom

Module code: LAWS31324

Criminal Justice And Forensic Science Industrial Placement

Module code: FOREP0001