Introduction to Forensic Science

Forensic science applies scientific principles to legal questions, often in criminal and civil cases. This course, offered by Nanyang Technological University on Coursera, introduces the core concepts and techniques used by forensic scientists. You will learn to apply scientific principles to forensic investigations, analyse chemical and biological evidence, and interpret DNA and blood evidence in crime scenarios. The syllabus moves from chemical analysis and time-of-death estimation through DNA profiling, fingerprinting and polymer studies to narcotics and toxicology, finishing with case studies that show how these methods are used in real investigations.

What this particular course does with that subject is structured around eight modules. The first module introduces the field and its scientific principles. The second covers chemical analysis methods used in forensic work. The third looks at time-of-death determination and blood evidence. The fourth module focuses on DNA in forensics. The fifth combines fingerprinting with the study of polymers, fibres and firearms. The sixth module addresses narcotics. The seventh covers toxicology, and the eighth pulls everything together with forensic science case studies. Each module builds practical skills that you can use to evaluate evidence.

At the end you will be able to apply scientific principles to forensic investigations, analyse chemical and biological evidence, interpret DNA and blood evidence in crime scenarios, and understand the basics of toxicology and pharmacology as they relate to forensic cases. The course also gives you experience with fingerprint analysis, polymer and fibre examination, and firearm identification.

Honest limits: the course is designed for beginners, so it does not go deep into advanced laboratory techniques or courtroom testimony. It assumes only a basic understanding of general science. Learners who already have forensic experience may find the content introductory. If you need advanced laboratory training or courtroom procedure, other courses in the data set, such as the DoaneX Introduction to Pharmacology course on edX, may better serve your goals.