Specialized Forensic Analysis Techniques

This capstone unit advances students’ applied skills across specialized forensic disciplines including trace evidence (glass, fibers, soils, paints), toxicology and poisons, pathology and anthropology, pattern and comparative examinations (fingerprints, documents, photographs), and DNA analysis. Students synthesize multidisciplinary laboratory methods and case-based reasoning to interpret results, produce investigative reports, and prepare evidence for legal contexts.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze trace and pattern evidence (glass, fibers, soils, paints, toolmarks, and photographs) using standard comparative techniques to determine source, transfer, and probative value in case scenarios
• Apply principles and laboratory methods of forensic toxicology, pathology, and anthropology to interpret cause/manner of death, identify toxic agents, and support human identification in simulated investigations
• Demonstrate proficiency in comparative examinations—fingerprint analysis, forensic document examination, and photographic analysis—while following chain-of-custody, documentation, and laboratory protocol requirements
• Evaluate and integrate multidisciplinary forensic results (DNA, toxicology, trace evidence, pattern analysis, and digital/physical records) to produce clear, courtroom-ready reports and oral summaries that support investigative conclusions