Foundations of Forensic Investigation

This unit introduces core concepts and practices in forensic science, including crime-scene assessment, evidence recognition and preservation, and the roles of forensic specialists. Students will learn foundational principles for examining fingerprints, blood, trace evidence, fire scenes, firearms, and basic medicolegal death investigation to prepare for more advanced forensic analysis in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Demonstrate proper crime-scene assessment, evidence recognition, documentation, packaging, and chain-of-custody procedures in simulated scene scenarios.
• Classify common types of physical and biological evidence (e.g., fingerprints, blood, trace fibers, footwear/tire impressions, firearms evidence, arson indicators, documents) and determine appropriate initial processing techniques and specialist referrals.
• Analyze basic medicolegal indicators used to establish manner, cause, and approximate time of death, including distinguishing signs of trauma, asphyxia, poisoning, and fire-related injury.
• Apply foundational laboratory and reporting practices—such as fingerprint classification, basic bloodstain pattern interpretation, and evidence cataloging—to produce concise forensic documentation consistent with legal admissibility considerations.