HNRS-110 | Forensic Science on Trial

Full Title: Forensic Science on Trial

Topic Description:

Over the past century, scientific progress has revolutionized the methods used to solve crime. New techniques, such as DNA profiling and chemical analyses, have brought to light significant issues with how evidence is processed, analyzed, and discussed in criminal proceedings. Forensic techniques that were once brought forward to provide irrefutable evidence have now been called into question, requiring the entire field to address the integration of science in the law enforcement community. In this course, we will trace the development of forensic techniques from the time of Sherlock Holmes on Victorian London to the modern day, paying close attention to the scientific foundation of the methods. We will pay specific attention to shortfalls and successes through the careful examination of the evidence in high profile cases as we come to our own conclusion as to the state of forensic science.

Counts as Global? No

Topic Approved: April 2016