Forensic Science (FRSC)

FRSC A100 Introduction to Forensic Science 3 crs.

This course will serve as a summary of the field of forensic science.  The student will be given information in the form of lectures and case studies. It will cover the basic principles associated with forensic science, as well as touch on many of the specialized disciplines of this field.  It will illustrate the path evidence takes from its collection at the crime scene, through analysis in the crime laboratory, and into the courtroom.  This course will focus on how forensic science plays a key role in all aspects of criminal investigation and prosecution.

FRSC A200 Criminalistics I: Crime Scene 3 crs.

This course serves as an overview of the techniques utilized in crime scene investigation. The student will be given information in the form of lectures and then apply what they have learned through hands-on laboratory exercises.  Students will learn the basic principles of recognition, documentation, collection, and preservation of the crime scene.  In addition, the course will provide an introduction to the techniques utilized in crime scene reconstruction and present complications attributed to specialized crime scenes.

FRSC A201 Criminalistics II: Crime Lab 3 crs.

This course provides students with a basic understanding of the crime laboratory and the role it plays within criminal investigations and the courtroom. The student will be provided with information through lectures and then given the opportunity to apply this knowledge during laboratory experiments. Specialized topics, within the crime laboratory, that are covered include physical and trace evidence, controlled dangerous substances and toxicology, fingerprints, serology and DNA, and quality assurance.

FRSC A301 Criminalistics III: Controlled Substances 3 crs.

The course reviews the broad area of drugs or chemicals whose manufacture, possession, or use  are regulated by the government and subject to legislative control. Topics covered include drug identification, drug dependency, drug effects, and forensic toxicology.

FRSC A370 Forensic Psychology 3 crs.

The course is suited for individuals who seek careers in law, law enforcement, criminal investigation, corrections, etc.  Familiarizes students with the varied components and applications of forensic psychology. Forensic psychology involves applying psychology to the field of criminal and civil investigation and the law.

FRSC-A380 Forensic Pathology 3 crs.

This course introduces students to the medical specialty of Forensic Pathology –the practice of laboratory medicine as it applies to the law and legal issues. It examines the basics of forensic science and death investigation, post mortem changes, time of death and identification of the decedent, and types of cases, which fall under the jurisdiction of the medical examiner/coroner including violent, natural and unexplained deaths.

FRSC A498 Research in Forensics 3 crs.

Students engage in supervised research in forensic science under the guidance of a Loyola faculty member. Students present a formal research proposal and upon approval complete the research within one semester. This will usually be the last course completed in the Forensic Science minor.