Learn how to interpret crime scenes in this free online criminology course that explores the science of forensics.

What if you could step into the shoes of a forensic expert and become a master of crime scene investigation? Imagine being able to analyse fingerprints, decipher bloodstain patterns and decode the hidden messages in DNA. This forensic science course takes you beyond the popular crime dramas and provides you with skills, disciplines and techniques used to analyse every piece of physical evidence and clue left at crime scenes.

First, we briefly examine forensic science and lay out its history and subdivisions. By exploring the roles of dedicated scientists, skilled technicians and meticulous analysts, we underscore the paramount significance of forensic science in shaping modern criminal justice. We establish the need for mathematical skills in forensic science before identifying an array of organic and inorganic materials that can be discovered at a crime scene to demonstrate the importance of chemistry in forensics. The course also explores forensic toxicology and describes its methods, terminologies and subdisciplines to help you understand how law enforcement looks for toxins and narcotics.

The course then outlines the methods of criminal investigation, starting with various forms of criminal profiling. We discuss the role of DNA analysis in forensic science and explain how the practices of DNA profiling and gene examination work. This course provides the skills and training required to become a skilled forensic scientist ready to assist in criminal investigations, court proceedings and the pursuit of justice. This course is open to all aspiring investigators, curious minds and seasoned professionals alike and offers a unique opportunity to unlock the secrets of the criminal world. Whether you are planning a career in investigation or simply want to understand crime, this course in forensic science takes you through each step of crime scene investigations.