Undergraduate GRF-CCJ217-2023
Forensic Science & Criminal Justice
Put forensic science under the microscope as you explore its place in the criminal justice system. Discover existing forensic techniques, and learn to assess new techniques critically, and scientifically. Master how to communicate forensic findings.
$1,892 $2,142
Your upfront cost: $0
Duration
13 weeks
Study method
100% Online
Available loans
- HECS-HELP
- FEE-HELP
Assessments
100% online
Prior study
Not required
Start dates
- 29 May 2023
- 27 Nov 2023
With a network of campuses spanning three cities in South East Queensland, Griffith University is committed to progressive multidisciplinary teaching and research and a valuable online provider with Open Universities Australia. Already attracting students from over one hundred countries, Griffith's dedication to academic excellence is available across Australia through OUA.
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QS Ranking 2023
19
Times Higher Education Ranking 2023
16
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Subject details
After successfully completing this subject you should be able to:
- Describe and explain the demand and utility of forensic science in the criminal justice system;
- Compare and contrast forensic techniques covered in the course;
- Make critical and scientific assessments of any new forensic technique they encounter; and
- Communicate clearly and coherently to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
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- Forensic Science and Criminalistics
- Science and Law
- Impact of Forensic Science on CJS
- Forensics I: Individualisation
- Forensics II: Source Association
- Forensics III: Reconstruction
- Forensics IV: DNA as Gold Standard?
- DNA Databases as Forensic Tools
- Forensic Evidence and Wrongful Convcitions
- Future Directions
Others
This is not an introductory subject, it is a second year subject. You must have a basic understanding of the first year criminology subjects. Students who have completed more than 2 OUA units (GPA 4.0+) and are planning on completing the Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice are strongly encouraged to enrol in the degree. Part of this process will involve registering your study plan with Griffith University, which will help to ensure that you are studying the required units.
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
This is not a "hands-on" C.S.I.-type laboratory course, nor is it a "war stories" course recounting real world experience applying forensic techniques. Instead, the course will explore the demand for forensic science in the criminal justice system and its impact on the administration of justice. It will include how social science research can help us examine questions about the scientific underpinnings of forensic techniques and services and will assess a variety of forensic techniques, such as DNA typing, fingerprinting, fire and arson analysis, and hair analysis.
Forensic science is enjoying an unprecedented level of attention in popular culture and is having an enormous impact on society. The development of DNA typing and other advances in forensic science are remaking the way crimes are investigated and prosecuted and changing our understanding of the criminal justice system. At the same time, the development of DNA typing has raised questions about the scientific validity of existing forensic techniques.
- 4 Online Quizzes (20%)
- Critical Essay (50%)
- Final Exam (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
Related degrees
Undergraduate GRF-CCJ-DEG-2023
- Major in Criminal Justice