Forensic Science & Criminal Justice
UndergraduateGRF-CCJ2172023
Course information for 2023 intake
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.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Forensic Science & Criminal Justice
About this subject
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.
- 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
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).
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.
Learn more about Griffith University.
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- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 18
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 21
Entry requirements
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
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
UndergraduateGRF-CCJ-DEG
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