Undergraduate Course Listing
Please visit the Academic Timetable to see which courses are presently being offered and in which location(s). Not all courses listed below run every term or in all locations. For specific details about program requirements and degree regulations, please refer to the Academic Calendar.
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FRSC-1011H: Introduction Crime Scene Investigation
Offered:
- Online
- Peterborough
Introduces students to forensic investigations and crime scene processing. Students are instructed how to gather and document scientific evidence while processing crime scenes in the crime scene house, and then present their findings as written reports, and as expert witnesses in a courtroom setting.
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FRSC-1100H: Introduction to Canadian Justice
Offered:
- Online
- Peterborough
- Durham GTA
Introduces students to the Canadian justice system with an emphasis on the criminal justice system. Students are provided opportunities to apply their knowledge through analyzing legal cases and various pieces of legislation, and participating in a mock trial.
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FRSC-2020H: Scientific Methdology Forensic Science
Offered:
- Peterborough
Provides an introduction to the scientific method, data management, and basic statistics as a foundation for collecting, analyzing, and presenting scientific data in a scientific or forensic setting. Prerequisite: FRSC 2030H (or 1010H) and 1.5 additional science credits. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry.
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FRSC-2030H: Foundations in Forensic Science
Offered:
- Online
- Peterborough
Introduces students to forensic science by exploring multiple disciplines, including forensic psychology, forensic chemistry, forensic entomology, pathology, forensic dentistry, DNA forensics, wildlife forensics, arson investigation, food forensics, and bioterrorism. Students are also instructed in investigative procedures using the crime scene house. Prerequisite: 1.0 MATH credit at the 1000 level, 1.0 BIOL or CHEM credit at the 1000 level, and 60% or higher in each of FRSC 1011H and 1100H. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry. Not open to students with credit for FRSC 1010H.
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FRSC-2050H: Introduction to Genetics
Offered:
- Online
- Peterborough
Develops a basic understanding of genetics. Mendelian inheritance, chromosome structure, genetic recombination, mutation, the structure of DNA, the nature of genes, and current topics in genetics are investigated using examples from plants, animals, insects, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in each of BIOL 1020H and 1030H; or 60% or higher in BIOM 1000H and one of BIOL 1020H, 1050H, or 1051H; or 60% or higher in each of BIOL 1030H and FRSC 1011H.
Cross-listed: BIOL-2050H
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FRSC-2100H: Criminal Code
Offered:
- Peterborough
- Durham GTA
Provides a systematic and detailed review of the Criminal Code. It focuses on implications of the Criminal Code for forensic science, current issues in its interpretation by the courts, and its implementation by law enforcement agencies. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in FRSC 1100H.
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FRSC-2110H: Police Powers
Offered:
- Peterborough
Focuses on the legislation governing criminal investigations, including the Constitution Act and Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the practical application of those laws, and their judicial interpretation in the day-to-day activities of police officers and other law enforcement personnel. Prerequisite: FRSC 2100H.
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FRSC-2220H: Forensic Chemistry
Offered:
- Peterborough
Introduces students to the widespread use of analytical chemistry within the analysis of forensically relevant samples. Students first explore preliminary chemical tests as applied to drugs, explosives, gunshot residues, and fingermarks. Students then develop knowledge of instrumental and materials analysis methods via the examination of gunshot residues and explosives. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H and FRSC 2030H (FRSC 1010H).
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FRSC-2750H: Computer Crime & Forensics
Offered:
- Online
Computer crime is the fastest-growing area of illegal activity in the world. Users beware After some background information (how computers work, number systems, information-hiding algorithms), we examine the schemes and techniques used by computer criminals, the forensic techniques used to catch the criminals, and ways to prevent victimization. Recommended prerequisite: COIS 1010H.
Cross-listed: COIS-2750H
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FRSC-3000H: Laboratory Dna Forensics
Offered:
- Peterborough
Examines the theoretical foundations and techniques of DNA analysis with leading-edge technology in light of forensic cases. Students learn the theory and practice of generating forensic DNA evidence. Prerequisite: FRSC-BIOL 2050H, 3700H (or 3620H), and BIOL 3080H.
Cross-listed: BIOL-3000H
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FRSC-3010H: Crime Scene Investigations
Offered:
- Peterborough
Explores forensic investigation techniques-observation, analysis, evidence identification, collection and preservation, and interviewing. Emphasizes gathering experts' scientific evidence and assessing it. Students explore use of evidence in Canadian court cases, the decision-making processes in court, and the roles of investigators, advocates, judges, and juries. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in 2020H and 2030H (or 1010H). Recommended: PHYS 1001H or PHYS-BIOL 1060H. Open only to students registered in a Forensic Science program.
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FRSC-3020H: Workplace Readiness and Professional Ethics
Offered:
- Peterborough
Students gain valuable skills necessary to be accepted into and excel in a professional environment. Emphasis is placed on effective communication and the professional ethics required to work in the high stakes field of forensic science. Prerequisite: 10.0 university credits including FRSC 2020H, 2030H (or 1010H), and 2100H. Application instructions to complete workplace integrated learning as opposed to a special project are provided during the Winter term of second year. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry. Excludes FRSC 2010H.
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FRSC-3100H: Trends in Forensic Science
Offered:
- Peterborough
Covers recent developments in forensic science and reflects the recommendations of practitioners. Typically includes updates in the theory and practices related to DNA analysis, blood-spatter analysis, tire-track and footwear impressions, ballistics, and so forth. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in FRSC 2020H and 2030H (or 1010H0. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry.
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FRSC-3110H: Criminology in Forensics
Offered:
- Peterborough
Provides students with a comprehensive view and appreciation of criminology, including the scientific study of criminal behaviour, its forms, causes, legal implications, and controls. Provides a forum for discussion and debate and enhances students' knowledge of crime, criminal justice, and society in a forensic context. Only open to students registered in the BScFS program or joint-major in Forensic Science program. Prerequisite: 9.0 university credits including FRSC 2100H.
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FRSC-3111H: Wildlife DNA Forensics
Offered:
- Peterborough
- Online
DNA has revolutionized how human forensic investigations take place, but also enhances a myriad of non-human forensic applications, including food fraud, wildlife poaching, environmental forensics, bioterrorism forensics, tracking of sources of disease outbreaks, and invasive species detection. Theoretical and practical foundations and techniques of DNA analysis are examined through forensic case reviews and in labs. Prerequisite: BIOL-FRSC-BIOL 2050H, FRSC 3700H, and BIOL 3080H.
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FRSC-3120H: Canadian Environmental Policy
Offered:
- Peterborough
An interdisciplinary inquiry into how environmental policies in Canada are developed, implemented, and improved, applying political, economic, legal, scientific, Indigenous, and moral perspectives. Focus is on federal, provincial, and municipal contexts, recognizing that the environment does not respect jurisdictions. Topics include energy and materials use, biodiversity, toxic substances, waste management, and land use. Prerequisite: 1.0 ERST, CAST, POST, or ADMN credit at the 2000 level or beyond. Excludes ERST-CAST-POST 3100Y.
Cross-listed: ERST-3120H, POST-3120H, CAST-3120H
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FRSC-3153H: Archaeological Science II
Offered:
- Peterborough
Ancient biomolecules (proteins, lipids, DNA), the conditions under which they preserve, how they are isolated and analyzed. Topics include stable isotopes, ancient DNA, proteomics, and organic residue analysis. Labs provide students with hands-on experience with techniques commonly used in archaeological science (emphasis on bone chemistry). Prerequisite: ANTH 2150H, or 2.5 ANTH credits and three of BIOL 1020H, BIOL 1030H, CHEM 1000H, GEOG 1040H, or PHYS 1001H.
Cross-listed: ANTH-3153H, BIOL-3153H
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FRSC-3250H: Introduction to Environmental Law
Offered:
- Peterborough
A comprehensive overview of environmental law in Canada, examining the key environmental laws and policies at the provincial, federal, and international levels. Prerequisite: 9 university credits including ERSC 1010H and 1020H (or 1000Y).
Cross-listed: ERST-3250H
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FRSC-3320H: Forensic Psychology
Offered:
- Peterborough
An introduction to how psychological theories and empirical research inform policing, the courts, and offender management and rehabilitation. Topics include suspect interrogation and lineups, deception detection, eyewitness memory and testimony, jury biases and jury selection, mental illness and specialized courts, risk assessment tools and methods, psychopathy, sexual, intimate partner, and homicidal violence. Prerequisite: FRSC 2100H and PSYC 2700H. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single major), Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, or the joint-major program in Forensic Science and Psychology. Excludes FRSC-PSYC 4320H.
Cross-listed: PSYC-3320H
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FRSC-3330H: Forensic Entomology
Offered:
- Peterborough
Many insect species associated with the process of decay of corpses and their maggots have been used as an important tool for identifying both the timing and location of death. This course explores the relationship between insects and the decay of corpses. Prerequisite: 8.0 university credits including 60% or higher in each of two 0.5 BIOL and/or BIOC credits at the 2000 level.
Cross-listed: BIOL-3330H
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FRSC-3400H: Chromatography
Offered:
- Peterborough
Theory and practice of chromatography, sampling, and quality control. Particular emphasis is placed on applications in environmental analysis. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H or 2420H.
Cross-listed: CHEM-3400H, ERSC-3400H
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FRSC-3404H: Human Osteology
Offered:
- Peterborough
A lab-based introduction to the anatomy and biology of the human skeleton. Topics include basic skeletal anatomy, bone biology and development, the functional morphology of bones, identification of complete and fragmentary bones, and skeletal pathology. Prerequisite: ANTH 2410H (or 2400Y). Excludes ANTH-BIOL-FRSC 3415Y, 3420H.
Cross-listed: ANTH-3404H, BIOL-3404H
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FRSC-3405H: Forensic Anthropology
Offered:
- Peterborough
An introduction to forensic anthropology. Focuses on the methods used by forensic anthropologists to analyze unidentified skeletal remains, including sex determination, age estimation, stature estimation, assessment of ancestry, and identification of trauma and pathology. Prerequisite: ANTH-BIOL-FRSC 3404H. Excludes ANTH-BIOL-FRSC 3415Y, 3420H.
Cross-listed: ANTH-3405H
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FRSC-3410H: Spectrophotometry & Spectroscopy
Offered:
- Peterborough
Modern analytical spectroscopic instrumentation, techniques, and application to the analysis of organic, inorganic, and biochemical contaminants with a particular focus on the forensic and environmental fields. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H or 2420H. Strongly recommended: CHEM 2100H and 2110H.
Cross-listed: CHEM-3410H, ERSC-3410H
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FRSC-3700H: Applied Population Genetics
Offered:
- Peterborough
Introduces students to the application of genetics to the study of taxonomy, structure of natural populations, mating systems, and forensics. Topics include the molecular tools that quantify genetic variation, mathematical models of population structure, paternity analysis, and DNA fingerprinting. Prerequisite: 7.5 university credits including FRSC-BIOL 2050H, or permission of instructor. Excludes FRSC-BIOL 3620H, BIOL 3600H.
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FRSC-3711H: History of Incarceration
Offered:
- Peterborough
- Durham GTA
Explores the history of incarceration from the late 1700s to the present, focusing on institutions designed to segregate those labelled sick, deviant, or in need of reform, particularly in Canada. Through secondary and primary literature, incarceration is studied from the perspective of authorities, the public, and inmates. Prerequisite: 4.0 university credits or permission of the chair.
Cross-listed: HIST-3711H
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FRSC-3720H: Advanced Topics in Forensic Chemistry
Offered:
- Peterborough
This course focuses on the confirmatory instrumental analytical and materials analysis of sample types routinely analyzed within the Chemistry section of Ontario's Centre for Forensic Sciences. Specifically, students discuss the analysis of ignitable liquid residues and explosive materials, paint, inks, dyes, textiles, and glass. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H and one of FRSC 2220H or CHEM 2110H.
Cross-listed: CHEM-3720H
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FRSC-3800H: Forensic Toxicology
Offered:
- Online
- Peterborough
Analyses to test for the presence of alcohol, drugs, and poisons are frequently utilized in death and criminal cases to provide important information pertaining to forensic investigations. This course explores the pharmacology and interpretation of drugs and drug classes in the context of forensic science. Prerequisite: FRSC 2030H (or 1010H), CHEM 2300H, and one of CHEM 2400H or 2420H. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry.
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FRSC-3900H: Reading Course
Offered:
- Peterborough
Provides an opportunity for more intensive or broader study of a selected topic in forensic science under the guidance of a faculty member. Students may take only one reading course. May be taken as a science credit with permission of the department chair. Prerequisite: Open only to students enrolled in the BScFS or joint-major in Forensic Science with a minimum of 10.0 university credits and permission of course supervisor.
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FRSC-4010Y: Independent Project
Offered:
- Peterborough
This self-directed research course requires students to investigate research topics relating to forensic science and to prepare a thorough, detailed research proposal in an area of research pertinent to forensic science. Students defend their research questions and their proposed methodology in a class discussion. Research is carried out individually or working in small groups. Open only to students registered in the BScFS program with a minimum of 15.0 university credits.
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FRSC-4020D: Research Thesis
Offered:
- Peterborough
A double credit. Students design and carry out research under the supervision of a faculty member, and attend fourth-year Forensic Science seminars on research-related issues. Permission of the program and the availability of a thesis supervisor are required. Students are contacted by the course coordinator regarding the application process before the end of the Fall term of third year. Open only to students registered in the BScFS program or joint-major Forensic Science program with a minimum 80% cumulative average. Students with a cumulative average lower than 80% will be considered provided they include a written letter of support from a prospective supervisor with their application.
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FRSC-4021Y: Research Thesis
Offered:
- Peterborough
Students design and carry out research under the supervision of a faculty member, and attend fourth-year Forensic Science seminars on research-related issues. FRSC 4020D is a double credit. FRSC 4021Y is a single credit thesis course to be taken in combination with another single credit thesis course from another science department. Permission of the program and the availability of a thesis supervisor are required. Students are contacted by the course coordinator regarding the application process before the end of the Fall term of third year. Prerequisite: A minimum 80% cumulative average. Students with a cumulative average lower than 80% will be considered provided they include a written letter of support from a prospective supervisor with their application. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry
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FRSC-4111H: Basic Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
Offered:
- Peterborough
Develops a fundamental knowledge of the discipline of bloodstain pattern analysis. Students learn the basic theoretical and practical aspects that are associated with the discipline. Scientific evidence-based analysis and conclusions are emphasized. Techniques are discussed in lectures; practical aspects are learned through participation in laboratory experimentation. Open only to students in a Forensic Science program. Prerequisite: FRSC 1011H, 2030H (or 1010H) 3010H, and one of PHYS-FRSC 1020H or PHYS-BIOL 1060H.
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FRSC-4210H: Fingerprint Analysis and Documentation
Offered:
- Peterborough
The focus of this course is on developing a fundamental knowledge of fingerprint analysis, including its history, development techniques, documentation, the comparison process, and report writing. Lectures provide an overview of the material while labs allow students to apply the techniques that they have learned. Prerequisite: FRSC 3010H.
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FRSC-4312H: Presentation of Forensic Evidence
Offered:
- Peterborough
Explores the legal functions and processes of courts and tribunals and the laws governing evidence and testimony by witnesses. Communication theory and techniques are applied to the experience of testifying in a courtroom setting and to understanding the impact of ethical and effective testimony. Open only to students in a single-major Forensic Science program. Prerequisite: 14.0 university credits including FRSC 2100H.
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FRSC-4380H: Advanced Topics in Law & Policing
Offered:
- Peterborough
Allows fourth-year students specializing in law and policing the opportunity to delve into a topic area within that study in more detail. Students pick a focus area, research relevant case law and literature, and conduct independent investigation into the specialized area. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in each of FRSC 2110H, 3010H, 3100H, and 3110H.
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FRSC-4510H: Species At Risk Biol & Policy
Offered:
- Peterborough
- Online
Examines the quantitative assessment of biological parameters impacting species and populations at risk under governmental species-at-risk legislation. Prerequisite: A minimum overall average of 65% in completed BIOL, BIOC, and/or BIOM courses and 12.0 university credits including BIOL 3391H, 0.5 additional BIOL credit at the 3000 level, and one of BIOL-FRSC 2050H or BIOL 2260H.
Cross-listed: BIOL-4510H
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FRSC-4570H: Biocrime & Bioterrorism
Offered:
- Peterborough
Students gain knowledge of microbes and other biological agents used in criminal endeavours and an overview of the methods used to detect crimes involving biological agents and link them to individual perpetrators. Bioterrorism and agricultural bioterrorism are discussed. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in FRSC 2030H (or 1010H); and one of BIOL 3080H, FRSC 3000H, FRSC 3111H, or BIOL 3250H.
Cross-listed: BIOL-4570H
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FRSC-4600H: Applied Molecular Genetics
Offered:
- Peterborough
This seminar-based course introduces students to the application of DNA profiling to forensics, medical genetics, and natural resource management (molecular ecology/conservation genetics). Prerequisite: 10.0 university credits including BIOL-FRSC 3700H (or 3620H).
Cross-listed: BIOL-4600H
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FRSC-4610H: Environmental Forensic Toxicology
Offered:
- Peterborough
A foundation in the analyses and techniques used to test for the presence of contaminants utilized in environmental monitoring, criminal, and civil cases. Explores techniques used in the identification, quantification, and assessment of toxicological impacts of environmental damage or pollution, as well as environmental toxicology and the interpretation of contaminants. Prerequisite: FRSC 2030H and one of CHEM 2400H or 2420H. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry.
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FRSC-4700H: Sensors, Devices for Forensic Applic
Offered:
- Peterborough
An introduction to chemical sensors and biosensors for onsite, roadside, workplace, drug, food safety, sports, and environmental testing. Overview of hand-held devices used by investigators, law enforcement, first responders, and other practitioners is provided. Prerequisite: FRSC 2030H and one of CHEM 2400H or 2420H.
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FRSC-4710H: Molecules of Murder
Offered:
- Peterborough
The crime of murder by poisoning has always held a terrible fascination. This course explores a range of real world poisoning cases from the viewpoint of the forensic scientist. Several natural and synthetic molecules are examined, with special focus on the chemistry of the toxic agents involved. Prerequisite: CHEM 2300H and 3400H OR 3410H.
Cross-listed: CHEM-4710H
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FRSC-4751Y: History Crime in England
Offered:
- Peterborough
A social history of crime between 1500 and 1900, from the perspective of the prosecutors and the courts as well as that of the criminals. Topics include witchcraft, sodomy, murder, theft, rape, and prostitution. Prerequisite: 4.0 HIST credits or permission of the chair. Excludes HIST 3751Y, 3850Y, 4850Y, 4953Y.
Cross-listed: HIST-4751Y
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FRSC-4800H: Bioinformatics
Offered:
- Peterborough
Biological data has grown in size and complexity. Bioinformatics-the application of computer programming to the management and analysis of biological information-is necessary for storing, manipulating, and analyzing large datasets. A tutorial-based computer lab focusing on genome sequence data allows students to learn the basics of computer programming and bioinformatics. Prerequisite: FRSC-BIOL 2050H and one of FRSC-BIOL 3700H or BIOL 3600H.
Cross-listed: BIOL-4800H
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FRSC-4890Y: Frsc Comm Based Research Project
Offered:
- Peterborough
Designed to allow fourth-year students the opportunity to work on a research project with a forensic community agency under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must contact the Forensic Science placement officer before the end of the Winter term of third year. Only open to students enrolled in the BScFS or joint-major in Forensic Science program. Prerequisite: a minimum 75% cumulative average and 14.0 university credits, including at least 3.0 FRSC credits at the 2000 or 3000 level.