Undergraduate Course Listing

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.

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.

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.

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: 60% or higher in FRSC 1011H or permission of instructor. Excludes FRSC 1010H.

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 BIOL 1030H or BIOM 1000H, and 60% or higher in one of BIOL 1020H or 1050H.

Cross-listed: BIOL-2050H

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.

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.

Introduces students to the widespread use of analytical chemistry within the analysis of forensically relevant samples. Students will explore preliminary chemical tests as applied to drugs, explosives, gunshot residues, and fingermarks. Students develop an understanding of instrumental and materials analysis through the examination of paint, inks, and dyes. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H and FRSC 2030H (FRSC 1010H).

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

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

Geophysics is the study of geologic properties, processes and phenomena using non-destructive physical and mathematical methods, including reflection and refraction seismology, gravity and magnetics, and electrical and electromagnetic methods. This course emphasizes how geophysical techniques can be used for resource and archeological exploration, climate change detection, and environmental investigations. Prerequisite: PHYS 1001H or 1.0 MATH credit. Typically offered every other year.

Cross-listed: EGEO-3001H, ANTH-3001H

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 for 2022-2023: FRSC 2100H and one of PSYC 2300H or 2700H. Prerequisite for 2023-2024 and beyond: 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

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: 7.5 university credits including 60% or higher in BIOL 1030H or BIOM 1000H and 1.0 BIOL credit at the 2000 level, or permission of instructor.

Cross-listed: BIOL-3330H

Theory and practice of chromatography, sampling, and quality control. Particular emphasis is placed on applications in environmental analysis. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H.

Cross-listed: CHEM-3400H, ERSC-3400H

An introduction to the fundamental precepts, from both a philosophical and practical perspective, that form the foundation of Aboriginal law in Canada. The course content is taught with a balance of experiential learning exercises. Prerequisite: INDG 1001H (or 1000Y). Excludes INDG 3400Y.

Cross-listed: INDG-3401H

This course meets the Indigenous Course Requirement.

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

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

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 are addressed. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H. Strongly recommended: CHEM 2100H and 2110H.

Cross-listed: CHEM-3410H, ERSC-3410H

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.

Explores the history of incarceration from the late 1700s to the modern day, focusing on the rise of institutions designed to segregate those labelled sick, deviant, or in need of reform. 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

This course focuses on the 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, gunshot residue, textiles, and glass. Prerequisite: CHEM 2400H and one of FRSC 2220H or CHEM 2110H.

Cross-listed: CHEM-3720H

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 university credits or permission of the chair. Excludes HIST 3850Y, 4751Y, 4850Y. Offered only at Trent University Durham.

Cross-listed: HIST-3751Y

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 CHEM 2400H. Open only to students in Forensic Science (single- or joint-major), Forensic Biology, or Forensic Chemistry.

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.

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.

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.

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

An introduction to firearm examination and ballistics. Students learn the science behind firearm examinations, including gunshot residue analyses, erased number restoration, and classification of firearms-related deaths. Students complete an independent case-based project and present firearmsrelated evidence to their peers. Prerequisites: 60% or higher in each of PHYS 1001H, FRSC 2220H, and FRSC 3100H.

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.

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.

Provides students with a practical and detailed examination of the enactment, enforcement, and limitations of environmental law and policy. The course emphasizes Ontario's environmental regime and focuses on a recent case study. Prerequisite: 10.0 university credits including ERST 3250H or permission of instructor.

Cross-listed: ERST-4250H

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.

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.

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 courses and 10.0 university credits including BIOL-FRSC 2050H or BIOL 2260H.

Cross-listed: BIOL-4510H

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

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

An introduction to chemical sensors and biosensors for onsite, roadside, workplace, drug, toxicological, food safety, sports and environmental testing. In-depth description of various analytical techniques and materials used in sensor development are provided. Prerequisite: 60% or higher in FRSC 3410H.

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

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

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 3000H or FRSC 3111H

Cross-listed: BIOL-4800H

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.