Course Introduction

Certificate Course in Questioned Document and Fingerprint Examination

  • Course Outline
  • Curriculum
  • FAQ
  • Case Studies
  • Reviews

The Accredited Certificate Course in Questioned Document and Fingerprint Examination offered by Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science (SIFS India) in collaboration with colleges and universities is perfect for individuals who want to gain exposure to and learn the art and science of examining questioned documents and fingerprints. 

The course can be done by forensic science professionals looking to diversify their current skill set, students pursuing degrees in forensic science, criminology, or related fields, individuals interested in a career in forensic science, and law enforcement personnel involved in criminal investigations.

In this course, you will learn about the evolution of document examination, the role of the QD examiner, legal considerations to be followed, types and characteristics of documents, document alterations, types of forgeries, paper examination techniques, fingerprint classification and identification principles, fingerprint pattern recognition, fingerprint enhancement methods, latent fingerprint development and lifting, AFIS, real-life case studies and practicals, and report writing.


Course Benefits:

Career Advancement: Your newly acquired expertise in two crucial forensic science domains will give you a competitive edge over your peers, expanding your career opportunities in law enforcement, private investigation, and governmental agencies.

Forensic Investigation Techniques: You will acquire practical skills to implement the latest techniques in forensic investigations involving questioned documents and fingerprints.

Credible Certification: You will receive a dual certification from SIFS India and university, enhancing your credibility and recognition in your chosen field.

Networking Opportunities: You will be a part of a community of professionals and experts in the field of forensic science, providing networking opportunities and a platform for knowledge exchange.

Regular Assessment: You will be continuously assessed through quizzes, assignments, and practical exercises and will gain in-depth understanding with a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Enroll now to gain expertise in two critical areas of forensic investigation and contribute to the advancement of justice.

  • Curriculum

    MODULE 1 - INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE

    This module provides a basic overview of forensic science, including its core principles and historical evolution. You will learn about different institutional structures, both within government and private laboratories, the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system, its significance in investigations, and the legal challenges associated with forensic science within the judicial framework.

    MODULE 2 - QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

    This module focuses on document examination, questioned document analysis under Section 463 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), handling and preservation of standards and exemplars, and the scientific examination of documents. You will learn about the challenges associated with documents, the importance of photographic evidence in the analysis process, and the skills needed to properly handle the document evidence throughout the investigative process within legal contexts.

    MODULE 3 - HANDWRITING

    In this module, you will learn about the distinct features that define the individuality of handwriting and set one person's writing apart from another. The module also covers various factors that can influence handwriting, whether naturally evolving over time or intentionally modified.

    After this module, you will be equipped with a deep understanding of how to examine factors that contribute to the uniqueness of each person's written expression.

    MODULE 4 - HANDWRITING EXAMINATION

    This module introduces you to techniques to examine and compare handwriting, focusing on specific abbreviations and their distinctive features like the nature, alignment, arrangement, connections, initial strokes, pen lifts, pen pressure, punctuation, rhythm, shading, size, slope, terminal strokes, tremor, and individual features inherent in handwriting. After this module, you will gain a detailed understanding of how to analyze and compare handwriting samples accurately.

    MODULE 5 - IDENTIFICATION OF SIGNATURES AND FORGERIES

    This module covers the concepts of signature examination and report writing. You will be introduced to signature identification, genuine signatures, variations, and the critical distinctions between forged, distorted, and disguised signatures. You will also gain insights about forgery caused by transplanting a genuine signature.

    This module will equip you with the skills needed to analyze signatures effectively, differentiate between authentic and manipulated signatures, and present your findings in forensic reports within a legal framework.

    MODULE 6 - OTHER TYPES OF QUESTIONED DOCUMENTS AND THEIR EXAMINATION

    This module introduces you to the concept of evaluating the editing present in documents. You will gain insights into the nature of alterations, ranging from erasures to overwriting and insertions. You will learn about various types of erasures, the distinctive characteristics associated with each, and the nature of obliteration, contributing to developing skills to evaluate and discern alterations within documents for forensic document examination.

    MODULE 7 - SECURITY FEATURES IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF DOCUMENTS

    In this module, you will learn about security features embedded in various documents like a PAN card, TAN card, voter ID card, driving license, Aadhar card, passport, stamp and e-stamp paper, bankers cheque, QR code, bar code, and identification features of both Indian and other currencies.

    This module will equip you with the knowledge required to identify and verify the security measures incorporated into different documents to establish document authenticity.

    MODULE 8 - INTRODUCTION TO FINGERPRINTS

    This module explores the basics of fingerprint science, its historical development, foundational theories related to fingerprints, unique characteristics that make fingerprints an invaluable tool in forensic investigations, and their significance in personal identification across various domains.

    You will be introduced to the specialized laboratories dedicated to fingerprint investigation, providing an overview of the advanced technologies and methodologies employed in this field.

    MODULE 9 - FINGERPRINT CLASSIFICATION

    This module focuses on the analysis and procedures involved in fingerprint examination. You will become familiar with single-digit classification (the foundational aspect), the Henry classification system (a structured approach to classifying fingerprints), and the modernization of fingerprint classification through the computerization of ten-digit prints.

    This module will equip you with skills to practically utilize these systems and how to incorporate technological advancements in fingerprint examination.

    MODULE 10 - TYPES OF FINGERPRINTS

    In this module, you will learn about the different types of fingerprints encountered at crime scenes, including chance or latent prints, visible prints, and plastic prints, along with the distinctive characteristics of each type. The module also covers various development methods to identify, collect, and examine each type of print found at the crime scene.

    This knowledge will equip you with the skills needed to effectively identify, enhance, and document different types of fingerprints, ensuring a thorough and meticulous approach to forensic investigations.

    MODULE 11 - DEVELOPMENT OF LATENT FINGERPRINTS

    In this module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods and development of latent (invisible) fingerprints, patterns observed in fingerprints, the unique characteristics of papillary ridges, and various factors influencing the formation of fingerprint patterns.

    The module also covers methods used in the comparison of papillary ridge counts, providing you with practical insights about ways to analyze and match fingerprints.

    MODULE 12 - RECORDING AND COMPARISON OF FINGERPRINTS

    This module explores factors involved in collecting, preserving, and analyzing fingerprints in a forensic context, including collecting fingerprints from both living and deceased individuals, methods for preserving and lifting fingerprints, and the role of photography in recording fingerprints for forensic documentation.

    You will also learn about digital transmission methods and the comparison of fingerprints, detailing the basis of comparisons and examining various types of ridge minutiae.

  • What is the required procedure to be followed to get enrolled in this course?

    To complete the enrolment process, individuals are required to select the "Register for Course" option situated on the right side of the screen, subsequently following the provided instructions and adhering to the designated payment procedure. 

  • What eligibility criteria must individuals meet to enroll in this short-term certificate course?

    The individuals who have completed their 12th grade are eligible to get enrolled in short-term certificate courses in Questioned Document & Fingerprint Examination.

  • What will an individual achieve upon successful completion of this course?

    Upon completion of this course, the individual will have in-depth knowledge in the field of Questioned Documents and Fingerprint analysis, enhancement of resume and networking opportunity. 

  • Will the course be carried out through live lectures?

    Students will be attending some live lectures on scheduled times. The designated time would be notified or conveyed through email or WhatsApp.

  • Is there any means through which I can assess my learning during the duration of this course?

    The students will be continuously evaluated through mock tests, assignments and quizzes.

  • What benefits will I gain by undertaking this course?

    Upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a certification from SIFS India, a renowned institution in forensic science education, thereby enhancing your credibility and recognition in industry. 

  • How will I get access to this certificate course once I have registered for this course?

    Upon successful registration, you will receive an email containing admission details, including your portal credentials. These credentials can be used to log in to the portal and access the course.


  • Will there be any exam at the end of the course?

    An examination will be allocated to the students, and successful completion of this assessment is a prerequisite for concluding the course.

  • Will I be awarded a certificate upon the successful completion of this certificate course?

    You will be awarded a certificate, upon the successful culmination of the certificate course. It will hold a  significant merit to your professional profile, potentially advancing your career prospects within the forensic field. 

  • Whom should I contact for any queries or technical support?

    For any inquiries or technical assistance, please feel free to contact us at +91-7303913002 from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Oliver Will Case Study

The Oliver Will Case was about finding an answer to the question of which date the will was written. This case was tried in the 1920s in White Plains, New York. 

A legal form bearing the date, name, and address of the printer at the top was used to write the will. 

However, the area of the document showing the date was torn off. Now two possibilities for date on the form arose: January 8, 1924, or October 8, 1924. 

The date on the will was September 20, 1924. So it was concluded that the form that might have been used must have been printed earlier in the year. 

Upon in-depth examination, it was found that while tearing the dated part of the form, the tail of the comma in the address was still visible. 

The positioning of the comma on that paper helped in reaching the conclusion that the form could not have been from the January 8 lot. 

Therefore, the questioned will cannot be written on a form that did not exist on the date it was supposedly prepared.

Pooja Mehra

5

The course allows one to get a glimpse of how modern-day forgeries include documents and how the legal system addresses these issues. I would recommend this course to anyone looking forward to building a solid foundation in forensic examination.

Priya Gupta

5

I enjoyed the course thoroughly. The course content covered a wide range of topics crucial for forensic examination. The case studies discussed were instrumental in applying the theoretical knowledge gained.

Ananya

5

The course structure was well-planned. The hands-on fingerprint analysis sessions were a highlight for me. I appreciate the focus on current industry practices and emerging technologies.

Srishti Sharma

5

The course allows learning the intersection of 2 core forensic science working areas i.e. addressing the questioned documents and doing the fingerprint analysis which allows a broader learning area in the field of forensic sciences.

Abhishek Yadav

5

Apart from the great learning exposure we got, networking opportunities with fellow students and professionals in the field were an additional bonus in this course.

 

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