Course Introduction

FSP 101 : Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation

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

    The main focus of the Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation course is to provide the students an ability to anticipate and understand the fundamentals on which the science of Forensic relies. Forensic Science and the Criminal Investigation course would enable the students to observe and analyze the nitty-gritties of a crime scene, the crime concerned and the mode involved in committing the crime. As every crime scene and the crime committed is unique in its manner, therefore this course would provide the students an ability to understand and analyze every crime scene and the associated factors keeping in mind the principles on which the science of Forensic is based. Besides thorough theory classes; exposure to proper, organized, and interactive practical sessions will also be a mandatory part of the respective course structure.

     

    Forensic Science is that exclusive and amazing discipline of Science, which relies on the application of scientific methodologies and techniques for the affairs and matters pertaining to law. Forensic Science and its techniques thoroughly depend upon the principle proposed by a French Scientist called Edmond Locard, who is considered the pioneer of this science by proposing the fact that, in every contact, traces are shared mutually. Since then to till date, the investigation is processed in every case keeping this scientific fact into account.

     

    Criminal Investigation, as the name suggests is the investigation of every crime scene uniquely and precisely, so that no evidence which could be linked to that specific crime slips off the eyes of an Investigator. Crime Scene Investigation plays a very pivotal part in the entire legal processing, as this investigation provides the investigator a link that could bind the victim and the perpetrator to the concerned crime, on the basis of the evidence encountered in and during the processing the entire scene of a crime.

     

    A chronological and protocolled search of the scene of crime and a scientific approach well-equipped with technicality towards the circumstantial evidence encountered curtails the chances of poor validation of the associated case.

  • Level - I : Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation

      MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE

      This course module will acquaint you with the Fundamentals, History, Basic Principles, and Significances of Forensic Science, Institutional structures, Government and Private Laboratories, Role, and Uses of this Science in Criminal Justice System. It includes the chain of custody i.e. the collection, preservation, inspection, evaluation, and report writing of evidence. This field includes various subfields. The first section introduces you to the diversity of Forensic Science in its legal context.

      MODULE 2 – CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT

      In this module crime scene investigation and management, the first part will introduce you to the definition and types of crime, followed by role of Crime Scene Investigator, importance of Locard’s Exchange Principle, and types of crime scene such as Indoor Crime Scene and Outdoor Crime Scene. Another section of this module will be mentioning the types of evidence; Fragile or Transient Evidence and Solid or Tangible Evidence and the Physical Evidence Searching Methods like Spiral Search, Grid Search, Strip Search, Zone Search, etc. followed by Crime Scene Reconstruction.

      MODULE 3 – PHYSICAL EVIDENCE COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION

      This module will introduce you to modern methods of the investigation of the Crime Scene and the searching methods of the physical evidence with definition, types, and their significances. The topic will include Collection, Preservation, Packaging, and Forwarding of different types of evidence to the Laboratories further examination. This course is designed to instruct you on multiple real case studies.

      MODULE 4 – FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION

      This module would introduce you to the definition, history, development, and basic patterns of fingerprints and their subclasses. In addition, you will be acquainted with the nature of fingerprints at the scene of crime which may be latent, visible, or plastic in nature. Fingerprints are classified in several classifications such as Henry System/ Ten Digit Classification which will be elaborated in this module along with the procedural methods of the development and lifting of the fingerprints.

      MODULE 5 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

      In this module, you will be taught about the documents, their nature, problems, and examination. The fundamentals of handwriting verification, examination, and signature verification are introduced to the students along with the practical sessions on the common types of cases that we encounter on a general basis. This module will enable the students to differentiate very precisely between genuine writing and signature, to a forged one.

      MODULE 6 – COMPUTER AND CYBER CRIME

      The use of computers in almost all the areas of society has provided the criminals an opportunity to use computers as the easiest and accessible way to commit serious crimes, such as pornography, phishing scams, identity theft and so. Therefore, this course will provide the students with a platform to have a close look at the types of common cybercrimes and the techniques to cope with them by strengthening one’s social security.

  • Level - II : Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation

      MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE

      This course module will acquaint you with the Fundamentals, History, Basic Principles, and Significances of Forensic Science, Institutional structures, Government and Private Laboratories, Role, and Uses of this Science in Criminal Justice System. It includes the chain of custody i.e. the collection, preservation, inspection, evaluation, and report writing of evidence. This field includes various subfields. The first section introduces you to the diversity of Forensic Science in its legal context.

      MODULE 2 – CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT

      In this module crime scene investigation and management, the first part will introduce you to the definition and types of crime, followed by role of Crime Scene Investigator, importance of Locard’s Exchange Principle, and types of a crime scene such as Indoor Crime Scene and Outdoor Crime Scene. Another section of this module will be mentioning the types of evidence; Fragile or Transient Evidence and Solid or Tangible Evidence and the Physical Evidence Searching Methods like Spiral Search, Grid Search, Strip Search, Zone Search, etc. followed by Crime Scene Reconstruction.

      MODULE 3 – PHYSICAL EVIDENCE COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION

      This module will introduce you to modern methods of the investigation of the Crime Scene and the searching methods of the physical evidence with definition, types, and their significances. The topic will include Collection, Preservation, Packaging, and Forwarding of different types of evidence to the Laboratories further examination. This course is designed to instruct you on multiple real case studies.

      MODULE 4 – FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION

      This module would introduce you to the definition, history, development, and basic patterns of fingerprints and their subclasses. In addition, you will be acquainted with the nature of fingerprints at the scene of crime which may be latent, visible, or plastic in nature. Fingerprints are classified in several classifications such as Henry System/ Ten Digit Classification which will be elaborated in this module along with the procedural methods of the development and lifting of the fingerprints.

      MODULE 5 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

      In this module, you will be taught about the documents, their nature, problems, and examination. The fundamentals of handwriting verification, examination, and signature verification are introduced to the students along with the practical sessions on the common types of cases that we encounter on a general basis. This module will enable the students to differentiate very precisely between genuine writing and signature, to a forged one.

      MODULE 6 – COMPUTER AND CYBER CRIME

      The use of computers in almost all the areas of society has provided the criminals an opportunity to use computers as the easiest and accessible way to commit serious crimes, such as pornography, phishing scams, identity theft and so. Therefore, this course will provide the students with a platform to have a close look at the types of common cybercrimes and the techniques to cope with them by strengthening one’s social security.

      MODULE 7 – FORENSIC BIOLOGY

      Forensic Biology, as the name itself clarifies is related to Biology. Forensic Biology, in general deals with the proper examination of biological fluids, encountered at a specific crime scene. The biological fluid generally spotted are - blood, urine, semen, saliva, and vaginal fluids. After the packaging and processing of the evidence to the laboratory are done, then start their scientific analysis to ensure the authenticity of the evidence and their possible source.

      MODULE 8 – CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES

      The module familiarizes you to understand the Fundamentals of Criminal Behavior, which is defined under topics as Modus Operandi, Criminal Profiling, Portrait Parley, Polygraph, Narco-analysis, Brain Fingerprinting, Voice Stress Analysis, and Speaker Profiling.

      MODULE 9 – FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY

      This module explains all about Forensic Toxicology. In this module, the student will be taught about the toxins/ poisons, its definition, classifications, common types of poisons which are frequently found.  Every poison has a striking feature of targeting a specific organ. Thus, this course will also include the poisons, their general characteristics, the toxic principle involved, their action of mechanism, the associated signs and symptoms, the post-mortem appearances, and their medico-legal aspects. This course would enable the students to have a close look at the poisons and their concerns.

      MODULE 10 – FORENSIC PHYSICS

      In this module, the characteristics of glass, paint, soil, and fiber are defined by which the relation between criminal and crime scene can be established. This module also contains a detailed description of tool mark and its chemical methodology for the restoration of the obliterated marks. These type of evidence represents crimes like robbery, burglary, vehicular accidents, etc.

      MODULE 11 – FORENSIC BALLISTICS

      This module will make you understand the science behind the firearms. Firearms have become a very conventional mode for the criminals in committing the crime. Thus, this module will introduce the students to the science of ballistics, its types, and definition of a firearm as per law, types of firearm, bullets, and related information.

  • Level - III : Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation

      MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE

      This course module will acquaint you with the Fundamentals, History, Basic Principles, and Significances of Forensic Science, Institutional structures, Government and Private Laboratories, Role, and Uses of this Science in Criminal Justice System. It includes the chain of custody i.e. the collection, preservation, inspection, evaluation, and report writing of evidence. This field includes various subfields. The first section introduces you to the diversity of Forensic Science in its legal context.

      MODULE 2 – CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT

      In this module crime scene investigation and management, the first part will introduce you to the definition and types of crime, followed by role of Crime Scene Investigator, importance of Locard’s Exchange Principle, and types of crime scene such as Indoor Crime Scene and Outdoor Crime Scene. Another section of this module will be mentioning the types of evidence; Fragile or Transient Evidence and Solid or Tangible Evidence and the Physical Evidence Searching Methods like Spiral Search, Grid Search, Strip Search, Zone Search, etc. followed by Crime Scene Reconstruction.

      MODULE 3 – PHYSICAL EVIDENCE COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION

      This module will introduce you to modern methods of the investigation of the Crime Scene and the searching methods of the physical evidence with definition, types, and their significances. The topic will include Collection, Preservation, Packaging, and Forwarding of different types of evidence to the Laboratories further examination. This course is designed to instruct you on multiple real case studies.

      MODULE 4 – FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION

      This module would introduce you to the definition, history, development, and basic patterns of fingerprints and their subclasses. In addition, you will be acquainted with the nature of fingerprints at the scene of crime which may be latent, visible, or plastic in nature. Fingerprints are classified in several classifications such as Henry System/ Ten Digit Classification which will be elaborated in this module along with the procedural methods of the development and lifting of the fingerprints.

      MODULE 5 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

      In this module, you will be taught about the documents, their nature, problems, and examination. The fundamentals of handwriting verification, examination, and signature verification are introduced to the students along with the practical sessions on the common types of cases that we encounter on a general basis. This module will enable the students to differentiate very precisely between genuine writing and signature, to a forged one.

      MODULE 6 – COMPUTER AND CYBER CRIME

      The use of computers in almost all the areas of society has provided the criminals an opportunity to use computers as the easiest and accessible way to commit serious crimes, such as pornography, phishing scams, identity theft and so. Therefore, this course will provide the students with a platform to have a close look at the types of common cybercrimes and the techniques to cope with them by strengthening one’s social security.

      MODULE 7 – FORENSIC BIOLOGY

      Forensic Biology, as the name itself clarifies is related to Biology. Forensic Biology, in general deals with the proper examination of biological fluids, encountered at a specific crime scene. The biological fluid generally spotted are - blood, urine, semen, saliva, and vaginal fluids. After the packaging and processing of the evidence to the laboratory are done, then start their scientific analysis to ensure the authenticity of the evidence and their possible source.

      MODULE 8 – CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES

      The module familiarizes you to understand the Fundamentals of Criminal Behavior, which is defined under topics as Modus Operandi, Criminal Profiling, Portrait Parley, Polygraph, Narco-analysis, Brain Fingerprinting, Voice Stress Analysis, and Speaker Profiling.

      MODULE 9 – FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY

      This module explains all about Forensic Toxicology. In this module, the student will be taught about the toxins/ poisons, its definition, classifications, common types of poisons which are frequently found.  Every poison has a striking feature of targeting a specific organ. Thus, this course will also include the poisons, their general characteristics, the toxic principle involved, their action of mechanism, the associated signs and symptoms, the post-mortem appearances, and their medico-legal aspects. This course would enable the students to have a close look at the poisons and their concerns.

      MODULE 10 – FORENSIC PHYSICS

      In this module, the characteristics of glass, paint, soil, and fiber are defined by which the relation between criminal and crime scene can be established. This module also contains a detailed description of tool mark and its chemical methodology for the restoration of the obliterated marks. These type of evidence represents crimes like robbery, burglary, vehicular accidents, etc.

      MODULE 11 – FORENSIC BALLISTICS

      This module will make you understand the science behind the firearms. Firearms have become a very conventional mode for the criminals in committing the crime. Thus, this module will introduce the students to the science of ballistics, its types, and definition of a firearm as per law, types of firearm, bullets, and related information.

      MODULE 12 – FORENSIC PHOTOGRAPHY

      Photography plays a very significant part in Forensics. Every crime scene is unique and fragile in nature, therefore it needs to be preserved for further legal proceedings. In this module, you will be guided on how photography is of great importance in Forensics. You will practically be shown how to photograph a crime scene, how to cover each and every minute detail, how to picture the evidence without altering their position, and the techniques involved in photographing a scene of crime.

      MODULE 13 – FORENSIC SEROLOGY

      Forensic Serology includes the properties and reactions of serums, especially blood serum. Often in a crime scene, blood and other body fluids are present and can be tested to identify a suspect or victim if either is unknown. The secrets of the body are written in the blood; a single drop of blood contains red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Bloodstain patterns at a crime scene can help sometimes yield important clues such as the type and velocity of the weapon, the number of blows, the handedness of assailant, position and movements of the victim, order of inflicted wounds, types of injuries, estimation of when the crime was committed, and whether the death was immediate or delayed. This module also comprises the examination of other body fluids like semen, saliva, urine, vomit, tears, faecal matter, vaginal fluid, and sweat.

      MODULE 14 – DRUG & ALCOHOL ABUSE

      This module deals with the introduction of the drug and alcohol abuse with their developmental history. It also covers the classification and identification of various types of drugs. The use of alcohol as abuse is also a vital role in the criminal investigation and the alcohol intoxication triggers the number of crime done by an individual. The collection and preservation of alcohol are done by various instrumental technique and hence further analysis can be applied. This module also includes topics like breath analyzer and blood alcohol concentration.

      MODULE 15 – FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGY

      Forensic Psychology is a combination of Forensic and Psychology. This course would familiarize the students with criminal behavior, by allowing them to analyze the myriad aspects related to a criminal including family background, childhood, and such other similar factors. These factors would enable the students to work on Criminal Profiling, which would lead to a better way of understanding the crime and the mind-set of the criminal who committed it.

      MODULE 16 – FORENSIC ANTHROPOLOGY

      Forensic Anthropology is a branch of a vast science called, Anthropology. Anthropology is all about the study of the human race. In Forensic Anthropology, students will be taught as to what kind of cases are involved in it. The determination of sex, race, and age from the skeletal remains is the most atypical point of this science. The differentiation between ante-mortem and post-mortem injuries is also an important topic included in the module.

      MODULE 17 – FORENSIC ENTOMOLOGY

      Time since death is a topic of great concern when it comes to Criminal Investigation Techniques. Forensic Entomology is a subject which deals with various factors as what maggots or insects arrived at a crime scene, at what stage of their life-cycle can they be found. A close examination and observation of the maggot’s life cycle help in assessing the time since death, which would precisely help the investigators in estimating the time when the particular crime took place. This is due to this science why insects are considered a factor of great help to the investigating team.

      MODULE 18 – FORENSIC MEDICINE

      Forensic Medicine is all about the application of medical science for the purpose of law. The important topics covered in this module would be death, the various related factors, post-mortem/ autopsy, its significance and utility in a criminal investigation, wounds, and their medico-legal aspects. A visit to autopsy would also be conducted as a part of practical curriculum

      MODULE 19 – WILDLIFE FORENSIC

      Wildlife Forensic, as the name itself defines is all about the application of the science and techniques of forensics for the conservation of fauna. This course would help the students in initiating steps towards wildlife conservation by preventing domestic poaching and illegal animal trading.

      MODULE 20 – FORENSIC ODONTOLOGY

      This module tells about the application of dental science for the purpose of law. The application of Forensic Odontology or Forensic Dentistry generally deals with the cases as, violent physical and sexual assaults. The role of bite-mark analysis is of utmost importance, in the cases pertaining to the Forensic Dentistry. Just as fingerprints, dental impressions are also unique to every individual. Thus, this science leads to be a primary requisite during the criminal investigation of cases related to rape or sexual assaults.

      MODULE 21 – ARSON & EXPLOSIVE

      This module familiarized the student with the detailed knowledge of intentional fire i.e. arson and explosive. The entire module deals with the identification and causes of occurrence of these incidents and the presence of their evidence. The explosives cover the investigation of the bombing scenes of both pre and post scene investigation. This module also covers the improvised explosive devices and their forensic examination.

  • What steps should I follow to enroll in this online course?

    To enroll, click on the “Register for Course” option available on the right side of the screen, followed by the provided instructions and payment procedure.

  • Can I pay directly to the bank account of SIFS India?

    Yes, you have the option to make a direct payment to the bank account of SIFS India;, all you have to do is write an email at education@sifs.in requesting the bank details. 

  • Which documents I have to upload at the time of enrollment?

    Academic Qualification Documents, Professional Qualification Certificates, and National ID Proof or Passport Copy are required at the time of enrollment.  

  • What if I am unable to upload my documents?

    Kindly send your necessary documents with proof of payment to admission@sifs.in.

  • How will I receive confirmation once I have completed the payment procedure?

    An Admission Confirmation email will be sent with your portal credentials once the proof of payment and application form with all the necessary documents are received at admission@sifs.in.

  • How do I login to the portal for my online course?

    To login, visit the portal at the given link: https://www.sifs.in/student and enter your login credentials, i.e., your username and password shared via email. 

  • What study material access will I have after logging into the portal?

    After logging into the portal, you will have access to reading material, reference eBooks, and e-research papers.

  • Will I receive any assignments during my course duration?

    Yes, all your assignments, projects, case studies and practice tests will be assigned to you through your portal as per the level you will be enrolled in.

  • What technical prerequisites are necessary for an online course?

    You can easily access our online course on mobile / tablet devices. We highly recommend that you use your desktop or laptop and a reliable internet connection for a better view.

  • Will there be any exams after completing the course?

    Yes, there will be an online exam after completing the course.

  • Will I receive any certificates after completing the online course?

    Yes, upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate and marksheet, which can be a valuable addition to your resume and may enhance your career prospects in the field.

  • Where to contact in case of any queries or technical support?

    Write to us at admission@sifs.in, call: +91-1147074263, or WhatsApp: +91-7303913002.

    Ted Bundy

    Although serial killer Ted Bundy was responsible for an estimated 30-plus murders, there was little physical evidence to connect him to the crimes when he was arrested in 1975. Two years later, having been convicted only of kidnapping, Bundy was preparing to stand trial for murder in Colorado when he escaped and headed to Florida. There, he killed three more people early in 1978, and when he was finally captured in February of that year, the physical evidence in those cases led to his conviction. Most crucial was the matching of a bite mark on the buttock of victim Lisa Levy to the Bundy’s distinctive, crooked and chipped teeth. He was convicted also of the murder of 12-year-old Kimberly Leach based on fibers found in his van that matched the girl’s clothing. Bundy was put to death in 1989.

     

    The Lindbergh Kidnapping

    On March 1, 1932, Charles Lindbergh Jr., the 20-month-old son of the famous aviator, was kidnapped, and although a ransom of $50,000 was paid, the child was never returned. His body was discovered in May just a few miles from his home. Tracking the circulation of the bills used in the ransom payment, authorities were led to Bruno Hauptmann, who was found with over $14,000 of the money in his garage. While Hauptmann claimed that the money belonged to a friend, key testimony from handwriting analysts matched his writing to that on the ransom notes. Additional forensic research connected the wood in Hauptmann’s attic to the wood used in the make-shift ladder that the kidnappers built to reach the child’s bedroom window. Hauptmann was convicted and executed in 1936.

     

Benny Sharma

5
The course are amazing and the teaching staff is highly cooperative and the way of study is also of top quality.

Raj Vignesh B

5

Wonderfull learning course for beginners. This course is very insightful and broadened my knowledge in the field of forensic science. 

Sharad Srivastava

5
I am quite grateful to be part of this online course, the knowledge I have acquired throughout this course duration is life-changing to me and I recommend those who have not got this opportunity to learn, enroll soon.

I cup my hand in appreciation to the team of SIFS INDIA for the good work they have done in Equipping and giving us directives throughout the course.

Avni Aggarwal

5

Thank you SIFS for giving this opportunity, online sessions for better understanding also have a good facility of providing study material and proper information about everything. The teacher is also very good, experienced and explain everything in proper and effective way. 

 

Instructors

Afreen Tarannum

Afreen Tarannum

Senior Scientific Officer
Arti Varshney

Arti Varshney

Scientific Officer
Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Managing Director
Dr. Renu Devi

Dr. Renu Devi

HOD & Assistant Professor
Neha Jain

Neha Jain

Senior Scientific Officer
Rajesh Balkath

Rajesh Balkath

Scientific Officer

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