The Science Behind Forensic Science

Discover the biology and chemistry behind forensic science

How does forensic science really work? How are scientific principles applied in crime scenes? Answer these questions and more with this course from the team who teach the longest-running forensic science programme of its type in England.

On the course you will get an introduction to the chemistry and biology of forensic science. You will examine the methods used in forensic science and learn about how these technique are used in crime scenes and explained in the court room.

Kindly note that the course material was produced before COVID-19 distancing and restrictions were put into effect. To learn more about COVID-19 advice and guidance at King’s College, please visit this page.

This course is designed for anyone interested in discovering more about forensic science.

It will be especially useful if you’re thinking of studying forensic science in the future or if you work in a field related to forensic science, such as law or the police force, and want to find out more.

• Introduction to Forensic Science and The Crime Scene
• Welcome
• Crime Scene Management
• Crime Scene Search and Evidence Recovery
• Week 1 Wrap-up
• Forensic Biology
• Item examination
• DNA Profiling
• Profile Matching
• DNA Intelligence
• Week 2 wrap-up
• Forensic Chemistry
• Introduction to Forensic Chemistry
• The forensic chemistry laboratory
• Physical examination
• Presumptive testing
• Confimatory testing
• Week 3 wrap-up
• Evidence in the Court
• Evidence in the courts
• Definitions
• Scientific evidence and testimony
• The jury
• Final Assessment
• The case solved