CHEM 474          2 Credit Hours

Elements of Forensic Chemistry

This information is for second semester 2017/2018 academic year

Teacher responsible

Augustine Donkor

Office: 326 Frank Torto Building

Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Availability

This course is available open to all visiting students but only as a second semester course.

Course content

This course introduces students to the techniques of forensic chemistry as they relate to crime scene investigation and on-going analysis of evidence obtained after a crime is committed. The course involves the basic chemistry concepts required to solve problems in forensic science and illustrates the specialized applications of forensic science through case studies and laboratory methods. Topics include introduction to forensic chemistry, forensic language, forensic documentation, finger printing, chemical screening, chemical extraction and sample preparation, explosives and arson investigation and examination of some drugs.  Various laboratory instruments and procedures will also be discussed.

Teaching

This will be in the form of lectures, demonstrations, and discussions. Your participation is very important for your final scores.

Tutorials and assignments will be available at the end of each lecture.

Formative coursework

There will be at least one major interim assessment (IA) and a final exam at the end of the semester. Students are expected to undertake presentations which will contribute to their final grades. The IA will be on the materials covered during lectures. Success in this course depends on reading widely on the topics to be treated, and is highly recommended.

Indicative Reading

Khan, J.I., Kennedy, T. J. & Christian, D. R. (2012). Basic Principles of Forensic Chemistry, Humana Press, New York.

Newton, D.E., (2008). Forensic Chemistry, Checkmark Books, New York.

Johll, M. E. (2007). Investigating Chemistry: A Forensic Science Perspective. W.H. Freeman and Company: New York.

Saferstein, R. (2011), Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science, Prentice Hall, ISBN: 013504520, 9780135045206

Hall, B. A., (2017) Forensic Science Handbook.  CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida.

Assessment and Grading (as applicable)

Eg:         Quizzes                                                                       10 %

Two (2)     Assessments                                              20 %

Presentation and Class Participation                          10 %

Final Exam                                                                 60 %

Etc.

Grading Scale: