Introduction to Forensic Science from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more No special knowledge or previous experience of studying is required. Warning: Some of content presented in this course may be distressing to individuals, particularly younger learners. Notwithstanding, the material is representative of that encountered by forensic scientists and we have presented it in an objective and professional manner. You can use the hashtag #FLForensic to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Explore the methods underpinning forensic science, from crime scene investigation to reporting evidential value within a case
Examine the four major evidence types: drugs of abuse, DNA, firearms and impression evidence
Learn how the initial crime scene is processed
Review various types of evidence including drugs of abuse, fingerprints, DNA, footwear marks and firearms
Formulate (and defend!) opinions on the case, based on your evaluation of the evidence

Reviews summary

Clear intro to forensic science basics

According to learners, this course provides a clear and engaging introduction to the field of forensic science. Students particularly praise the quality of the video lectures, the expert instructors, and the real-world examples used. The content is seen as well-structured and easy to follow, making complex topics accessible for beginners. While some learners noted that the course provides a foundational overview rather than in-depth study, the overall consensus is that it successfully achieves its goal of being a comprehensive introduction.

Provides an introductory overview, not in-depth specialization.

"This course gives a great overview but doesn't go into deep detail on any one area."

"It's a broad introduction, perfect for beginners, but doesn't offer specialist knowledge."

"Provides a good foundation, but you would need further study for specialization."

Examples and case studies connect theory to practice.

"Loved the use of real case studies and examples to illustrate concepts."

"The connection to real forensic work made the learning much more practical."

"Applying concepts to real scenarios was very helpful for understanding."

Video lessons are praised for their quality and production.

"The quality of the video lectures was excellent, making it easy to stay focused."

"The videos were well-produced and the instructors were engaging."

"I found the video presentations to be very informative and well-made."

"Video content was great, easy to watch and follow."

Teachers are knowledgeable, passionate, and effective communicators.

"The instructors were clearly experts in their fields and were very engaging."

"Enjoyed the lectures by the professors, they were passionate and explained well."

"Great instructors, very knowledgeable and made the topics interesting."

"The lecturers were very informative and easy to listen to."

Course materials are well-explained and easy to follow.

"The content is very clear and easy to follow, even for someone with no prior knowledge."

"I really enjoyed the course format and the clarity of the explanations. It made complex topics accessible."

"This course explained forensic science concepts in a clear, concise, and engaging way."

"Content was very clear and understandable. Enjoyed learning about the different fields."

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Forensic Science will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Introduction to Forensic Science

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Clear intro to forensic science basics

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