Course Syllabus
Forensic Investigation
Chemistry 300
Spring 2011
Class Content:
This class introduces the scientific techniques used in the investigation
of crime with particular emphasis on analyzing physical evidence. The
class will also address aspects of how crime and our attempt to combat
crime have influenced the world in which we live.
Lecture:
2:00 p.m. – 3:50 p.m. TR
Instructor:
Office:
Office Hours:
Phone:
E-mail:
Gregory Miller
Sc 262
MWF 9-11 a.m. or by appointment
(541) 552-6408
millergr@sou.edu
Text:
None required. However, if you are interested, I’d recommend
Forensic Science. Third edition. James and Nordy.
Grading:
Grades will be based on the total number of points accumulated during
the term and will be determined as follows: 100%-90% A; 89%-80% B;
79%-70% C; 69%-60% D.
There will be two 100-point midterms and a 100-point comprehensive
final. The final score, if it is higher, will replace your lowest test score.
In the event a test is missed, your final exam score will doubled. The
quizzes will be given the second hour of the test days indicated below.
You will also be responsible for a term paper assignment, which will be
turned in on the last day of class (Thursday June 2). This assignment is
designed to enhance your grade and is an opportunity to investigate
material or a case that we do not cover during the course of the summer
term. I’d like you to pick a case where someone has been wrongly
convicted of a crime and, at a minimum, spent time in prison. I would
like your paper to highlight whatever evidence (forensic or otherwise)
that led to this person being found innocent. You can start this project
by looking at the Innocence Project website or looking for cases at
www.crimelibrary.com. A Google search for wrongful convictions also
is a good place to get an idea for potential cases. Try to use at least
two or three different sources for this paper.
In either case, the paper should be no less than 4 full typed pages (1012 font). There is no maximum number of pages. The paper should be
appropriately referenced (in any style) and include a bibliography.
The assignment is worth 50 pts.
Test Schedule:
Test 1: Tuesday April 26, in class, second hour
Test 2: Thursday May 26, in class, second hour
Final Exam: Thursday June 9, 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Tentative Class Schedule:
Week of:
March 28.
Introduction to Forensic Science
April 4.
Forensic Pathology
April 11.
finish Pathology, begin Forensic Serology
April 18.
finish Forensic Serology, begin DNA Techniques
April 25.
finish DNA
May 2.
Forensic Anthropology and Odontology
May 9.
Introduction to Basic Chemistry; Latent Fingerprinting
Techniques
May 16.
Forensic Toxicology/Pharmacology
May 23.
Finish Toxicology; begin Arson/Explosive Investigations
May 30.
Finish Arson; Catch up (we will be behind)
Important Notes:
Please inform me of any chemical allergies that you may have (iodine, sulfur, etc).
Attendance is not required but very highly encouraged.
A copy of this syllabus can be found, along with all PowerPoint presentations used in class, at the class web
site.
Academic Dishonesty Policy
Because originality of thought and integrity of scientific data are central to the scientific enterprise, the SOU
Chemistry Department has a zero-tolerance policy towards academic dishonesty in any form. Acts of
academic dishonesty include but are not limited to: plagiarism, deliberate falsification of scientific data,
submitting or enabling the submission of identical lab reports or portions thereof, bringing unauthorized
materials to examinations, looking at another student's work during an exam, or otherwise obtaining grades
under false pretenses. Academic dishonesty will be addressed in accordance with the Academic Standards
policy at SOU (http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARS_500/OAR_573/573_095.html). All cases of
academic dishonesty will be forwarded to the office of the Dean of Students for further review. The institution
reserves the right to impose further sanctions in accordance with the SOU Student Code of Conduct
(http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARS_500/OAR_573/573_075.html). Such sanctions may include
suspension or expulsion from the institution depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.
SOU Disability Services:
If you are in need of academic support because of a documented disability, you may be eligible for
academic accommodations through Disability Services for Students. Contact Academic Support Programs
at 541-552-6213, or schedule an appointment in person at ASP, Stevenson Union, lower level.