Credit Points 10

Coordinator Brenden Riley Opens in new window

Description A substantial amount of forensic evidence used in the prosecution of criminal cases is derived from crime scenes. It is therefore critical that forensic practitioners understand appropriate crime scene investigation procedures for dealing with forensic evidence at the scene, and that they can apply these procedures in a practical manner during investigations. This subject will explore the practical aspects of crime scene investigation including scene preservation and documentation, scene searching and detection of forensic evidence as well as evidence enhancement and collection. Professional practices for maintaining evidence integrity and continuity will also be implemented. In additional to the practical components of this subject, a range of specialised crime scene investigation sub-disciplines will also be discussed along with crime scene legislation and the role of the crime scene investigator in court.

School Science

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 3 subject

Pre-requisite(s) NATS 1003

Equivalent Subjects NATS 2010

Incompatible Subjects NATS 2014

Restrictions

100 credit points must be completed before students can enroll in this subject. 

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this Subject, students will be able to: 

1. Integrate critical decision-making in the crime scene investigation process based on scene circumstances
2. Apply practical techniques for the detection, enhancement and collection of forensic evidence and documentation at crime scenes
3. Apply professional practice for maintaining evidence integrity and continuity at crime scenes 
4. Demonstrate a critical understanding of specialised crime scene investigation sub-disciplines, crime scene legislation and the role of the crime scene investigator in court 

Subject Content

1. Crime scene investigation in simulated crime scenes
2. Professional decision-making at crime scenes influenced by scene circumstances
3. Professional practices for scene documentation and maintaining evidence integrity and continuity
4. Practical skills in detection, enhancement and collection of forensic evidence at crime scenes
5. Theory of specialised crime scene investigation sub-disciplines
6. Theory of crime scene legislation and the role of the crime scene investigator in court

Special Requirements

Essential equipment

• PPE – crime scene suit, lab coat, safety goggles, enclosed shoes
• Clipboard
• SD card
• Watch