Undergraduate Module Descriptor

SOC2135: Forensic Cultures

This module descriptor refers to the 2022/3 academic year.

Module Aims

This research-led module aims to help you develop a social science, critical perspective on forensic science and practice. You will explore how notions of forensic evidence and expertise have evolved, and gain insight into forensic cultures and the emergence and status of forensic professions. You will also gain an insight into how forensics is used in policing. The module will help you develop an analytical stance and an ability to scrutinise and challenge views on the infallibility of forensic evidence and the contribution of forensic science to criminal justice outcomes.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate familiarity with the major social scientific approaches to the study of forensics and its place, role and importance in the criminal justice system
2. Evaluate different sources on how forensic science has been used in crime investigation
Discipline-Specific Skills3. Using social science theories and methods, critically assess claims about the contribution of forensic science to the delivery of justice
4. Demonstrate the capacity to select relevant social science sources and structure them in order to present coherent arguments about the relation between forensic methods and technologies, policing and crime
Personal and Key Skills5. Communicate effectively in written and verbal form
6. Plan and work independently and in groups
7. Conduct research on a topic
8. Act autonomously within agreed guidelines and manage time effectively to meet deadlines