- International Fees
International fees are typically 3.12 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Course Overview
With the advent of new molecular techniques, DNA is the material of choice for forensic analysis. The current technology of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) makes it possible to identify an individual with a high degree of accuracy. A series of lectures and laboratory exercises will show students the strength of this powerful technique and how it applies to law enforcement.
Prerequisite(s)
- 60% in FSCT 8150
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$945.01
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful compleltion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Execute biological screening of forensic evidence utilizing presumptive and confirmatory tests for various body fluids.
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills while conducting evidence examination and maintaining a chain of custody.
- Perform DNA isolation from various biological materials.
- Perform polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments with a Short Tandem Repeat (STR) multiplex.
- Compare the strengths and weaknesses of PCR experiments in the lab and in the field.
- Conduct quantification of DNA samples including an analysis of the presence of PCR inhibitors.
- Justify the importance of quality assurance and laboratory accreditation in the forensic laboratory.
- Perform appropriate contamination control techniques.
- Practice good laboratory safety including the use of personal protective equipment.
- Outline the process of fragment analysis for forensic DNA typing.
- Interpret single source and mixed DNA profiles including mixture deconvolution.
- Apply Bayes Theorem, the laws of probability, and Hardy Weinberg equilibrium to the statistical analysis of forensic DNA evidence.
- Perform various statistical calculations (Combined Probability of Inclusion, Random Match Probability and Likelihood Ratio) for DNA profiles.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) while working in a team environment.
- Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills to give effective presentations and write a comprehensive DNA report.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2015
Related Programs
Forensic Biology: DNA Typing Applications (FSCT 8160) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs with a co-op option.
School of Computing and Academic Studies
- Combined Honours in Biochemistry and Forensic Science
Bachelor of Science Full-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Advanced Certificate Part-time
- Forensic Investigation (Forensic Science Option)
Bachelor of Technology Part-time
Course Offerings
Winter 2025
Below is one offering of FSCT 8160 for the Winter 2025 term.
CRN 91804
Dates
Mon Jan 06 - Mon Mar 24
- 11 weeks
- CRN 91804
- Domestic fees $945.01
Status
Seats Available
This course offering has seats available.
Class meeting times
Instructor
Steen Hartsen
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Departmental approval needed
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- International fees are typically 3.12 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
- This is a hybrid course. ONLINE: Jan 6 - March 24, 2025 (asynchronous online learning), IN-PERSON: Mondays Jan 6 - Mar 24 (11 in-person classes). (F2F: 33 hours, ONLINE asynchronous: 12 hours). Attendance is mandatory for the F2F classes. There is no textbook required and the instructor will distribute any course materials (if any) in class. MANDATORY prerequisite FSCT 8150 must be completed before registering for this offering. There will be no class on Feb 17, 2025 for Family Day. Students who have been accepted into a Forensics program where this course is a part of the matrix may register without any further approvals. Students who are not currently accepted in a Forensics program or, if this course is NOT part of your program matrix, please contact the Program Assistants for departmental approval at BCIT_Forensics@bcit.ca .
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.