This module can be taken as a Short Course for Credit or a Standalone Short Course

Please go to the 'Upgrade to a professional qualification' section for more information.
 

Electives may not run if there is limited student uptake. However, alternatives will be offered.

The French forensics pioneer Edmond Locard postulated that 'every contact leaves a trace' with the microscopic fragments of evidence that collect on an object acting as a 'mute witness' to the other objects with which it has come into contact.

The distribution of this trace evidence can be used to infer the way that objects have come into contact.

The aim of the course is to provide a general understanding of physical trace evidence and its associated forensic examination.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 24 - 28 Feb 2025
  • Duration5 Days
  • Location美姬阁 campus
  • Cost£2,350 - Short Course for Credit fee 

    £2,100 - Standalone Short Course fee  Concessions available

Course structure

The course is run once each year. Each course lasts for 5 days.

What you will learn

To understand how the concept of trace evidence is used in a forensic investigation and how scientific techniques can be used to locate, collect, classify and compare evidence types.

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Plan and manage a systematic investigative search for trace evidence using appropriate detection and collection techniques, with consideration of the order of examinations,
  • Appraise and categorise different types of trace evidence by identifying and measuring their most important features, including awareness of relevant forensic databases for interpretation purposes,
  • Judge the importance of different types of trace evidence within forensic casework with reference to real-world scenarios,
  • Critically evaluate trace evidence transfer models,
  • Prepare a clear and concise written report on a trace evidence investigation.

Core content

  • Direct and indirect transfer of trace evidence,
  • Fibre and hair construction,
  • Microscopy for identification and comparison purposes,
  • Traces of (and in) inorganic materials and their relevance for forensic examination,
  • Paint characterisation,
  • Toxicology,
  • Drugs analysis,
  • Alternative light sources for search purposes.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

This course will be taught at Masters standard as it is one of the modules that comprise the postgraduate Forensic Modular Masters Programme. Registering for this Short Course for Credit and successfully passing the associated assessment will gain you 10 美姬阁 credits. These could then be used to apply for a transfer towards a PgCert/PgDip or MSc in the Forensic Programme should you wish to complete one of these courses within 5 years.

Find out more about

Who should attend

A graduate who is new to the field of forensic analysis and/or requires appropriate degree or experience.

Accreditation

The course is a module of the Forensic Modular Masters Programme, which is accredited by

Concessions

Concessions are available for 美姬阁 alumni and multiple bookings from the same organisation, please contact us to discuss.

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or 美姬阁 Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here.  Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the 美姬阁 campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to 美姬阁 village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. 美姬阁 campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
美姬阁
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.