Development of a forensic chemistry course for non-science majors at Ursinus College

CHED 1682

Victor J. Tortorelli, vtortorelli@ursinus.edu, Chemistry Department, Ursinus College, 601 E. Main Street, Collegeville, PA 19426
Introduction to Forensic Chemistry, a new course intended for non-science majors, was developed at Ursinus College. Through an understanding of basic chemical principles, the course investigates the role of science in solving crimes. Topics include trace evidence analysis, blood typing and spatter analysis, drug identification, DNA profiling, firearms and explosives, and ridge impression analysis. Case studies are used to explore the scientific foundation for the examination of physical, chemical, and biological evidence. The accompanying laboratory examines evidence using a variety of wet methods and instrumental techniques. This interdisciplinary course was developed after attending a CWCS workshop and three Chautauqua courses on Forensic Science.
 

Center for Workshops in the Chemical Sciences (CWCS)
8:30 AM-11:55 AM, Wednesday, March 28, 2007 McCormick Place North -- Room N230B, Level 2, Oral

Division of Chemical Education

The 233rd ACS National Meeting, Chicago, IL, March 25-29, 2007