6B083E - Forensic Casework and Expert Practice 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 6B083E
Module Title: Forensic Casework and Expert Practice
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Science
Faculty Sub Group: Applied Science
Module Leader: Ella Mason-Buck
Module Team: Peter Miedziak
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 6
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100388 - forensic science
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2027
Valid To 31 Aug 2033

Module Aims

The main aims of the module are:

·         Integrate scientific knowledge and analytical techniques from biological, chemical, and trace evidence disciplines to investigate, analyse, and interpret complex forensic case scenarios.

·         Develop advanced professional competencies in the management, evaluation, and communication of forensic evidence, including the preparation and presentation of expert witness reports and testimony.

·         Critically appraise the evidential, ethical, and legal implications of forensic findings, incorporating uncertainty, limitations, and professional judgment into investigative and legal decision-making.

Content Summary

This capstone module brings together the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout the forensic science programme through the investigation and evaluation of a simulated forensic case. You will apply analytical techniques from biological, chemical and trace evidence analysis to examine evidential materials, interpret findings and evaluate their significance within investigative and evidential contexts.

Working in simulated professional laboratory environments, you will undertake key stages of the forensic process, including evidence assessment, analytical testing, data interpretation and reporting. The module places strong emphasis on the critical evaluation of evidence, consideration of uncertainty and the integration of findings from multiple forensic disciplines.

You will also develop professional skills associated with forensic practice, including quality assurance, documentation and the clear communication of scientific findings. Throughout the module, you will be expected to work systematically, apply professional standards and reflect on the reliability and limitations of forensic evidence.

The module culminates in the preparation of expert witness reports and the presentation of expert testimony within a simulated legal setting. This will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to explain, justify and defend scientific conclusions clearly, objectively and professionally within a courtroom-style environment.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Practical classes and workshops 56
Guided Learning - Independent (Directed Reading, VLE Tasks) 10.5
Summative Assessment and Preparation 60
Independent Learning (Wider Reading, Research, Reflection, Consolidation) 173.5
Total Hours Selected 300

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Critically analyse and integrate biological, chemical, and trace evidence to evaluate its significance and limitations in forensic case contexts.
LO2 Communicate and justify forensic interpretations through professional written and oral formats, demonstrating scientific reasoning, evidential evaluation, and expert witness practice.

Module Requisites

Code Title Requisite Type
MOD014225 Forensic Evidence in Practice pre-requisite
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Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Portfolio 1 A group forensic case file with individual witness statement, Onsite, Group 0 5400 60 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Individual Professional Discussions Individual expert witness testimony, Onsite, Individual 30 N/A 40 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Portfolio 1 ✔ ✔
Individual Professional Discussions ✔ ✔