School of Biological & Chemical Sciences

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1 School of Biological & Chemical Sciences Programme Specification Programme Leader: Programme Title: Awarding Institution: Teaching Institutions: Duration of Study: Final Award: Programme Code: Relevant QAA subject benchmarking grp(s): Date of production/revision: Dec 2008 Dr R M Nix Crime Scene & Forensic Investigation Queen Mary, University of London City & Islington College (CIC) Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL) 2 years (full-time) FdSc CF94 This foundation degree is managed and taught jointly by the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences (SBCS) of QMUL and the Centre for Applied Science (CAS) at CIC. 1. Aims of the programme The foundation degree in Crime Scene & Forensic Investigation is a two-year vocational degree which aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills so that they are appropriatelyqualified to apply for a career as a Forensic Practitioner/Crime Scene Examiner/Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) with a UK police force. Successful students of the programme should also be suitably trained to enable them to pursue a range of other careers, in both the public and private sectors, which are allied to crime scene and forensic investigation. The programme therefore aims to provide training in the most up-to-date methods of crime scene forensic theory and practice, together with an understanding of underlying scientific principles and knowledge of appropriate biological, chemical and materials science methodologies. More generally, the programme aims to: provide a rational, structured and coherent programme of study which is relevant to the needs of employers, facilitate the professional development of the student and lay the foundations for a successful career to the benefit of the economy and society; provide a sound knowledge base in the fields studied and develop key transferable skills in the areas of communication, numeracy, information technology, working with others, problem solving, time and task management; foster the development of an enquiring, open-minded and creative attitude, tempered with scientific discipline and social awareness, which encourages lifelong learning and further personal development.

2 2 Intended programme outcomes The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas: A. Knowledge and understanding Students should possess: 1. Knowledge and understanding of the essential facts, concepts, principles and theories in selected areas of anatomy and physiology, biology, physics, chemistry and forensic science. 2. Knowledge of aspects of law and the criminal justice system; appropriate to the collection, examination and presentation of forensic evidence. 3. Knowledge and understanding of health, safety and quality issues; appropriate to the work of a Forensic Practitioner. Teaching/learning methods and strategies Acquisition of knowledge is achieved mainly through lectures and, in some cases, directed independent learning. Understanding is reinforced through a combination of tutorials, workshops, problem classes and laboratory classes (depending upon the module concerned); these elements including regular feedback on submitted work. Additional support is provided through the IT facilities available at CIC and the QMUL Student PC Service. Assessment Testing of the knowledge base is generally through a combination of unseen written examinations and assessed coursework. The exact nature of the coursework varies from module to module and may include submission of work in the form of laboratory reports, essays and problem sheets. The coursework mark may also include a contribution from computer-based assessments and in-course tests. Specific modules may also include assessed oral examinations, oral presentations and extended reports/dissertations. B. Intellectual skills Students should be able to: 1. Reason critically. 2. Relate scientific theory and practice. 3. Identify and solve problems, including those of a numerical nature. 4. Analyse, evaluate and interpret the results of practical experiments. Teaching/learning methods and strategies Intellectual skills (1-4) are developed progressively through the teaching and learning programme. In particular, skills in problem-solving and analysis (3) are developed through problem classes and the application of problem-based learning techniques. Practical classes offer the opportunity to integrate skills (2) and develop those relating to analysis and interpretation (4) Assessment Intellectual skills (1-4) are partly assessed by formal examination, but principally through coursework assignments (especially problem sheets, practical laboratory reports and project dissertations). CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 2

3 C. Professional practical skills Students should be able to: 1. Conduct laboratory-based work efficiently and with due regard for safety. 2. Conduct scene of crime examinations (including the recording, processing, collecting, and packaging of evidence), with due regard for both health and safety, and the requirements of the criminal justice system. 3. Prepare clear and accurate reports to a professional standard. 4. Research topics of a scientific nature by the collation and critical appraisal of information from a wide range of sources. Teaching/learning methods and strategies Practical laboratory skills (1) are developed in a progressive manner throughout the programme. Practical training in crime scene examination (2) is provided by the use of simulated crime scenes in two of the core (30 credit) modules of the programme. Modules in health and safety, and forensic photography, are provided to develop skills in these specific areas. Skills in report writing (3) are developed throughout the course through a combination of practice and regular feedback. Assessment Practical laboratory skills and report-writing skills (1,3) are assessed through written laboratory reports; this includes attention to quantitative accuracy. Assessment of crime scene examination skills (2) is by means of submitted scene examination forms, photographic records, acquired physical evidence and witness statements. D. Transferable skills Students should possess the skills to: 1. Communicate effectively by written and/or verbal means. 2. Manage time, prioritise workloads and work to deadlines. 3. Conduct work with due diligence, and with appropriate consideration of health, safety and quality issues. 4. Participate constructively as a member of a group/team. 5. Locate, collate and assess the reliability of information from a wide range of sources. 6. Make effective use of computer-based technology. Teaching/learning methods and strategies Transferable skills are developed in a contextual manner throughout the teaching and learning programme. Specific skills (e.g. IT skills, 6) are developed further in particular modules. Assessment Many of the transferable skills (e.g. 1, 3-6) are indirectly assessed as part of the normal assessment processes for the programme. CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 3

4 3. Programme structures and requirements The programme is studied full-time over two years, and students are required to complete the following modules: Year 1 Each student must take the following modules (each of 15 credits unless indicated otherwise): SBC151 Biosciences 1 SBC157 Forensic Biology 1 SBC156 Applied Forensic Chemistry and Physics 1 SBC155 Photography for Crime Scene Practitioners SBC154 Criminal Justice Systems SBC153 Forensic Quality Assurance SBC152 Practical Crime Scene Investigation 1 (30 credits) Year 2 Each student must take the following modules (each of 15 credits unless indicated otherwise): SBC251 Biosciences 2 SBC258 Forensic Biology 2 SBC256 Applied Forensic Chemistry and Physics 2 SBS112 Personal and Professional Development for Forensic Practitioners SBC257 Criminal Justice and Law SBC120 Numeracy, Mathematics and IT for Crime Scene Practitioners SBC252 Practical Crime Scene Investigation 2 (30 credits) Note : modules with codes beginning SBC1 (or SBS1) are at Level 4; modules with codes beginning SBC2 are at Level 5 Attendance Requirements A student whose attendance falls below 80%, or who persistently fails to submit coursework by the due date(s), may have his/her registration terminated. Progression Requirements To progress from developmental year one of the programme into developmental year two, a student must normally have passed all of the first year modules (i.e. obtained passes in 120 credits). Exceptionally, at the discretion of the Subject Examination Board, a candidate who has passed 105 credits may be permitted to progress from developmental year one to developmental year two and resit the remaining 15 credits from developmental year one while studying for the next developmental year. CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 4

5 4. Support for students and their learning Induction Programme, including briefings from senior programme staff on matters relating to the programme organisation and to general study an introduction to the library facilities, computing facilities and other academic and pastoral support services CF94 Student Handbook (issued at the start of each academic session; providing a range of essential information about the programme, general policies and relevant regulations, and summary descriptions of associated modules) CF94 Programme Website (accessed via ; for regularly updated information about the day-to-day operation of the programme) QMUL Student Guide and a range of other on-line documentation, published by the QMUL Student Administration Office Academic Advisor/Personal Tutor: students on this programme have an academic advisor based at QMUL and a separate tutor based at CIC. Access to teaching staff (using Office Hours, or by appointment - on an individual basis, for matters relating to individual academic courses, or to deal with specific academic problems) Extensive Library and IT facilities (incl. the main library, the Student PC Service and the Computing Services Help Desk at QMUL, and a similar range of facilities at CIC) IT Training Short Courses (a range of short courses covering common software applications, operated by Computing Services) On-line module documentation (including copies of lecture notes, supplementary teaching material and model answers). Computer-based self-learning modules (a range of PC applications and tutorial software, including selected links to relevant websites) Drop-in academic support sessions (available in chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics) operated by the QMUL DISC unit. English Language and Study Skills programme (including pre-sessional and in-sessional classes in English language training for overseas students, and in-sessional Study Skills programme) Staff-Student Liaison Committee(s): for discussion of, and feedback on, all matters relating to academic programmes and departmental teaching activities. Other support services / development opportunities based at QMUL: Advice & Counselling Service (for general advice, welfare information and counselling service) College Residences Office (for support in finding accommodation) Disability and Dyslexia Service (for Students with Disabilities/Learning Difficulties) Language Learning Unit (for English language & study skills, and courses in various modern European languages) Academic Advice Service of the Queen Mary Students' Union Careers Service CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 5

6 5. Criteria for admission Candidates must be able to satisfy the general admissions requirements of the University and are normally expected to possess the following skills and qualifications: 180 UCAS points in at least two A2 level subjects (including, normally, one science subject) or equivalent academic qualifications, e.g. a pass with Merit in an appropriate BTEC programme. Evidence of ability in English and Mathematics equivalent to GCSE level. Applications from mature students are considered on an individual basis, taking account of both educational background and other relevant experience. 6. Method of evaluating and improving quality and standard of teaching Mechanisms for gaining student feedback on the quality of teaching and their learning experience. the Student/Staff Liaison Committee (SSLC); meeting no less than twice per academic session; feedback questionnaires for individual modules. Additional informal feedback is provided by means of contact with students in laboratory and tutorial classes, and through meetings with between students and their advisors. Committees and Boards with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality and standards CF94 Management Committee SBCS Teaching & Learning Committee (TLC) Foundation Degree in Crime Scene & Forensic Investigation Subject Examination Board QMUL Science Degree Examination Board (DEB) QMUL Quality Enhancement Committee (QEC) Responsibility for the development and management of the programme, including responsibility for the monitoring and maintenance of academic standards, rests primarily with the Management Committee whose constitution is as follows: Programme Director Deputy Programme Director Two members of staff nominated by the Head of SBCS at QMUL Two members of staff nominated by the Head of the Centre for Applied Science at CIC One member nominated by Metropolitan Police Service Forensic Services Command Unit (MPSFSCU) Programme reviews are undertaken by the Programme Director and their deputy based on: reviews of individual modules. external examiner reports. feedback from (and actions initiated by) the Management Committee. feedback from (and actions initiated by) the SBCS-TLC. feedback from representatives of the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 6

7 7. Regulations of assessment The academic regulations governing this programme are those of Queen Mary, University of London, unless specified otherwise. In the sections that follow the term "College" refers to Queen Mary, University of London. The Subject Examination Board (SEB) responsible for this programme is the Foundation Degree in Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation SEB (otherwise referred to as the "Joint Examination Board" in the Memorandum of Cooperation between QMUL and CIC). Marks in Individual Modules The marks for individual modules are based on the College scheme and are given as marks out of 100 and as letter grades according to the following scale: 70+ = A, = B, = C, = D, = E, 39- = F. Each module normally corresponds to 15 credits. However, some modules have a value of 30 credits and will be weighted appropriately in the calculation of the College Mark used for classification purposes. Special Regulation relating to Limit on Number of Attempts A student may make only two attempts at a module when studying on this programme. A student who has failed to pass a module after two attempts will fail the module of concern and the foundation degree. Regulations and Guidelines relating to Resit Examinations & Retakes In accord with QMUL general academic regulations, students shall be required to resit/retake failed module(s) at the next available opportunity, except in exceptional circumstances, and the maximum mark attainable for any resit shall be 40E. The Subject Examination Board will generally operate to the following guidelines when considering student s eligibility for resits/retakes of failed modules: [a] If the student has achieved a mark of less than 40% in the examination component then the student must take a resit examination. [b] If the weighting of coursework for the module of concern is 30% or lower then further assessment will be by resit of the examination component alone. [c] If the weighting of coursework for the module of concern is greater than 30% and the student has achieved a mark of less than 40% in the coursework component then the Examination Board may consider the following additional options: i) the student can be offered the opportunity to resit the coursework element by submission or re-submission of selected items of coursework in an attempt to improve their existing mark to a passing grade (this to apply only in those cases where the Examination Board is satisfied that the student has exhibited sufficient attendance at the original classes CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 7

8 as to make the possibility of raising the existing mark by this method to be a realistic proposition). For a student in their first developmental year such (re)submission of coursework will need to be undertaken by a specified date in the late summer, but for a student in their final developmental year the work must be completed whilst resitting outof-attendance. ii) the student can be offered another opportunity to take those elements of coursework that have been failed at the first attempt, and thereby to improve their existing overall mark to a passing grade. For a student in their first developmental year any practical work would generally be undertaken in the early summer, during a fixed period specified by the Examination Board. For a student in their final developmental year the work must be completed whilst resitting out-of-attendance, but will require attendance at CIC on specified dates to undertake any practical part of the assessment. iii) the student can be required to retake the full module in the following academic year, whilst registered for a part-time or full-time retake of the developmental year of concern, and with pro-rate payment of fees. All existing marks for the module shall remain on the record and the retake shall count as the next attempt of the module concerned. [d] Late summer examinations (resit or first-sit) will only be offered to students in their first developmental year, and only in those cases where the necessary assessment can be completed by examination alone, by submission of coursework by a specified date in the late summer (i.e. in accord with [c]i) ), by re-doing the failed practical component(s) during a specified period in the early summer (i.e. in accord with [c]ii) ), or by a combination of the previous methods. [e] The overall mark for all attempts will be calculated in accord with the criteria (including any coursework and examination weightings) given in the module specification at the time of firstsit. However, the maximum overall mark awarded for a resit will be 40%, except where the student has undertaken a retake of the full module. Eligibility for the Award To be eligible for the award of the foundation degree a student must have been registered on the programme for a minimum of two academic years; passed a total of 240 credits, 120 from the first year and 120 from the second year of the programme. Classification of award The classification of award is based on the College Mark. The College Mark provides a weighted average across all the modules taken by a candidate. Developmental years two and one are weighted as follows: 2:1. The classification of the foundation degree is made according to the following scale: College Mark of 40% to 64% Pass College Mark of 65% to 69% Merit College Mark of 70% to 100% Distinction CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 8

9 Role of External Examiners External examiners are appointed by the QMUL Academic Board. The role of visiting examiner is that of moderator. In order to do this they: approve examination question papers; review coursework; review examination scripts; conduct vivas for selected candidates attend Examination Board meetings One of the responsibilities of external examiners is to assist the Examination Board in reviewing candidates at borderlines, and candidates who have suffered from significant extenuating circumstances during the programme of study. Progression to BSc Degree Programmes A candidate who has been awarded the FdSc with Merit or Distinction is eligible for admission to the appropriate developmental year of an associated honours degree programme. (The currently recognised progression route from the CF94 programme is into development year 2 of the BSc in Molecular Biology with Forensic Studies). Disclaimer This specification is a concise summary of the principal features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a student may reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he or she takes full advantage of the opportunities available. Detailed information on learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of individual modules is available in the programme handbook and also via the programme web-pages. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the university and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. CF94 Foundation Crime Scene and Forensic Investigation 9