FSCI 1510 01: Survey of Forensic Science < Youngstown State University

FSCI 1510 - Survey of Forensic Science

Fall 2026 Syllabus, Section 01, CRN 41931,
Credit hours: 3

Course Meeting Times

Instructor

Robert Wardle

Email: rewardle@ysu.edu

Public Instructor Information

Professor Robert E. Wardle III

Professional Qualifications:

MS, Forensic Science, University of Florida

MS, Chemistry, Youngstown State University

BSAS, Criminal Justice, Youngstown State University

Certificates: Death Investigation Basics, University of North Dakota; Mental Health First Aid, University of North Dakota; Cultural Competency, University of North Dakota; Death Investigation, Texas A&M; Forensic DNA and Serology, University of Florida

Office: 5006 Ward Beecher Hall

Phone: 330.941.2274

Email: rewardle@ysu.edu

Private Instructor Information

Course Description

1510. Survey of Forensic Science. An overview of the history, evolution, and current state of the forensic science discipline. Discussion of the scientific method and its applicability to forensic science, a description of the various sub-disciplines and areas of specialty that contribute to the field as a whole, and a summary of training, education, certification, accreditation, legal, and constitutional issues related to the discipline. There will also be discussion of the basic application of biological, physical, chemical, medical, technological, and behavioral sciences to questions of evidence and law. This course is designed to be accessible to those without a natural science background and provide a comprehensive introduction to those considering further study within the discipline. 3 s.h.

Course Readings

Group	Title	Author	ISBN
Optional	Introduction to Forensic Science & Criminalistics	Harris, H., Lee, H.	978-1498757966

The course readings are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, research developments, current events, and/or to ensure better learning.

The text is not required, but can be considered a resource for supplementary information. All material necessary for successful completion the course will be provided through slide presentations, associated lectures, videos, and other assignments made available by the instructor through the Blackboard platform.

Recommended Text: Harris, H., Lee, H. (2019). Introduction to Forensic Science & Criminalistics. 2^nd Edition. CRC Press. ISBN-13: 978-1498757966 The first edition of the text is available on closed reserve at the circulation desk in Maag Library. You may use a closed reserve text for free within the confines of the Maag Library for three hours per session. Simply request the text at the Maag Circulation Desk.

The course readings are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, research developments, current events, and/or to ensure better learning.

Course Learning Outcomes/Objectives/Goals

How to Succeed in This Course

Attendance Expectations

Late Work Submission Policy

Additional Course Expectations

Artificial Intelligence Policy Statement

Assignments/Assessments

Grading and Grading Scale

University Policies

Schedule of Topics and Assignments

Day	Date	Proposed Topic	Due/To Prepare for Class
Fri	9/11	Sections 1 and 2	Exam 1 available
Fri	10/2	Sections 3 and 4	Exam 2 available
Fri	10/23	Sections 5 and 6	Exam 3 available
Fri	11/13	Sections 7 and 8	Exam 4 available
Fri	12/4	Sections 9 and 10	Exam 5 available

The course schedule, policies, procedures, and assignments in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, by mutual agreement, and/or to ensure better learning.

FSCI 1510 01: Survey of Forensic Science