FSCI 1510 05: Survey of Forensic Science

FSCI 1510 - Survey of Forensic Science

Summer 2026 Syllabus, Section 05, CRN 30304,

Credit hours: 3

Course Meeting Times

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Instructor

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

Associate Professor

Email: rewardle@ysu.edu

Office: 5006 Ward Beecher Hall

Office Phone: 330.941.2274

Additional Contact Methods:
Departmental mailbox in Ward Beecher Hall 5053

Preferred Contact Method: Email

Communication Expectations:
Contact me if you have questions or concerns

How to Refer to me:
Professor Wardle

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

Associate Professor

Email: wardlestout@hotmail.com

Office: 5006 Ward Beecher Hall

Office Phone: 3305409642

Preferred Contact Method: Email

Communication Expectations:
Contact me if you have questions or concerns

How to Refer to me:
Professor Wardle

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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. 2nd Edition Harris, H., Lee, H. 978-1498757966

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. 2nd Edition. CRC Press. 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

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How to Succeed in This Course

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Attendance Expectations

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Late Work Submission Policy

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Additional Course Expectations

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Artificial Intelligence Policy Statement

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Assignments/Assessments

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Grading and Grading Scale

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University Policies

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Schedule of Topics and Assignments

Week of Reading(s) Proposed Topic Due/To Prepare for Class
5/11 Section 1 Introduction and Terminology Read syllabus and schedule
Post introduction on Discussion board
5/18 Section 2
Section 3
History and Evolution
Organizations and Specialties
5/25 Section 4
Section 5
Physical Evidence
Crime Scene Processing
6/1 Section 6
Section 7
Fingerprints
Document/Toolmark/Firearm Analysis
6/8 Section 8
Section 9
Forensic Biology
Drug Analysis and Toxicology
6/15 Section 10
Any Unfinished Sections
Other Analyses Complete unfinished sections/quizzes
6/22 Any Unfinished Sections
Bonus Quizzes
Complete unfinished sections/quizzes
Attempt Bonus Quizzes (optional)

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.