Course Introduction

Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation

  • Course Outline
  • Curriculum
  • FAQ
  • Case Studies
  • Reviews

The Professional Diploma in Forensic Science & Criminal Investigation by SIFS India is an interdisciplinary course covering the fundamentals of forensic science and its application to criminal investigation.

The course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of forensic science and its role in solving crimes.The course is structured to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the forensic science and criminal investigation fields.

This course covers a wide range of topics like the significance and scope of forensic science, crime scene investigation and management, types of crime scenes and evidence, types of fingerprints, fingerprint classification systems, forgeries related to documents and signatures and their examination techniques, cyber crime investigation methodologies, digital evidence collection and analysis, botanical evidence identification, DNA profiling, criminal profiling, Narco analysis, an overview of forensic toxicology, forensic physics basics, and a ballistics overview, to name a few.

The course is apt for professionals looking to enhance their existing forensic science knowledge or explore new fields for career advancement. You can work as a trainer, assist government agencies or private investigation and security firms, work for legal firms and forensic laboratories. There is no limit to opportunities available after completion of this course. 

The course is delivered by experts in their respective fields with several real-world case studies to make you industry-ready by the time you complete the course. Various assignments and quizzes are part of this course to help you test your understanding of the subject and analyze your progress.

  • Curriculum


    MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE AND CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

    This module covers an overview of forensic science, including its principles, historical development, role in criminal investigations, and different disciplines of forensic science and how each contributes to crime-solving. You will also learn about the organizational structure of forensic labs and the legal framework that guides forensic experts during criminal investigations.

    MODULE 2 – CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT

    In this module, you will learn about crime scene investigation and its purpose, the roles of first responders and forensic scientists, types of crime scenes, the seven steps of crime scene investigation, different types of evidence and the techniques to properly collect and preserve them, and chain of custody maintenance. The module also covers ways to reconstruct crime scenes and present your findings in court for legal proceedings.

    MODULE 3 – PHYSICAL EVIDENCE COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION

    This module focuses on an overview of evidence collection and preservation, types of evidence encountered in criminal cases (physical, biological, and trace), and the process to collect, preserve, package, and forward different types of evidence while maintaining its reliability to be admissible in court. This knowledge will equip you with the skills to safeguard crucial evidence throughout the investigative process.

    MODULE 4 – FINGERPRINT IDENTIFICATION

    This module covers an overview of fingerprint identification, its fundamental principles, pattern classifications, the study of ridge characteristics that make each print distinctive, techniques to record fingerprints, Henry's System of Classification, types of fingerprints that may be found at the crime scene, and methods to develop, lift, preserve, and identify them. You will also gain insights about methods to identify and examine other impression evidence beyond fingerprints.

    MODULE 5 – QUESTIONED DOCUMENT EXAMINATION

    In this module, you will learn about the need to carefully handle questioned documents, principles and techniques to examine different types of documents (handwritten including handwriting and signature, typewritten, printed, photocopied, etc.), paper and ink examination, counterfeit currency detection, and digital signature fraud detection. The module will help you gain knowledge to examine document authenticity and identify potential forgeries.

    MODULE 6 – COMPUTER AND CYBER CRIME

    This module focuses on an overview of computer and cybercrime, types of cyber crimes (hacking, identity theft, and online fraud), the importance of proper collection and handling of digital evidence, and the legalities and challenges involved in searching for and seizing electronic evidence. You will also learn about tools and techniques used in digital forensic analysis and presenting digital evidence in court within legal boundaries.

    MODULE 7 – FORENSIC BIOLOGY

    This module focuses on a forensic biology overview, atomical structure and the stages of hair growth, and the identification of botanical evidence (pollen grains, wood, diatoms, and leaves). The primary focus of this module is on DNA profiling, sources of DNA, extraction techniques, evaluation methods, and its role in forensic investigations, thereby highlighting the significance biological evidence holds in solving crimes.

    MODULE 8 – CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES

    In this module, you will learn various investigative methods, including Modus Operandi (understanding the patterns and techniques used by criminals), criminal profiling (creating offender profiles as per behavioral analysis), and portrait Parley (creating suspects’ composite sketches). The module also covers the study of advanced tools like polygraphs, narco analysis, brain fingerprinting, voice stress analysis, and speaker profiling to gather valuable information as evidence.

    MODULE 9 – FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY

    This module focuses on general toxicology principles, poison classification along with their action mechanisms, and the need for proper collection and preservation of toxicological exhibits. You will also learn about medico-legal aspects and the role of toxicology in post-mortem examinations, poisoning case treatments, and the impact of toxicological findings in legal proceedings.

    MODULE 10 – FORENSIC PHYSICS

    This module covers forensic physics overview, glass evidence analysis (types, composition, fracture, forensic examination), examination of soil and its types, types of paint and its forensic analysis and examination, fiber classification and examination, obliterated marks (types, restoration principles, and techniques), tire marks (casting and lifting tire impressions, examination of skid marks and tire impressions), and tool mark types and their forensic examination.

    MODULE 11 – FORENSIC BALLISTICS

    In this module, you will learn about firearms examination, types of ballistics, firearms classification, components of ammunition (projectiles, primers, propellants, cartridges, wads, and percussion caps), bullet source and casing tracing of specific firearms, and wound ballistics (effects of firearms on the human body). The module also highlights firearms examination using microscopic, chemical, and instrumental methods crucial to analyzing firearms and related evidence while investigating firearms-related incidents.

    MODULE 12 – ARSON & EXPLOSIVES

    This module covers incidents related to arson and explosives. It covers the chemistry of fire, and methods to locate the point of origin, searching for accelerants used to start fires. It covers the chemistry of fire, methods for determining the point of origin in arson cases, the search for accelerants used to start fires, ways to collect, preserve, and examine arson evidence, and explosives types and devices. You will also learn about bombing scene investigation techniques (pre- and post-bombing), improvised explosive devices, and explosive analysis.

  • What steps should I follow to enroll in this professional course?

    To enroll, click on the “Register for Course” option available on the right side of the screen, followed by the provided instructions and payment procedure.

  • Can I pay directly to the bank account of SIFS India?

    Yes, you have the option to make a direct payment to the bank account of SIFS India; all you have to do is write an email to education@sifs.in requesting the bank details. 

  • Which documents do I have to upload at the time of enrollment?

    Academic Qualification Documents, Professional Qualification Certificates, and National ID Proof or Passport Copy are required at the time of enrollment.  

  • What if I am unable to upload my documents?

    Kindly send your necessary documents with proof of payment to admission@sifs.in

  • How will I receive confirmation once I have completed the payment procedure?

    Admission Confirmation email will be sent with your portal credentials once the proof of payment and application form with all the necessary documents is received to admission@sifs.in.

  • How do I login to the portal for my professional course?

    To login, visit the portal at the given link: https://www.sifs.in/student and enter your login credentials, i.e., your username and password shared via email. 

  • What study material access will I have after logging into the portal?

    After logging into the portal, you will have access to reading material, reference eBooks, and e-research papers. 

  • Will I receive any assignments during my course duration?

    Yes, all your assignments, projects, case studies and practice tests will be assigned to you through your portal as per the level you will be enrolled in.

  • What technical prerequisites are necessary for a professional course?

    You can easily access our professional course on mobile or tablet devices. We highly recommend that you use your desktop or laptop and a reliable internet connection for a better view.

  • Are there any prerequisites for this professional course?

    In case of any prerequisites provided by the resource person, we will provide the students with prior information on their WhatsApp group.

  • Are there any live lectures provided in this professional course?

    Yes, live lectures will be conducted through Zoom.

  • How will I receive the session joining link?

    Enrolled students will receive the session joining link via WhatsApp group.

  • What will be the duration of the lecture?

    The duration of each lecture will be one hour.

  • Will I get the recorded lectures?

    Yes, recorded lectures will be provided through your portal.

  • Will there be any exams after completing the professional course?

    Yes, there will be an online exam after completing the professional course.

  • Will I receive any certificates after completing the professional course?

    Yes, upon successful completion of the professional course, you will receive a certificate and marksheet, which can be a valuable addition to your resume and may enhance your career prospects in the field.

  • Where to contact in case of any queries or technical support?

    Write to us at admission@sifs.in, call: +91-1147074263, or WhatsApp: +91-7303913002.

Murderer Joseph Kappen Case Study

Joseph Kappen, a murderer, was convicted with the help of familial DNA analysis.

Familial DNA searching is a way to generate new investigative leads to assist in the offender's identification. It involves using the DNA profiles of relatives, mostly from DNA databases or samples given voluntarily by people.

Three teenage girls, namely Sandra Newton, Pauline Floyd, and Geraldine Hughes, were raped, strangled, and dumped in a woodland area near Port Talbot in South Wales. Despite a robust investigation process that employed more than 150 detectives, lots of buccal swabs, and 200 suspects, none got arrested.

Dr. Jonathan Whitaker was a forensic scientist who worked with the Forensic Science Service. In 2000, he analyzed 28-year-old crime scene samples using a new technique called Low Copy Number. However, the results did not match with the National DNA Database (NDNAD).

In the coming year, he tried to look for potential relatives through familial DNA searching. The murder took place in 1970. So by now, he thought it might be possible that the killer had children with their profiles stored in the NDNAD.

To his surprise, the DNA profile of Paul Kappen, a car thief, was found, and it shared 50% of the murderer’s DNA. It was later found that he was the son of the man behind those 1970s killings.

However, when the detectives visited his house, his wife informed them that he had passed away ten years ago due to lung cancer.

With the available information about his son, the team persuaded his ex-wife and her daughter to volunteer DNA samples. With these profiles, it became possible to obtain the complete profile of Joseph Kappen.

The suspect’s body was unearthed, and DNA analysis of his teeth and femur was carried out, which confirmed his involvement in the crime. Because of his demise, he could not be brought to justice, and the case was closed.


Note: This is only a glimpse of one of a few case studies that we might cover. All case studies are subject to change as per current trends and developments, except a few famous ones from the past.

Devashree Budhoo

5

My experience with Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science in India, was a meaningful and very knowledgeable one of which I would definitely recommend to anyone interested in studying the courses that are offered by the institute. The lectures were very informative and very helpful and I must admit that they work assiduously with me throughout the entirety of my course whilst answering the many questions I had. Over all the experience was wonderful. 

Colene Dennise John

5

The experience was a tremendous one, I would have gained new knowledge which will enhance my professional skills and help in my upward mobility.

Mohanie Jagdeo

5

It was certainly a wonderful experience, I learnt so much during this course, it was very educative and informational. The lecturers were very kind, patient and understanding also very helpful. I will be using all knowledge gained to enhance future encounters.

Chomandat Sanchara

5

It was a great experience, the lecturers was so great too. Thank you 

Julius Seunarine

5

My experience has been exceptionally well. The support SIFS India has given throughout the course has been very impressive. And therefore I would recommend anyone to study with them as they have a extremely great standard to learning and ensures the student learns everything. 

 

Instructors

Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Dr. Ranjeet Singh

Managing Director

Preview this course

₹ 23600
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Ask Your Query

Enquiries from Forensic Learners


This is an online course with theoretical live sessions. In addition to this, you will get lifetime access to study material and pre-recorded sessions. All the practicals are demonstrated online that you can watch and practice, and you are most welcome to ask your doubts, if any. For hands-on experience, we conduct onsite workshops and also give you the facility to visit our Delhi-based institute, which will help you to directly practice key techniques and procedures used in real-world forensic investigations, which is crucial for developing the practical skills needed to succeed in this field. However, we recommend you confirm the same at the time of enrollment also.

The course fee is 23,600 INR, payable in three equal installments with no additional charges. For more details regarding the installment plan, please reach out to our support team.

You can pursue careers as forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, digital forensics analysts, legal consultants, private investigators, and law enforcement officers. This course equips you with the practical skills and knowledge needed for roles in law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and private firms.

This course is offered online, providing flexibility for learners. It typically lasts for 6 months, with classes conducted through live sessions or pre-recorded content for interactive learning. Class timings may vary, so it's advisable to check our social media platform for more details.

The course covers various forensic science domains like evidence collection and preservation, crime scene management, QD and fingerprint examination, cyber crime, ballistics, toxicology, and biology, among others, providing practical ideas about various fields and the techniques used during investigation. The course is delivered in an online format with a mix of live and recorded sessions and study material accessible for lifetime access at our portal.

Non-science students can enroll in the course, as it is designed to provide foundational knowledge without requiring prior specialized education.

Yes, upon successfully completing all the assignments and passing the final online exam, you will receive a soft copy of an industry-recognized diploma that you can add to your resume. Also, we will provide you job assistance and also help you gain awareness about certifications that you can acquire pertaining to a particular country's jurisdiction.

Yes, you are eligible to enroll in the course. There are no specific prerequisites required for admission, so you can apply through our website or through contacting our support team.

This is an online course delivered through live and recorded sessions with study material for extra reference. The course covers several real-world case studies, giving you a glimpse of how forensic techniques are implemented by the experts in the field. As for hands-on practice, we do offer in-house and onsite workshop facilities. However, you need to confirm for the same at the time of enrollment. If you are based outside India, we demonstrate all practicals virtually that you can watch and practice.

Yes, you are eligible to enroll in the Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation. There are no specific prerequisites, so your background in mechanical engineering will not hinder your application.

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