Course Title: Forensic Science for Writers
Hours required: 24
Price: $99
Length course offered: 6 Weeks
Instructor: Phillip Jones [Bio]
Description:
You've followed forensic investigators as they solve crimes in novels, movies, and TV shows, unearthing facts hidden from the normal human eye. And now you want forensics to play a starring role in your fiction, but you need a quick education on the subject. This course will reveal all the secrets you need to know in order to craft a gripping and realistic work of fiction.
From the code-breaking tricks of the cyber-sleuth to the traditional procedures of the autopsy room, we'll look at the strengths and weaknesses of forensic technology. And we'll cover common misconceptions about forensic analysis found in films and novels, errors that you'll want to avoid in your own writing.
This course will also introduce you to the major players of a criminal investigation--the first responder, the lead investigator, and the crime scene experts--just the sort of people who make great characters. You'll meet forensic pioneers who can provide role models for fictional investigators. And you'll explore historical highlights of forensic crime detection, which will prove helpful when you write about historical periods other than our own.
Goals:
During this six-week course, we'll explore how investigators analyze physical evidence, including blood, DNA, fingerprints, hair, documents, ammunition, and corpses.
Grading System:
Confirmation of Completion awarded with passing score.
School Description:
No matter where you live, you will be able to take any of our comprehensive, convenient online courses offered in connection with a college or university near you. Click "Enroll Now" to find the partner school for the course you want to take.
Instructor Bio: Phillip Jones
Phillip Jones, Ph.D., J.D., a former science and medicine instructor, has practiced extensively in both scientific and legal arenas. As a fulltime freelance writer, Jones has published over 100 articles that blend science, law, and history. He earned a certificate in forensics and has published articles on forensic science and historically prominent criminal investigators in Forensic Nurse Magazine, The Strand Magazine, The Forensic Center Newsletter, Today's Science, Forensic Magazine, and Law and Order Magazine, as well as a mystery story in Futuristic. His writings in forensic science earned him associate membership with the Mystery Writers of America.
