FUTURE crime-fighting scientists are to be trained on a new course being launched by the University of Derby.
A online new crime scene investigation course is intended to lift the lid on the reality behind TV and film cop dramas.
The Forensics and Crime Scene Investigation course is aimed at those looking to study forensic science, people with a personal interest in the area or police and related professions who respond to crime scenes and victims of crime.
Course developer and National Teaching Fellow Dr Ian Turner said: "An exciting part of the course will be the opportunity to navigate a 360 degree virtual crime scene, collect and analyse evidence, write a statement of evidence and prepare a statement of evidence for a court of law.
"This will allow the students to test out what they have learned throughout the course and demonstrate the application of the various techniques used by real life CSIs."
The crime scene was filmed at the University's new specialist training facility, based in what appears from the outside to be a typical family home, close to its Kedleston Road campus.
The state-of-the-art crime scene training facility is due to be launched later this year and will be used by students on forensic science degree courses at Derby.
There will be four key stages to the course – introduction to crime scenes, crime scene investigation, forensic science techniques and the British judicial system.
Dr Turner said: "Because the course is delivered 100% online, it fits around people's existing commitments.
"A combination of mini documentaries, interactive media and technical videos will teach students the application of forensic science techniques."
The 20-week part-time online course is available to start in September, February or May.
Dr Turner introduces the concept of crime scenes, explains how they may be different and what they have in common, in addition to talking about the role of a Crime Scene Investigator within a crime scene in a video.
More information can be found at www.derby.ac.uk/online/course/forensic-and-crime-scene-investigation.
The University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL) is the thriving distance learning division of the University of Derby, set up in 2011.
