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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Forensic Genetics
Reference AS3017 Version 5
Created June 2017 SCQF Level SCQF 9
Approved August 2008 SCQF Points 15
Amended September 2017 ECTS Points 7.5

Aims of Module
To provide the student with the ability to discuss the significance and fundamental aspects of heredity, molecular genetics and molecular biology and their relevance to forensic science.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Explain the principles of genetic inheritance and apply these to problem solving.
2 Describe the processes and regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
3 Discuss the relevance of genetics and molecular biology to DNA analysis in forensic science.
4 Evaluate appropriate methodologies for recovery of biological evidence for DNA profiling.

Indicative Module Content
Mendelian and complex genetic inheritance patterns and gene mutation. Nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA. DNA replication. Transcription. Genetic Code and Translation. Induction and repression of gene expression. DNA Isolation, purification and analysis, gene cloning, PCR, STR, SNPs, sequencing, electrophoresis. Recovery of biological evidence. Laboratory anti-contamination procedures. Interpretation and reporting of DNA results.

Module Delivery
This is a lecture based module supplemented with practical laboratory classes and student centred learning activities.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 40 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 110 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 150 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Examination Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: Closed book written examination.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
This module is assessed using the one component of assessment as detailed in the Assessment Plan. To pass this module candidates must achieve a Module Grade D or better.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A Final mark of 70% or greater in C1
B Final mark of between 60-69% in C1
C Final mark of between 50-59% in C1
D Final mark of between 40-49% in C1
E MARGINAL FAIL. Final mark of between 35-39% in C1
F FAIL. Final mark of less than 35% in C1
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module Successful completion of Stage 2 Forensic and Analytical Science or equivalent.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 GRIFFITHS, A.J.F., WESSLER, S.R., CARROLL, S.B., and DOEBLEY, J. An Introduction to Genetic Analysis. International Student Version. Current Edition. W H Freeman.
2 GOODWIN, W., LINACRE, A., HADI, S. An Introduction to Forensic Genetics. Current Edition. Wiley-Blackwell.
3 ELKINS, K.M. Forensic DNA Biology: A Laboratory Manual. Current Edition. Academic Press.
4 BROWN, T. Introduction to Genetics: A Molecular Approach. Current Edition. Taylor & Francis.

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781