A lecture-based course examining contemporary topics in forensic science. The course will emphasize group discussion where students will examine, review, criticize, and present on current trends and fundamental topics within forensic science, which could include evidence screening, methodology, forensic technological developments/enhancements as well as current ethical and/or political changes in the field. The implications and applications of forensic science research advances will also be explored. The theme of the course is expected to be topical and current, and to vary from year to year to accommodate the interests of both the students enrolled in the course and the faculty member(s) teaching the course.