JS 673: Forensic Drug Analysis

Taken Summer 2012 Instructor:Dan Matteo I was a bit concerned about taking this course because my background is in biology. Also, it was the first time Forensic Drug Analysis was taught separately from Forensic Toxicology. However, I really enjoyed the course! The instructor was very knowledgeable and down-to-earth. You'll learn about using micro-crystalline and color tests to determine the class of a drug. You will also use tools such as the GC/MS and an IR spectrometer. I would encourage anyone getting ready to take the course to attend every class. Because the semester was only 9 weeks, we covered a lot of material. The majority of class sessions would consist of an exam, a lecture, and an in-class lab assignment. The exams were primarily short answer questions and became more comprehensive as the semester progressed. The test material came primarily from the lectures. A few questions came from the book. The lab assignments were straightforward and some exam questions came from the lab. We also had a presentation, a mock court room testimony, and an unknown drug to identify. These assignments were intended to help boost your grade if you were borderline, although they were not optional.