INTRODUCTION

Forensic medicine is concerned with the scientific investigation of the causes of injury and death in unexplained circumstances particularly related to legal matters. It is also called legal medicine. It is a branch of medicine which includes knowledge of anatomy and physiology, pathology, biochemistry, dentistry, pediatric, toxicology and many other disciplines. Forensic Medicine is divided into 2 branches of specialities which are Forensic Pathology concerns with the investigation of death and deals with the examinations of the dead. Another expanding branch of Forensic Medicine is examination of the living who are involved with the law generally suspects of crimes and victims of physical and sexual assault.

There is a need to educate and train paramedical staff, police personal and even doctors on medico-legal issues pertaining to the dead as well as to the victims of assault, accidents and abuse. A course in forensic medicine for various personal involved in handling medico-legal cases is certainly needed to expend knowledge and skill required to provide quality service to the community.

This course in Advanced Diploma in forensic medicine is 48 credits, structured in Two semester with Six (6) modules which can facilitate the training of various personal with different levels of experience and knowledge. There are four modules encompassing various medico-legal aspects, post mortem protocols, roles and responsibilities of health care personal. Another two modules focused on clinical or practicum aspects.

The course will also help doctors, paramedical staff and related personnel to conduct reliable examinations and process evidential materials collected from the victims and suspects of crimes which can stand the scrutiny of the legal courts. The course provides up to date information, skills and knowledge necessary to understand this dynamic field which has been influenced by technological advancements and innovations. It is also important that the health care providers develop a caring attitude and this can only be achienced through structured training to prepare the health personal for their role in providing better care and quality service.

EXPECTED AREAS OF GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT
• Government/Private Hospitals
• Forensic Unit
• Emergency Unit
• Psychiatry hospitals
• One Stops Crisis Centre
• Police forensic services
• Higher Learning Institutions
• Legal Institutions (Government/Private)
• Other relevant Institutions / services (Social Welfare, Prisons etc.)

PHILOSOPHY

The course aims at the continuous development of knowledge, skills and attitude pertaining to forensic medicine which can provide quality of care to persons and victims of crime, assault, accident or abuse. The course also contributes to the development of effective and efficient teams in handling medico-legal cases by facilitating integration of medicine and law.

OBJECTIVES
General objectives
1. Prepare knowledgeable, safe and competent practitioners in forensic medicine;
2. Generate graduates who contribute effectively in the national and international communities.
3. Inculcate professional attitudes, ethical conducts and social responsibilities;
4. Develop graduates with coordination, teamwork, communication and social skills;
5. Equip graduates with technical, problem solving and scientific skills;
6. Generate graduates who can participate in scientific research;
7. Equip graduates with ICT, managerial and entrepreneurial skills; and
8. Instil lifelong learning skills.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION
• Minimum Diploma in Medical Assistant/Diploma in Nursing/Diploma in Allied Health Sciences or equivalent from a training institution / University recognized by Public Service Department or;

• Other relevant Diploma approved by the Senate/Committee ; and

• Preference to be given for those has working experience in Forensic Unit / Services; and

• Other admission requirement set by the Senate/ committee.

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