Western's specialised Crime Scene Training and Research Facility prepares aspiring forensic scientists
After attending a special forensics workshop in high school, Vickie Winstanley was excited by the prospect that her keen interest in true crime documentaries could one day translate into a Forensic Science career.
Fast forward to today and Vickie has completed Western Sydney University’s Bachelor of Science (Forensic Science) and is now completing her final two subjects of her Bachelor of Medical Science (Forensic Mortuary Practices) while also completing her Master of Forensic Science degree online.
When she started at Western Sydney University, Vickie was able to explore the many areas of forensic science and mortuary practice within her degree, which made her future career goals clear.
“I quickly knew I wanted to work in identification services for unknown remains from humanitarian events like natural disasters, plane crashes, migration or conflict situations, as these scenarios are often the most in need of identification due to the large volumes of people affected,” said Vickie.
“With the Master of Forensic Science program being so flexible with the subjects I can choose from, I’m focusing on the subjects that will help me specifically in my desired field of Humanitarian Forensics, such as Forensic Medicine, Forensic Anthropology and DNA Analysis.
“If I can help just one family find closure on a missing loved one at the worst moment they will experience, the program would be worth everything. The field is not for everyone, but for the very few who decide to work in this challenging field, it can be some of the most rewarding work you could ever do.
“Western is one of the only flexible programs that offers a Master of Forensic Science that can be done online. It’s also in partnership with the University of Florida, giving me great networking opportunities for academics and students all over the world.”
The Crime Scene Training and Research Facility at Hawkesbury campus, affectionately called the ‘Crime Scene House’ by students, is a purpose-built facility where mock crime scenes can be simulated, allowing students to put their crime scene investigation skills to the test.
With capability for arson research and simulation, and a dedicated vehicle search bay where students can run through crime scene investigation techniques, the training facility provides students with simulation training in a range of scenarios in preparation for their future careers in the field.
Vickie said the ‘Crime Scene House’ is a student’s first introduction to a crime scene - albeit simulated - which allowed her to apply the theory she had learned in class to a practical training environment where the stakes aren't as high.
“I gained practical experience learning the ins and outs of crime scene processing, evidence collection, crime scene photography, and the logical thinking required when you’re presented with a crime scene – it really made me comfortable with what is expected and required in order to face these situations in a workplace setting.
“We're lucky to have this highly regarded facility here on campus, with external emergency service agencies also using it as a training and research facility.”
Vickie has also gained invaluable practical training at the Anatomy Laboratories at Western’s Campbelltown campus, a specialist teaching space allowing students to study human specimens and cadaveric material through the University’s Body Donation Program.
“I feel so privileged that people made the decision to donate themselves to the program to help us students further our knowledge in anatomy and physiology.
“Everything we learn and see then helps us when we graduate as we are able to detect normal and abnormal anatomical features – it makes us better doctors, and medical and health scientists.
“Studying at Western has been such an enjoyable experience. The academics have been engaging and knowledgeable, and very approachable whenever I’ve had questions about content and networking.”
ENDS
21 August 2024
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
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