The College of Microscopy offers this Special Applications course as an initial introduction to microscopical trace evidence examination. This course introduces the student to the principles and practical use of the stereomicroscope and polarized light microscope for the analysis of common microscopic trace evidence (hairs, fibers, paint, and glass). In addition to beginning theory of polarized light microscopy (PLM), the student learns the basic techniques of PLM directly applicable to trace evidence analysis. A more thorough treatment of PLM theory, principles and practices are covered in the Polarized-Light Microscopy course.
