Ethics courses offer an overview of historical ethical principles and theories. Ethics courses will teach a wide range of definitions, comparisons and examples of situations that may arise during the career of a medical investigator. Also covered in ethics courses are the state and federal laws regarding ethics and ethical procedures. For example, the American College of Forensic Examiners offers a traditional ethics course as well as an Ethical Practices of Forensic Social Work course.
Legal courses will review both historical criminal laws and current day laws. Topics covered in legal courses include the diversity of crimes, punishments and legal procedures by police and lawyers, and an overview of the legal system. They will also teach the development and structure of the legal system, including judicial and correction departments.
Evidence courses teach a medical examiner historical knowledge of evidence and procedures. Also taught are the definitions and applicability of tangible evidence. Legal presentation and the processes of examination by the police and attorneys are also taught in an evidence course. Evidence courses will familiarize students with the proper legal approaches for direct and cross examination in the courtroom.
Forensic courses teach knowledge of forensics dating back to the 6th century. Forensic courses also teach modern technology and applications of forensics, including fingerprinting and firearm forensics. Also taught is the preservation of evidence, causes of death, and courtroom procedures regarding forensics.