Introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis

This course provides an introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA).

Course start date: 

Monday 6 July 2026 to Friday 30 October 2026

Duration: 3 Months online course

Course Module: 5 credit points comprising of 50 hours of work

This course provides an introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA).

Assessment for the course is done through multiple choice questions. On completion of the course, a certificate is awarded.

You can sign up for this course at any point within the live period. However, if the course is due to finish within three weeks’ time, you can alternatively wait until the next course sessions begin to ensure you have ample time to complete it.

Fee: £95 excluding VAT

If you wish to either pay by bank transfer (BACS) or if your course will be paid by an external organisation, you must contact us directly on sci.shortcourses@ntu.ac.uk 

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA). 

The course will include an overview of the types of bloodstain patterns observed, as well as providing the underpinning theoretical knowledge and terminology required for interpretation.

This course will cover:

• A summary of the history and development of BPA
• Outline of the human circulatory system and morphology of blood
• Detail on each bloodstain type including the mechanism of stain formation
• The protocols and techniques involved in BPA for different forensic context