FSC-40003 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2022/23

This module is designed to give an individual all of the required information and skills in the field of analytical and forensic sciences needed to become an effective researcher within an academic or commercial environment. In the module you will expand your knowledge on the principles of a wide range of state-of-the-art analytical techniques currently being used in research and development by both academia and industry. You will gain practical skills on a number of these state-of-the-art analytical techniques, some of which you will utilize in your research project. The assessment for this module is designed to reflect activities that an active researcher will carry out as part of their working life so it will make the transition from study to work that much easier.

The aim of the module is to prepare students to be competent in a range of analytical techniques, which are all essential in (forensic) analytical science. This includes data analysis, quality control and reporting skills which would enable students from for example chemistry, forensic science and some bioscience degrees to access the course and prepare them for their independent research project.

Intended Learning Outcomes

evaluate the range of techniques and methodologies available to the forensic scientist and discuss their application and limitations to the analysis of a range of materials and samples: 1,2
critically appraise a methodology and select an appropriate analytical strategy for its examination: 1,2
set up examples of standard analytical instrumentation (including calibration), prepare appropriate samples and carry out straightforward laboratory measurements: 1
design, develop and evaluate appropriate methods for data analysis and interpretation and apply these to experimental datasets of varying complexity, using a variety of relevant IT resources: 2,3
critically review the results of experimental analytical work and draw relevant conclusions: 1,2,3
critically discuss current methods and techniques within the analytical forensic sciences, some of which are at, or informed by, the forefront of the discipline: 1
solve problems efficiently with confidence and independence in laboratory work and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level: 1,2,3

Study hours

24 hours workshops (combined lecture and data analysis session)
48 hours lab sessions
6 hours tutorials
222 hours independent study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment