FSC-20011 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

In this module you will delve into the topic of counterfeits, fakes and forgeries and how forensic science can detect and prevent these crimes. You will learn the current issues surrounding topics such as document security, heritage security, counterfeit medicine and food fraud. You will investigate how chemical and analytical analysis can be used to detect these forgeries and will develop practical and reporting skills needed for these investigations. You will develop critical thinking skills needed to investigate these complex cases.

The module provides an insight into the core topics of counterfeits, fakes and forgeries within forensic science and will cover aspects of document security, heritage security, counterfeit medicine and food fraud. This will include chemical and analytical aspects, as well as developing the practical and reporting skills needed in the forensic examination of documents, heritage specimens, medicine and fraudulent food. An overview of the security systems used to detect fraudulent activity will also be covered.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe, explain and critically review the principles and practices used for the examination of documents, heritage specimens, counterfeit medicine and fraudulent food in the forensic science and security contexts: 1,2
Examine aspects of documents, heritage specimens, counterfeit medicine and fraudulent food: 1
Maintain accurate records of laboratory work and use these to interpret the findings of an examination: 1
Communicate effectively and critically discuss the findings from the examination of documents, heritage specimens, counterfeit medicine and fraudulent food, in the form of written reports: 1,2
Discuss, select and apply appropriate analytical techniques for the physicochemical examination of various document related materials, including inks and paper, as well as drug, food and heritage specimens: 2

Study hours

Active learning hours:
Problem classes and laboratory sessions: 20 hours
Content delivery: 20 hours
Independent study:
Guided independent study: 70 hours
Assessment completion: 50 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment