Entry requirementsThis course is aimed at those with a strong interest in modern instrumentation and in novel methods of chemical and forensic analysis. Advances in analytical science have produced a revolution in forensic, environmental and pharmaceutical science. There is a strong worldwide demand for imaginative, skilled analysts with knowledge and hands-on experience on modern analytical instrumentation.
Academic titleMSc Analytical and Forensic Chemistry
Course descriptionForensic science is a multidisciplinary activity which relies on chemical and analytical techniques to provide invaluable evidence from investigations of disasters, accidents and criminal activities. It may involve the detection of tiny amounts of explosives, poisons and drugs or the identification of fibres, paints, combustion residues, glass fragments or counterfeit currency. Forensic work is also of a biological nature, with crime detection techniques such as DNA fingerprinting requiring an understanding of the underlying biochemistry.
COURSE CONTENT
In semester one, you take the Forensic Science and Analytical Techniques and Advanced Analytical Chemistry modules and choose one module from Advanced Organic Chemistry, Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 2 and Hot Topics in Physical Chemistry, designed to give a broad and balanced understanding of the most important developments in modern chemistry.
In semester two, you use key research tools – such as online information retrieval – to learn about the background and the planning behind your chosen research project. In addition, you develop a specialist knowledge of analytical and forensic chemistry through modules in advanced analytical chemistry and advanced forensic science and toxicology. In semester three, you complete an advanced analytical and forensic chemistry research project culminating in a Masters-level thesis and an oral presentation of your research successes.
CORE MODULES
Semester 1
-Forensic Science and Analytical Techniques
-Advanced Analytical Chemistry
Semester 2
-MSc Literature Project
-Advanced Topics in Analytical Chemistry
-Advanced Forensic Science and Toxicology
ASSESSMENT
Assessment is through examinations, reports and assignments, with a project dissertation at the MSc stage.
SPECIAL FEATURES
This MSc is designed to give advanced knowledge and hands-on experience of modern analytical techniques and forensic case studies.
The University’s Analytical Science Group has an international reputation for its innovative approach to analytical and forensic chemistry. Its position as one of the UK’s premier analytical groups and its range of state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities makes it uniquely capable of delivering this distinctive programme.