FSC-20005 - Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis
Coordinator: Falko Drijfhout Room: LJ1.36 Tel: +44 1782 7 33043
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of FHEQ level 4 modules or equivalent in Forensic Science

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25


Aims
The aim of the module is that students will use a wide range of modern spectroscopic and analytical techniques for the chemical characterisation of (forensic) materials, such as methods of structural and elemental analysis, chromatography and mass spectrometry. It aims to provide the experience of these techniques in the practical context.

Intended Learning Outcomes

explain and apply the basic principles of quantitative analysis and data processing: 1
explain the theory of elemental analysis and mass spectrometry: 1
explain the basic principles and the potential of hyphenated techniques in analysis: 1
analyse (complex) samples using a combination of spectroscopic techniques: 2,3
report and present the results of a forensic analytical investigation in a competent manner: 2
critically evaluate journal articles in relation to the analysis of data obtained in a forensic investigation: 1,2
demonstrate an understanding of the context and application of quality assurance in the laboratory: 1,2
discuss the potential of spectroscopic techniques for the analysis of complex samples particularly for forensic applications: 1,2
carry out experimental tasks in line with quality parameters outlined by relevant regulatory bodies: 3

Study hours

Active Learning Hours:
Content delivery (18h), laboratory work, including data analysis (18h), workshops (30h)

Independent Study Hours:
Suggested study (30h), independent learning (51h), exam (3h)

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Exam weighted 50%
In person Open Book exam
A 3h, 100 marks, in-person, invigilated, PC-lab based, open book exam.

2: Group Report weighted 50%
PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT - EXPERIMENTAL TASK
A group report equivalent to 2200-2700 words based on data obtained in the laboratory.

3: Competence weighted 0%
Lab competency assessment
Creating a calibration plot according the the accuracy set by relevant regulatory bodies.