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FSC-20027 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2026/27 Last Updated: 16 September 2026

FSC-20027 - Chemical Analysis and Detection
Coordinator: Falko Drijfhout Room: LJ1.36 Tel: +44 1782 7 33043
Lecture Time:
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

In this module you will build on your Forensic Chemistry knowledge and learn about and gain experience with a range of modern analytical techniques and their importance in the detection of compounds in forensic materials. The techniques covered, such as chromatography and mass spectrometry, are fundamental in all toxicological investigations. You will develop essential skills through working as an individual and as a group in the lab and lab-based assessments to prepare you for Level 6, and to develop confidence to work in a forensic lab.

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: 1,2,3
explain the theory of elemental analysis and mass spectrometry: 1,2
explain the basic principles and the potential of hyphenated techniques in analysis: 1,2
analyse (complex) samples using a combination of spectroscopic techniques: 1,2,3
report and present the results of a forensic analytical investigation in a competent manner: 1,3
demonstrate an understanding of the context and application of quality assurance in the laboratory: 1,3
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 (14h), laboratory work, including data analysis (15h), workshops (13h)

Independent Study Hours:
Suggested study (50h), independent learning (53h), practical based assessment (5h attendance)

School Rules

none

Description of Module Assessment

1: Practice Based Assessment weighted 50%
Practical tasks and analysis of instrumental data
Students will complete a series of practical tasks and analyse experimental data, where they will be assessed on how well they have completed the practical tasks and data analysis. This will be done during the January exam period, when students must attend, in person, on the pre-announced date. Equivalent to the effort required for a 2-hour exam.

2: Portfolio weighted 50%
PROFORMAS BASED ON EXPERIMENTAL TASKS & PROBLEM SHEETS
A portfolio consisting of laboratory profomas and assigned problems based on practical work and the taught content. Equivalent to 2500 words overall effort.

3: Competence weighted 0%
Lab Competency Assessment
During the lab practical two lab competency assessments will be set. 1) Creating a calibration plot according to the required standard set out in ISO 17025, required by relevant regulatory bodies. 2) Successfully quantify the amount of a drug in an unknown sample

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 16 September 2026