What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will examine advanced modern techniques for the analysis of a variety of compounds commonly encountered in chemistry and forensic science. Modern hyphenated separation techniques e.g. chromatography-mass spectrometry, for separation, identification and quantitation of compounds will be discussed. New approaches for separation based on ion mobility e.g. capillary electrophoresis and capillary electro-chromatography will be explained, and the latest advances in in the chemical analysis field will be described using relevant examples. The syllabus will also focus on modern and advanced spectroscopic techniques for drug identification and analysis, including NMR and MS methods. Sampling protocols for the detection of drugs and alcohol in body fluids and alternative matrices will be studied as well as strategies and practice in analytical method development for a varietry of different compounds.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through a mixture of lectures, laboratory work and case studies via directed and independent learning.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported through active participation and discussion during laboratory practical sessions and tutorials. These offer a unique opportunity to fully understand the scientific theory underpinning the laboratory tests and the interpretation of your scientific findings.
All lecture and practical material will be available on the University’s eLearning Portal, supplemented with guidance on further reading relevant to the subjects.
Written assessment feedback will also be provided to allow you to understand how you performed and how you can build on this performance in subsequent assessments within your programme.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• You will be expected to demonstrate a broad knowledge of current and emerging techniques in forensic chemistry
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Show the ability to explain and critically appraise results and outcomes of analyses carried out
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• Demonstrate an awareness of the professional, ethical and legal implications pertaining to the analysis and interpretation of chemical/forensic science analyses
How will I be assessed?
The assessment will include a seen exam with (50%) MLO 2 and an analytical strategy (50%) MLO's 1,3
For the exam, you will be provided with two current research papers prior to the assessment: you are expected to carry out research on the analytical techniques used. Under exam conditions, you will be expected to critically assess the choices of the researchers from the publications and provide an opinion on which technique you would choose and why.
For the analytical strategy, you will be provided with a scenario that will include toxicology and drug related items, with an appropriate budget. You will then be expected to propose an analytical strategy for examination of the items, providing justification of your choices. You will then carry out the work in the laboratory and include an interpretation of your findings.
These two assessmet types will provide the you with the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth and depth of your analytical knowledge as well as demonstrate an awareness of budgetary and other professional implications pertaining to the investigation of a drug related scenario. You will be provided with the opportunity to attend formative laboratory sessions and tutorials to aid with the decision making process and gain feedback on your decision making prcess.
Pre-requisite(s)
Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry (L4)
Drugs and Toxicology (L5)
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Analytical chemistry plays an important role in many aspects of the chemical and forensic science fields. The advanced techniques employed in these areas will be examined in depth in this module and you will be provided with the opportunity to make an assessment of analytical work which should be carried out in a real world scenario. The work will then be carried out by you, and an interpretation of the analytical findings will be assessed.
Course info
UCAS Code F410
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Applied Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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