Chemistry (Forensic and Analytical Science)

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120.

Compulsory modules

Core and compulsory modules are fundamental to achieving the learning outcomes for your course and must be studied.

• Synthesis and Analysis

  Develop insight in analytical, inorganic and organic chemistry through a combination of lectures, workshops and laboratory classes. You'll cover topics such as elemental analysis; 3d versus 4d and 5d metals; metal oxides with non-stoichiometric compositions; structure determination of organic compounds; stereochemistry and conformation; and electrophilic and nucleophilic aromatic substitution.

• Spectroscopic Methods

  Study the quantum mechanical basis of spectroscopy and use this knowledge to understand atomic, rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopic techniques. You will gain hands-on experience of applying this knowledge in workshops and laboratory classes.

• Forensic Science and Scientific Skills

  This module is an interesting combination of mathematics, employability skills, oral communication, and forensic laboratory classes and workshops. It equips you with the necessary numeracy, presentation and CV-writing skills, as well as the specialist practical and analytical skills needed in the field of forensics.

• Synthesis and Measurement

  This module delivers core organic and analytical chemistry through both lectures and laboratory work. You’ll explore bifunctional chemistry, heteroaromatic chemistry, molecular spectroscopy and electroanalytical chemistry.

• Inorganic Chemistry, Quantum Mechanics and Statistical Thermodynamics

  Study a range of advanced inorganic and organometallic chemistry, including the bonding, structure, spectroscopy and reactivity of important metal-based complexes. You will slowly unravel the secrets of why chemical reactions and molecules behave the way they do, by exploring the intricate world of thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.

• Computational Chemistry with Professional Skills

  This module uniquely combines computational chemistry, molecular modelling and employability skills. You will be introduced to quantum mechanics and its application to molecular chemistry and spectroscopy, as well as the use of computer packages for the modelling of molecules. You'll also be taught essential interview skills and techniques to help you secure a graduate position in the workplace.

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

The course consists of 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits, meaning you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more (e.g. 40 credits). In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120.

Compulsory modules

Core and compulsory modules are fundamental to achieving the learning outcomes for your course and must be studied.

• Analytical and Forensic Chemistry 1

• Chemical Separation and Characterisation

  Explore the structure determination and analytical techniques of x-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and separation science in theory, as well as improving your advanced laboratory skills. The emphasis is on application of knowledge and problem solving.

• Analytical and Forensic Chemistry 2

  Develop an insight into state-of-the-art approaches to bio-analysis and forensic analytical sciences. This module covers biosensors and lab-on-a-chip devices, as well as group discussions on recently published scientific articles in the area.

• Forensic and Analytical Group Project

  Work as part of a small group, supported by a supervisor, on a short research project. This may include lab work, field work and literature research, and be drawn from chemistry, analytical science, biochemistry, or chemical education. You will be assessed by a group poster presentation and also by an individual report.

Optional modules

Optional modules let you tailor the course to your interests. Please note, the availability of optional modules can vary each trimester. And some modules may require prior study (taking an earlier module, for example).

• Structural, Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Solids

  Explore a range of advanced modern chemistry, covering the physical quantities and laws for describing and predicting the mechanical, electrical, and optical properties of solids, including cluster compounds. You will also carry out a piece of investigative coursework in an area of current chemistry.

• Chemistry of Materials

  Explore advanced and specialised topics relevant to materials chemistry, such as the synthetic methods for the preparation of polymers, their physical chemistry and their characterisation, as well as the characteristics of fullerenes, carbon nanotubes and graphene. For these sets of materials you will learn to identify the optimal synthetic methods and evaluate their properties.

• Chemistry of Surfaces, Colloids and Molecular Machines

  ​In this module, you will explore 2016 Nobel Prize field of molecular machines and learn about the behaviour of surfactants and colloidal particles in bulk and at surfaces. You will also gain practical skills in the methods of physical chemistry essential for many sectors of chemical industry. ​

• Organic and Organometallic Chemistry

  This module explores core organic and organometallic chemistry through lectures and laboratory work. You’ll explore pericyclic reactions; organic synthesis using reagents containing the p-block elements P, B, Si and Si; and control of reactivity in metal-organic systems.