MSci (Hons) Forensic and Analytical Science Integrated Master's degree at Huddersfield

Introduction to basic forensic techniques, scientific principles underlying them, and mathematics, statistics and computing tools used to present scientific findings. Techniques include fingerprint development, spot tests for blood stains, identification of glass fragments, microscopic examination of hairs and fibres, and methods for determining alcohol and drugs in the blood.

Introduction to skills required in modern analytical science and how analytical methodology underpins scientific investigation. Develops ability to obtain and interpret spectroscopic data systematically. Taught primarily by lectures and tutorials with illustrative practical work.

Introduction to the chemistry of the elements, their origin, structure and properties. Covers structure and bonding in chemical compounds, constituents of the earth's crust, and chemistry of the atmosphere.

Recognition of functional groups, systematic naming of compounds, structure and bonding in organic compounds. Covers molecular geometry, conformation, stereochemistry, mechanism and reaction intermediates. Includes continuously assessed practical course in preparative organic chemistry techniques.

Assessment: Continuously assessed practical course

Covers units, conversions and properties of ideal and non-ideal gases, solution chemistry of acids bases and salts, reaction kinetics and catalysis, and introductory thermodynamics.

Overview of commonly encountered evidence types at crime scenes, crime scene specific issues, examination strategies, preservation of evidence integrity, photography, introduction to legal system, report production, and practical applications. Includes introduction to Digital Forensics and Cyber Crime.

Introduction to modern biology for forensic science and chemistry students. Covers structure and function of biological macromolecules, protein structure, enzyme structure and function, basic metabolism, cellular and molecular biology, gene cloning, PCR, DNA fingerprinting, and systems of the human body relevant to forensic science.

Builds upon concepts and techniques from Practical Forensic Science 1. Emphasis on practical problem solving, recording of work, statistical and critical analysis of results. Introduces instrumental techniques including chromatography and mass spectrometry. Studies include poisons, restricted drugs and explosive residues.

Consolidates interpretative skills from Analytical Science 1. Introduction to chromatography and instrumental analyses including atomic spectroscopy, thermal methods and electrochemical techniques. Develops abilities to design analytical processes.

Methods of forming carbon-carbon bonds, advanced carbonyl chemistry, main-group elements in synthesis, retrosynthetic analysis, synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, carbohydrates and amino acids. Advanced stereochemistry and relationship between conformation and reactivity. Includes practical component with advanced preparation, isolation and analysis techniques.

Chemistry of transition metal elements, coordination chemistry and bonding in complexes, Crystal Field Theory, advanced coordination chemistry including chelates and macrocycles, behaviour of solid materials. Includes practical techniques for synthesis and characterisation of metal complexes.

Covers equilibrium and dynamic electrochemistry, phase equilibria, colloids and colloidal suspensions, colligative properties, kinetics of composite reactions, and quantum theory with basic principles and simple applications.

Covers three aspects of communication of importance in science; the ability to read and understand scientific journal articles.