What will I learn on this module?
You will learn about the theory, instrumentation, application and practice of a range of advanced analytical techniques for both quantitative determination and qualitative characterisation. These are key analytical tools utilised extensively in both research and industry. Topics will be chosen from the following:
- Liquid and gas chromatography
- Capillary and gel electrophoresis
- Mass spectrometry
- Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy
- Infrared spectroscopy
- Raman spectroscopy
- Multi-nuclear and multi dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Laser induced fluorescence spectroscopy
- Circular Dichroism
- X-ray absorption spectroscopy
- X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
- Scanning tunnelling microscopy and atomic force microscopy
- Computational spectroscopic methods
- Protein analysis
- Forensic and pharmaceutical drugs
- Volatile organic compounds
- Bioinorganic compounds
-Surfaces (imaging)
Analytical method development and validation as well as sampling protocols will also be studied.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars and ‘dry lab’ workshops, laboratory practicals, directed case studies and independent learning. Lectures to introduce the techniques will be allied to directed and independent study. Laboratory exercises will centre around a small number of case studies designed to illustrate the relevant techniques.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
All teaching materials will be available via the module eLearning Portal site. Further reading materials will be recommended and provided via the library electronic reading list. Academic staff will be accessible through the open-door policy to support your independent learning. Feedback (written and additional verbal on request) will be provided for all assessments. Past exam papers will be provided to assist your learning / revision process.
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:
1. You will be able to discuss and critically evaluate the principles and applications of the selected analytical techniques
2. You will be able to design and perform appropriate analytical procedures for quantification or characterisation.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to resolve qualitative and quantitative analytical problems.
4. You will be able to critically appraise experimental data from various analytical techniques.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. You will be aware of common issues related to chemical analysis in specific application fields.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed by two components:
- Component 1: Unseen written exam (1.5 hours 30%) (MLO 1, 3, 5)
- Component 2: Unseen written exam (1.5 hours 30%) (MLO 1, 3, 5)
- Component 3: Coursework (40%) containing sub-components: chromatography-based lab reports 20%); and one online m/c open book test on molecular spectroscopy (20%) (MLO 1-4)
Feedback:
All marked and annotated exam scripts and lab reports will be returned with tutor feedback following the internal moderation process. The online spectroscopy test will be via ESAF. Verbal feedback mentioned in sect above
Pre-requisite(s)
Analytical Methods (Level 5)
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This option module will explore a variety of modern analytical techniques (e.g. chromatography and molecular spectroscopy) for both quantitative determination and qualitative characterisation. Various applications ranging from the analysis of drugs, proteins and volatile organic compounds to the study of bioinorganic compounds will be discussed. All topics will be taught by academics with research experience in the relevant fields. This module is assessed via three methods: laboratory reports involving one or more quantitative analytical techniques, an in-class test on molecular characterisation and two examinations lasting 1.5 hours each. It will provide a firm preparation for students interested in pursuing further study or employment in the area of analytical chemistry.
Course info
UCAS Code F110
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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