Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Forensic Analysis
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
1. Pre-requisites
Minimum D grade in Stage 2 core Chemistry modules, or the equivalent
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
Analytical Chemistry
4. Replacement Module
Code:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
Date Of Replacement:
MChem Chemistry with Forensic Science
5.
B19FA
Availability as an
Elective
Semester
Yes
On or OffCampus
Credits
2
No
On
15

The module aims to provide :
 an introduction to the theory and practice of some modern techniques of chemical instrumental quantitative analysis of particular relevance to the
practising forensic analytical chemist
8. Syllabus






Reproducibility, Reliability, Calibration, Internal Standards
Mass Spectrometry - qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis using mass spectrometry ; descriptions of specific examples of forensic interest such as
drugs, alcohol, explosives
Separation Techniques - Gas chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography
Forensic Microscopy - Atomic Force Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy for the analysis of surfaces
Forensic Spectroscopy - analysis of samples for metals by Atomic Absorption and Atomic Emission spectroscopy ; application of fluorescence spectroscopy to
quantitative analysis ; sensitivity gains obtained using emission methods in general
Powder and Fibre Diffraction – basic principles of diffraction of X-rays, Miller indices, indexing powder patterns, applications of powder diffraction, orientation
effects in liquid crystals and fibres
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Forensic Analysis
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
B19FA
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Discuss critically the importance of reproducibility and reliability in quantitative analytical chemistry
 Define and discuss the various contributions to chromatographic separation bandwidth
 Design the correct methods and experimental components required for chromatographic separation of a given mixture
 Interpret simple chromatographic data
 Design the correct mass spectrometric inlet system, ion source and ion analysis for complex forensic analytical mixtures
 Use isotope-ratio mass spectrometry, and selected ion and reaction monitoring, to solve forensic problems
 Demonstrate an understanding of the background to the AFM and SEM techniques, and a knowledge of their applications
 Discuss the theory and application of AA, AE and fluorescence spectroscopies in the analysis of chemical samples
 Describe the application of powder diffraction to the analysis of unknown materials
 Display a critical understanding of the concepts, theories and principles discussed in the module
Personal Abilities Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Critically use mathematical methods to solve problems in forensic analysis
 Interpret, use and evaluate a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials, assessments (formative and summative) and web links to support the learning process
 Exercise autonomy and initiative in carrying out defined activities
 Work with a group of peers to discuss problems in analytical chemistry, sometimes taking the lead role
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
Examination
Continuous Assessment
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
27 August, 2007
2h
Date of Approval by
School Committee
(if applicable)
70%
30%
Examination (100%)
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
2h
Version
Number
1.0
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