University of Bradford
Analytical Sciences
Awarding and teaching institution:
Final Award:
Programme title:
Programme Accredited by:
Duration:
Subject benchmark statement:
Date produced:
University of Bradford
MSc/PgD/PgC; QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level M
Analytical Sciences
n/a
MSc (1 yr full time, 2 year part time)
Chemistry
26th November 2007
Introduction
Measurement is at the core of science and this programme is designed to develop graduate students into experienced,
independent practioners of modern analytical science in tune with the needs of research and industry. The programme develops
a core of operational experience of modern analytical instrumentation alongside the fundamentals of the analytical sciences.
The application context of these core capabilities is then developed within thematic pathways aligned to key academic and
commercial sectors. The thematic pathways for applications are: Analytical Chemistry, Archaeological Analysis, Environmental
Analysis, Forensic Analysis and Pharmaceutical Analysis and these are named in the award [e.g. MSc in Analytical Sciences
(Archaeological Analysis)]. The pathways are selected at the start of the course. The course promotes advanced scholarship
through development of research skills in the context of the chosen thematic pathways in conjunction with development of
transferable skills including team approaches to study, use of modern IT media, project management and reflective independent
learning. The instrumental science programmes are centred at Bradford’s state-of-the-art University Analytical Centre, a £3m
facility housing the major capital equipment of the University and the focus for its commercial contract research in analysis.
The course is designed to offer learning, including continued professional development (CPD), for both full time (1 year) and
part-time (2 years) studies. Awards of MSc, Postgraduate diploma, Certificate or Certificate of attendance can be awarded.
The MSc in Analytical Sciences will give graduates in science and related subjects a systematic training in the application of
modern analytical methods. It provides the necessary practical, interpretative analytical skills to apply a wide range of analytical
techniques to key areas of application.
A.
Programme Aims
The Postgraduate Certificate programme aims to:
A1
Provide opportunities for you to develop a systematic knowledge and understanding of the core principles of
instrumental analytical chemistry, to enable you to develop skills in a range of analytical techniques essential in
archaeological, chemical, environmental, forensic and/or pharmaceutical sciences.
A2
Allow you to identify appropriate contexts for application of instrumental analytical techniques.
A3
Instruct you in methods of data analysis to assess the significance of experimental outcomes.
A4
Allow you assimilate, evaluate and present results of instrumental analysis objectively.
A5
Instruct you in the safe operation of instrumentation in a modern analytical laboratory.
A6
Allow you to develop an appreciation of quality control systems applicable in analytical sciences.
A7
Equip you with pathway specific information and skills to facilitate transition to employment or further study.
A8
To provide you with a supportive and structured environment in which you are encouraged to develop the independent
study skills required for lifelong learning.
A9
Allow you develop your abilities for both team-working and autonomous learning.
In addition to A1-A9, the Postgraduate Diploma programme aims to:
A10
Provide you with experience of project management methods and experimental design for analytical chemistry.
A11
Provide you with an opportunity to develop a specialisation in an area of application of analytical science.
A12
Allow you to apply methods of reportage in the context of key subject area of specialism.
In addition to A1-A12, the MSc programme aims to:
A13
Provide for experience in research at the forefront of the field of your chosen specialism.
A14
Adapt and apply analytical methods to problems in the chosen field of specialism.
A15
Provide you with the opportunity to develop key skills in the dissemination of research outcomes through a thesis and
scientific presentation.
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B.
Programme Outcomes
B1
Subject Knowledge & Skills
On successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate you will be able to:
B1.1
B1.2
Evaluate, appraise and apply instrumental analytical techniques,
Explain the operation of frequently-applied instrumental analytical techniques,
In addition to B1.1 to B1.2 for the Postgraduate Diploma you will be able to:
B1.3
B1.4
Explain and critically evaluate experimental approaches in areas of specialist application of analytical science in
one of the pathways; Analytical Chemistry, Archaeological Analysis, Environmental Analysis, Forensic Analysis,
or Pharmaceutical Analysis,
Implement project planning techniques in devising extended scientific projects.
In addition to B1.1 to B1.4 for the MSc you will be able to:
B1.5
B1.6
B2
Devise appropriate experimental approaches and report findings in relation to current research and
understanding in your chosen pathway,
Employ self direction and originality in implementing a research project.
Core Academic Skills
On successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate you will be able to:
B2.1
B2.2
B2.3
B2.4
B2.5
Employ critical thinking and conceptual understanding and recognise, define and prioritise problems, analyse,
interpret, objectively evaluate and prioritise information recognising its limitations,
Communicate analytical data,
Manipulate samples for selection, preparation and analysis,
Operate analytical instrumentation under supervision,
Manipulate and interpret analytical data.
In addition to B2.1 to B2.5 for the Postgraduate Diploma you will be able to:
B2.6
B2.7
Plan a scientific project,
Devise experimental strategies for analysis, project-plan experimentation and develop a written project proposal
from concept.
In addition to B2.1 to B2.7 for the MSc you will be able to:
B2.8
Manage a scientific research project,
B2.9
Manage health and safety for your own sample collection, preparation and analysis,
B2.10 Operate selected analytical instrumentation independently.
B3
Personal & Key Skills
On successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate you will be able to:
B3.1
B3.2
Write and interpret scientific reports,
Work in a team to produce written scientific methodologies.
In addition to B3.1 to B3.2 for the Postgraduate Diploma you will be able to:
B3.3
B3.4
Prepare and implement a programme of independent learning through reflective study,
Give an oral scientific presentation.
In addition to B3.1 to B3.4 for the MSc you will be able to:
B3.5
B3.6
B3.7
Undertaken substantial research project,
Employ effective time management and task prioritisation,
Employ advanced level academic writing skills.
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C.
Curricula
The MSc course is offered in full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) mode. The course will provide a flexible programme of
study that reflects areas of staff expertise. It comprises a core of compulsory modules to provide the appropriate framework and
a range of option choices to develop specialist skills (Table 1). All modules are at M Level. Details about modules, including
specific learning outcomes, are available from the module descriptors. The Masters qualification comprises 180 credits. 10
credits are equivalent to 100 student learning hours. The core modules (60 credits) are dedicated to developing generic
analytical key skills, specialism practice for each pathway and project management experience. The modules relating to the
analytical instruments (60 credits) include lectures, workshops, hands-on laboratory and instrument sessions with relevant
samples under the instruction of a team of interdisciplinary specialists in the area. Professional development provides the
educational and career development specialism practice required by analytical chemists in each of the Pathways. The
dissertation offers an opportunity for substantial research in your chosen thematic pathway (60 credits).
The curriculum may change subject to the University's course approval, monitoring and review procedures.
Code
LIF4003D
Module Title
Fundamentals of Analytical Science
L
M
CT4011M
Scientific Project Management
M
LIF4008L
Professional Development
M
LIF4012M
X-Ray Diffraction *
M
S
PG
Certificate
Semester 1
C
1
20
1
C
-
10
MSc
Pharma
MSc
Arch
MSc
Forensic
MSc
Enviro
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
-
C
C
C
C
10
O
O
C
O
C
C
O
O
O
O
O
1 + 2 20
1
PG
diploma
LIF4007M
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance *
M
1
10
O
LIF4011M
Vibrational Spectroscopy *
M
1
10
O
O
C
O
O
O
LIF4009M
Separation Science *
M
1
10
O
O
C
O
C
O
LIF4006M
Mass Spectrometry *
M
2
10
O
O
O
C
C
C
LIF4002M
Elemental Analysis *
M
2
10
O
O
O
C
O
C
LIF4005M
Light Isotope Analysis *
M
2
10
O
O
O
C
O
O
LIF4001M
Electron Microscopy *
M
2
10
O
O
O
C
C
O
LIF4004M
In-Situ Measurement *
M
2
10
O
O
O
O
O
C
LIF4010M
Thermal Analysis *
M
2
10
O
O
C
O
O
O
AR-8119D Y Research Skills
M
2
10
-
-
C
C
C
C
LIF4000Z
M
3
-
-
C
C
C
C
Semester 2
Semester 3
Dissertation
60
Table 1. Modules offered: * = modules also available for CPD. C = compulsory, O = optional Y = module provided by AGES. Pathways:
Analytical Chemistry, Archaeological Analysis, Environmental Analysis, Forensic Analysis, or Pharmaceutical Analysis.
D.
Teaching, learning and assessment strategies
These programmes articulate the Teaching and Learning strategies of the University. A variety of teaching methods appropriate
to the learning outcomes of the individual modules are employed throughout the programmes. These progressively focus on
student-centred approaches to learning and will reflect increasing reliance on independent responsibility for learning. In this way
you will develop the attributes needed for life-long learning and continued professional development. Directed study will involve
a variety of activities, including directed reading of specified literature, web-based materials and report writing.
Outcomes B1.2 and B2.1 will be developed through a series of lectures, workshops and directed study in Fundamentals of
Analytical Science and will be assessed through course work and formal exam consisting of constructed-response (short and
essay answer) type questions.
Outcomes B1.1, B1.2, B2.1-B2.5, B3.1 and B3.2 will be developed through a series of lectures and workshops/laboratory
sessions over a 3 day period. Review of the previous days teaching and learning will include short formative tests. The method
of delivery will enable you to work alongside co-participants who will be taking this module as part of continuing professional
development or research training. These outcomes will be assessed by group work (a wiki) and a laboratory report based on
data obtained during a supervised instrumental session.
Outcomes B1.3, B3.3 and B3.4 will be developed through Professional development and assessed by a learning plan, Blog and
Oral Presentation.
Outcomes B1.4, B2.6 and B2.7 will be developed through a series of lectures, workshops and directed study in Scientific Project
Management and assessed by worksheet and formal exam.
Outcomes B1.6, B2.8-B2.10 and B3.5-B3.7 will be developed through research supervision and assessed through the MSc
dissertation. These outcomes and B1.5 will be supported by lectures, workshops and directed study of Research Methods and
assessed by oral presentation and a written research design.
The dissertation is underpinned by generic skills gained in Scientific Project Management, Research Skills and technique
specific skills gained in the 10 credit modules relating to the analytical instruments.
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More detailed description of the way that learning is related to assessment in the modules that make up this programme can be
found in the module descriptors.
E.
Assessment Regulations
This is a summary only; the full regulations are maintained on the Web at:
http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/acsec/QA_Hbk/Postgrad_Taught_Regs.html
To be eligible for the award of the Degree of Master, students must have taken 180 credits (60 credits research training, 60
credits specialism, 60 credits dissertation) and achieve at least 40.0% in individual units amounting to 160 Credits and at least
35.0% in individual units amounting to the other 20 Credits. Students wishing to undertake the dissertation are subject to
progression from the taught component. Students who attain an overall weighted average of at least 70.0% at the initial attempt,
including at least 70.0% at the initial attempt in the dissertation, shall be eligible for the award of the Degree of Master with
Distinction. Students who attain an overall weighted average of at least 60.0% at the initial attempt, including at least 60.0% at
the initial attempt in the dissertation shall be eligible for the award of the Degree of Master with Merit.
To be eligible for the award of the Postgraduate Diploma, students must have taken 120 credits (this is from the taught
component only (i.e. no dissertation)). Students must achieve at least 40.0% in individual units amounting to 100 Credits and at
least 35.0% in individual units amounting to the other 20 Credits. Students who attain an overall average of at least 70.0% in the
initial attempt in the assessments for the units concerned shall be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Diploma with
Distinction. Students who attain an overall average of at least 60.0% in the initial attempt in the assessments for the units
concerned shall be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Diploma with Merit.
To be eligible for the award of the Postgraduate Certificate, students must have taken 60 credits (this is from the taught
component only (i.e. no dissertation)). Students must have achieved 40.0% in individual units amounting to 40 Credits and at
least 35.0% in individual units amounting to the other 20 Credits. Students who attain an overall average of at least 70.0% in the
initial attempt in the assessments for the units concerned shall be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Certificate with
Distinction. Students who attain an overall average of at least 60.0% in the initial attempt in the assessments for the units
concerned shall be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Certificate with Merit.
Students who achieve at least 40.0% in individual units but who do not qualify for one of the above awards shall be eligible for
the award of a Certificate of Continuing Education.
F.
Admission Requirements
Applicants for the MSc or Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Sciences will be expected to have completed (or be due to
complete) a degree in chemistry, a closely related discipline or have substantive equivalent experience. The first degree should
be a BSc in a science subject (e.g. Biosciences, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Geology,
Environmental Science, Archaeological Science) at the level of 1st, 2i or 2ii (2ii for subjects with significant analytical chemistry
content, or recent equivalent experience). Admission onto the courses will be on an individual basis for overseas students, at an
equivalent level to UK entry requirements, on the advice of Student Registry.
Admissions are made on the basis of suitability for the proposed course; based on qualifications, references, application and
interview. A completed application form, references, official transcripts, or a list of courses/modules and grades/marks stamped
by the applicant's undergraduate department or student registry are required of all applicants.
Suitability of applicants for the Certificate and for modules run as CPD (Continuing Professional Development) will be based on
the criteria for the MSc in Analytical Sciences with an emphasis on recent relevant experience. Accreditation of Prior Learning
(ACP), used to gain credits in recognition of prior experience, will be approved on a case-by-case basis.
We welcome applications from candidates with non-traditional qualifications, each application being considered on its individual
merits.
G.
Student Support and Guidance
The nature of teaching, learning and research provision at Master's level creates an intense working atmosphere, where
academic support is largely provided by the Programme Manager, but also by the course planning team. There is also study
support through the university and handbooks. The support offered is enhanced by university infrastructure, such as Library and
IT facilities or the Disabilities Office, Counselling Service, Student Health Centre and Career Development Service.
All members of staff operate an open door policy, so there will always be someone to talk to about academic matters or
personal issues. A student-staff committee enables students to have a direct voice to influence academic and wider issues.
H.
Further information
If you would like more information about the University of Bradford, please check the postgraduate prospectus. More details
about the Analytical Sciences Courses can be obtained from the Admissions Tutor (analyticalcentre@brad.ac.uk)
Please note that the above information is subject to change.
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