4B081E - Forensic Science and Analysis 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 4B081E
Module Title: Forensic Science and Analysis
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Science
Faculty Sub Group: Applied Science
Module Leader: Suzanna Kean
Module Team:
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100413 - analytical chemistry
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2027
Valid To 31 Aug 2033

Module Aims

The main aims of the module are:

  • To introduce students to fundamental concepts in chemistry with a specific focus on those areas that support forensic science. 

  • To establish core laboratory competencies, quantitative skills, and scientific communication practices required for safe handling, analysis, and reporting of chemical evidence in forensic contexts.

Content Summary

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of chemical analysis in science; with a specific focus on the properties of molecules, how these will affect chemical interactions, and how these properties can provide information that can support forensic scientists. This will enable you to understand and apply basic scientific principles and techniques to conduct chemical analyses frequently encountered in forensic laboratory examinations

The module establishes core laboratory competencies, that will support the development of further analytical skills in the forensic and allied sciences. You will be introduced to the scientific method, analysing data and learning the importance of accuracy and professional conduct within laboratory environments.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Practical Classes and Workshops 56
Guided Learning — Independent 10.5
Formative Assessment 12
Asynchronous / Independent Learning 161.5
Summative Assessment and Preparation 60
Total Hours Selected 300

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Acquire and apply the fundamental concepts that underpin the molecular and physical sciences that support forensic practise and analysis.
LO2 Evaluate scientific data and develop practical skills to solve problems encountered within the area of forensic practise and analysis.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Observational Journal Onsite 0 3000 50 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Observational Journal ✔ ✔

Reading List

Organic chemistry, McMurry, John, 2023. A tenth edition.

Chemistry: 15 (Macmillan Foundations Series)” Rhobert Lewis, Wynne Evans 2018  

Elements of physical chemistry. Atkins, P. W. (Peter William), 1940- author.; De Paula, Julio, author.; Smith, David (Chemist) writer of added text. 2017