5B103E - Modern Techniques in Forensic Analysis 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 5B103E
Module Title: Modern Techniques in Forensic Analysis
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Science
Faculty Sub Group: Applied Science
Module Leader: Peter Miedziak
Module Team:
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 5
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 enable students to integrate and apply learned analytical techniques to some of the major sample categories in Forensic Chemistry.

  • To broaden the student’s knowledge of analytical chemistry and practical skills through the study of modern applied methods of analysis.

  • To develop the student’s ability to critically assess the relative merits of named analytical techniques and analytical data

Content Summary

This module will enable you to integrate and apply analytical techniques to a range of key forensic sample types, including illicit drugs, bodily fluids and other trace evidence. Through practical and applied learning, you will develop an understanding of appropriate analytical strategies and the processes involved in forensic sample examination. Emphasis is placed on developing practical skills in modern analytical techniques, including sample preparation, instrumental analysis, and data interpretation.

You will broaden your knowledge of analytical chemistry through the study of contemporary methods used in forensic laboratories, gaining experience in evaluating analytical approaches for different types of evidence. The module also encourages critical thinking by requiring assessment of the strengths, limitations, and suitability of various analytical techniques and interpretation of the resulting data. By the end of the module you will have developed the practical competencies, analytical reasoning, and evaluative skills necessary for applying modern forensic chemistry techniques in professional and investigative contexts.

Learning and Teaching Methods

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

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Develop understanding of and apply analytical techniques to complex forensic scenarios.
LO2 Analyse, interpret, and evaluate scientific data and develop practical and instrumental skills to solve complex problems within the area of forensic science.

Module Requisites

Code Title Requisite Type
MOD014223 Forensic Science and Analysis pre-requisite
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Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Student Choice 1 Practical written work that requires students to analyse and interpret data generated from forensic analytical techniques 0 3000 50 No 40
Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 Designed to evaluate students’ laboratory competence, technique selection, and data interpretation under controlled conditions 180 N/A 50 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Student Choice 1 ✔ ✔
Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 ✔ ✔

Reading List

Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques, Fifth Edition, 3 Mar. 2019, by Suzanne Bell

Forensic Chemistry Third Edition – 28 April 2022 by Suzanne Bell

ChromAcademy – an online learning resource - www.chromacademy.com

Quantitative chemical analysis Harris, Daniel C., 1948-, author; Lucy, Charles A. author. 2016 Ninth edition.