A 30 credit module introducing the essential practical aspects of analytical chemistry and showing how these practical techniques can be applied to solve analytical challenges in different fields. The module is composed of three important topics in analytical chemistry: laboratory practical skills, sensing strategies and applications.

Each topic will comprise 1/3 of the module. 

Module Aims

Laboratory Practical Skills:
•    Develop practical skills in MS and AA based techniques in analytical chemistry
•    Able to determine the validity and reliability of data
•    Gain strong experimental design skills 
•    Develop expertise in data processing using a variety of software.

Sending Strategies:
•    Develop practical skills in sensing techniques in analytical chemistry
•    Able to determine the validity and reliability of data
•    Gain strong analytical and problem-solving skills particularly determining the most appropriate analytical approach
•    Assemble modular electronic components to support a sensing element
•    Develop expertise in data management, security and processing.

Applications of Analytical Chemistry:
•    Understand the requirements of a variety of analytical challenges which could be met in a range of applications including microbiological samples
•    Develop reputable experts in applied analytical chemistry trained in a variety of applications who can make decisions on the validity and reliability of measurements
•    Gain strong analytical and problem-solving skills and be able to explain results in a scientific, social and ethical context.

Teaching and Learning Methods

The laboratory practical skills will be developed over four experiments. Experimental design tasks will be completed in advance of the practicals, and data analysis and written coursework afterwards.

Sensing strategies will be covered through a problem-based learning project – the students will design and make a sensing device using Arduino technology, and use it to address an analytical challenge.

The final 1/3 of the module is devoted to the application of these practical techniques and sensing strategies in a variety of different fields (for example: environmental monitoring, diagnosis of infection and forensic toxicology). The applications are introduced through combined lectures and problem solving workshops and students will then complete their choice of two out of the three related coursework activities (this could be a group project identifying and addressing a diagnostic need, with an accompanying presentation, or an individual case study). 