MSc/PgDip/PgCert Analytical Chemistry

Attendance

Full-time, Part-time

Full-time – one year to masters
Part-time – typically two years to masters
The diploma and certificate are shorter
Starts September 2011

At a glance

About this course

This course combines laboratory practical skills with theory of analytical chemistry and professional and organisation skills. These include
• data interpretation and analysis
• experimental design
• communication and presentation skills

We teach core analytical chemistry in the context of its applications to pharmaceutical, environmental and materials analyses.

You also complete an independent research project in the University's well-equipped laboratories.

This course is suitable if you
• wish to upgrade your knowledge and skills and increase your competitiveness in the job market
• want to pursue a research career in chemistry at PhD level
• are currently employed in a chemistry-related profession and are seeking to further your career prospects

The course gives you
• practical experience of the principal methods of separation science, including liquid and gas chromatography and associated hyphenated techniques
• an understanding of atomic and molecular spectroscopy, such as atomic absorption and emission, NMR and IR
• an understanding of analytical technologies applied in process control and solving complex biological problems
• the transferable skills needed to continue developing your knowledge

Associated careers

The course is suitable for people wishing to develop their knowledge of analytical chemistry in the context of materials, environmental analysis and pharmaceutical production.

You can find career opportunities in areas such as • chemical industries such as petrochemicals and agrochemicals production • government research industries • pharmaceutical industry. It is also suitable for people wishing to follow a career in research.

Course content

Core modules

Separation, detection and online techniques
This module introduces the theoretical basis and practical applications of separation, molecular spectrometric and mass spectrometric techniques.

Quality issues, laboratory accreditation and the analytical approach
You study the stages in the selection, development and application of an analytical method, from initial identification of need to eventual routine use, with emphasis on the quality of data produced.

Surface analysis and related techniques
You examine the principles of the instrumental methods used for determining the physical and chemical properties of materials. This includes X-ray methods, scanning microscopy and surface analysis techniques.

Advanced analytical techniques
This module extends your knowledge and skills to advanced organic mass spectrometry, NMR, and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission and mass spectrometry.

Research methods and statistics
You develop the skills needed to formulate, execute and report an advanced research and/or development project. These skills include creativity or invention as well as more formal skills such as acquisition of knowledge and searching the literature. Statistical analysis of experimental results and database searches also form an important part of this module.

Professional development
This module aims to extend your professional skills and improve your career prospects. It involves sessions on essential practical skills and problem solving, communication of scientific information and IT skills. Assessment includes a personal and professional development portfolio plus reflective self-evaluation of your progress on the course.

Research project
During this module you formulate, execute, describe and critically evaluate an extended research project and carry out considerable laboratory work.

Options

One from • environmental analysis • bio-analytical science

Assessment

Assessment methods include written examinations and coursework including • problem-solving exercises • case studies • reports from practical work. Research project assessment includes a written report and viva voce.

Entry requirements

You must have one of the following

• an honours degree in a chemical subject or equivalent
• other qualifications such as HND, HNC or unclassified degree in a chemical subject, plus significant relevant work experience

Non-native English speakers need to be proficient in English, typically shown by IELTS level 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills or equivalent. If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.0 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score.

Fees

Home and EU students

2013/14 academic year

Full-time – typically £4,590
Part-time – typically £1,530 a stage for PgCert, PgDip and MSc stages

International students

2013/14 academic year

Typically £11,340 for the course

2014/15 academic year

Typically £11,650 for the course

How to apply

Complete the application form available at www.shu.ac.uk/study/form

Contact details

For further information contact the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Sheffield S1 1WB, phone +44 (0)114 225 3468, fax +44 (0)114 225 3066, email Biosciences@shu.ac.uk