Analytical Science and Forensics, 15 credits

Aims and objectives

General aims for first cycle education

First-cycle courses and study programmes shall develop:

• the ability of students to make independent and critical assessments
• the ability of students to identify, formulate and solve problems autonomously, and
• the preparedness of students to deal with changes in working life.

In addition to knowledge and skills in their field of study, students shall develop the ability to:

• gather and interpret information at a scholarly level
• stay abreast of the development of knowledge, and
• communicate their knowledge to others, including those who lack specialist knowledge in the field.

(Higher Education Act, Chapter 1, Section 8)

Course objectives

Knowledge and Understanding
After completed studies, the student shall have

• knowledge of quality assured sampling strategies, sampling and sample handling of evidence,
• knowledge of sample preparation methods and understanding of how different methods are used based on sample characteristics and analyte properties,
• knowledge of various forensic techniques for the analysis of materials and biological samples,
• knowledge of various statistical data processing methods, and
• understanding of sustainable resources from an analytical science perspective.

Competence and Skills
After completed studies, the student shall be able to

• independently plan and carry out sampling of evidence,
• show competence in the application of different chemical sample preparation methods,
• use analytical instrumentation in forensic applications,
• show skills in data processing and interpretation of results, and
• show proficiency in written and oral communication of chemical and forensic results.

Judgement and Approach
After completed studies, the student shall be able to

• plan, execute and report chemical analytical projects in a quality assured way,
• evaluate and select analytical scientific approaches based on different situations and scenarios, and
• discuss the analytical scientists role in a sustainable society.

Main content of the course

The course covers sampling strategy and methodology to analyze different types of samples in the forensic context. Particularly emphasized is the importance of quality assurance and statistical methods of the work. Appropriate strategies from sampling to analysis are discussed based on the nature of the sample and physical and chemical properties of the analytes. Instrumental methods are also highlighted. Statistical methods and their application are illustrated with self-produced chemical data. An essential part of the course consists of project work with some autonomy. The works consist of various forensic cases, for example environmental crimes, which may vary from year to year. Sustainability issues are discussed with focus on the environment and the analytical scientists role for a positive development.

Teaching methods

Teaching consists of lectures, seminars, field trips and laboratory work.

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Examination methods

Theory, 5.5 credits (Code: A001)
Written examination

Laboratory Work, 2 credits (Code: A002)
Participation and written and/or oral presentations, individually or in groups (decided by the course coordinator).

Project Work, 7.5 credits (Code: A003)
Active participation in group works, seminars and excursions (if applicable), oral presentation and written report.

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other forms of examinations.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations (in Swedish).

Grades

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may prescribe which grading system shall apply. The grade is to be determined by a teacher specifically appointed by the university (an examiner).

According to regulations on grading systems for first- and second-cycle education (vice-chancellor's decision 2019-01-15, ORU 2019/00107), one of the following grades is to be used: fail, pass, or pass with distinction. The vice-chancellor or a person appointed by the vice-chancellor may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special reasons.

Grades used on course are Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG).

Theory
Grades used are Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG).

Laboratory Work
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

Project Work
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations (in Swedish).

Comments on grades

ECTS Grading
The course grading is translated to the ECTS grading scale.

Specific entry requirements

University studies in Chemistry equivalent to 30 Credits.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations (in Swedish).

Transfer of credits for previous studies

Students who have previously completed higher education or other activities are, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, entitled to have these credited towards the current programme, providing that the previous studies or activities meet certain criteria.

For further information, see the university's local credit transfer regulations (in Swedish).

Other provisions

The language of instruction on the course, or parts of the course, may be English.

Reading list and other teaching materials

Required Reading

Mitra, Somenath (Latest Edition)
Sample Preparation Techniques in Analytical Chemistry
John Wiley & Sons Inc, 488 pages

Additions and Comments on the Reading List

Laboratory manuals and other handouts will be added. Additional reading will be listed at the start of the course. The number of pages of this material will not exceed 200.