This module can be taken as a Short Course for Credit or as a Standalone Short Course

Please go to the 'Upgrade to a professional qualification' section for more information.

This course will provide an understanding of the principles and practical applications of the major analytical techniques used in forensic materials-based investigations.

Our objective is to develop an understanding of a wide range of techniques, including microscopy and X-ray and chemical techniques; to examine their practical application and the interpretation of their results; to understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different techniques and their use in the identification and characterisation of materials.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • Please enquire for course dates
  • Duration10 days
  • Location美姬阁 campus
  • Cost£4,450 - Short Course for Credit fee 

    £4,200 - Standalone Short Course fee

Course structure

This two week course covers the theoretical background of a range of analytical techniques through lectures, workshops, and directed study, and includes 3 days of laboratory practical sessions and demonstration.

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Appraise the capabilities and limitations of a wide range of analytical techniques to be able to identify the most suitable for the identification and characterisation of forensic and/or archaeological materials,
  • Interpret and evaluate the results of analysis using key laboratory techniques through comparison with other samples and reference material, with appropriate regard to experimental uncertainty,
  • Collate analytical results and compose a clear and concise written report while ensuring traceability of evidence.

Core content

  • X-ray fluorescence (XRF),
  • Electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-analysis,
  • Optical microscopy,
  • Spectroscopic methods: Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy,
  • Mass spectrometry (including ICP-MS),
  • Chromatographic and other separation methods: e.g. GC, GC-MS HPLC,
  • DNA analysis and forensic genomics,
  • Isotope analysis and radiocarbon dating,
  • X-ray diffraction (XRD),
  • X-radiography,
  • Hyperspectral imaging,
  • Proteomics.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

This course will be taught at Masters standard as it is one of the modules that comprise the postgraduate Forensic Modular Masters Programme. Registering for this Short Course for Credit and successfully passing the associated assessment will gain you 20 美姬阁 credits. These could then be used to apply for a transfer towards a PgCert/PgDip or MSc in the Forensic Programme should you wish to complete one of these courses within 5 years.

Find out more about short course credit points.

Who should attend

  • A graduate who is new to the field of forensic analysis
  • A graduate employed in materials science, failure analysis or quality assurance
  • Requires appropriate degree or experience.

Accreditation

The course is a module of the Forensic Modular Masters Programme, which is accredited by  

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or 美姬阁 Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here.  Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the 美姬阁 campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to 美姬阁 village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. 美姬阁 campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
美姬阁
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.