Objectives
Graduates will have: * a detailed knowledge of all aspects of chemistry in general, with particular emphasis on the methods and techniques relevant to analytical procedures; * an understanding of the application of such analytical procedures to forensic chemistry; * a good grasp of the mathematical, statistical and computational concepts required to enable processing of the analytical data so obtained; * a basic knowledge of cognate/supporting areas associated with forensic science, such as biology, earth sciences and physics; * a variety of professional skills that would assist employment in areas of forensic and analytical laboratories; * an understanding of ethical issues in science with specific reference to legal and forensic issues; a high level of communication skills, both oral and written; * the ability to work independently as well as in group activity. Learning outcomes On completion of their degree, students will have developed a comprehensive and well-founded knowledge in their science discipline and a range of transferable professional skills. Subject knowledge Graduates of the course are expected to be able to: * demonstrate a thorough understanding of all aspects of chemistry in general and specialist skills in the methods and techniques relevant to analytical procedures; * apply such analytical procedures to forensic chemistry, with the ability to comply with the requirements of the legal system; * employ the mathematical, statistical and computational concepts required to enable processing of analytical data; * work within the wider context of cognate/supporting areas associated with forensic science, such as biology, earth sciences and physics; * understand ethical issues in science with specific reference to legal and forensic issues and undertake work within this context. Transferable professional skills Graduates of the course are expected to be able to: * employ scientific methodologies such as experimental design, and the critical analysis of data; * communicate and present information clearly and fluently in both written and spoken forms; * interact effectively as part of a team in order to work towards a common outcome; * work and learn independently; * reason critically and logically and make independent judgements; * engage effectively with information and communication technologies; * demonstrate research skills appropriate for further study and employment; and * appreciate the need for continuing professional development.
Course description
The Bachelor of Technology (Forensic and Analytical Chemistry) was designed in consultation with analytical and forensic chemists working in the public and private sectors. Ongoing input is provided by the South Australian Police Department, the South Australian Forensic Science Centre, the Australian Federal Police, the National Institute of Forensic Science and local South Australian industries and laboratories.
It combines studies in:
* all aspects of chemistry with related sciences such as biology and earth sciences
* the necessary mathematical and computer skills required to process and analyse data
* industrial practice and the relevant areas of our legal system.
You will be introduced to the legislative and professional background to forensic and analytical chemistry, covering issues such as occupational health and safety, quality assurance, legislation, evidence preparation and presentation.
There is also a strong focus on developing your oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team. Industrial work experience, undertaken in a forensic or analytical laboratory, is a key feature of the degree.
What will I study?
Refer to the program of study.
What is Forensic and Analytical Chemistry?
Analytical chemistry involves analysing and identifying elements and compounds.
Forensic chemistry is the application of analytical chemistry to matters of a legal nature, whether related to crime, environmental or safety laws, or simply the rules of society.
Why study Forensic and Analytical Chemistry at Flinders?
* Chemistry has been a major strength at Flinders since the University's inception 40 years ago and it continues to underpin much of our innovation in the ‘new sciences' - from forensics to biotechnology, nanotechnology and environmental science.
* We have brought together the 3 disciplines of chemistry, physics and earth sciences into 1 school, allowing chemists specialising in molecular synthesis, molecular dynamics, physical organic chemistry, innovative analytical techniques and surface science to work alongside other scientists with expertise in atomic, molecular, plasma and nuclear physics, hydrology and meteorology.
* Research publications from our School of Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences consistently enjoy high citation rates, have been awarded prizes and stimulate collaboration with researchers in Australia and overseas. In particular, the chemistry group has strong links with Forensic Science South Australia, the State's pathology and scientific evidence service, the South Australian Police (SAPOL) and other researchers around the world.
* Our research facilities are also among Australia's best, making Flinders an ideal location for teaching and research both in the laboratory and in the field.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute, which is required to practice as an analytical chemist.
Combined degree options
Combine with
Duration (full-time equivalent)
Bachelor of Innovation and Enterprise (Science and Technology)
4 years
Refer to Science and Technology combined degrees for further information.
Career opportunities
What can I do with my Bachelor of Technology in (Forensic and Analytical Chemistry) degree?
Study a language
Flinders also offers all students the opportunity to major in a language in conjunction with any undergraduate course. The Diploma in Language is designed to provide students with competence in a chosen language that adds greater portability to their qualifications. You will complete a total of one extra year of study and graduate with both your chosen degree and the Diploma in Language. You can apply for this at time of enrolment.
The Bachelor of Technology (Forensic and Analytical Chemistry) requires three years of full-time study (or the equivalent part-time). The course is offered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
PROGRAM OF STUDY [November, 2008]
To qualify for the Bachelor of Technology (Forensic and Analytical Chemistry), a student must complete 108 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the program of study below.
Not all topics are necessarily available in a given year.
Except with the permission of the Faculty Board, students may not enrol in Second Year topics until they have completed 18 units of First Year topics and may not enrol in Third Year topics until they have completed 27 units of First Year topics.
First Year
36 units comprising:
BIOL1102
Molecular Basis of Life
4.5
BIOL1101
Evolution of Biological Diversity
4.5
CHEM1101
Chemistry 1A
4.5
CHEM1102
Chemistry 1B
4.5
FACH1001A
Forensic Methods 1 Part A, and
3
FACH1001B
Forensic Methods 1 Part B §
1.5
LEGL1001
Australian Legal System
4.5
MATH1121
Mathematics 1A*
4.5
and one of: # **
ARCH1003
Field Archaeology
4.5
ARCH1004
Laboratory Archaeology
4.5
COMP1101
Information and Communications Technology 1A
4.5
COMP1102
Computer Programming 1
4.5
CPES1201
Physics for the Life Sciences A
4.5
CPES1202
Physics for the Life Sciences B
4.5
EASC1101
Earth and Environment 1
4.5
EASC1102
Marine Sciences 1
4.5
MATH1122
Mathematics 1B*
4.5
PHYS1101
Physics 1A
4.5
PHYS1102
Physics 1B
4.5
**Students may undertake a 4.5-unit First Year topic from any area of the University with the prior approval of the course coordinator.
§ Students must enrol in, and complete, Part A and Part B of this topic in one calendar year as both topics are taught and assessed as a continuum.
*In exceptional circumstances substitution for MATH1121 with the lower level mathematics topic MATH1202 Introductory Mathematics 1B (MATH1201 Introductory Mathematics 1A not required) may be approved. Students interested in this option should consult the course coordinator.
Students who have achieved a mark of at least 18 in SACE Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics, or at least 6 in International Baccalaureate Mathematics HL, have the option of doing the corresponding topics MATH1141 Advanced Mathematics 1A (instead of MATH1121) and MATH1142 Advanced Mathematics 1B (instead of MATH1122).
# The optional topics for students who have not taken Year 12 Physics or its equivalent must be either CPES1201 Physics for the Life Sciences A, or CPES1202 Physics for the Life Sciences B.
Second Year
36 units comprising:
BIOL2141
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
6
CPES2101
Fundamentals for Advanced Chemistry
6
CPES2102
Analytical Chemistry 2
6
CPES2111
Synthetic Organic and Inorganic Chemistry
6
FACH2101
Professional Skills for Forensic Chemists (Microscopy)
3
STAT2303
Statistics for Forensic Science
3
and 6 units:
BIOL2424
Physiological Systems
3
CHMD2001
Drug Discovery and Natural Products
3
CPES2142
Physical Chemistry 2
6
Third Year
36 units comprising:
BIOL3600
DNA for Forensic Science ###
6
CPES3101
Analytical Chemistry 3
6
FACH3102
Forensic and Analytical Methods 3
6
18 units from the following:
ARCH2006
Forensic Archaeology
6
CPES3006
Organic Chemistry 3
6
CPES3029
Research Project in SoCPES ##
6
CPES3141
Physical Chemistry 3
6
CPES3162
Inorganic and Polymer Chemistry
6
MMED3914
Human and Molecular Pharmacology
6
## Students who are allocated a project in CPES3029 Research Project in SoCPES should undertake the topic between Second and Third Year.
### Topic subject to approval.
STUDENTS WHO COMMENCED PRIOR TO 2008 AND ARE CONTINUING IN THE THIRD YEAR OF THE PROGRAM ACCORDING TO THE PRE-2008 COURSE RULE SHOULD COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING THIRD YEAR PROGRAM.
Third Year
36 units comprising:
CPES3007
Applied Spectroscopy and Analytical Techniques
3
FACH3001
Forensic and Analytical Methods 3
9
FACH3002
Forensic and Analytical Chemistry
3
and 21 units from the following:
CPES3003
Quantum Phenomena 2
3
CPES3004
Solid State and Surface Science
3
CPES3006
Organic Chemistry 3
6
CPES3008
Environmental Chemistry
3
CPES3009
Bioinorganic and Inorganic Chemistry
3
CPES3025
Solution Inorganic Chemistry
3
CPES3027
Polymer Science
3
FACH3003
Forensic and Analytical Practicum
3
FACH3004
Forensic and Analytical Laboratory Studies
3
