Fundamental Analytical Techniques for Industry

A ten month distance learning course supplemented by an optional additional three-days of practical for employees in food, pharmaceutical, forensics, agrochemical and analytical services industries developed in association with the Chemical Analysis Facility within the Department of Chemistry at the University of Reading.

The course focuses on the development of knowledge and skills to enable participants on completion of the course to be able to understand the theory and practice of modern analytical techniques and effective problem solving and to think critically as part of their continuing professional development.

The Certificate in Fundamental Analytical Techniques for Industry will cover the following aspects of Analytical Chemistry:

 

• Accuracy, precision and data handling

• Titration and electrochemistry

• Advanced spectroscopic methods in infra-red, NMR, absorption and emission

• Mass spectrometry

• Microscopy

• X-ray crystallography

• Separation techniques, including LC, HPLC and GC     

Who is it aimed at?

Any professional analyst working in the analytical services industries, who is involved in using or developing analytical techniques who has prior knowledge of A-Level chemistry, who wishes to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding to level 5 undergraduate degree level.

This includes:

• Analytical chemists

• Forensic scientists 

• Development scientists

• Food technologists

• Research scientists

• Laboratory technicians

 

 

What are the benefits to employers?            

Employers will benefit from a significant up-skilling of the workforce, an enhanced knowledge base and increased motivation.

What are the benefits to the participant?

On completion of the course participants will have:

• a thorough grounding in all aspects of analytical chemistry

• developed the skills to use modern analytical techniques

• developed their critical thinking and problem solving abilities

• undertaken practice-based work in a broad range of industries                           

Who delivers the course?

The programme has been developed by staff from the University of Reading who are experts in analytical chemistry and have experience of the applications of analytical chemistry in industry.

           

Qualifications

The course can be studied at degree level and will lead to a certificate in fundamental analytical techniques for industry.

How is the course assessed?

The course is assessed by a portfolio approach. You will be required to collect evidence of achievement of key learning outcomes through completion of online assessments, logs of learning and development of a project, and topic based assignments. Your portfolio must be submitted within one month of the end of the course. 

Cost

The fees will be covered by your employer or self and can be found on request. The cost will cover the hands-on laboratory option, the course material, access to a tutor and continuous assessment.

Course dates

The course is held over ten months, from September to July.

Am I a suitable applicant?

In order to apply for the course, you could be employed in a role where further development of analytical skills is a must in order to provide continuous professional development or you may simply have an interest in analytical methods.

You will need:

• four hours a week for independent study

• access to a computer and the internet

For those in employment you will also need:

• support from your manager to undertake the course

• three days out of work for practical assessment (optional)

How do I apply?

1. Complete the online application form and submit evidence to indicate how you would allocate the time for your learning.

2. Confirm that there are appropriate resources to support the course fee.

3. For those in employment you should also gain agreement and support from your manager.