Analytical Science - Drug Analysis and Toxicology

Term 1

This course has a common first term with the Analytical Science courses with other specialisms (Environmental Analysis, and Food Analysis, Authenticity and Safety).

However, the extensive laboratory module is tailored to emphasise analytical techniques most relevant to your chosen specialism of Drug Analysis and Toxicology.

Term 2

You will take part in a group problem-solving mini-project within your discipline. This builds on term one study and emphasises the groups' ability to correctly apply appropriate instrumental techniques and methodology to solve the analytical problem posed. 

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Ethics and Project Planning are introduced to the group and will provide you with valuable experience for your individual MSc Research Project Preparation which is carried out in the final 2-3 weeks of term 2. 

The project titles are released at the beginning of term two but not allocated until week 3 or 4. Allocation is often based on a competitive basis.

An example project title in this elective is the 'Characterisation and analysis of Terpenes in Cannabis and Cannabis Resin'.  

Term 3

You will begin the MSc Research Project practical work where you will develop your skills in using initiative, innovation, interpersonal skills, and a high level of autonomy, critical judgement and the application of appropriate and relevant principles in order to produce your thesis.

Student stories

Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:

Learning Methods

A built-for-purpose learning environment fully supports your learning experience in analytical science. You are given extensive use of state-of-the-art analytical equipment, e.g. GC-MS, LC-MS, LC-MS-MS, ICP-AES, SEM-EDXA, CE, DSC, TGA, PCR, NMR and tuition from research active, expert staff. Much focus is placed upon developing you to work autonomously and problem-solve in analytical environments.

Our partners commonly provide industrial visits and guest lectures as well as external MSc projects. These relationships will allow you to gain a unique insight into the opportunities available within the analytical chemistry sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities you will face once in the workforce.

Activity Summary

• Lectures - 20 students per group, 10 hours per week
• Seminars - 20 students per group, 1 hours per week
• Webinar - 20 students per group, # hours per week
• Tutorial - 20 students per group, 2 hours per week
• Project Supervision - 20 students per group, 5 hours per week
• Demonstration - 20 students per group
• Practical class or workshop - 20 students per group, 1 hour per week
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 20 students per group
• Field Work - 20 students per group
• External Visits -  students per group, 1 hour per week
• Placement / Work Based Learning - 20 students per group

How long is an Analytical Science – Drug Analysis and Toxicology course?

The Analytical Science – Drug Analysis and Toxicology MSc at RGU can be successfully completed between 1 - 2 years. This is to include independent study and coursework preparation, tutorials, lectures and other activities.

Independent Study

You will develop substantial initiative and autonomy through lectures, tutorials and laboratory exercises which will demand a significant amount of independent learning to complete coursework and assessments. The MSc project is a significant piece of self-directed work which tests your higher cognitive skills in problem-solving and analysis, synthesis, evaluation and selectivity and improves your ability to learn.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed each year:

• 1 written exam typically for 2.5 hours
• 3 written assignments, including essays
• 1 report
• 1 dissertation
• 14 set exercises
• 4 oral assessments
• 1 practical skills assessment

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Staff Delivering on This Course

Our team features in the annual Support and Teaching staff with Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards voted by the students and organised by RGU:Union. 

Most of our staff members are research-active or have connections to industry. Professional involvement in the design of this course ensures its alignment with the requirements of the industry and increases your employability. Our school has a unique relationships with, for example, Aberdeen's environmental industries, Scottish Food and Drink producers and the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA). We also collaborate with the Scottish Police Authority on the profile analysis of seized and surrendered abused drugs.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Placements

Depending upon availability and academic performance, you may have the opportunity to undertake your MSc Research Project in an industrial setting. This may be in the Aberdeen area or further afield, e.g. other parts of Scotland, Switzerland, Spain, Belgium, France etc. We have a dedicated Placement Office to support you to securing a placement, however most students achieve placement from their own independent networking. Please note that industry projects are limited and subject to availability.

Study Abroad

Study Abroad is not technically an option for this course. However, the MSc project can be undertaken abroad in an EU country, which will enhance your learning experience and maximise your employment prospects.

Job Prospects

Graduates gain employment in a wide range of areas such as research, project management and analytical services associated with a range of industries including distillation, pharmaceutical, oilfield chemistry, food/drink analysis and environmental science.

Graduates may also go on to further their academic career by seeking doctoral studies either within Robert Gordon University, when funding and suitable vacancies are available, or the rest of the UK, EU or internationally.

Is studying Analytical Science – Drug Analysis and Toxicology a good career choice?

Some of our graduates with the Drug Analysis and Toxicology specialism have gone on to undertake a variety of projects including tablet quality analysis at GSK, substances of abuse analysis for Police Scotland, and toxicology analysis at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary Hospital.

What is needed to study MSc Analytical Science - Drug Analysis and Toxicology?

• Applicants normally hold a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant science subject area and to include Chemistry including (but not restricted to) Analytical Chemistry, Forensic Science, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences or Life Sciences.
• Applicants with a lower degree classification and / or relevant work experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.