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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 17,600
Per year
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
12 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Chemistry | Biology | Microbiology
Area of study
Natural Science
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 17,600
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2024-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview


The MSc Analytical Science program at Robert Gordon University focuses on food analysis, authenticity, and safety. It provides students with advanced analytical skills and industry insights through hands-on laboratory work, group projects, and a research project. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. The program emphasizes independent learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:

The MSc Analytical Science course at Robert Gordon University is designed for scientists and engineers who wish to develop their skills in food analysis, authenticity and safety. The course will enhance your career prospects and give you the confidence and competence to make a difference in this fascinating field. You will benefit from the use of modern analytical equipment, and a real insight into the latest developments and challenges facing the industry. Your coursework will be underpinned by research, and industry-input, providing you with the best platform from which to deliver relevant and up-to-date analytical science services as a well-prepared graduate.


Outline:


Term 1:

  • This course has a common first term with the Analytical Science courses with other specialisms (Drug Analysis and Toxicology, and Environmental Analysis).
  • However, the extensive laboratory module is tailored to emphasize analytical techniques most relevant to your chosen specialism of Food Analysis, Authenticity and Safety.

Term 2:

  • You will take part in a group problem-solving mini-project within your discipline.
  • This builds on term one study and emphasizes 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 two.
  • 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.

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 judgment and the application of appropriate and relevant principles in order to produce your thesis.

Modules:

  • Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes.
  • The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
  • Detailed module information

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 hour per week
  • Webinar - 20 students per group
  • 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 - 20 students per group, 1 hour per week
  • Placement / Work Based Learning - 20 students per group
  • The Analytical Science – Food Analysis, Authenticity and Safety 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 assessment
  • 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.

Teaching:

  • Our team features in the annual Support and Teaching staff with Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards voted by the students and organized 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.

Careers:

  • 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 - Food Analysis, Authenticity and Safety a good career choice?
  • Some of our graduates have gone on to undertake a variety of projects including lab analysis at Brewdog, production management at Baxters, counterfeit whiskey profiling at the Scottish Whiskey institute, lab analysis at Muller Dairies, and lab analysis at Chivas Distillery.

Other:

  • The course has given me the privilege to learn and apply state-of-the-art instruments required for research in a diverse range of analytical issues.
  • The course lecturers are experts in this field of study and also very friendly to every student irrespective of the racial background. Samson Anuchi, MSc Instrumental Analytical Sciences (Oilfield Chemicals)
  • Our facilities for this course
  • Analytical Science LabOur Analytical Science Laboratory is a purpose-built learning environment that fully supports and develops your learning experience at RGU.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:


Scottish Students

Full Time On Campus Over 1 year Year 1 £9570 Part Time On Campus Over 2 years Year 1 £4785 Year 2 £4785


Rest of UK Students

Full Time On Campus Over 1 year Year 1 £9570 Part Time On Campus Over 2 years Year 1 £4785 Year 2 £4785


EU Students

Full Time On Campus Over 1 year Year 1 £9570 Part Time On Campus Over 2 years Year 1 £4785 Year 2 £4785


International Students

Full Time On Campus Over 1 year Year 1 £17600 Part Time On Campus Over 2 years Year 1 £8800 Year 2 £8800

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About University
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Foundation
Courses

Robert Gordon University (RGU)


Overview:

Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a public university located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates and strong focus on employability. RGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines.


Services Offered:

The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Support:

    Library resources, IT helpdesk, and academic advising.

    Student Life:

    Social and cultural activities, sports facilities, and student clubs.

    Career Services:

    Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

    International Student Support:

    Visa guidance, cultural integration programs, and dedicated support services.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

RGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student community. Students can enjoy:

    Beautiful Campus:

    The university boasts a modern campus with green spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.

    Active Student Life:

    A wide range of clubs, societies, and sports teams cater to various interests.

    Aberdeen City:

    The city of Aberdeen provides a rich cultural and social environment with numerous attractions and opportunities.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    High Student Satisfaction:

    RGU consistently ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys.

    Strong Employability:

    The university has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers.

    Industry Connections:

    RGU maintains close ties with industry, providing students with valuable real-world experience.

    Quality Teaching:

    The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and learning environment.

Academic Programs:

RGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate Courses:

    A diverse selection of undergraduate degrees across various disciplines.

    Postgraduate Courses:

    A range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional development courses.

    Online Learning:

    Flexible online learning options for students who prefer remote study.

Other:

    Research:

    RGU conducts world-class research across eleven academic schools, contributing to economic, societal, and environmental impact.

    Business & Innovation:

    The university actively supports industry, government, and non-profit organizations in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

    International Students:

    RGU welcomes international students and provides dedicated support services to ensure a smooth transition.

    Alumni Network:

    RGU graduates are part of a global alumni network of over 80,000 individuals.

Total programs
345
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:

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.


Language Proficiency 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.

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