Online course

Analytical Chemistry and Measurement Science

  • Qualification: MSc, PGDip, PGCert, CPD
  • Duration: 3 - 26 months, depending on the qualification level
  • Delivery: all taught units are delivered online
  • Workload: approximately 20 hours per week
  • Assessment: coursework
  • Next enrolment: September 2024
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Introduction

Become a broad-spectrum analytical chemist

Analytical chemistry techniques and instrumentation are evolving rapidly. Stay ahead of the curve and advance your knowledge of the increasingly sophisticated analytical chemistry and instrumental techniques with our flexible, multidisciplinary, online course.

Developed with working professionals in mind, this part-time course will equip you with the technical knowledge and the practical skills to become a broad-spectrum, multifaceted analytical chemistry scientist.

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Key features

Practical focus

Develop your practical problem-solving skills by analysing real-world data throughout your course.

Leading expertise

Learn from a team of accomplished academics who have extensive practical experience and lead on our prize-winning research.

Flexible learning

Study our multidisciplinary course online and tailor your learning around your work and other commitments.

A winning combination for employers

I wanted to broaden my knowledge and learn about the brand new, exciting technologies out there. I wanted to understand technologies that I hadn’t been exposed to in my career so far. And I also wanted to gain the tools to train others to use new technologies – which is a big part of my current job.

Jenny Davies
Principal Applications Chemist, Waters Corporation

Jenny Davies profile picture

Key information

  • Delivery

    All taught units are delivered online so you can fit your studies around your work and other commitments.

  • Qualification

    MSc (180 credits) - to achieve an MSc degree, you need to complete 5 mandatory units and 1 optional unit, and the dissertation project.
    PGDip (120 credits) - to achieve a PG Diploma, you need to complete 4 mandatory and 2 optional units.
    PGCert (60 credits) - to achieve a PG Certificate, you need to complete the first mandatory unit and 2 optional units.
    Continuing Professional Development (CPD) (20 credits) - you can choose to study any unit.

  • Project

    MSc students are required to complete a dissertation project made up of three optional pathways:
    Practical project at your current work location (no extra cost)
    Practical project at The University of Manchester (+£3,000)
    Theoretical project from wherever you are in the world (+£1,000)

  • Duration

    MSc - min. 26 months, part-time
    PGDip - min. 18 months, part-time
    PGCert - min. 12 months, part-time
    CPD - min. 10 weeks, part-time

  • Enrolment dates

    Two intakes per year in February and September.

  • How to apply

    For more information on how to apply and what documents to submit with your application, please visit our application and selection section.

  • Workload

    Approx 20 hours per week.

  • Course director

    Dr Roshila Moodley, Lecturer in Analytical Chemistry

Fees and funding

Total course tuition fee for September 2024 entry:

  • MSc - UK: £13,500 | International: £16,000
  • PGDip - UK: £9,000 | International: £10,666
  • PGCert - UK: £4,500 | International: £5,333
  • CPD - UK: £1,500 | International: £1,777

The alternative project fees are:

  • Practical project at The University of Manchester: £3,000 (plus expenses)
  • Theoretical project: £1,000

You can save 10% on your tuition fees. Please see our fees and funding section below for more details.

We offer payment by instalments , so you can spread the cost of studying with us.

Explore a range of scholarships and bursaries available for this course below.

Find out more about fees and funding

Entry requirements

We require a First or Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent in chemistry or course with a major analytical analysis/chemistry component. Students with other relevant background, such as significant industrial and research experience, may be taken under consideration.

Find out more about entry requirements

Contact us today

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Course overview

Reshmi Nirmala Bissessar

With my end-of-year project directly linked to my current work in pesticide regulation, I knew that this program would enable me to apply my newfound knowledge to pressing real-world challenges.

Reshmi Bissessar

Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals analyst 

Reshmi Bissessar

Who this course is for

The broad curriculum of the course means you will gain a comprehensive understanding of analytical chemistry techniques and instrumentation used across many sectors. It is ideal for professionals already working in analytical chemistry and measurement science in various industries from environmental and chemical to pharmaceutical, clinical, food and education.

Whether you’re looking to advance your knowledge within chemical sciences, improve your practical problem-solving skills or are looking to move into a lab-based role, this course will provide the theoretical and practical toolkit to advance your professional development.

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Webinar on-demand: Focus on the dissertation

What you will learn

  • Explore the basis of analytical science, methods of achieving chemical analysis goals and the use of mass spectrometry in the modern laboratory.
  • Study classical and state-of-the-art, instrumentally based techniques such as atomic and molecular spectroscopy, chromatography and mass spectrometry.
  • Develop the understanding and awareness of processing real-world data, through video practicals, and a research-related project, based at your work location or through The University of Manchester.
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Webinar: The broad applications of Analytical Chem

Where and when you will study

The online, part-time design of the course means you can study from anywhere in the world and fit it around your day-to-day life. You will study the course material entirely online whilst benefiting from professional and academic support. You’ll learn through a mix of interactive teaching and have plenty of opportunities to work collaboratively with your peers. You will be encouraged to use examples from your work throughout your studies and enjoy a richer experience by seamlessly integrating work with study. 

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Student insight: studying online by Jenny Davies

How it will benefit your career

Chemical analysis is a significant part of all manufacturing industry, as well as teaching and research. There is high demand in both industry and academia for graduates with analytical chemistry and measurement science skills.

The nature of this course and the skills you’ll develop mean you will be an inviting option for employers in areas including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, environmental, clinical, materials and numerous others.

Through this course, you will become a well-rounded chemistry analyst capable of selecting appropriate analysis techniques and procedures within the modern regulated environment as well as the research environment. You will be encouraged to become a member of the professional body (RSC) to participate, on a wider level, with members of the analytical community. As we support you in your continued professional development, you can start your journey to acquire Chartered Chemist (CChem) status.

Loretta Piare student story

This programme has empowered me to explore the broader applications of the techniques I employ through my job daily, sparking a genuine appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of analytical chemistry.

Loretta Piare

LGC group laboratories 

Loretta Piare

Course units

  • 1. Fundamentals of Analytical Science (20 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc, PGDip, PGCert

    Optional for: CPD

    • Basics of analytical science
    • Titrimetric analysis
    • Gravimetric analysis
  • 2. Separation Science (20 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc, PGDip

    Optional for: PGCert, CPD

    • Methods of achieving chemical analysis goals
    • Column chromatography
  • 3. Mass Spectrometry (20 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc, PGDip

    Optional for: PGCert, CPD

    • Use of mass spectrometry in the modern analytical laboratory
    • Topical applications of mass spectrometry
  • 4. Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy (20 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc, PGDip

    Optional for: PGCert, CPD

    • Analytical applications of atomic and molecular spectroscopy
    • Theory and instrumentation
    • Topical and practical applications
  • 5. Magnetic Resonance (20 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc

    Optional for: PGDip, PGCert CPD

    • Theory of NMR and EPR
    • Practical application of NMR and EPR
  • 6. X-Ray Techniques (20 credits)

    Optional for MSc, PGDip, PGCert, CPD

    • Harnessing the power of X-rays
    • Fundamentals of how x-rays interact with matter
    • Interactions and insights for analytical science
  • 7. Chemometrics (20 credits)

    Optional for MSc, PGDip, PGCert, CPD

    • Application of chemometrics or statistical analysis to analytical data
    • Basic statistics
    • Experimental design and optimisation of analytical techniques for performance
  • 8. Food Chemical Safety and Integrity (20 credits)

    Optional for MSc, PGDip, PGCert, CPD

    • Learn about the role analysis plays in assuring the safety and integrity of foods set within a risk assessment context.
    • Study chemical contaminants and residues in foods such as mycotoxins, phycotoxins, industrial contaminants and pesticides.
    • Gain an overview of allergens, additives and functional ingredients.
    • Build on your knowledge of food authenticity from GMO testing to adulteration, using different bioanalysis and chemical methods.
  • Project (60 credits)

    Mandatory for: MSc

    • Research-based project in an area of current analytical research interest
    • Can base this in an industrial environment
    • Joint supervision by an industrial supervisor and academic supervisor

Course structure

The course is delivered online and is designed to enable you to work and study simultaneously. You will receive a high level of support from the programme team and will have the opportunity to benefit from peer support by establishing a professional network with fellow students. The master's course concludes with a practical project which will improve your practical, problem-solving capabilities. If you are unable to complete a practical project, you can choose to complete a theoretical/computational project that can be done remotely.

Course learning aims

Analytical Chemistry is the science of obtaining, processing and communicating information about the composition and structure of matter. It is the lynchpin of the chemical, pharmaceutical, food and processing industries, where continual rigorous routine measurements are essential.

Analytical chemistry scientists use their knowledge of chemistry, instrumentation, computers and statistics to solve problems in almost all areas of chemistry and for all kinds of industries.

The Analytical Chemistry and Measurement Science course aims to provide high-quality training and development of analytical skills, particularly for those in industries such as environmental, clinical, pharmaceutical, chemical, food production, petrochemicals, materials.

The aim of the Analytical Chemistry and Measurement Science course is to create a broad-spectrum and multifaceted analytical chemistry scientist, who is capable of using advanced analytical techniques across a wide range of industries.

You will study classical and state-of-the-art, instrumentally based techniques such as atomic and molecular spectroscopy, chromatography and mass spectrometry. We aim to ensure you are capable of data processing, a critical feature in obtaining reliable results.

Teaching and learning

This course is delivered online, including all assessments. Each unit runs over 10 weeks, with a nominal 20 hours a week of student work. By the end of the course, students will have developed a skills portfolio with representative pieces of coursework to evidence skills you have developed in each unit.

Academic teaching start dates:

  • February 2024 entry for MSc/PGDip/PGCert/CPD - 12 February 2024
  • May 2024 entry for CPD - 6 May 2024
  • September 2024 entry for MSc/PGDip/PGCert/CPD - 2 September 2024
  • November 2024 entry for CPD - 11 November 2024

The welcome event and induction take place one week before the academic teaching start date. Our admissions team will confirm your induction date closer to the time.

Please ensure that you complete your registration ahead of your chosen entry date to gain access to the online learning material and library services.

Coursework and assessment

Assessments are undertaken as coursework, including contribution to discussion boards, short presentations and problem-solving based reports. Assessments will be tailored to the practical activity associated with each unit.

For the MSc qualification, you will carry out a research-related project in one of the analytical areas which will be based at your work location or through The University of Manchester. To discuss the opportunity to complete your practical project at The University of Manchester, please contact the Course Director, Roshila Moodley ( roshila.moodley@manchester.ac.uk ).

Admissions information

From your initial expression of interest right through to graduation, you’ll receive all the support you need. We can support you with enrolment and subject assistance, administrative logistics and fee options, online learning skills, workload management and special circumstances including a possible professional entry route.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview

We require a First or Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent in chemistry or course with a major analytical analysis/chemistry component.

Students with other relevant background, such as significant industrial and research experience, may be taken under consideration.

If you are an international student, and are looking for a general guide on entry and language requirements for your country, please visit our country-specific information pages .

English language

If you are not from or did not graduate from a majority English speaking country , we will also require proof of your English language ability. If you have already taken an English language qualification, please include your certificate with your application.

  • IELTS Test score of 6.5 or more overall, with a minimum score of 6.5 in writing and a minimum score of 6.0 in the other subsections, or equivalent. Discover more about English language requirements .
English language test validity
Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Advice to applicants

To speed up the application process, please submit the following documents with your online application form:

1. Copies of official degree certificates and transcripts of your previous study, showing the subjects taken and grades obtained. If these documents are in languages other than English, please provide official translations in addition to your official certificates and transcripts.

2. English language score report (if applicable) or alternative evidence to demonstrate your English language competency.

3. A copy of your CV detailing your full work experience.

4. Personal statement addressing the questions below (max 500 words)

  • What attracts you to apply to this course?
  • What do you hope to gain from this course and how will it help you achieve your aims?

5. As part of the application process, you will be asked to provide contact details for one referee, professional or academic. The University will contact your referee directly after you submit your application and direct them to complete our online reference form.

If you need any support with your application, please contact us at studyonline@manchester.ac.uk .

Scholarships and bursaries

Postgraduate loans (UK/EU)

If you're an English or EU student living in the UK, you may be eligible for a loan.

Manchester Master's Bursary (UK)

We're committed to helping students access further education.

Equity and Merit Scholarships

If you're joining us from Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda or Tanzania, you can apply for this scholarship.

Funding for students with disabilities

If you have a disability, we can help you apply for relevant funding.

Explore more funding options

Fees and funding

Total course tuition fee for September 2024 entry:

  • MSc - UK: £13,500 | International: £16,000
  • PGDip - UK: £9,000 | International: £10,666
  • PGCert - UK: £4,500 | International: £5,333
  • CPD - UK: £1,500 | International: £1,777

The advertised fee covers your tuition only. It does not cover your alternative dissertation project fees, accommodation, travel costs or any other expenses that you may incur if you decide to complete your practical project at The University of Manchester.

The alternative project fees are:

  • Practical project at The University of Manchester: £3,000 (plus expenses)
  • Theoretical project: £1,000

Please note the tuition fees are subject to an incremental rise in September.

Tuition fee discounts

  • Early application discount (10%): Apply on or before 19 May 2024 to receive 10% reduction on your tuition fee for September 2024 entry.
  • Alumni discount (10%): If you have successfully graduated from a credit-bearing qualification at The University of Manchester or UMIST, you can receive a 10% discount on the tuition fees that you are personally funding.

One-discount policy: Discounts and scholarships are not accumulative. If you qualify for more than one, you will be awarded the one that is the highest amount.

Employer funding

If you are looking to secure funding from your employer, we can help you build a business case or talk to your employer directly. Contact us on studyonline@manchester.ac.uk to arrange a consultation.

Payment by instalments

During registration you will have the opportunity to pay your fees in three equal instalments .

Additional cost information

Additional expenses

The advertised fee covers your tuition fee only. It does not cover your alternative dissertation project fees, accommodation, travel costs or any other expenses that you may incur if you decide to complete your practical project at The University of Manchester.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website.

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website.