

PG-DIPLOMA in Analytical Chemistry at National College (Autonomous)


Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Analytical Chemistry at National College (Autonomous) Tiruchirappalli?
This Analytical Chemistry program at National College, Tiruchirappalli focuses on providing specialized knowledge and practical skills essential for chemical analysis across various industries. With a strong emphasis on instrumental techniques and quality assurance, the program addresses the growing demand for skilled analytical chemists in Indian sectors like pharmaceuticals, food processing, environmental monitoring, and materials science. It aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of modern analytical methodologies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates, particularly those with a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry, or Applied Chemistry, who seek a focused postgraduate specialization. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for entry-level positions in analytical laboratories and research & development, as well as working professionals looking to enhance their analytical capabilities or transition into quality control and assurance roles within the chemical and related industries across India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including Analytical Chemist, Quality Control Executive, Research Associate, and Lab Manager roles. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 6-10 LPA. The specialized skill set gained is highly valued in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, environmental, and food industries, aligning with global professional certifications and national regulatory standards for quality.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Analytical Techniques- (Semester 1)
Focus deeply on understanding the principles and applications of separation techniques (chromatography, solvent extraction) and basic instrumental methods (UV-Vis, IR, pHmetry, potentiometry). Attend all lab sessions diligently, practice manual calculations, and interpret results thoroughly for a strong foundation.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Textbooks (Skoog, Holler, Crouch), YouTube tutorials on instrument operation, Departmental instruments for hands-on practice
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for all analytical roles, ensuring proficiency in fundamental lab operations and data generation, crucial for entry-level positions in R&D or QA/QC labs.
Excel in Practical Lab Skills- (Semester 1)
Develop meticulous practical skills by precisely executing experiments in Analytical Chemistry Lab I. Maintain a detailed lab notebook, understand safety protocols, and troubleshoot common experimental issues. Seek feedback from instructors on technique and data accuracy to build confidence.
Tools & Resources
Calibrated lab equipment, Chemical reagents, Safety data sheets, Senior student guidance
Career Connection
Hands-on proficiency is paramount for analytical roles. Strong lab skills directly impact employability in industries requiring accurate chemical analysis and instrument handling.
Build a Strong Theoretical Base in Environmental Analysis- (Semester 1)
Dedicate focused effort to understanding Environmental Analytical Chemistry. Grasp concepts of pollution analysis in air, water, and soil, as environmental regulations drive significant demand for analytical chemists in India. This elective provides crucial sector-specific knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Course materials, Government environmental reports (CPCB), Relevant journals, Case studies of environmental testing
Career Connection
Opens doors to environmental testing labs, regulatory bodies, and industries focused on sustainability, a rapidly growing and vital sector in India.
Intermediate Stage
Dive into Advanced Instrumental Principles- (Beginning of Semester 2)
Begin exploring the theoretical concepts of advanced instrumental methods (NMR, Mass Spec, X-ray methods, Electron Microscopy, Thermal analysis) from PDAC201. Focus on how these techniques complement basic methods and their specific applications in diverse industries.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on advanced spectroscopy, Journal articles showcasing instrument applications, Online resources like spectroscopy educational portals
Career Connection
Early mastery of these complex techniques differentiates candidates for specialized R&D roles and advanced analytical services within manufacturing and research institutions.
Understand Quality Systems and Compliance- (Beginning of Semester 2)
Develop a solid understanding of Quality Assurance principles, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and standards like ISO and NABL accreditation as introduced in PDAC202. This foundational knowledge is crucial for practical application in the lab and industry.
Tools & Resources
NABL/ISO 17025 guidelines, GLP handbooks, Industry blogs on quality control, Institutional training sessions on lab safety and ethics
Career Connection
Essential for any role in regulated industries (pharma, food, environmental), preparing students for quality control, assurance, and regulatory compliance positions.
Start Early Project Planning and Literature Review- (Early Semester 2)
For PDAC204 Project, identify potential research areas, conduct an extensive literature review, and formulate a clear project proposal early in the second semester. Consult faculty mentors and define achievable objectives to ensure a strong project foundation.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Institutional library resources, Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Faculty consultation
Career Connection
Develops critical research, problem-solving, and communication skills vital for R&D, higher studies, and demonstrating initiative to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Refine Advanced Lab Skills and Data Interpretation- (Mid to Late Semester 2)
Intensively practice experiments in Analytical Chemistry Lab II (PDAC203), applying both advanced instrumental methods and quality control protocols. Focus on instrument calibration, data acquisition, statistical analysis, and accurate interpretation of complex analytical results.
Tools & Resources
Advanced analytical instruments, Statistical software (e.g., R, Python with libraries, Minitab), Data visualization tools, Case studies of instrument troubleshooting
Career Connection
High-level practical proficiency and data interpretation skills are critical for analytical specialists, quality assurance scientists, and research assistants in modern laboratories.
Integrate Quality Standards into Practice- (Mid to Late Semester 2)
Apply the knowledge of GLP, ISO, and NABL from PDAC202 directly into laboratory work. Ensure all experimental procedures and documentation meet regulatory standards. Participate in mock audits or quality system simulations if available to build real-world compliance experience.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) if exposed, Internal quality audit checklists, Documentation templates
Career Connection
Graduates are immediately employable in highly regulated environments, fulfilling critical roles in ensuring product quality and compliance, which is a major concern in Indian manufacturing.
Deliver a High-Impact Project and Professional Communication- (Late Semester 2)
Conclude the PDAC204 Project by meticulously analyzing data, drafting a comprehensive report, and preparing a professional presentation. Focus on articulating the problem, methodology, results, and conclusions clearly. Practice scientific writing and oral presentation skills for maximum impact.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Presentation software, Peer review sessions, Career services for interview preparation, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
A well-executed project and strong communication skills are powerful assets for showcasing analytical abilities during placements and for success in any professional scientific career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Science (B.Sc.,) with Chemistry/Industrial Chemistry/Applied Chemistry as main or ancillary subject from any recognized University.
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
Credits: 36 (Minimum) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PDAC101 | Separation Techniques | Core Theory | 4 | Solvent extraction principles, Paper and Thin Layer Chromatography, Column and Ion-exchange Chromatography, Gas and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Electrophoresis techniques, Solid phase extraction methods |
| PDAC102 | Basic Instrumental Methods of Analysis | Core Theory | 4 | UV-Visible and Infrared Spectroscopy, Atomic Absorption and Flame Emission Spectroscopy, Turbidimetry and Nephelometry, Fluorimetry applications, pHmetry and Potentiometry principles, Conductometry and Amperometry |
| PDAC103 | Analytical Chemistry Lab – I | Core Practical | 4 | Separation techniques experiments (chromatography), Colorimetric analysis exercises, Potentiometric titrations, pHmetry and buffer preparation, Conductometric analysis, Quantitative analysis using basic instruments |
| PDAC104 | Environmental Analytical Chemistry | Elective Theory | 4 | Environmental segments and pollutants, Air pollution analysis methods, Water pollution analysis parameters, Soil pollution analysis techniques, Solid waste characterization, Industrial effluent analysis and regulations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PDAC201 | Advanced Instrumental Methods of Analysis | Core Theory | 4 | Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry techniques, X-ray methods (Diffraction, Fluorescence), Electron Microscopy (SEM, TEM), Thermal methods (TGA, DTA, DSC), Electrochemical methods (Voltammetry) |
| PDAC202 | Quality Assurance and Accreditation | Core Theory | 4 | Quality in analytical laboratory, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Quality control techniques and statistics, NABL accreditation process and requirements, ISO series (ISO 9001, ISO 17025), Validation of analytical methods |
| PDAC203 | Analytical Chemistry Lab – II | Core Practical | 4 | Advanced instrumental methods experiments, Quality control and validation experiments, Spectrophotometric analysis, Chromatographic separation applications, Data interpretation and statistical analysis, Instrument calibration and maintenance |
| PDAC204 | Project | Core Project | 4 | Research methodology and design, Data collection and experimentation, Analysis and interpretation of results, Scientific report writing, Oral presentation skills, Problem-solving in analytical chemistry |




