Combine an in-depth understanding of how modern analytical instruments work with the practical skills to operate them, in this first-of-its-kind program

M.ICA

In one year you can gain significant knowledge as well as hands-on experience in instrumental chemical analysis, and be highly employable in positions in government and industry around the world. This stream is aimed primarily at recent graduates without extensive laboratory experience. A paid placement in the third term provides you with the opportunity to collaborate with government, industry, or another academic institution. 

When students have completed two terms of course instruction, they will have approximately four months of full-time placement experience in a laboratory. Below is a listing of where some of our cohorts have completed placements with the following partners: 

• The National Research Council (Ottawa, ON)

• Health Canada (Ottawa, ON)

• Trent University (Peterborough, ON) 

G.Dip

This eight-month course-based graduate diploma is for students who have practical experience with the operation of analytical equipment in a laboratory setting. This stream is aimed primarily at practicing professionals who want to update their theoretical foundations of modern instrumentation developments. You will build a uniform understanding of good laboratory practice, introductory service and maintenance procedures, and a sound understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of modern mass spectrometric and chromatographic instruments. 

Admission Requirements

The application portal opens mid-October each year, and the deadline is February 1st for first round of offers. We will accept domestic applications past this date.

The general regulations and requirements of Trent University apply to the Instrumental Chemical Analysis graduate program. The Instrumental Chemical Analysis program accepts students in to the program once a year in September. Applicants to either the M.ICA degree or the Graduate Diploma are required to hold a four year Bachelors of Science degree in any relevant science including biology, chemistry, environmental science, forensic science, physics, or health science. Applicants must have achieved an average of at least B+ (77%) in the work of the last 10 full academic credits or the last two undergraduate years (full time equivalent). Practical or theoretical experience with instrumental chemical analysis, especially chromatography and mass spectrometry, is considered an asset for this program. There is no requirement to contact a potential Supervisor, as this is a course-based graduate program.  

Please visit the Graduate Studies webpage for more information on How To Apply, including details on The Admissions Process, International Applicants, and Tuition, Awards and Funding.

Course Listing

Please visit the Graduate Academic Timetable to see which courses are presently being offered. For specific details about program requirements and degree regulations, please refer to the  Academic Calendar.
*The course offerings for fall versus winter may vary from year to year. The schedule is generally as follows:

Fall Term

ICAN 5001        Principles of Mass spectrometry
ICAN 5002        Advanced Analytical Separation Techniques
ICAN 5003        Accreditation and Quality Management Systems
ICAN 5004        Statistical Analysis and Data Processing
ICAN 5110         Troubleshooting Analytical Methods & Instruments *

Winter Term

ICAN 5005        Instrument Maintenance and Repair *
ICAN 5111         Project Planning for Practicum
ICAN 5120        Sample Preparation
ICAN 5121         Advanced Spectrometry: ICP-MS and LC-MS-MS
ICAN 5122        Other Analytical Methods Overview

Spring/Summer

ICAN 5200       Practicum

Academic Calendar Course Description: