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Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Physical Sciences

Taught

MSc

  • Overview
  • Application Timeline
  • Tuition
  • Requirements
  • Modules
  • About
  • Subject Area Information
  • Career
  • Similar courses

Overview

The MSc in Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology focuses on humanitarian efforts and aligns with UN sustainability goals, providing hands-on learning experiences in forensic contexts. Students engage in practical skills like skeletal analysis and mock courtroom scenarios. Graduates are prepared for research or careers in forensics.

Application Timeline

  1. September 1, 2025
    Start date
  2. April 5, 2026
    Today

Tuition

Year 1
Student categories Study
Full-time Part-time
England£13,800£7,600
Northern Ireland£13,800£7,600
Scotland£13,800£7,600
Wales£13,800£7,600
Channel Islands£13,800£7,600
EU£29,000£16,000
International£29,000£16,000

Requirements

Entry Requirements:
Language Requirements

Language requirements information is currently unavailable.

Modules

  • Palaeopathology: Theory and Method

    Optional
  • Isotopic and Biomolecular Archaeology

    Optional
  • Forensic Genetics

    Optional

About

Overview

This MSc program emphasizes international humanitarian efforts and aligns with UN sustainability goals, equipping students with essential skills for research and work in forensic archaeology and anthropology. The course is informed by innovative research from the Department of Archaeology.

Learning Approach

The course adopts a hands-on learning approach, allowing students to engage in:

  • Analysis of human skeletal remains
  • Mock scenarios including mass grave excavations
  • Creating osteoprofiles
  • Mock courtroom experiences as expert witnesses

Students will have access to a human skeletal collection and a human bone laboratory for...

Subject Area Information

Forensic archaeology is a specialized field that merges principles of archaeology with forensic science to assist in legal investigations, particularly those involving human remains. This discipline is crucial in uncovering evidence from crime scenes, mass disasters, and historical investigations.

Typical Course Structure
  • 1. Introduction to Forensic Archaeology

  • 2. Human Osteology

  • 3. Field Methods in Forensic Archaeology

  • 4. Forensic Taphonomy

  • 5. Crime Scene Investigation

  • 6. Geophysical Survey Techniques

  • 7. Forensic Anthropology

  • 8. Legal and Ethical Issues in Forensic Archaeology

Typical Skills Acquired
  • Proficiency in archaeological excavation and documentation techniques.
  • Ability to analyze human skeletal remains and interpret forensic evidence.
  • Knowledge of geophysical survey methods and their applications in forensic contexts.
  • Understanding of the legal and ethical considerations in forensic investigations.
  • Competence in crime scene management and evidence preservation.

Career

Graduates of forensic archaeology programs can pursue various career paths that involve applying archaeological methods to legal investigations and forensic contexts.

Potential Professions
  • Forensic Archaeologist

    Working with law enforcement agencies to locate and recover human remains and other evidence from crime scenes.

  • Forensic Anthropologist

    Specializing in the analysis of skeletal remains to assist in the identification of victims and the interpretation of trauma.

  • Crime Scene Investigator

    Applying archaeological methods to the documentation and recovery of evidence at crime scenes.

  • Academic Researcher/Professor

    Conducting research in forensic archaeology and teaching at universities.

  • Consultant

    Providing expertise in forensic archaeology for legal cases, mass disaster response, and human rights investigations.

Similar courses

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Palatine Centre, Stockton Road, Durham, DH1 3LE
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Contact

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Palatine Centre, Stockton Road, Durham, DH1 3LE
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Enhance your academic journey with the help from our experts.

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