Bioarchaeological and Forensic Anthropology MSc

Students will learn procedures for interpretation and analysis of human skeletal remains - considering both archaeological and modern forensic contexts. There is a unique opportunity to analyse recently excavated human remains, utilising methods and techniques learned during the programme. While the focus of this programme is primarily on modern humans, late Pleistocene hominids are also considered.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), one optional module (15 credits) and a research dissertation (90 credits).

• Dental Anthropology
• Forensic Anthropology
• Methodology and Issues in Bioarchaeology and Palaeoepidemiology
• Morphology and Palaeopathology of the Human Skeleton
• Variation and Evolution of the Human Skull

Students choose one optional module from the following list or from the wider range of Master's optional modules available. Please note that some core modules are normally only available to those enrolled for the degree in question. If you wish to take a core module from another degree as an option certain restrictions may apply. Please consult the programme co-ordinator before choosing your optional module.

• Advanced Forensic Anthropology
• Archaeologies of the Modern World
• Archaeology of Early Modern Humans
• Forensic Geoscience (by arrangement with the Jill Dando Centre for Forensic Sciences)
• Funerary Archaeology
• Human Evolution (by arrangement with the Department of Anthropology)
• Palaeoanthropology (by arrangement with the Department of Anthropology)
• Zooarchaeology in Practice
• Other Master's options available at the Institute of Archaeology.

Other Master's options available at the Institute of Archaeology. Please note that not all options run every year.

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and practical classes. This MSc has strong links with the Forensic Archaeological Science MSc which gives individual programmes an interesting mix of participants and provides many opportunities for discussion. Assessment is through essays, class tests, reports and the dissertation.