Forensic Archaeology – (M.Sc.)

Contents

We welcome students on this course for both full-time and part-time study.

For those wishing to complete the course on a part-time basis, the course is studied over two years. Students will be expected to study a minimum of three units per year, plus their dissertation (usually towards the end of their second year). The timetable of when the units take place vary each year, however, the units are timetabled during daytime hours, and will be studied with fellow full-time students.

Year 1 / Level M

Professional Practice in Forensic Science

This unit will provide you with the experience, theoretical understanding and the practical skills necessary for the effective presentation of subject specific material to the courts. Become trained in expert witness and courtroom skills, legal and practical aspects of evidence and gain an understanding of pre-trial duties, courtroom procedures, lawyers’ requirements, and the preparation and structure of the expert witness’ report. This unit will be delivered primarily through a combination of training sessions in court room skills and student-led practical exercises and lectures.

Forensic Archaeology

Explore the principles, techniques and methodologies of archaeology and areas where traditional archaeological practices are adapted to major incident and crime scenes. Theoretical and practical concepts of archaeology such as stratigraphy, remote sensing, geophysical survey, search, location, recovery and dating techniques are introduced. The application of these methods to forensic scenes is demonstrated through a series of domestic and international case studies. Techniques employed in the excavation of single and mass graves are also explored.

Advanced Forensic Archaeology

Gain higher levels of technical knowledge and practical experience in survey, search and excavation techniques, building on the theory gained from the Forensic Archaeology unit. The emphasis will be on the practice of finding and excavating burials and recovering human remains along with associated forensic evidence together with the analysis and reporting of such evidence. This unit is critical for forensic archaeologists working in the field and will also introduce a range of forensic scientific specialities relevant to their work.

Advanced Human Osteology

Develop a detailed knowledge of human skeletal remains, with emphasis on musculo-skeletal anatomy and the development of the skeleton. You will be introduced to the identification and description of human remains, recovered from archaeological and forensic contexts. The role of developmental processes in the analysis of age at death will be examined, with reference to the formation and development of skeletal structures. The unit also covers the principal methods involved in generating a biological profile from skeletal remains.

Research Skills

This unit introduces you to a range of academic research methodologies and the research environment. It provides an opportunity to gain experience in using generic research tools, as well as subject specific analytical tools and practical techniques relevant to your specialist subject area. It will combine a variety of learning and teaching methods including lectures, workshops, computer based learning, practical activities and small group work.

Research Project

Develop your expertise in research methods, data collection, analysis, interpretation and synthesis and explore in detail core aspects of your subject area, with a view to generating new practical or theoretical insights. You will develop methodological, research, presentation skills and advanced communication skills by producing an extensive dissertation or report on your research.

Optional units: choose 1 of the following:

Principles and Methods in Zooarchaeology

This unit will provide you with a solid basis in the principles of identification of mammals, birds and fish and the recording and analytical methods currently employed in the study of animal bones from archaeological sites. It will also provide you with an appreciation of how animal bone studies are integrated with other aspects of archaeology. You will learn mainly through practical workshops, in which you will further your familiarity with zooarchaeological assemblages and techniques, through the handling of material and by practical exercises based on that material. Case studies will explore how investigations of faunal remains can be integrated within the wider discipline of archaeology.

Crime Scene Management & Forensic Science

Understand the developing nature of crime scene, major incident and disaster management and how expertise from a range of disciplines is applied to analyse crime scenes. This unit provides an introduction to national and international criminal law and humanitarian and human rights law. It also covers the structure of the Police Force and scene of crime protocols, within which forensic scientists operate and is delivered through lectures and practical exercises to demonstrate and test the processes of crime scene control and emergency management.

Accreditation

The Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), the UK government’s teaching quality watchdog, awarded us the highest category of confidence in our academic standards.

Many of our courses are accredited by professional and industry bodies, which means our courses are readily recognised by employers, and our graduates have professional membership or status when they compete on the job market.

Funding details

The School of Applied Sciences is now offering a number of scholarships including:

• 30 UK/EU scholarships worth £1,000
• 10 international (non-EU) scholarships worth £1,500

Scholarships are paid by a reduction in tuition fee. To view further information such as eligibility, entry criteria and how to apply, please visit the postgraduate scholarships pages.

Discounts

A 5% discount is available for all students who pay the full course fee prior to or at enrolment. Additionally, BU graduates who enrol will be eligible for a 15% discount on their course fee.