Postgraduate Prospectus

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology MSc/PgDip

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Suitable for graduates or practitioners of archaeology, forensic or other cognitive sciences who wish to gain experience of forensic archaeology and anthropology and benefit from spending a year specialising in this area. Also for archaeologists, forensic specialists, emergency services personnel and those whose roles might bring them into contact with the forensic recovery of human remains, from journalists to civil servants to non-governmental organisation (NGO) employees.

Takes you on to opportunities to work in the field of forensic archaeology or anthropology within forensic laboratories, police departments, government bodies and non-governmental organisations. It is also a necessary introduction that could lead into conducting research at PhD level in the subject.

You will be taught by Cranfield University academic staff at the Defence Academy - College of Management and Technology who understand the challenges of translating theory into practice. Visiting lecturers include experts from police forces, forensic laboratories and international agencies.

Course description

The Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology MSc is designed to give a broad introduction to the subject, rapidly advancing into the understanding of cutting-edge research and the latest methodologies.

The course is highly practical and hands-on, aiming to produce forensic experts capable of giving expert witness testimonies in a courtroom situation and elsewhere.

The course consists of a two-week period of introductory studies followed by academic instruction in modular form. Most modules are of five days' duration, interspersed with weeks devoted to private study and visits to forensic science establishments.

Students are required to take four core modules, four role specific modules and choose three elective modules based on their particular background, future requirements, or interests. This is followed by a four-month research project and thesis.

The Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology MSc is part of the Forensic MSc Programme which has been formally accredited by the Forensic Science Society.

Modules:

Core modules (compulsory)
  • Investigation and Evidence Collection
  • Reasoning for Forensic Science 
  • Analytical Techniques 
  • Courtroom Skills
Role specific modules (compulsory)  
  • Forensic Archaeology: Recovering Buried Remains 
  • Forensic Archaeology: Mass Grave Excavation 
  • Fundamentals of Forensic Anthropology: Osteology
  • Further Forensic Anthropology: Identification 
Elective modules (select three) 
  • Fires, Explosions and their Investigation 
  • Trace Evidence 
  • Introduction to Firearms Investigations and Forensic Ballistics
  • Practical Archaeological Excavation 
  • Forensic Craniofacial Identification 
  • Mass Fatality Incidents
  • Introduction to Environmental Forensics 
  • Fakes and Forgeries 
  • Radiographic Investigations in Forensic Science 
Research project

After successful completion of the taught phase of the course, each MSc student undertakes a research project. The teaching staff provide a list of prospective projects each year. Alternatively, with agreement of the teaching staff/supervisor, students can undertake appropriate research of their own choosing and sponsored/part-time students can undertake a project at their own place of employment.

We also offer a postgraduate diploma in which students are required to complete the taught phase only.

Course website - Click for further details

Entry requirements

Normally a 1st or 2nd class Honours degree or equivalent in archaeology, forensics or scientific discipline, or the professional equivalent. Students with other degrees who can show a knowledge of and interest in the scientific elements of the subject will also be considered.  Students whose first language is not English must attain an IELTS score of 7.

Duration

1 year full-time, up to 5 years part-time.

Start date

September.

Assessment

By written and practical examinations, continuous assessment, project presentation and viva voce.

Funding

Funding is available, please contact the Enquiries Office for information:

T: +44 (0)1234 758008
E: enquiries@cranfield.ac.uk

Further details & applications

Further information

Forensic MSc Programme (Programme web pages) 

Cranfield Forensic Institute

Forensic Open Day 

Contact

Contact the Enquiries Office
T: +44 (0)1234 758008
E: enquiries@cranfield.ac.uk

Application process

Please complete and send to us your:

Postgraduate Application Form
Criminal Record Declaration Form

Please also ask two referees to supply us with academic or employer references using our Postgraduate Study Reference Request Form

Teaching location