Forensic Anthropology
BSc (Hons)
- Typical offer for 2025
- Duration
- UCAS code
- Start date
- Location
Suitable for applications.
Overview
This degree explores how archaeological techniques and the analysis of human remains are used in a forensic (medico-legal) context.
You will gain a full grounding in archaeological excavation, surveying and recording of crime scenes.
In addition, you will also learn about human anatomy and anthropological analysis of human remains, including age, sex, ancestry assessment and the analysis and interpretation of trauma.
Specialist modules will allow you to understand how scientific techniques are used to build up a biological profile of unidentified remains; processes of decomposition (and preservation) of human tissues and associated materials; trauma analysis; and forensic identification of living people.
You'll also gain an understanding of scientific principles and how data should be presented in a legal context.
Professional accreditation
Our degree in forensic anthropology combines archaeological and forensic sciences. This programme is accredited:
- By University Archaeology UK (UAUK). This sector umbrella body brings together UK and European archaeology societies and commissioners to work with university archaeology departments. UAUK accreditation means your degree is relevant to modern archaeological practices and meets the needs of the historic environment community.
- By the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), the professional body for UK archaeologists. CIfA accreditation means you'll graduate with the practical and professional skills you'll need to succeed in your career.
- By the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS), the professional body for forensic scientists, for the interpretation, evaluation and presentation of evidence in anthropology and archaeology. CSFS accreditation for these component standards means you'll graduate with specialist skills in excavating, examining and analysing remains and other evidence from crime scenes, from recent events to historic sites.
Rankings
The University of Bradford is ranked 11th in the UK in the Complete University Guide Forensic Science Subject League Table 2025.
My favourite part of the course is definitely the anthropology. The content is incredibly interesting and when you take in the fact that the School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences has the largest collection of human skeletal remains in an archaeology department in the UK, you are stuck for picking out flaws.
Placement Year
You can spend a year in a laboratory environment as a paid employee of an approved organisation.
This experience allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, learn about work practices, and improve your career prospects.
Teaching, learning and assessment
You will learn through a mixture of lectures, seminars, laboratory and field practicals, workshops, case studies and directed study. Directed study will include directed reading of selected textbooks, specified source literature and open learning materials, directed web-based materials, report writing and other assignments. There will also be an individual project/dissertation.
You will be assessed by written closed-book examinations using constructed (essays, short answers) and selected response (MCQ) questions and a variety of coursework assignments, including laboratory reports, oral presentations and dissertations.
There will also be involvement in laboratory, small-group workshops, case-based work and projects (individual and small group). You will be assessed by critical appraisal, case analysis and critique, case presentations, laboratory reports and dissertations.
The research dissertation develops your ability to undertake independent research and plan this research effectively. Presentations, the witness statement and the mock court exercise will develop your professional oral and written presentation skills.
University of Bradford honoured with Queen’s Anniversary Prize for outstanding archaeology
We have been awarded a 2021 Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for our world-leading work in developing archaeological technology and techniques and its influence on practice, policy and society.
The prestigious accolade, which honours world-class excellence and achievement, is the highest form of national recognition that UK higher education institutions can achieve. The University has been honoured for its leadership and innovation in pioneering the techniques, technology and practices of archaeology both in the UK and worldwide.
Study abroad
A study abroad year is a fantastic opportunity to broaden your horizons, build connections with people from different backgrounds and cultures, and strengthen your skills and experience to make you stand out in the job market.
We have opportunities for students to study, work or volunteer in more than 150 countries across the world and will support you every step of the way.
Study support
Our comprehensive support services will help you to achieve your full potential – both academically and personally.
We provide all you need to make the very best of your time with us, and successfully progress through your studies and on into the world of graduate employment.
Our support services include:
- Personal tutors
- Disability services
- Counselling services
- MyBradford student support centres
- The Students’ Union
- Chaplaincy and faith advisers
- An on-campus nursery
- Halls wardens
We have well-stocked libraries and excellent IT facilities across campus. These facilities are open 24 hours a day during term time, meaning you’ll always find a place to get things done on campus.
Our Academic Skills Advice Service will work with you to develop your academic, interpersonal and transferable skills.
Research
Terms and conditions of study
The University has a set of terms and conditions for all students accepting an offer to study on a course here at Bradford. This is called The Student Contract. This document sets out the Terms and Conditions which apply when you accept an offer of a place on a programme of study at the University of Bradford.
View our Student Contract for further details.
Transparency statement
Information about this programme and its modules has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publication, but changes may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of teaching. Any change which impacts the terms and conditions of an applicant’s offer will be communicated to them.