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
Students who have completed the placement year can apply for Associate Membership of the Institute for Archaeologists. Students can also apply for student membership with the Forensic Science Society (which received Royal Charter status in 2014).
Rankings
We are ranked 3rd in the UK for Forensic Science in the Complete University Guide 2020.
We are also ranked in the top 200 universities in the world for Archaeology in the 2019 QS World University Rankings by subject.
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.
Sandwich year
The placement year gives you the opportunity to gain real experience and professional training within your degree in order to kick-start your career. It is unique and valued throughout the archaeological world.
We have sent students to every continent over the 40 years the programme has been running.
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.
Facilities
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We have a range of outstanding analytical facilities including:
- Biological Anthropology Research Centre, which holds the largest collection of human skeletal remains in any archaeology department in the UK, including specimens from the Neolithic to the 19th century
- Three osteology laboratories; histology and microscopy laboratories
- A newly refurbished radiography suite with both traditional and digital radiography equipment
We are a leading centre for multi-isotope analysis of archaeological materials including bone, teeth, hair, shell and pottery ‘foodcrusts’
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
Archaeological Sciences was in the top 10 for archaeology in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) which assesses the quality of research conducted in all UK Universities. 70% of our research was found to be world leading or internationally excellent and we were ranked 3rd in the UK for research impact.