Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Entry requirements

Candidates are expected to have a minimum of a 2.1 degree or equivalent. You might have a UG degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Forensic or Crime Scene Science. However, students from a wide variety of backgrounds are admitted, including students with undergraduate degrees in Natural and Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geography, as well Classics and History.

IELTS 7.0 or above with no component below 6.5; TOEFL IBT (Internet Based Test) 102 or above (with no component below 25).

Months of entry

September

Course content

This exciting MSc will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue further research in forensic archaeology and anthropology, and/or find employment, either within a forensics-related profession or the graduate market more generally. This is an intensive, hands-on, practical course, which includes extensive analysis of human skeletal remains, mock court experience, excavation of ‘mass graves’, and knowledge of the legal and ethical issues associated with forensic contexts. This MSc is aimed at graduates from a variety of backgrounds, who seek knowledge, experience and skills in forensic archaeology and anthropology. The course is unique in the UK in terms of its strong international humanitarian focus, and the research excellence that is at its core. The course has been designed to fulfill the accreditation criteria of the Chartered Society of Forensic Science Component Standards and to align with the UN Sustainability Goals, in particular peace and justice.

Course structure

Core modules:

Term 1:

• Osteoprofiling
• Research Skills in Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Term 2:

• Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology: Theory and Practice

Examples of optional modules:

• Isotope and Biomolecular Archaeology
• Palaeopathology: Theory and Method

Term 3:

• Dissertation

Information for international students

If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.

Fees and funding

For further information see the course listing.