Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology

Ever wondered how skeletal remains are found and identified? This free online course gives a fascinating insight into the work and world of forensics scientists.

Duration

6 weeks

Weekly study

3 hours

100% online

How it works

Unlimited subscription

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Learn the science behind the exhumation and identification of skeletal remains

The location, exhumation and identification of the dead requires highly specialised expertise. On this course, you’ll learn the latest scientific techniques for body location, recovery and analysis.

Through a series of real-life case studies, video lab sessions, interactive 3D models, photographs and podcasts, you’ll explore key forensic techniques.

You’ll learn how to locate gravesites, excavate human remains, and determine factors like sex and age-at-death from the skeleton. You will also understand how to identify pathology on the skeleton, and be introduced to DNA analysis.

What topics will you cover?

  • Body location and recovery in forensic contexts
  • Osteoprofiling (skeletal analysis of sex, age-at-death, stature)
  • Identification of pathology and trauma
  • Latest developments in biomolecular techniques
  • Taphonomic processes (decomposition and commingling of human remains)
  • Forensic case studies (e.g. post-conflict regions, mass disasters)

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