Enter the fascinating world of forensics, and learn how the deceased are located, recovered and analysed using DNA and pathology.
- Duration6 weeks
- Weekly study3 hours
- LearnFree
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
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)
When would you like to start?
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What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...
Who is the course for?
This course is suitable for anyone intrigued by forensic archaeology and anthropology.
The course is specifically designed for forensic, crime scene, and police practitioners who require training in anthropological and archaeological techniques. It has been co-developed with the International Committee of the Red Cross, an organisation that undertakes humanitarian forensic action around the world.
It will be useful for undergraduate forensics students or those interested in studying forensic archaeology and anthropology at university.
It may also be useful to those working in legal and human rights contexts who require an understanding of forensic methods.
Who will you learn with?
Rebecca Gowland
I am a bioarchaeologist at Durham University, teaching and researching human skeletal remains. I also train national and international forensic practitioners in archaeology and anthropology.
Tim Thompson
I am a Professor and Associate Dean at Teesside University. I work in the area of forensic anthropology where I teach practitioners, research new forensic methods, and undertake case and advisory work
Who developed the course?
Durham University
Durham University is a collegiate university with long traditions and modern values, proud to be an international scholarly community which reflects the ambitions of cultures from around the world.
Teesside University
Teesside University generates and applies knowledge that contributes to the economic, social and cultural success of students, partners and the communities we serve. Through education enriched by research, innovation, and engagement with business and the professions, we transform lives and economies.
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