MRes Forensic Anthropology & Bioarchaeology

Program Overview

The MRes in Forensic Anthropology and Bioarchaeology trains students to search for, recover, and identify human remains. Graduates develop skills in handling skeletal material, scientific analysis, and research methods, preparing them for careers in forensic anthropology, commercial archaeology, academia, and research. The program offers flexible study modes, with a blend of online and in-person learning, including practical workshops and placements.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MRes Forensic Anthropology & Bioarchaeology program is designed for graduates seeking a Master of Research degree focused on the search, recovery, and identification of human remains, as well as the factors influencing these aspects. The program equips graduates with the skills and subject-specific knowledge necessary for research-based careers in academia, or fieldwork careers in commercial or forensic archaeology & anthropology.

Objectives:

• Develop systematic knowledge of forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology.
• Receive training in handling skeletal remains from diverse and contemporary contexts.
• Build transferable skills for career progression and potential for doctoral study.

Outline:

Structure and Content:

• The program is offered in full-time and part-time modes of attendance with a blended approach of online delivery and scheduled attendance.
• Students attend university during specified block delivery weeks for modules requiring practical work or face-to-face sessions.
• In-person modules include:
• Advanced Research Skills
• Forensic Analytical Chemistry
• Human Osteology
• Students attend the university for two or three days of a specified week for each module when studying either full or part-time, in addition to studying in their own time.

Modules:

• Advanced Research Skills: Focuses on developing research ideas, undertaking a literature review, and planning a research study.
This module develops the skillset and subject knowledge of the students so that research work can be effectively undertaken.
• Human Osteology: Covers a detailed understanding of human remains and skeletal material in a casework and research environment, showing students the key concepts and techniques used for developing biological profiles and their applications in cases of crime, mass disaster, and other casualties.
• Negotiated Learning: Students can negotiate a tailored learning and research plan with their tutors for their personal and professional development, and to focus in more depth on a particular subject of their own expertise.
• Professional Practice & Placement: Students have the opportunity to undertake a 100-hour work placement in a scientific role of their interest, and to learn more about the codes of conduct and accreditations and certifications associated with it.
• Dissertation: Pilot Study: Students will begin their primary research on a small scale, expanding their knowledge of the appropriate practical research methods, and exploring the potential challenges and limitations they may face in the early stages of their final research project.
• Dissertation: Research Project: Students will undertake an advanced research project, putting in to practice their knowledge and understanding of the subject, and demonstrating the practical, intellectual, and transferable skills they have developed throughout the programme.

Assessment:

• A range of summative assessment strategies are used, including:
• Formal examinations
• Portfolios
• Reports
• Poster presentations
• Oral presentations
• Research and learning logs
• These assessments reflect workplace requirements and developing technologies where appropriate.
• Formative assessments are provided, particularly during the practical and self-study elements of the program, to ensure that students can keep track of their progress and development.

Teaching:

• Methods:
• Blended learning, encompassing both online and classroom-based delivery, guest talks, tutorials, and laboratory workshops.
• Each module takes the form of a learning package consisting of online resources (accessed via Moodle), tutorial support meetings, and, where appropriate, practical workshops.
• Students complete 100 hours of work placement in an appropriate industry.
• Faculty:
• Students will be taught by experienced academics and professionals in the field of forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology.
• Unique Approaches:
• The program encourages students to engage in placements which support the Welsh language where available and appropriate.

Careers:

• Graduates could go on to work in:
• Forensic Anthropology
• Bioarchaeology
• Human Osteology
• Forensic & Crime Scene Science
• Commercial Archaeology
• Humanitarian Work
• Museums & Heritage
• Research Scientist
• Laboratory Technician
• Education
• PhD Study

Other:

• The program is informed by, and contributes to, broader academic debates about the methods, approaches, and practices within the Archaeological and Forensic Science Sector.
• Students may be required to obtain a relevant DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check depending on the placement or research project.
• The university will pay for any DBS checks required to complete the program of study.
• Students who currently study the PGDip in Forensic Anthropology & Bioarchaeology at the Cyprus Institute of Science and Humanities are eligible to apply for the MRes Top-Up through advanced standing.