Bournemouth University - BSc (Hons) Archaeological, Anthropological & Forensic Sciences

Bournemouth University

BSc (Hons) Archaeological, Anthropological & Forensic Sciences

This highly employable sciences degree bridges the gap between science and humanities, preparing you for a variety of exciting careers in archaeology, anthropology, forensic investigation, and other applied sciences. This highly employable sciences degree bridges the gap between science and humanities, preparing you for a variety of exciting careers in archaeology, anthropology, forensic investigation, and other applied sciences. Learn theoretical and practical skills in the human investigative sciences of crime scene investigation, archaeology and anthropology, and scientific problem-solving.
Attend BU's archaeological field school to fully participate in a large-scale excavation, where our students have discovered significant finds that have changed our perception of the past.
Create a strong portfolio of transferable skills and choose a combination of units of study in a second and third year based on your interests and career goals.

Course accreditation

This course is among the first to receive joint accreditation from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), the leading professional body representing archaeologists working in the UK and overseas, and the University Archaeology UK group (UAUK). It is also recognized by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Entry Requirements

  • GCSE English Language or English Literature and Mathematics grade 4 (or grade C in the old grading system). We also accept iGCSEs, Key Skills, Functional Skills, and other qualifications at Level 2 of the National Qualifications Framework.
  • 104–120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of two A-levels.
  • 102–118 UCAS tariff points with any combination of Distinction, Merit, And Pass grades.
  • IELTS (Academic) 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in either reading or writing and 5.5 in all other components, or equivalent.

Career Prospects

We have a worldwide reputation for producing highly skilled practitioners with excellent career opportunities. After fifteen months, 90% of our graduates are either working or studying. Archaeologists are in high demand, and the profession has been added to the government's list of skilled occupation shortages.

Our graduates go on to work in a wide range of positions, utilizing their transferrable skills in the positions and areas listed below:

  • Archaeologist
  • Commercial Heritage, museums, conservation trusts, and tourism
  • Data management and analysis
  • Education, higher education, research, and academia
  • Historical preservation
  • Commercial archaeology excavation and consultancy
  • Local government services, charities, social research and policy, health and social work, development,
  • Law, law enforcement, forensic science, scene of the crime, and police forces
  • Overseas agencies and international organizations

Course Details

This course will be taught by a variety of instructors with relevant expertise and knowledge to the unit's content. Senior academic staff, qualified professional practitioners, demonstrators, technicians, and research students will be among those involved. You will also benefit from industry guest lectures on a regular basis.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated through coursework, culminating in your final year research project, as well as group work and written exams. The assessment methods for each unit are detailed in your course's program specification.

Year 1

Core units:
Archaeological, Anthropological & Forensic Science Study Skills
Archaeological Practice
Chemistry
Introduction to Social Anthropology
Studying Ancient Materials
Introduction to Forensic Investigation

Year 2

Core units:
Archaeological Science
Crime Scene
Field & Research Skills
Forensic Science
Option units (choose two):
Environmental Archaeology
Becoming Human
Introduction to Toxicology

Final Year

Core units
Advanced Forensic Science
Archaeological Management
Independent Research Project
The Science of Human Remains
Option units (choose one)
Primate Behaviour Ecology
Sarup to Stonehenge: Neolithic & Chalcolithic NW Europe
Forensic Practice
Animals & Society
Roman Britain

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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