Bournemouth University - MSc Bioarchaeology

Bournemouth University

MSc Bioarchaeology

The study of human and animal skeletal remains to learn about the lives of individuals and communities in the past in relation to their social, cultural, economic, palaeoenvironmental, and evolutionary contexts is known as bioarchaeology. Animal bones and human remains are among the most common finds in all archaeological excavations.
The archaeological profession is in need of more staff with osteoarchaeological training to help with site interpretation and understanding the human experience in the past, particularly their relationship with animals.
Within the context of bioarchaeology, select one of two specialist pathways.

MSc Bioarchaeology (Anthropology) - allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the human past and is ideal if you want to pursue doctoral-level research on human evolution.
MSc Bioarchaeology (Osteoarchaeology) - enables you to conduct more advanced research on non-human faunal remains. The course includes hands-on experience with the methods and techniques used for recording and analyzing osteological remains.

We hold one of the largest human remains collections among UK universities

MSc Bioarchaeology (Anthropology) - allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the human past and is ideal if you want to pursue doctoral-level research on human evolution.
MSc Bioarchaeology (Osteoarchaeology) enables you to conduct more advanced research on non-human faunal remains. The course includes hands-on experience with the methods and techniques used for recording and analyzing osteological remains.

Entry Requirements

  • A Bachelors Honours degree with 2:1 in a required subject.

  • If English is not your first language you'll need IELTS 6.5 (Academic) with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.

Career Prospects

Forensic archaeology is a growing international discipline. You will join other BU graduates who are some of the most experienced forensic archaeologists in the field once you complete the course.
This will broaden your career options, and you could end up working anywhere in the world examining crime scenes, mass graves, and disasters, as well as educating other researchers in new forensic science approaches.
Archaeologists are in high demand, and the profession has been added to the government's list of skilled occupation shortages.

Course Details

Year One

Core units
Principles & Methods in Human Osteology
Principles & Methods in Zooarchaeology
Archaeology of Human Remains
Research Project

Specialist unit - Anthropology pathway

Primate & Human Evolution: This unit will focus on the global record of primate evolution from the earliest beginnings of the fossil record starting 65 million years ago considering theories around primate and human evolution in light of behavioural, climatic and ecological changes. You’ll investigate many lines of evidence including fossils, geochronology, palaeoenvironmental change and ancient DNA, as well as a diverse range of modern primatology studies and their relevance for understanding human evolution.

Specialist unit - Osteoarchaeology pathway

Applications of Zooarchaeological Science: On this unit you’ll develop advanced faunal identification skills and a firm foundation in the identification and interpretation of skeletal remains from a diverse range of taxa, including: large mammals; small mammals; amphibians and reptiles; birds; and fish. You’ll also explore case studies to promote your understanding of the potential applications of zooarchaeological science in order to investigate past human societies.

*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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