University of Bradford
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology BSc (Hons)
University of Bradford

Key Course Facts

Course Description

This degree explores how archaeological techniques and the analysis of human remains are used in a forensic (medico-legal) context.

You will gain a full grounding in archaeological excavation, surveying and recording of crime scenes.

In addition, you will also learn about human anatomy and anthropological analysis of human remains, including age, sex, ancestry assessment and the analysis and interpretation of trauma.

Specialist modules will allow you to understand how scientific techniques are used to build up a biological profile of unidentified remains; processes of decomposition (and preservation) of human tissues and associated materials; trauma analysis; and forensic identification of living people.

You'll also gain an understanding of scientific principles and how data should be presented in a legal context.

Professional accreditation

This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK), and by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS).

Rankings

We are ranked 7th in the UK for Forensic Science in the Complete University Guide 2021.

The assessment strategy is designed to support the learning outcomes of the BSc Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology and to assess your knowledge and understanding of the three themes: forensic archaeology, forensic anthropology and interpretation and evaluation of physical evidence. A wide range of formative and summative assessment methods are used, including essays, worksheets, laboratory reports, reflective journals and examinations, to help you develop a wide range of subject specific, personal transferable and professional skills. Formal lectures will facilitate your acquisition of knowledge and understanding and discipline specific professional skills. Laboratory sessions run in conjunction with the theoretical components will give you the opportunity to enhance your understanding of particular topics . Field courses and simulated crime scenarios allow you to develop core scene-based skills.These will also help to develop professional skills personal transferable skills. Directed study, involving directed reading of appropriate texts and the preparation of assessed work, is used to develop all learning outcomes. The simulated crime scenes, field courses and laboratory work allow for the further development of all the learning outcomes and career development

Entry Requirements / Admissions

Qualification requirements

Scottish Higher qualifications are considered on an individual basis

Please note that where a science A-level is taken, the University will require applicants to pass the practical element (for A-levels awarded from August 2017 onwards).

The University welcomes applications from students with a wide range of qualifications from the UK and overseas, including combinations of qualifications. To check whether your qualifications meet the entry requirements for this course, please contact the University.

English Language requirements for International and EU applicants: The standard University requirement is IELTS 6.0 with no sub-test less than 5.0 (or equivalent). However, if you require a Tier 4 (student) visa to study you will need to meet the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department's requirement which is currently IELTS 6.0 with no sub-test less than 5.5. Conditional offers to international students will be made on this basis.

Requirements for international students / English requirements

IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)

    • 5.0
    • A-level Humanities
    • General Test
    • (no subscore less than 7.0)
    • 5.0
    • A-level Sciences
    • General Test
    • 4.5
    • Foundation / Pathway Courses
    • 5.0
    • Foundation Law
    • 6.0
    • Graduate Degrees
    • (no subscore less than 5.0)
    • 7.0
    • Graduate Degrees Education, Law
    • 6.0
    • Undergraduate Degrees
    • (no subscore less than 5.0)
    • 6.0
    • Undergraduate Degrees Law etc.
    • (no subscore less than 5.0)
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology, BSc (Hons), if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

Costs

Tuition Fees Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology BSc (Hons)

England UK £9250 year 1
Northern Ireland £9250 year 1
Scotland £9250 year 1
Wales £9250 year 1
Channel Islands £9250 year 1
Ireland £9250 year 1
EU £22180 year 1
International £22180 year 1

Average student cost of living in the UK

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

How to apply

Application deadline:

August 1, 2025

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Possible Entry Points:

  • year 1 (Default entry point)

UCAS application code:

F404

University Rankings

#56
University Guru Meta Ranking
of University of Bradford

among 379 universities in England UK
based on 29 different rankings

Positions of University of Bradford in top UK and global rankings.

See all 29 university rankings of University of Bradford

About University of Bradford

List of 168 Bachelor and Master Courses from University of Bradford - Course Catalogue

Student composition of University of Bradford

undergraduates:
7650
postgraduates:
2505
Total:
10155
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Where is this programme taught

Main Site
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FAQ about Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology BSc (Hons) University of Bradford

  • Tuition fees for this programme are 9250 per year for UK students. In addition to the tuition fees you should also take into consideration the average monthly cost of living for students in the UK.

  • Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology BSc (Hons) is taught on campus and cannot be taken online at University of Bradford.