MSc Bioarchaeology

Bioarchaeology covers the investigation of human and animal skeletal remains to understand the lives of individuals and communities in the past, in relation to their social, cultural, economic, paleoenvironmental and evolutionary contexts. The subject links both science and humanities within archaeology and anthropology.

Animal bones and human remains are amongst the most common finds on archaeological excavations of all periods. The archaeological profession has an established and increasing need for staff with osteoarchaeological training, to assist in the interpretation of archaeological sites and understanding the human experience in the past, particularly their relationship with animals.

Our facilities are first class with cutting-edge equipment. We have an incredible collection of human skeletal remains, comprising more than 700 specimens. This is one of the largest such collections to be held by any UK university. Our zooarchaeology collection contains over 500 known reference skeletons of mammals, birds, fish and reptiles, including everything you need from cows and wild boar to mice and frogs. We also have a wealth of archaeological animal remains to support your learning and research. We offer two specialist pathways within the overall context of bioarchaeology:

• MSc Bioarchaeology (Anthropology)
• MSc Bioarchaeology (Osteoarchaeology)

Anthropology

The anthropology pathway is set within the wider context and perspective of archaeological studies, with options to explore evolutionary and palaeoenvironmental themes.

This pathway provides opportunities to understand the deeper human past and is ideal if you intend to pursue doctoral level study of human evolution.

Osteoarchaeology

The osteoarchaeology pathway gives you the opportunity to engage in more advanced study of non-human faunal remains. Practical experience of the methods and techniques used for recording and analysing osteological remains is imperative and therefore embedded throughout the course.

This pathway is suited to graduates from a number of fields as well as practising archaeologists looking to expand their knowledge. It provides an excellent foundation if you want to pursue a career as a specialist osteoarchaeological practitioner, researcher or as an academic within the archaeological profession.

Careers

Forensic archaeology is an expanding international field. Upon completion of the course you will join other BU graduates who are acknowledged as some of the most experienced forensic archaeologists in the field.

This will open up a wide range of career prospects for you, and you could end up work anywhere in the world examining crime scenes, mass graves & disasters and educating other researchers in new forensic science approaches.