University of Bradford:
Undergraduate Programme specification
UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
School of Life Sciences
School of Archaeological Sciences
Programme titles: Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology with Professional
Placement
Awarding and teaching
institution:
University of Bradford
Final and interim awards:
BSc (Hons) [Framework for Higher Education
Qualifications level 6]
Diploma of Higher Education [ Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications Level 5]
Certificate of Higher Education [ Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications Level 4]
Programme titles:
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology with
Professional Placement
Programme approved /
accredited by:
To be submitted to the Forensic Science Society
for accreditation
Duration:
3 or 4 years full-time; 6 years part-time
UCAS code:
F404 (3 years); F405 (4 years)
Subject benchmark
statement:
Forensic Science Society component standards
for forensic archaeology, forensic anthropology
and IEPE.
FHEQ Levels
4, 5 and 6
Date produced:
May 2013
Last updated :
January 2014
Introduction
BSc Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology focuses on the locating and recording
of crime scenes, the excavation of buried remains and the analysis of materials
recovered. It emphasises the application of science and the importance of quality
assurance procedures in a forensic setting. A characteristic of Bradford's approach is
in the integration of practical skills training within a good theoretical framework –
whether in terms of crime scene investigation, the collection, examination and
© University of Bradford
1
interpretation of physical evidence, excavation of buried remains, understanding
taphonomic processes and the analysis of human remains and other recovered
artefacts. This programme of study provides the student with a sound knowledge of
how scientific techniques can be used within forensic investigations, and allows
students to explore a challenging area of applied science. The programme will
develop you into a professional with the scientific skills to work within areas such as
crime scene investigation and related areas. BSc Forensic Archaeology and
Anthropology teaching is strongly research led with staff who both practice and
publish in forensic and archaeological arenas.
Archaeological Sciences has an excellent research profile, which supports our
teaching in all areas. Throughout the programme, you will acquire skills that will be
useful in whatever profession you choose to follow. These include project and time
management, critical review and analytical thinking, presentational skills, computer
and other applied IT skills and the management of data. These will be taught,
practised and assessed.
A large proportion of modules include the recording and analysis of materials from a
variety of simulated crime scenes, making use of the Crime Scene House and the
Oxenhope Taphonomy Field Station. Archaeological excavation skills are taught
during fieldwork over the summer between Levels 1 and 2.
Three years or four years?
You may undertake a placement between stages two and three. It is quite clear that
students who do undertake a placement not only improve their chances of
employment, but also tend to improve their academic performance. Your degree title
will reflect the successful completion of the placement.
When you have completed the placement, you will have acquired the following:


Professional Skills, according to the specific programme of training,
including excavation/fieldwork; forensic taphonomy; forensic anthropology;
biometrics and human identification; forensic examination and the
investigation, interpretation and presentation of physical evidence.
Personal Transferable Skills, including further development of
communication, problem-solving, administrative and IT skills; time
management; the ability to work independently; self-motivation; adaptability;
team working.
Programme Aims
The programme is intended to:

deliver a varied and exciting programme of study in Forensic Archaeology
and Anthropology, that meets rigorous benchmarking standards developed
by the Forensic Science Society and which reflects areas of staff
expertise, for example in forensic anthropology and crime scene
investigation;
© University of Bradford
2




encourage the development of independent learning skills, by providing a
supportive, structured environment;
develop wide subject knowledge and understanding, and provide training
in discipline skills to enable graduates to pursue further programmes of
study or careers in forensic anthropology, crime scene investigation or
related practice;
develop personal transferable skills to enable a significant proportion of
graduates to pursue further programmes of study or careers in noncognate fields;
provide educational opportunities for mature and alternatively qualified
students, as well as for school-leavers and traditionally qualified students.
Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have completed the programme you will be able to:
LO1: Discuss human variation in the context of evolutionary change.
LO2: Describe archaeological methods of excavation and surveying.
LO3: Discuss methods of forensic enquiry and the importance of rigorous scientific
process.
LO4: Assess methods of scientific investigation in a forensic context.
LO5: Analyse methods of human identification and other biological materials found in
forensic contexts.
LO6: Assess and apply forensic and archaeological methods.
LO7: Evaluate methods of human identification and trauma analysis.
LO8: Synthesise the process of decomposition of a variety of materials in a forensic
context.
LO9: Evaluate forensic recording protocols and defend a witness statement.
LO10: Plan and undertake a substantial piece of independent research.
LO11: Examine a variety of physical evidence.
LO12: Employ appropriate numerical and statistical techniques, scientific formulae
and calculations.
LO13: Appreciate the importance, function and practice of quality assurance.
LO14: Undertake critical thinking and data evaluation.
LO15: Present written and oral evidence in a professional manner.
© University of Bradford
3
LO16: Manage time and learning effectively.
Curriculum
BSc Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology encompasses three key themes:
forensic archaeology, forensic anthropology and interpretation and evaluation of
physical evidence. Each theme is addressed via one or more modules at each stage
of the degree, some modules bridge the gap between themes (e.g. Forensic
Archaeology and Interpretation and Presentation of Forensic Evidence for Forensic
Science at Stage 3). The range of topics within each theme and the depth of analysis
required increases with each stage.
Stage 1 (FHEQ level 4)
Module
Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Period of
study
AR-1006D
Archaeological Theory and
Method
Core
20
4
1
AR-1111D
Introduction to Biological
Anthropology
Core
20
4
1
AR-1112L
Scientific Frameworks for
Forensic Archaeologists and
Anthropologists
Core
20
4
1&2
CT-1009L
Principles of Forensic and Crime
Scene Investigation
Core
20
4
1&2
AR-2007D
Humans Past and Present
Core
20
4
2
AR-2307D
Field Recording Methods
Core
20
4
2
Stage 1 introduces the major strands of the degree programme. The first major
strand is Principles of Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation which runs in both
semesters and introduces you to fundamental practices involving the collection,
handling and processing of physical evidence from the crime scene to the laboratory
(LO3). Practical crime scene work is undertaken in the University’s Crime Scene
House. Archaeological Method and Theory introduces methods of archaeological
investigation, stratigraphy and recording and develops key skills including
differentiating modern from archaeological deposits (LO2). The archaeological
method theme is continued with Field Recording Techniques, which develops
landscape observation and surveying skills in particular (LO2). Introduction to
Biological anthropology introduces the human skeleton and its evolution, leading up
to a discussion of modern population variation (LO1). Anthropological themes are
continued in Humans Past and Present, which incorporates social, physical
anthropology and archaeology (LO1). Scientific Frameworks for Forensic
Archaeologists and Anthropologists introduces scientific theory and approaches, and
how this can be applied in a variety of scenarios, including a forensic setting (LO3).
In stage 1 you will develop knowledge and understanding of forensic principles,
archaeological skills and human anatomy and variation. By the end of stage 1 you
© University of Bradford
4
will be able to appreciate the breadth and range of the discipline, will have gained a
broad understanding of the principles of archaeological theory and practice, an
understanding of human anatomy and variation, and an appreciation of the use of
scientific methods in forensic enquiry.
Students who have achieved the regulatory credit points at Level 4 and have
achieved learning outcomes 1-3, 11-12 and, operating only within a context that has
been defined for you, learning outcomes 14-16, may exit the programme and are
eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education.
Stage 2 (FHEQ level 5)
Module
Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
AR-3010D
Archaeology Field Course
Core
20
5
VAC
CT-2015L
Forensic Examination and
Analysis of Physical Evidence
Core
20
5
1&2
AR-3509D
Biometrics and Human
Identification
Core
20
5
1
AR-3507D
Laboratory Science
Optional
20
5
1
NEW
CODE
Forensic Biology
Core
20
5
2
AR-4201D
Instrumental Analysis
Optional
20
5
2
Relevant elective module
Elective
20
5
In stage 2 the modules Laboratory Science and Instrumental Analysis develop the
scientific principles and practice that are intrinsic to this programme (LO4). Forensic
examination and analysis of physical evidence introduces you to the work of the
forensic laboratory (LO2&4). Biometrics and Human Identification and Forensic
Biology develop key anthropological skills (LO5), and Forensic Biology also
introduces you to the identification of animal bones, pollen analysis and entomology
(LO5). Stage 2 also develops your key archaeological skills (Archaeology Field
Course; LO2).
By the end of stage 2 you will be able to assess current themes, issues and
approaches in forensic archaeology and anthropology and will have gained an
appreciation of relevant laboratory techniques (preparing you for the optional
Placement Year). Within the second semester you receive specialist input from
external lecturers on aspects relevant to major crime. You will have developed skills
in archaeological fieldwork and forensic anthropology as well as a range of
transferable skills (e.g. in data gathering and evaluation).
Students who have achieved the regulatory credit points at Levels 4 and 5 and have
achieved learning outcomes 1-6 and 11-13 and, operating both within and beyond a
context that has been defined for you, learning outcomes 14-16, may exit the
programme and are eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education.
© University of Bradford
5
Stage 3 (FHEQ level 6)
Module
Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
CT-3039L
Interpretation and Presentation
of Forensic Evidence for
Forensic Science
Core
20
6
1&2
AR-8128D
Forensic Archaeology
Core
20
6
1
NEW
Forensic Anthropology
Core
20
6
1
NEW
Advanced Methods in Forensic
Anthropology
Optional
20
6
1&2
NEW CODE
Forensic Taphonomy
Core
20
6
2
NEW CODE
Forensic Research Project
Core
20
6
2
Relevant Elective module
Elective
20
6
Stage 3 develops your systematic understanding of forensic archaeology (LO9),
anthropology (LO7) and taphonomy (LO8) via the key modules Forensic
Archaeology, Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Taphonomy and the optional
module Advanced Methods in Forensic Anthropology. The Interpretation and
Presentation of Forensic Evidence provides you with a complex case to investigate
and write an expert witness statement based on your examination of the forensic
evidence (LO9), developing your professional skills. Stage 3 also provides the
opportunity for you to develop and refine your analytical and research skills in a
piece of guided research (Forensic Research Project; LO10).
By the end of stage 3 you will be able to evaluate research in your field, and further
refine your conceptual understanding of forensic evidence and the reliability of
different methods of analysis. You will have obtained enhanced practical skills based
on the variety of laboratory-based modules and simulated crime scenes, as well as a
range of transferable skills. Your forensic training culminates in your appearance as
expert witness under cross-examination within a mock court setting (LO15).
Students who have achieved the regulatory credit points at Levels 4 to 6 and have
achieved learning outcomes 1-13 and operating in a context that is, in part, at the
forefront of the discipline, learning outcomes 14-16, are eligible for the award of BSc
(Hons)
Students who have not met the credit requirements for an Honours degree but have
achieved the regulatory credit requirements for the award of an Ordinary degree and
have met learning outcomes 1-9 and 11-16 are eligible for the award of an Ordinary
degree.
Students who have additionally successfully undertaken placement study are eligible
to be awarded the degree entitled Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology with
Professional Placement.
The QAA benchmarking statements for Forensic Science, Archaeology and
Anthropology are not an ideal match for the purposes of this degree, as that for
Forensic Science goes beyond the remit of Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology,
© University of Bradford
6
whereas those for Archaeology and Anthropology are not appropriate for a forensic
setting. Instead the curriculum benchmarks to the most appropriate specialist
component standards of the Forensic Science Society for Forensic Archaeology,
Forensic Anthropology and Interpretation and Evaluation of Physical Evidence.
Limited optionality allows you to take elective modules to enhance employability.
More detail, including learning outcomes, is available for each unit in the individual
module descriptors. The curriculum may change, subject to the University's
programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies
The teaching and learning strategy takes into consideration the learning outcomes,
progression through the levels of study, the nature of the subject and the student
intake, and the need for you to take greater responsibility for your own learning as
you progress through the programme.
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 (LO 110) and discipline specific professional skills (LO 11-13). Laboratory sessions run in
conjunction with the theoretical components will give you the opportunity to enhance
your understanding of particular topics (LO 1-12). Field courses and simulated crime
scenarios allow you to develop core scene-based skills (LO 2, 6, 9).These will also
help to develop professional skills (LO 11-13) personal transferable skills (LO 14-16).
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.
The assessment strategy is designed to allow you to demonstrate achievement of
the learning outcomes of an individual module appropriate to your level of study and
the learning outcomes of the programme. At Stage 1, you will be examined,
primarily, on the breadth of knowledge using a mixture of examination formats
including MCQ and short answer examinations, and laboratory tests (LO1-3). Essays
and journal critiques allow to you explore the key themes of the degree and develop
your critical awareness and writing skills (LO1-3). A formative essay plan allows you
to develop you essay writing skills (LO15). The field notebook, field report and
reflective journal help develop your field recording skills, self awareness and your
appreciation of key quality assurance skills required in a forensic setting and how
these conflict with sustainability issues (LO2, 3, 11 & 12). An expert witness report
helps develop professional presentation skills (LO15). Group presentations and
posters allow you to develop team working and presentation skills.
© University of Bradford
7
At Stage 2, examinations assess understanding and knowledge of the key subjects
via short answer questions and essays (LO4-6). Essays and other coursework allow
you to analyse and assess aspects all three themes of the degree (LO4-6). Practical
portfolios and laboratory reports allow you to develop your practical skills and
present methods and results in a professional manner (LO4, 5 & 15). The reflective
journal encourages you to document your archaeological skills and reflect on quality
assurance in recording methods (LO6 & 13).
At Stage 3, essays, the journal critique and essay-based examinations provide a
format to critically evaluate the key themes of the degree (LO7-10, 14). Practical
portfolios and worksheets allow you to demonstrate your understanding of forensic
anthropology and archaeological stratigraphy (LO7& 9). The research design and
dissertation develop your ability to undertake independent research and plan this
research effectively (LO10). Presentations, the witness statement and the mock
court exercise develop your professional oral and written presentation skills (LO15).
Personal transferable skills and critical thinking are embedded across the curriculum.
Assessment Regulations
This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations which
are available at the following link:
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/
Admission Requirements
The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their
previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of
each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our
assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability
to succeed on this particular programme. Entrance requirements for the BSc
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology are 280 points (260 points with evidence of
archaeological experience). To include one science A level, or the equivalent. Two
science subjects are preferred. GCSE English, Maths and a science minimum grade
C. Consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal
academic qualifications and other relevant experience.
If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be
equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this
learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained
within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry
qualifications.
The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled
students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are
applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact
the programme leader before you apply.
© University of Bradford
8
A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS main scheme would be
280 points (BBC). Applications are welcome from mature students (those over 21
years of age on entry) and from candidates with non-standard qualifications (eg
Science Foundation Course, BTEC, a 12 unit VCE Double award in science, Scottish
Higher or Irish Leaving Certificate, International Baccalaureate, GNVQ or Access
qualifications in science) or, lacking academic qualifications, having significant
relevant experience. On completion of an UCAS form you will be invited to the
School for an Open Day when you will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the
facilities and discuss “the Bradford experience” with current students.
Up to 40 students are admitted to Stage 1 each year.
Learning Resources
The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist library in the School of
Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support
your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group
study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students.
Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance
in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise
your references properly.
Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus.
Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to
access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our journals are available online
(both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account,
personal information and programme-related materials this way.
Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7
IT helpline available.
The student handbook (available to students via BlackBoard) lists specific resources
useful to our students, including a list of electronic resources produced by the
Subject Librarian.
Applied Sciences is well equipped with teaching and research laboratories for the
specialisms covered in the programme and students use these facilities in modules
and in dissertation research. Specialised laboratories include: the Biological
Anthropology Research Centre (BARC) with three dedicated osteology laboratories
and over 4,000 skeletons; Taphonomy lab; Oxenhope Field Station; Forensic
Examination lab; Crime Scene House Geophysics Laboratory; Radiography suite;
Archaeobotany and archaeozoology research collections, and Bradford’s state-ofthe-art University Analytical Centre which houses the major analytical instruments of
the University. An excellent stock of field equipment is available for use by students,
including equipment for geophysical and topographic survey (both conventional and
electronic).
Student Support and Guidance
© University of Bradford
9
Programme Team
Support for you personally and in your programme of study will be provided both by
the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who
is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal
concerns. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel
comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive
series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your
programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.
The University and the Division have a well-deserved reputation in this area. You will
be allocated a personal tutor, but in practice all members of staff operate an opendoor policy. Personal tutors and dissertation supervisors also provide guidance for
your personal development planning. If you opt for a placement you will be visited by
your personal tutor and supported by the Placements Tutor and Placements
Secretary.
Students’ Union
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’
Union, through a system of programme representatives and formal staff student
liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.
The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide
confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect
of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services
(based in the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues
such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students
can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s
Union.
Employability and Career Development
The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability
and this is an integral part of this programme. Specialist support is available
throughout the programme from Career Development Services including help to find
part time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies.
Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the
extensive resources on the web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk
Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring
options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of programmes there is direct input
by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged
workshops. These may take place as early as year 1, or may be achieved through a
customised Career and Personal Development module in year 2 or 3 which is
developed in close cooperation with the academic department. An annual First
Destination Survey leads to compilation of a report on the outcomes of all
© University of Bradford
10
programmes and to the development of an annually updated Traffic Light Analysis of
Employability which is used as a performance indicator.
For this programme specifically, we provide tailored careers advice through our
Personal Tutor system. This begins early, and may be a consideration in the
selection of placement opportunities should you decide to take the 4 year route. The
placement itself provides an excellent introduction to the careers market in crime
scene investigation, forensic anthropology and forensic archaeology and equips
students extremely well for employment in the sector. For all students, our
investment in fieldwork, and our dedicated ‘hands-on’ approach to teaching has
ensured that Bradford graduates have long been seen as extremely well-grounded in
the skills and knowledge that employers look for.
Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills Advice
For undergraduate students who are looking to improve their marks during their time
at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree
discipline or level of study. Students can access a programme of interactive
workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to
our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide
range of online and paper based materials for self-study.
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/learner-development/
Disability
Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are
committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to
everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to
help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can
discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether
these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact
the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email:
disabilities@bradford.ac.uk
University policies and initiatives
Learning and Teaching
Our University approach to learning, teaching and assessment is encapsulated by an
integrated set of themes and principles within our Curriculum Framework. All of our
degree programmes have been designed to provide you with an inclusive and
engaging learning environment which gives you the opportunity to thrive and develop
in your area of study. Our research-informed programmes have a particular focus on
developing your employability. We also place a strong emphasis on collaborative,
real-world and enquiry-based learning, supported by appropriate learning
technologies. Our assessment is designed not just to measure your achievement,
but also to shape and guide your learning through preparing you for the increasing
level of challenge as you progress through your degree. Together, these lead to you
developing a distinctive set of graduate attributes which will prepare you for life
beyond university.
© University of Bradford
11
Ecoversity
Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles
of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching,
research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not
claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading
University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including
teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our
commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this
initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a
clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development,
delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity
The University of Bradford and the School of Life Sciences are committed to the
principles of Education for Sustainable Development as outlined in the UNESCO
definition (see http://info.brad.ac.uk/admin/ecoversity/what-sustainability.php ). The
programme provides opportunities both to explore the sustainable development
challenge (particularly through reflection on the time depth of human interactions
with landscape, ecosystems and resources) and to develop a responsible
professionalism. Within appropriate forensic science modules such as CT-1009L,
CT-2015L and CT3039L we explore the twin, and often conflicting requirements of
the integrity of evidence required by the criminal justice system and the
environmental needs to reduce packaging and paper use. The teaching of material
degradation in the Taphonomy module has direct relevance to consideration of
biological turnover of waste in landfill and other depositional environments.
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact
Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
Admissions Secretary
School of Life Sciences Admissions
Room H36, Richmond Building
University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford
BD7 1DP
Tel: 01274 235692
Fax: 01274 309742
Email: archsci-admissions@bradford.ac.uk
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's
regulations and programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
© University of Bradford
12