Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation MSc
City Campus, United Kingdom
Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation MSc
University of Bradford
Forensic Archaeology & Crime Scene Investigation
Program Overview: Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation MSc
The MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation at the University of Bradford focuses on the specialist application of archaeological techniques to the search and recovery of evidential material from crime scenes, often but not always related to buried human remains. This program is accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS) to meet quality standards for Postgraduate Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence, Crime Scene Investigation, and Forensic Archaeology.
The program is taught by staff with extensive crime scene experience who regularly work on active operations and are at the forefront of professional development in the discipline. It combines approaches from different disciplines to provide students with a comprehensive forensic skill set, ensuring that graduates understand their role within wider police investigations and have detailed knowledge of crime scene management procedures.
Forensic Archaeology in the United Kingdom is rapidly developing and is recognised as a distinct discipline by the Home Office Forensic Science Regulator. Bradford staff have been actively involved in defining skills matrices for use by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists as part of the process of professional regulation, placing this program at the centre of the field's development.
Key Program Highlights
- Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences (CSFS), providing a strong basis for professional practice in forensic archaeology and crime scene investigation.
- Taught by practitioners with extensive real-world crime scene experience who contribute to the professional development of the discipline.
- Includes employer engagement with police CSIs and specialists from Forensic Service Providers integrated into the teaching strategy.
- Students choose between a substantial individual research dissertation or participation in a simulated, complex, multi-scene investigation.
Curriculum & Modules
Due to the specialist nature of this program, all modules are core. The thematic modules are delivered through a combination of formal lectures, student-led intensive seminars and tutorials, and extensive practical instruction. Students can choose between the research dissertation route and the non-dissertation route featuring a simulated major investigation.
Introduction to Forensic Archaeology and Forensic Anthropology
Core ModuleThis module provides an introduction to the related disciplines of Forensic Archaeology (field-based search, excavation, and recovery) and Forensic Anthropology (laboratory-based documentation and evaluation of human skeletal elements).
Crime Scene Investigation
Core ModuleProvides a detailed introduction to crime scene processing, the role of Crime Scene Investigators in the seizure of physical evidence, and the integration of different forensic techniques from simple to complex crime scenes.
Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation
Core ModuleBuilds upon the practical and theory presented in the introductory modules, providing advanced skills in the application of archaeological principles and practice to simulated crime scenes, including interpreting and presenting evidence in written and oral form to the court.
Forensic Taphonomy
Core ModuleProvides a detailed understanding of the principles and practice relating to forensic taphonomy, including the degradation of human bodies and associated materials under a range of terrestrial and underwater environments.
Advanced Fieldwork Programme for CSI and Independent Research Papers
Core ModulePresents students with a simulated major enquiry based around either terrorism or organised crime, requiring the integration of archaeological and other crime scene investigative skills in a realistic operational setting.
Dissertation / Non-Dissertation Route
Core ModuleStudents choose between a substantial piece of individually supervised research involving all aspects from project design to synthesis, or participation in a simulated complex multi-scene investigation as a non-dissertation alternative.
Specialist Pathway Options
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation program should hold a relevant undergraduate degree from either the humanities or sciences. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through every step of the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate Degree2:2 (Lower Second Class Honours) or above in a relevant discipline
- Relevant DisciplinesArchaeology, Anthropology, Forensic Sciences, Law, or related fields from humanities or sciences
- North American ApplicantsMinimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Professional ExperienceOther relevant qualifications and past experience will also be considered
- International QualificationsSuccessful completion of a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised university
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.0 with no sub-test less than 5.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for accepted equivalent scores
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for accepted equivalent scores
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Bradford offers a range of scholarships and financial support options for both UK and international postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the funding opportunities best suited to your profile.
Global Scholar Award
Varies by nationality (tuition fee reduction)Available to all self-funding international fee-paying students, this scholarship is automatically applied upon enrolment based on nationality. It covers eligible full-time courses at the University of Bradford.
GREAT Scholarships
GBP 10,000Offered in partnership with the British Council for the 2025-26 academic year, these scholarships are available for full-time postgraduate taught master's programmes. Eligibility is based on nationality from selected countries.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates from this program have gone on to work in law enforcement (as both Police Officers and Scene of Crime/Scientific Support), forensic science, and commercial archaeology with enhanced skill sets. The CSFS accreditation provides a strong basis for working as a commercial forensic archaeologist or as a scene-of-crime support specialist in public service.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Bradford has been steadily climbing global and national rankings, recognised for its commitment to social inclusion, research impact, and employability outcomes. The university holds a Queen's Anniversary Prize for its world-leading work in archaeological technology and techniques.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology (Queen's Anniversary Prize) | Royal Anniversary Trust | National Recognition for Excellence |
| Forensic Sciences Accreditation | Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences | CSFS Accredited |
| Social Mobility Index | HEPI | #1 in England (2021-2024) |
| Social Inclusion | Daily Mail University Guide | University of the Year 2026 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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