Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip
City Campus , United Kingdom
Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip
University of Dundee
Forensic Science
Program Overview: Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip
The Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Dundee introduces you to the combined disciplines of forensic archaeology and forensic anthropology. The program takes you from the search for buried evidence through to delivering evidence in court, covering the recovery and analysis of human remains for legal investigations.
You will learn how archaeological techniques contribute to forensic investigations, including the methods used for the search and recovery of human remains and the circumstances surrounding death. The program also covers the methods used to analyse skeletal remains for identification, combining theoretical principles with practical experience through real-world scenarios and mock scenes.
This program is designed for professionals who want to advance their skills without engaging in an extensive research project. You will have access to the university's large human adult and animal skeletal collections, and benefit from teaching delivered by forensic archaeologists and anthropologists with active casework experience.
Key Program Highlights
- Ranked 7th in the UK for Archaeology and Forensic Science by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
- Hands-on practical training including mock crime scene exercises and access to extensive skeletal collections
- Teaching delivered by forensic experts actively involved in real-world casework and humanitarian investigations
- Opportunity to defend conclusions in a mock trial scenario using the university's Moot Court facility
Curriculum and Modules
The Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip curriculum combines core modules in forensic archaeology, skeletal analysis, and legal evidence presentation. The program is assessed entirely through coursework, with no final exams, ensuring you develop practical and analytical skills applicable to real forensic investigations.
Forensic Archaeology: Principles and Theory
20 CreditsAn overview of the role of the forensic archaeologist, covering the use of archaeology in criminal and humanitarian investigations, from the location and recovery of human remains through to the court of law in the UK.
Osteology and Bone Identification
20 CreditsEquips you with the ability to identify bones, especially human bones, a vital skill for forensic anthropologists who often need to quickly identify found bones as part of their work with police investigations.
Taphonomy, Trauma and Skeletal Biomechanics
20 CreditsCovers the changes that happen to the human body after death, how to interpret these changes for death investigations, and the reactions of bone to stress from various sources including analysis of features left behind.
Expert Witness and Legal Context
20 CreditsCovers the ethical responsibilities of forensic specialists as expert witnesses, introducing the legal and procedural guidelines and case law relevant to expert evidence, as well as communicating forensic science to non-scientists.
Forensic Anthropology Methods
20 CreditsFocuses on methods and approaches used to analyse the skeleton for identification purposes, including understanding and interpreting human differences using the university's unique skeletal collections.
Search and Recovery Strategies
20 CreditsCovers the design of search and recovery strategies appropriate to specific scenarios, including the use of geophysical survey techniques, victim recovery dogs, and analysis of burial environments in different physical settings.
Elective and Specialist Options
Admission Requirements
The Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip at the University of Dundee welcomes applicants with relevant academic backgrounds. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and the application process tailored to your qualifications.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA good honours degree (typically 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as archaeology, anthropology, anatomy, biological sciences, or forensic science
- Relevant DisciplinesBackgrounds in archaeology, anthropology, anatomy, biological sciences, forensic science, or related fields are preferred
- Professional ExperienceRelevant professional experience may be considered for applicants who do not meet standard academic entry requirements
- International QualificationsInternational qualifications equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours degree are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for equivalency assessment
- Personal StatementA strong personal statement demonstrating interest in forensic archaeology and anthropology and relevant academic or professional experience
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.0 with no component below 5.5 (or equivalent)
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current accepted TOEFL scores
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current accepted PTE Academic scores
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Dundee offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for international postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the scholarships most relevant to your profile and country of origin.
Global Excellence Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 per yearAvailable to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and extracurricular achievements. Awarded as a partial tuition fee reduction for eligible postgraduate taught programs.
Vice-Chancellor's Regional Scholarships
Up to GBP 7,000 per yearRegion-specific scholarships available to international students from eligible countries across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. Automatically assessed based on your application details.
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 of the Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology PGDip are prepared for careers in forensic investigations, law enforcement support, humanitarian work, and academic research. The University of Dundee's strong connections with forensic practitioners and its practical teaching approach ensure graduates are equipped with immediately applicable professional skills.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers and Organisations
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Dundee is recognised nationally and internationally for its strength in forensic science, archaeology, and life sciences. The university has earned notable rankings across multiple league tables, reflecting its commitment to research excellence and teaching quality.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology and Forensic Science | The Times / Sunday Times Good University Guide | 7th in the UK |
| Biological Sciences Research | REF (Research Excellence Framework) | 1st in the UK |
| Dentistry | The Guardian University Guide | 1st in the UK |
| Overall Student Satisfaction (Scotland) | National Student Survey | 1st in 12 subjects |
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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