Archaeology and Forensics - Subjects - University of Bradford

This is for the inquisitive thinkers

Professional training in archaeology and forensics.

The University of Bradford uniquely integrates archaeology, archaeological sciences, biological anthropology and forensic sciences. This is reflected in three distinctive postgraduate programmes.

Whether you're going to use geophysics, drones, analytical chemistry, CT scanning or a vast array of scientific and humanities research approaches, or whether your interest is in the recent or distant past, we have a programme for you.

Queen's Anniversary Prize

In 2021, the University was honoured with a Queen's Anniversary Prize for outstanding archaeology for our work in developing archaeological technology and techniques.

As the highest form of national recognition that UK higher education institutions can achieve, you know you will be taught by world-leading experts in first-class facilities.

Benefits of Studying Postgraduate Archaeology

Professor Chris Gaffney, an archaeologist and Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, explains why you should study Postgraduate Archaeology at the University of Bradford.

Our hands-on Master's programmes give you the skills you need to prepare for research into the study of people, their society and their environments in the present and the past. You will develop the skills to pursue career opportunities in many areas of archaeology and forensics.

30% of graduates go onto PhD research, often building on their Master's dissertation projects.

Benefits of Studying Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation

Rob Janaway, the head of Forensic Programmes, explains why you should study Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation at the University of Bradford.

Our Master's programme focuses on developing practical skills in the field, taking you from the crime scene to the courtroom. MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation is accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Benefits of Studying Human Osteology and Palaeopathology

Dr. Jo Buckberry explains why you should study MSc Human Osteology and Palaeopathology at the University of Bradford.

Courses in Archaeology and Forensic Science

Archaeological Sciences MSc

Apply for Archaeological Sciences MSc at the University of Bradford.

Suitable for:

UK and International applicants

Attendance:

Full-time, Part-time
Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation MSc

Apply for Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation MSc at the University of Bradford.

Suitable for:

UK and International applicants

Attendance:

Full-time, Part-time
Human Bioarchaeology and Palaeopathology MSc

Apply for Human Bioarchaeology and Palaeopathology MSc at the University of Bradford.

Suitable for:

UK and International applicants

Attendance:

Full-time, Part-time

Careers

Postgraduate study can open up new possibilities and help accelerate your career.

Museums, laboratories, teaching, and law enforcement are just a small selection of the different areas in which Master's graduates can work. Many graduates choose to go on to further study with a PhD.

Other career options include:

MSc Archaeological Sciences	MSc Human Osteology and Palaeopathology	MSc Forensic Archaeology and Crime Scene Investigation
Scientific specialist in an archaeological company or museum	Commercial osteoarchaeologist	Police direct recruitment
Teacher in mainstream or museum education	Museum curator	Crime scene investigator
Quality tester	Medical writer	Field archaeologist with an enhanced skill set
Journalist	Lab technician	Roles in government organisations

Our facilities

We have recently revived over £6M investment in new facilities for archaeological and forensic sciences and so you will be able to use the latest equipment, including:

X-radiography, cone beam and micro CT to analyse human and artefactual remains
Isotope analysis to reconstruct diet, health and disease in the past
Ground penetrating radar and electrical resistance tomography for geophysical prospection
Mobile mapping, photogrammetry and drone capability to record sites
Augmented, virtual and mixed reality immersive spaces to present and analyse data

We also hold the largest teaching collection of human remains in a UK archaeology or forensics department and a full suite of simulated crime scenes.

Take a full tour of our facilities

Want to find out more?

Get answers to your questions about postgraduate study at Bradford:

Meet our postgraduate and graduate Archaeology and Forensics students

Our students choose to study a postgraduate Archaeology degree for a number of reasons.

Explore our students' stories to find out about their backgrounds, ambitions, and how they are finding the postgraduate experience at Bradford.

Postgraduate finance and funding

Postgraduate study is an investment in your future, and funding your degree has never been easier.

There are a range of options to help you cover the costs of studying, including loans and scholarships. Current and past University of Bradford students can also benefit from our Alumni Discount Scheme.

Find out more about financing your postgraduate studies: