This module will examine the role of the forensic archaeologist, both within UK criminal investigations and international mass death scenarios. The fundamental principles of search, recovery and post-recovery analysis will be explored and the various scenarios in which forensic archaeologists can become involved in investigations centred around buried or concealed remains will be discussed. Students will be introduced to the various methods that can be employed by forensic archaeologists at crime scenes, such as intelligence gathering, remote sensing, geophysical survey and excavation. Case studies involving the search for, and recovery of, human remains, drugs, weapons and other clandestinely buried items will be presented, whilst specific sessions focusing on the logistical and environment factors that may hinder these investigations will be delivered. Sessions discussing the variety of trace evidence and samples that can be taken from a grave and their evidential value will allow the students to consider the methods introduced to them in other modules, such as Introduction to Forensic Science and Science For Justice, in the context of the burial environment. Practical sessions in geophysics and excavation will complement the taught components and provide the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of the methods discussed. Lectures by specialist practitioners regularly involved in case work will offer a `real-world' perspective. Additionally, students will be expected to critique specialist reports in order providing an opportunity to understand up-to-date developments within the discipline, and as enhance their research and analytical skills.

This module will be assessed by a portfolio (40% and 60%) based on a case study scenario split into two separate sections over two semesters.
1) A desk-based portfolio based upon the various methods of intelligence gathering and remote gathering [LO 1,2,3]
2) A practical portfolio in which students will report on exercises undertaken in both the geophysical, visual search and excavation method practicals [LO 2, 3, 4]


Additional Assessment Details
Criteria for assessing the summative work will be provided in the module handbook and via in-class discussions

Students will be provided with formative work and feedback during in-class exercises throughout the two semesters.

In this module you will learn via a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical exercises, allowing you to gain in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge of the role of the forensic archaeologist both within UK criminal investigations and international mass death scenarios.

20 hours made up of tutor-led lecture and seminars. These introduce the students to theoretic concepts of forensic archaeology, relevant case studies and present opportunity for discussion and in class activities.

6 hours of practicals related to excavation and crime scene recording also geophysical and visual search methods.

Tutors will provide supporting materials and formative and summative assessments to help you. Discussion and debate will be encouraged, and a number of different media types will be used throughout the course to allow you to engage with the subject matter. Self-directed study also makes up an important part of the module that will enable you to become a more independent learner and help prepare you for Level 6, postgraduate study and future employment.

1. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the role of the forensic archaeologist at UK crime scenes and during international mass death investigation.

Communication, Knowledge and Understanding

2. Display knowledge of the variety of methods that can be employed during forensic archaeological investigations, and their capabilities and limitations.

Knowledge and Understanding, Learning

3. Apply the knowledge gained about the archaeological methods to practical scenarios in geophysics and excavation.

Application, Enquiry

4. Understand the variety of transferable skills that can be employed, both from and to the wider discipline of forensic investigation.

Analysis, Reflection

Student Handbook

Supplied course packs of readings; ebooks and e-journals, relevant websites.
PC and Projector
Blackboard VLE
Computer with internet access; students’ own textbooks

Access to the garden of Crime Scene House (practical aspects)

Hunter, J. and Cox, M. 2005. Forensic Archaeology: Advances in Theory and Practice. Routledge

Blau, S. and Ubelaker, D. 2010. Handbook of Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology. World Archaeology Congress

Killam, E. 2004. The Detection of Human Remains. Charles C Thomas

Barone, Pier Matteo, Groen, W. J. Mike (eds.) 2018. Multidisciplinary Approaches to Forensic Archaeology. New York: Springer.

Morewitz, S. and Sturdy Colls, C. 2016. Handbook on Missing Persons. New York: Springer.

This module will examine the role of the forensic archaeologist, both within UK criminal investigations and international mass death scenarios. The fundamental principles of search, recovery and post-recovery analysis will be explored and the various scenarios in which forensic archaeologists can become involved in investigations centred around buried or concealed remains will be discussed. Students will be introduced to the various methods that can be employed by forensic archaeologists at crime scenes, such as intelligence gathering, remote sensing, geophysical survey and excavation. Case studies involving the search for, and recovery of, human remains, drugs, weapons and other clandestinely buried items will be presented, whilst specific sessions focusing on the logistical and environment factors that may hinder these investigations will be delivered. Sessions discussing the variety of trace evidence and samples that can be taken from a grave and their evidential value will allow the students to consider the methods introduced to them in other modules, such as Introduction to Forensic Science and Science For Justice, in the context of the burial environment. Practical sessions in geophysics and excavation will complement the taught components and provide the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of the methods discussed. Lectures by specialist practitioners regularly involved in case work will offer a `real-world' perspective. Additionally, students will be expected to critique specialist reports in order providing an opportunity to understand up-to-date developments within the discipline, and as enhance their research and analytical skills.

Progress to level 5 of a forensic or policing award