MSc Forensic Osteology and Field Recovery Methods at University of Kent

Programme overview

The MSc Forensic Osteology and Field Recovery Methods trains students to identify, excavate and analyse human skeletal remains, using a human osteology laboratory with over 1,000 skeletons, an outdoor taphonomy facility and a crime scene facility. Disaster victim identification training is delivered with Kent Police College.

Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time or part-time (Canterbury) | Location: Canterbury, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Compulsory modules listed include Advanced Human Osteology and Anatomy, Advanced Practical Skills in Forensic Osteology and Field Recovery Methods, Growth, Disease and Taphonomy of the Human Skeleton, Contemporary Forensic Practice and the Expert Witness, Research Skills and Advanced Analytical Methods, Field Recovery and Excavation Methods, and a Forensic Science Research Project.

Career pathways

Careers as crime scene investigators, forensic scientists, police detectives, archaeologists, biological anthropologists and academic researchers. Previous students work at Kent Police, Wessex Archaeology and Cambridge University Field Archaeology Unit.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.2 or above in an acceptable subject: a first or second class honours degree in biological anthropology or an associated field such as forensic science, archaeology or anatomy. Students without a conventional education path are assessed individually. International applicants: a Good level of English (CEFR B2), for example IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component, or PTE Academic 63 with at least 59 in each sub-test; a degree from a UK university or a majority English-speaking country is also accepted. Students needing a student visa cannot study part-time unless the programme is distance or blended learning.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,700 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual tuition fee from the 2027/28 fee table Source

International applicants: GBP 23,950 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual tuition fee from the 2027/28 fee table Source

Intake: September

Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply

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