Teaching and assessment for Forensic Anthropology BSc (Hons)

This module addresses the structures and biochemical properties of key biological molecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates and proteins. You will discover how enzymes work and look at their importance in the catalysis of biological reactions. The module also considers the origin of cells, and examines their main components.

You will continue to develop the research skills introduced during the previous semester. Undertaking a short independent research project will help you practice and extend your technical capabilities. You will gain understanding and practical experience of techniques such as PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis for DNA analysis.

The module addresses the cell cycle and cell replication, and the transfer of information from DNA to protein. It considers physiological systems and the specialisation and organisation of cells into the major organ systems. It develops an evolutionary perspective by considering the above processes and structures in diverse organisms.

Biological anthropology is the study of the past and present evolution of the human species.

This module examines human evolution from a scientific viewpoint.

It will focus on the evidence, its analysis, and the people who conducted it. You will focus on the ethical treatment and changes to UK legislation.

Starting university is a big step and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

No matter what subject you’re studying, there are important life and study skills that will help you succeed now and in the future.

How do cells talk to each other, and what happens when those conversations go wrong?

You will explore the key mechanisms of inter- and intra-cellular communication. You will study topics like the action of hormones and neurotransmitters to signalling in plants and the regulation of the cell cycle.

The module is grounded in both biological and biomedical contexts.

You will undertake a structured laboratory project. This will provide experience in the use of different types of laboratory equipment, and foster proficiency in a variety of practical techniques. You will develop skills in written presentation, experimental planning, time management, group working, reflection and self-assessment of your own skills.

​​You will learn about how key systems of the human body work. This will include muscles, the heart and the lungs. 

​You will study the anatomy, physiology and pharmacology of each system under normal conditions. You will also look at them in response to factors such as disease and exercise.​

This module explores the structure, organisation, and function of the human body

Comparative anatomy is the study of the variation in form and function between species.

You will learn about different species of vertebrates. You will also learn how each body system is adapted to their particular niche.

Now that you’ve settled into university life, it’s time to build on the foundations you set in your first year.

This second-year module is all about helping you take your development to the next level. This will cover this from a personal, academic, and professional perspective.

This module covers the cells and tissues found in the human body.

An understanding of the normal structure of cells is needed so that altered cells can be identified during clinical tests. For example, this understanding is used to identify cancer cells in a tissue sample taken from a patient.

Explore the human skeleton. You will learn to identify bones, joints, and landmarks. You will also learn about their structure and function

You will be introduced to project design and research skills. These will be needed for conducting research in anatomy and forensic anthropology

Ever wondered how hidden graves are found or how we map out evidence found at a scene?

You will learn how forensic archaeologists help police. This will cover how they find graves, map crime scenes, and carefully collect evidence without damaging it.

Ever wondered who works on the kinds of cases that forensic anthropologists get called to? Cold cases, missing person searches, recovering or identifying unknown skeletal remains. It’s never just one person, there’s a whole team of experts involved.

Meet the people and hear some of their real-life stories.

You will study the changes to the human body after death. You will study the interpretation of these changes. You will see how this information can assist death investigations.

You will learn about the reactions of bone to stress from various sources and how to analyse the features left behind

You will work with a supervisor to plan and conduct an independent research project in an area of interest to you. You will write a thesis and present your findings

Have you ever wondered how experts identify unknown human remains found in remote places, like a windswept hillside in the Scottish Highlands?

You will step into the shoes of a forensic anthropologist. You will learn how science helps uncover the stories hidden in our bones.

Forensic scientists can act as expert witnesses in a court of law.

This module covers the ethical responsibilities of forensic specialists as expert witnesses. It introduces the legal and procedural guidelines and case law relevant to expert evidence.

You will also learn the importance of communicating forensic science to non-scientists.