Forensic Osteology module (CA51011)

How do you tell if something is a bone? How do you know if it's human or not? Being able to determine whether bones are from a human or an animal is vital. Police require swift identification of discovered bones to determine case validity. This is often done through images, email communication, and reports. This is the day-to-day work of a forensic anthropologist working with law enforcement. 

You will learn how to identify bones and communicate your findings. Using your knowledge of skeletal anatomy you will learn to identify bones whether they are in front of you, in a picture, or broken.

How you report your scientific findings is very important. Great science communication to non-scientists such as the police, a jury or the general public is a key skill.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• gain hands-on practical experience with skeletal remains, both human and animal
• learn to manage your time and learning
• learn to use feedback
• learn to write reports and communicate with law enforcement

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• recognise parts of skeletons, both human and animal, from images and fragments
• prepare professional reports based on actual images from the police

Assignments / assessment

• reports (50%)
• essay (50%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

• practical classes
  • lab classes to develop your knowledge of the animal skeletal system
• tutorials
  • weekly tutorials focusing on animal bone identification and crime scene protocol
• open lab times for self study
• theory content provided by CAHID staff to allow for initial learning