Human Osteology and Forensic Techniques

Catalog description

Provides an overview of human osteology and bone biology and offers a comprehensive examination of the observational and analytical techniques used by forensic anthropologists in their assessment of human skeletal remains. In the laboratory component, particular focus is put on distinguishing human from nonhuman bone, identifying and siding whole bones and fragments, ascertaining forensic significance, and establishing a biological profile. Additionally, students learn to assess blunt force, sharp force, gunshot wound and repetitive trauma marks and mechanisms and to write a professional report of their findings. Provides students with experience employing the techniques used in medicolegal death investigations and forensic casework involving human remains, particularly where the forensic anthropologist is involved.