Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 301147

Coordinator Ricky Spencer Opens in new window

Description This subject will provide an introduction to the basic knowledge needed to perform some of the forensic anthropologist's tasks, especially anatomy and human osteology. Due to the impossibility of teaching a laboratory class, we will substitute the hands-on experience by a carefully selected set of pictures and material in order to familiarize you with the practice of the discipline. This subject is taught by the University of Florida as part of a collaborative venture between the University of Florida and Western Sydney University. Note: Further information on this subject is available from the University of Florida.

School Science

Discipline Forensic Science

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Check your fees via the Fees page.

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in 3741 Master of Forensic Science, 3742 Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science or 3743 Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Have acquired basic knowledge and theoretical principles on osteology and anatomy
2. Be able to distinguish the difference between human and non-human material
3. Have gained basic knowledge on each bone of the human skeleton
4. Have learned the basic methods of human remains recovery and laboratory processes
5. Understand when and how a forensic anthropologist becomes involved in the legal system, mass disaster- related work and human right violation cases

Subject Content

Module 1 Introduction
Module 2 Basic Bone Biology
Module 3 Human vs. Non human
Module 4 Human Osteology: The Skull and Teeth
Module 5 Human Osteology: The Thorax, Vertebral Column and Pelvis
Module 6 Human Osteology: The Arm and Hand
Module 7 Human Osteology: The Leg and Foot
Module 8 Field and Laboratory Work
Module 9 Forensic Anthropology and Mass Fatality
Module 10 Forensic Anthropology and Human Rights