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Taught MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology

Overview

Human osteoarchaeology is the identification, analysis and interpretation of human osseous materials recovered during archaeological excavations.

Ancient Greek human mandible

Ancient Greek mandible from Nessebar, Bulgaria showing copper staining from a coin placed in the mouth after death.

The bones and teeth of the skeleton are often the most enduring record of an individual’s existence, providing information on age at death, sex, stature, health and activity. The study of human remains can also provide evidence of population structure, biological affinities, cultural behaviour and patterns of disease in ancient communities.

The teaching of human osteoarchaeology was introduced here in 2006 to meet growing demand in the field. Student intake has risen steadily since then and a vibrant community of human osteoarcheologists from around the world are now enrolled on the programme.

A challenging programme

While intensive and challenging the taught MSc programme, with its emphasis on academic excellence combined with lots of hands-on practical work, will be extremely rewarding. It will equip you with all the with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to perform advanced analysis of human bone.

In addition to an exceptional suite of dedicated archaeology research laboratories, state of the art equipment and teaching facilities, the University of Edinburgh offers its students excellent facilities in a beautiful and lively city. Further information about the programme can be found within these pages, but please contact me if you have any additional questions.

Kath McSweeney

  • Dr Kathleen McSweeney
  • Director, MSc (Taught) in Human Osteoarchaeology
  • Tel:: +44 (0)131 650 2373
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Further information

This article was published on Mar 1, 2013


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