Bioarchaeology

Discover the fascinating world of human history through the lens of biological remains with the Bioarchaeology degree at Liverpool John Moores University. This innovative programme combines principles from archaeology, anthropology, and biological sciences to provide a comprehensive understanding of past populations through the study of their skeletal remains. Students will explore how biological and environmental factors influence health, lifestyle, and mortality in ancient societies, gaining valuable insights into evolution, adaptation, and cultural practices throughout history.

The programme offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating practical laboratory work, fieldwork, and theoretical modules to develop both analytical skills and contextual knowledge. Students will learn methods of excavation, skeletal analysis, isotopic and DNA techniques, and interpret archaeological findings within broader historical and cultural frameworks. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking, research competence, and professional expertise, preparing graduates for careers in archaeological consultancy, museums, heritage management, and academic research.

Liverpool John Moores University is renowned for its strong links with cultural and research institutions, providing students with excellent opportunities for placements, research collaborations, and real-world experience. The course is delivered by experienced academics and industry professionals committed to student success and employability. Throughout the programme, students will engage with current debates and ethical considerations surrounding bioarchaeological research, ensuring a well-rounded education.

By the end of the degree, graduates will have acquired the technical skills to analyze human remains and interpret data within archaeological contexts. They will be equipped to contribute to the understanding of human biological history, ensuring their expertise benefits both scientific inquiry and cultural heritage preservation. Whether seeking to work in archaeological research, conservation, or further academic study, students will graduate with a robust foundation in bioarchaeology and the confidence to pursue diverse career paths in this dynamic field.

Bioarchaeology is an exciting and fast-advancing science that combines archaeology with branches of the natural sciences. Study focuses on the key topics pertaining to human remains from archaeological sites.

Bioarchaeology includes areas of scientific investigation including palaeodemography, past behaviour, biological affinity, subsistence strategy, and health and well-being in the past. 

The MSc in Bioarchaeology will help you to develop a broad understanding of these issues, through the excavation and analysis of human and animal remains. Analytical techniques will cover dental and osteological analyses, archaeological field methods, and ancient genetics.

The programme aims to develop your advanced practical skills in skeletal analysis, making use of the department’s well-equipped specialist laboratories and reference collections.

A particular strength of our provision and Faculty expertise is that we are able to address the bioarchaeology of many world areas and time periods. When you complete the course, you will have all the skills necessary to continue into an academic career or gain employment in research, museums, education or commercial organisations.

During the year you will be given a personal tutor that will support you throughout your time at LJMU and be following both your academic and professional development.

Semester 1 (three core modules)

• Advanced Osteology and Skeletal Pathology 
• Provides students with an advanced knowledge of the human skeleton and the ability to identify animal bones, methods of curation of skeletal collections and understanding of pathological modifications.
• Research Design and Quantitative Methods 
• Provides extensive training in generic research knowledge and statistical techniques for the Natural Sciences. Students design a research project and are assessed via the preparation of a full grant application for the project.
• Dental Anthropology 
• Provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience required by bioarchaeologists to identify and examine human teeth.

Semester 2 (two core modules and one option)

• Bioarchaeology: Bones, Teeth and Genes 
• Focuses on the different methods used to study human remains in archaeological and anthropological contexts. Delivery is through a combination of lectures, practicals, workshops and seminar sessions by experts in different fields, followed by reading and in-class discussion of recent literature.
• Excavation 
• Covers field survey, site management, excavation and related data analysis. In addition to practicals and lectures, the course includes a non-residential field experience.
• Dissertation 
• Comprises an independent, in-depth scientific research study on a chosen relevant topic. The following options are typically offered:
• Ballistics and Arson Investigation       
• Teaches the fundamental principles of fire science, fire dynamics and material science, enabling students to demonstrate their application of fire investigation.
• Taphonomy Trauma Analysis 
• Provides students with an extensive understanding of the biomechanics of human bones and the reaction of bones to the environment for a taphonomic history of the remains. Students gain a broad appreciation of different types of weapons to reconstruct a traumatic event using skeletal evidence.
• Human Identification and Forensic DNA      
• Analyses the issues related to the identification of an unknown subject from both skeletal and genetic features. The module also introduces students to the use of a DNA typing approach for the identification of human remains.

Requirements

• You will need an Honours degree (minimum 2:2) in anthropology or a related field
• An IELTS 6.5 score demonstrating your proficiency in English 
• Make sure you add as much detail as possible – including grades and results. Without enough information universities might struggle to make a decision.
• The application fee is £13 if you’re applying to just one course, or £24 for multiple courses 
• All academic transcripts
• Copies of degree/diploma certificates or work reference (if employed)
• One academic reference
• Your personal statement
• Copy of your valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months left before expiration)
• In addition to normal entry requirements, you will be expected to demonstrate a very good level of English language competence, for example an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 or equivalent. Please note: specific courses may require higher levels of English language competence. If you have applied to study a full-time taught Masters, MRes, MPhil or PhD at LJMU, you should check if you require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme or ATAS certificate. It can take four to six weeks to receive an ATAS certificate, so please make sure you apply as early as possible. You can find out more on the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website. Alternatively, contact LJMU’s International Admissions Team for guidance. Please note: international students entering on a Tier 4 visa cannot study part time. Students entering the UK on alternate types of visa may be in a position to study part time. Please contact LJMU’s International Admissions Team for further details before making your application.  In order to obtain a visa you will also need to show evidence that the money required to cover your tuition fees and living expenses has been in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to submitting your visa application. So please make sure that your finances are in place before applying.

Scholarships

• LJMU Roscoe International Scholarship
• Developing Global Citizens Postgraduate Scholarship
• English for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies Bursary

The BSc Bioarchaeology program at Liverpool John Moores University offers students an in-depth understanding of human remains within archaeological contexts, emphasizing the study of health, disease, and lifestyle in past populations. The course integrates practical laboratory work with theoretical studies, allowing students to develop skills in osteological analysis, palaeopathology, and forensic anthropology. Students will learn to examine skeletal remains, interpret biological data, and apply scientific techniques to uncover details about ancient human lives, crossings, and cultural practices.

Throughout the program, students gain knowledge of human anatomy, archaeology, and anthropology, with modules designed to explore topics such as osteoarchaeology, forensic anthropology, paleopathology, and bioarchaeological methods. The course also emphasizes research skills, providing opportunities for student-led projects and laboratory work, which prepares graduates for careers in archaeology, museum conservatorship, forensic science, or further academic research.

Liverpool John Moores University attracts expertise from relevant fields, fostering an interdisciplinary approach that combines biological sciences with archaeological investigation. The program is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and fieldwork, ensuring students are well-equipped to work in laboratory or field settings. The university's extensive labs and partnerships with archaeological organizations enhance the practical experience offered.

The program is suitable for students passionate about understanding human history through biological remains and interested in applying scientific techniques to archaeological questions. Graduates of the BSc Bioarchaeology program at Liverpool John Moores University will be prepared for careers in archaeological research, forensic investigation, conservation, and museums, as well as for further postgraduate study. The program encourages students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a detailed understanding of bioarchaeological methods and concepts, making it a comprehensive pathway into the bioarchaeology and forensic science industries.