Forensic anthropologists aid criminal
investigators in the identification and analysis of human remains. Due
to the rigorous field and laboratory training involved, advanced degrees
in forensic anthropology can't be fully obtained online. However,
graduate students can enroll in online forensic science programs that
include courses in forensic anthropology. Undergraduate certification
programs are also available through distance learning.
Overview of Online Forensic Studies Certificate Programs
Forensic anthropology is a subspecialty of physical or biological
anthropology focused on the analysis of human remains in criminal or
humanitarian contexts. While some online courses in forensic
anthropology are available, the subject matter necessitates hands-on
study and experience. Anthropology majors enrolled in on-campus programs
may elect to earn an online certificate in forensic studies for
professional development or in preparation for advanced work.
The certificate may be completed online in less than a year and includes courses in
forensic science
in addition to electives in science, communication and ethics. Web
resources include study guides, streaming videos, audio broadcasts and
articles.
List of Online Courses
Forensic studies are interdisciplinary and draw on related coursework in
criminal justice
and from the natural and social sciences. Effective communication and
documentation skills are necessary for success in the field. Ethical
considerations of the field are also reviewed.
Forensic Science Course
In this class, the theories and scientific techniques for identifying
and investigating crime scenes are reviewed. Methods in scientific
recovery and analysis of biological and environmental evidence are
covered.
Forensic Technology Course
Technological advances in forensic analysis help scientists analyze
and interpret evidence. Breakthroughs in genetic and trace element
analysis are discussed in this class on forensic technology.
Overview of Online Master's Degree in Forensic Science Programs
Forensic anthropologists work in the field of forensic science for
which online M.S. degree programs are available to post-baccalaureate
students. Forensic science training covers not just the analysis of
human remains, but other lines of evidence such as entomological,
toxicological and genetic clues.
Programs are available with on-campus components or entirely online.
Course exams and comprehensive exams are conducted online. Advisors may
be contacted by e-mail. Online access to journals and other e-resources
is available through university library systems.
List of Online Courses
Forensic anthropologists work with a variety of specialists. A basic
knowledge of environmental, genetic and pharmaceutical effects on human
remains is gained through a broader study of forensic science.
Forensic Anthropology Course
Highly-illustrated examples are given of the identification and
scientific recovery of human remains. Students will learn to
differentiate human from animal remains.
Forensic DNA Course
Methods for extracting and analyzing genetic evidence for the purpose
of identification are explained in this class. Technological advances
in biological sampling and statistical analysis are reviewed.
Biological Evidence Course
The conditions of preservation of biological evidence are examined in
addition to methods of extraction and analysis. Case studies are
presented through streaming video and other online content.
Careers in Forensic Anthropology
Careers in forensic anthropology are highly competitive, even for
those holding graduate degrees. Forensic anthropologists may work with
police investigators at crime scenes, with medical examiners and
coroners at morgues, with archaeologists at burial sites, or as expert
legal witnesses in court cases. In 2009, the annual salary for forensic
science technicians was around $56,000 for anthropologists according to
the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov).
Continuing Education
Graduate degrees in forensic anthropology are available from on-site
programs. While not required, the American Board of Forensic
Anthropology awards board certification to those who demonstrate mastery
of theory and practice. Exams are conducted at the annual meeting of
the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and recertification is given
every three years.
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