Forensic Anthropology

Forensic anthropology is the analysis of human remains for medical and legal purposes. This includes establishing identity, investigating suspicious deaths, and identifying victims of mass disasters. All these are critical to the successful outcome of legal investigations.


- 1st in the UK for Forensic Science (Complete University Guide, 2023).


• We were the first UK university to use Thiel embalming in our teaching.



• You’ll learn full body dissection on our Thiel embalmed cadavers. These cadavers maintain the fascial layers between structures. They are flexible and keep their lifelike colour and consistency.



• This benefits your learning in becoming a forensic practitioner. The identification of the deceased relies on not only hard tissue like the skeleton but also soft tissue information.



During your first two years, you'll study modules within the School of Life Sciences. This gives you a solid understanding of physiology, biochemistry, and related biomedical sciences.

As the degree progresses, you'll develop a sound knowledge of the human body from the early stages of development to the adult form. You'll focus on skeletal anatomy. You will begin to learn how the analysis of the skeleton fits within a medicolegal investigation.

At the University of Dundee, you'll study in a welcoming city on Scotland's east coast, known for its history, culture, and vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars.

Dundee was named the best place to live in Scotland for under 35s (The Times 2026). Many students find living costs lower than in other UK cities, while excellent road and rail links make travelling easy.

Since 1881, the University has been transforming lives and is recognised globally for strengths in life sciences, medicine, dentistry and engineering.

Student Services provide support throughout your studies, from academic guidance to wellbeing advice.

You'll graduate career-ready from a university ranked 2nd in Scotland for graduate prospects (The Guardian 2026).

With over 150 clubs and societies, from mountaineering to musicals, there's something for everyone.

All student accommodation is self-catered, with furnished en-suite single rooms. New full-time undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation for their first year (T&Cs apply).