Program Overview
The Forensic Anthropology Minor at Adelphi University equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze human skeletal remains for legal and historical investigations. Through coursework and laboratory experience, students gain expertise in osteology, forensic anthropology, and practical applications. The program prepares graduates for careers in forensic science, law enforcement, and further academic pursuits, emphasizing ethical considerations and hands-on learning opportunities.
Program Outline
Forensic Anthropology Minor at Adelphi University:
Degree Overview:
The Forensic Anthropology Minor at Adelphi University provides students with a fundamental understanding of the use of skeletal remains in legal and historical investigations. Through a combination of classroom instruction and laboratory work, students gain the skills to analyze human remains and contribute to solving crimes and identifying victims. This minor is designed to complement majors in anthropology, biology, or other related fields and prepare students for careers in forensic science, law enforcement, or further academic pursuits.
Outline:
The program consists of 18 credits, distributed across the following courses:
- ANTH 341: Human Osteology (3 credits): This course focuses on the identification and analysis of human skeletal remains, including the identification of sex, age, stature, and ancestry.
- ANTH 342: Forensic Anthropology (3 credits): This course delves into the application of anthropological principles to forensic investigations, including crime scene analysis, trauma analysis, and taphonomy (the study of the processes that affect human remains after death).
- ANTH 343: Forensic Anthropology Laboratory (3 credits): This hands-on laboratory course provides students with practical experience in analyzing and interpreting human skeletal remains.
- ANTH 344: Forensic Anthropology Practicum (3 credits): This course allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting through an internship or research project.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams and quizzes
- Laboratory reports and presentations
- Research papers and projects
- Participation in class discussions
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in forensic anthropology. They employ various teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, laboratory exercises, and guest lectures from professionals in the field. The program also emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work and research opportunities.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in various fields, including:
- Forensic anthropologist: analyzing human remains to aid in criminal investigations and identify victims.
- Crime scene investigator: collecting and analyzing evidence at crime scenes.
- Medical examiner: performing autopsies and determining the cause and manner of death.
- Archaeologist: excavating and analyzing human remains from archaeological sites.
- Biologist: conducting research on human skeletal remains and their applications in various fields.
Other:
- The program offers opportunities for students to participate in research projects with faculty members.
- Students can also gain valuable experience through internships with local law enforcement agencies, medical examiners' offices, and anthropological research institutions.
- For the most up-to-date information on the program, please refer to the official website of Adelphi University.
