Forensic Anthropology
Forensic anthropologists apply the practice of anthropology to assist in legal cases. They analyze skeletal remains, teeth, plant remains, and pollen in order to discover information about a deceased person or persons involved in legal cases. For example, by examining skeletal remains a forensic anthropologist can determine the sex, age, and degree of health of the deceased.
Forensic anthropologists often serve as expert witnesses in court cases, presenting their scientific analyses to a jury consisting of people who are probably do not share the scientist's background and range of knowledge. Forensic anthropologists must also be patient and highly tolerant of frustration, considering their work will be carefully scrutinized by lawyers in the court room.
Education & Training
Students can earn bachelor's degrees in anthropology or pursue interdisciplinary degrees in forensic anthropology at a number of institutions. Some institutions offer minors in forensic anthropology. As an undergraduate, the following courses are recommended:
- Cultural anthropology
- Archeology
- Physical anthropology
- Cultural anthropology
- Osteology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
To become a certified forensic anthropologist from an organization like the American Board of Forensic Anthropology you must obtain a graduate degree. For many, this requires the commitment of another two to 10 years of schooling following the receipt of an undergraduate degree. For most employers, a master's degree or a PhD is preferred.
Practical Application
Forensic anthropologists are employed by universities as instructors or researchers; they consult on forensic cases; or they work at medical examiner's offices or government agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Some forensic anthropologists work for museums. Others work in the field, helping to identify individuals who died in mass killings.
The average annual salary range for forensic anthropologists is between $42,914 and $70,000.
Article Resources:
Forensic Anthropology, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Forensic Anthropology, Minnesota State University
Simplyhired.com
University of Tennessee, Forensic Anthropology Center
