University of Bradford: Postgraduate Programme specification template

UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORDSchool of Life SciencesDivision of Archaeological, Geographical and Environmental SciencesProgramme/course title: MSc in Human Osteology and Palaeopathology

Awarding and teaching institution: / University of Bradford
Final award: / Master of Science / Postgraduate Diploma / Postgraduate Certificate
[Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level M]
Programme title: / Human Osteology and Palaeopathology
Duration: / 1 year full-time; up to 5 years part-time
UCAS code: / NA
Date produced: / 20.2.10
Last updated :

Introduction

The MSc Human Osteology and Palaeopathologyemphasises the study of archaeological human remains within their funerary context. It builds upon the Division's extensive related research expertise in field archaeology, archaeozoology, molecular archaeology and archaeological biogeochemistry.

Archaeology engages the entire human past in all its temporal and spatial dimensions. It is fundamental to our understanding of how we evolved and our communities developed, and how we study, preserve and interpret our past. At Bradford, our distinctive approach emphasises the integration of the natural and physical sciences in this enquiry. In accordance with the University’s mission, ‘Making knowledge work’, the Division of AGES aims to provide excellence in a comprehensive range of archaeological topics, with emphasis on both teaching (‘Excellent’ in Subject Review 2000) and research (Grade 5 in Research Assessment Exercise 2001, and 20% 4*, 30% 3* in 2008), believing in the two activities to be mutually dependent.

The course can be used either as vocational training or as a foundation from which to commence further research. The course is normally offered on a full-time basis but a part-time route is feasible as well. Individual modules are available to candidates wishing to enhance their specialist knowledge in a particular area.

This course is currently supported by three NERC Advanced Course Studentships.Among the distinctive features of this course is access to a world renowned collection of reference material, hands-on experience in the department’s laboratories, and a substantial individual research dissertation.First destination figures for Postgraduate Taught Courses indicate that c. 85% of graduates achieve work or further studies in the discipline or cognate areas.

Programme Aims

The programme is intended to:

A1.Provide graduates in archaeology, anthropology, biosciences and related subjects with advanced practical and theoretical instruction in the analysis and interpretation of human remains within their archaeological context, through the integration of biological and archaeological evidence.

A2.Provide a flexible programme of study that reflects areas of staff expertise.

A3.Encourage development of independent learning skills, by providing a supportive, structured environment.

A4.Develop high-level subject knowledge and understanding, and provide training in discipline skills to enable graduates to pursue further research or careers in biological anthropology.

A5.Develop critical and analytical problem solving skills and personal transferable skills to prepare students for careers in non-cognate fields.

Programme Learning Outcomes

When you have completed the programme you will be able to:

Knowledge and Understanding

LO1.demonstrate a critical awareness ofthe theory and practice inthe osteological analysis of archaeological human remainsby appreciating the relevant underlying anatomical,biomechanical,clinical and taphonomic principles

LO2.use methods and techniques within human osteology and palaeopathology and interpret the generated data

LO3.apply this in the wider context of the discipline

Professional skills

LO4.possess advanced laboratory skills in the identification, description and recording of human remains, and the analysis and interpretation of pathological conditions

LO5.use quantitative approaches to interpret osteological data

LO6.identify and interpret faunal assemblages

LO7.appreciate the application of analytical techniques on osteological material

LO8.design and complete a substantial work of independent study

LO9.critically evaluate professional literature in a chosen area and related disciplines

Personal transferable skills

LO10.communicate conclusions in writing and orally to specialist and non-specialist audiences, working effectively in groups, manage and appraise your own leaning and research

LO11.manage your time effectively when undertaking complex and extended tasks

LO12.confidently use information technology to critically review, synthesise and carry forward professional research in a specialised area

Curriculum

The course is offered in full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 or more years) mode. It comprises modules that contain a blend of hands-on practical applications and the relevant underpinning theoretical aspects in the analysis of archaeological human and animal remainsin Semester One (Musculo-skeletal Anatomy, Archaeology of Human Remains, Introduction to Archaeozoology), complemented by a module on statistical treatment of data (Maths and Quantitative Methods).A significant element of Semester Two is the 30 cr module on pathological alterations in human remains (Palaeopathology). Optional modules provide opportunities for students to acquaint themselves with a wide range of analytical approaches to the study of human remains (Topics in Archaeometry, Chemistry of Human Remains) and an appreciation of the mortuary evidence through time (Funerary Archaeology). A module on Research Skills prepares students for their research project, including planning of research, research design, research ethics, time keeping, ethics, and health and safety. The final element of the course is a c. 15,000-word dissertation.

It is expected that students who successfully complete the entire programme will be fully prepared to undertake research at MPhil or PhD level.

Postgraduate Certificate of Higher Education

Module Code / Module Title / Type / Credits / Level / Study period
AR-7001M / Maths and Quantitative Methods / Core / 10 / M / 1
AR-7100D / Musculo-skeletal Anatomy / Core / 20 / M / 1
AR-7101D / Archaeology of Human Remains / Core / 20 / M / 1
AR-8134D / Introduction to Archaeozoology / Core / 10 / M / 1

Postgraduate Diploma of Higher Education

Module Code / Module Title / Type / Credits / Level / Study period
AR-7152M / Research Skills / Core / 10 / M / 2
AR-7142D / Funerary Archaeology / Option / 10 / M / 2
AR-8124T / Palaeopathology / Core / 30 / M / 2
AR-7135M / Chemistry of Human Remains / Option / 10 / M / 2
AR-7136M / Topics in Archaeometry / Option / 10 / M / 2

Master of Science

Module Code / Module Title / Type / Credits / Level / Study period
AR-9000Z / Dissertation / Core / 60 / M / S

Teaching and Assessment Strategies

The teaching and learning strategy takes into consideration the learning outcomes, the nature of the subject, and the need for students to take responsibility for their own learning as part of this advanced taught course.

The assessment strategy is designed to support the learning outcomes of each specific module. It uses a wide range of assessment methods, including coursework (critiques, laboratory reports, research design,essays), exams, and oral presentations.Assessment elements are regularly structured in a way that allows MSc candidates to benefit from formative learning towards summative assessment.

Written assessment will consist of a summative archaeozoological report and formative assessment of skills acquisition via in-class student presentations/discussion on bone identification

The thematic modules are delivered in a combination of formal lectures, student-led intensive seminars/tutorialsand extensive practical instruction. Coursework (e.g. laboratory reports, critiques, worksheets) is geared towards demonstrating relevant knowledge, understanding and professional skills (LO1-7) in principal approaches to the analysis and interpretation of archaeological human and animal remains and the application of scientific methods. Communication skills are tested in both written and oral form (see LO8.) in several modules.

Example: Archaeology of Human Remains: assessment comprises an essay (2000 words, each; 50%) and a skeletal report or skeletal assessment (2000 word equivalent, 50%). In the essay students demonstrate their ability to critically appraise theoretical and methodological aspectsof human remains analysis. The second assignment offers choice between a detailed skeletal report and an assessment of a small skeletal assemblage in compliance with Planning Policy Statement 5: Planning for the Historic Environment (PPS5),to demonstrate acquisition of practical laboratory skills and report writing to professional standard.

Example: Palaeopathology: assessment comprises two Practical Tests (2 hours, 25%, each) and a detailed skeletal report (4500 words, 50%). The tests provide a developmental exercise to demonstrate advanced skills in identifying and describing normal and pathologically altered skeletal elements, and the report probes the ability to describe, differentially diagnose and contextualise the manifestation of disease in a skeletal individual.

Example: Research Skills: Assessment comprises a Research Design (1500 words, 75%) based on the format of formal grant applications in preparation for similar tasks in a future professional environment, and an oral presentation (15 minutes, 25%)assessed for presentation style and quality of its content and delivered in the style of a conference podium presentation.

The Dissertation (15000words) encompasses a substantial piece of original research, which is ultimately assessed for its publishable merit.

Assessment Regulations

This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations for Postgraduate Programmes which are available at the following link:

Admission Requirements

The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience.

If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications.

The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply.

A first degree in a relevant discipline, normally with an upper second-class degree, or equivalent is required for UK students. Other relevant qualifications and past experience will also be considered for admission to the course. Admission will be judged on an individual basis for overseas students, at an equivalent level to UK entry requirements. For North American students, normally a GPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 is required, or an equivalent. Admissions are made on the basis of demonstrated ability, qualifications, experience, references, and, occasionally, interviews. A completed application form, references, official transcripts, or a list of courses/modules and grades/marks stamped by the applicant's undergraduate department or student registry are required of all applicants.

Learning Resources

The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the School of Health and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly.

Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and course-related materials this way.

Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available.

The AGES student handbook (available on the Divisional web-site) lists specific resources useful to archaeology students, including a list of electronic resources produced by the Subject Librarian.

Students are encouraged to join the AGES Society which sponsors social and academic events, and runs a Coffee Bar in our student common room. Students are also encouraged to attend AGES weekly Research Seminars where prominent scholars from other institutions (and from within AGES) talk on cutting-edge research – a valuable complement to the formal taught component of the programme which is a major benefit of AGES status as a top research department.

AGES is well equipped with teaching and research laboratories for the specialisms covered in the courses and students use these facilities in modules and in dissertation research. Specialised laboratories include: the Biological Anthropology Research Centre (BARC) which includes a world renowned collection of human skeletal reference material, microscopy, histology and radiography facilities, and archaeozoology research collections.

Student Support and Guidance

Course Team

The nature of teaching, learning and research provision at Master’s level creates an intense working atmosphere, where academic support is largely provided by the Course Manager, but also by the Headof Postgraduate Studies. Support for you personally and in your course of study, will be provided both by the University and the Course Team. In addition, you will be allocated a personal tutor who can be approached if academic or personal concerns cannot be addressed by the Course Manager or the Course Team. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your moduletutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.

Students’ Union

We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a system of course representatives and formal Staff Student Liaison Committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.

The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union.

The Hub, Student Support Centre

The Hub, Student Support Centre provides a central reception where students can receive information, advice and guidance on a whole range of topics about their life at University. The Hub is located in the Richmond Building adjacent to the Atrium.

The teams located within The Hub:

  • Accommodation
  • Admissions
  • Education Liaison
  • Enquiries
  • Student Administration and Support
  • Bursaries and Financial Support
  • Finance and Credit Control Group
  • Payzone
  • Records and Tuition Fees
  • International Office
  • Customer Service Team


+44 1274 232233

Careers and Employability

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career Development Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the web site

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of programmes there is direct input by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged workshops.

For this programme specifically, we provide tailored careers advice through the Course Manager, who is an expert in the field. They will use their experience and professional contacts to assist you in finding employment. For all students, our investment in fieldwork, and our dedicated ‘hands-on’ approach to the teaching of archaeology has ensured that Bradford postgraduates have long been seen as extremely well-grounded in the skills and knowledge that employers look for.

Learner Development Unit

The Learner Development Unit provides support in all aspects of academic, maths, numeracy and interpersonal skills. A programme of interactive workshops is delivered during both semesters which complements the individual support available from Advisers and the wide range of interactive online materials:

Disability

Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email:

University policies and initiatives

Ecoversity

Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see

The University of Bradford and the School of Life Sciences are committed to the principles of Education for Sustainable Development as outlined in the UNESCO definition (see ). The programme provides opportunities both to explore the sustainable development challenge and to develop responsible science and professionalism. Core elements of the course (e.g. Archaeology of Human Remains, Palaeopathology) provide an in-depth understanding and engage students in exploring the potential to reconstruct health, disease and living conditions from skeletal remains, to appreciate their impact for past individuals and populations under given social-cultural, political and ecological circumstances,andto reflect on what importance this has for understanding health and disease in today’s world.