Archaeology and Forensic Biology BSc (Hons)

What do archaeologists do with the data that they collect during excavation and survey? How do they analyse and interpret these different types of information to gain a better understanding of the human past? This module takes an applied approach to these issues, providing you with practical training in different forms of data collection and analysis (such as experimental archaeology, environmental archaeology, and the spatial analysis of data using Geographic Information Systems). You will also gain practical experience of how archaeologists present the results of their work to a wider audience.

On completion of the module you will have learnt how to collect, manage, analyse and interpret different forms of quantitative and qualitative data through a variety of different methods. You will have enhanced your digital literacy, including developing more advanced skills in computer applications such as MS Excel, and the use of Geographic Information Systems, and developed your oral and written communication skills. You will also have gained experience of undertaking archaeological work in a safe and professional manner in a range of real-world situations.

This module will take you through the stages of crime scene examination, analysis of exhibits, preparation of legal documents and the presentation of oral evidence in a courtroom setting. 

In this module you will continue to develop your technical skills, and gain experience of working as a professional archaeologist, as you participate in an archaeological fieldwork project. Working under the guidance of professional archaeologists, you will learn to identify evidence in the field, record it effectively and present it to a non-specialist audience in a clear and effective manner. You will also undertake practical training in key skills such as excavation techniques, sediment recording, artefact identification and handling, as well as survey, drawing and photography.

By the end of the module you will have gained direct experience of the primary archaeological record, how it is discovered and recorded, the relationship between theory and practice in the archaeological process, and the logistics of delivering a practical project and associated ethical, and health and safety, considerations. At the same time, you will gain a range of transferable skills from your participation, developing personal skills in areas such as problem-solving, decision-making, team-work and personal responsibility. By taking part in a research excavation, you will also have made new discoveries and contributed to our understanding of the past.

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a range of experiential activities (e.g., volunteering, workplace engagement, research projects, field trip (where available and dependent on course), or through a combination of activities). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. 

Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness. 

It is your responsibility to organise any experience undertaken outside of the university as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All activities within this module must be university-level; this means:  

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)  
• Meeting the professional expectations of the experiential activities you undertake 
• Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as an experiential activity provider, if the role aligns with your career development and provides you with high skilled work commensurate with level 5 study. 

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a structured, university-level work placement for 5 weeks as one continuous block / period with a placement provider (i.e. a local employer from the private, public, or charitable sector). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. Therefore this module will enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness.

It is your responsibility to organise the placement as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
• Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting in one continuous block / period for 5 weeks for a minimum of 140 hours over the course of the entire work placement
• Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as the placement provider, if the high-skilled work criterion above is fulfilled for the full duration of the placement.
• All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.

The work placement context may not necessarily, reflect your degree discipline per se, but rather, it will give you an enriched experience to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country. Students of more than one language may take one language in the first half of the module and spend their time abroad developing a different language. 

• The multiple facets of global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Culture shock
• Cultural adjustment
• Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
• Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
• Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Part A:      

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

• The multiple facets of Global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication

Theories, models and strategies of learning

• Theories and models Intercultural competence
• Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
• Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection

• Experiential learning models
• Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

• Enhanced independence
• Improved command of multicultural behaviour
• Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development
• Team building and team work

Part B:            Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 

This module is an optional Year in Industry, which provides you with the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of working in the archaeology and heritage sectors. The module consists of a series of work placements, organised by staff in archaeology, in organisations such as a commercial archaeological unit, local government Historic Environment Records/Service, a museum or heritage visitor attraction.

On completion of the module you will have gained practical work experience of a range of different working environments, and developed a suite of relevant skills.

In this module you will build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a year long industrial placement. Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. The placement structure does not follow the normal academic course and will be devised in agreement between you, your placement advisor and your University placement supervisor. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. The placement should provide you with the ability to develop graduate level skills in an area related to your degree and should allow you to put theory into practice.

All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
• Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting for 9-12 months.
• All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.

A placement conference will enable peer to peer sharing of experiential learning whsilt permitting feedback on your progress. It will also allow you to share your current knowledge and skills development helping those that are considering taking this route to make a decision. You will also analyse a range of skills and benefits derived from the placement, further developing the construction of learning logs and allowing you to report your progress via a presentation and short VLOG. For those unable to attend, for whatever reason, online via Teams will permit engagement and feedback.  In addition, the conference will provide an opportunity to acquire an overview of final year options and dissertation and/or project research.

For those students where costs or other geographical/logistical difficulties render visits, conference attendance or participation via teleconferencing prohibitive, there will be an augmented portfolio of activities to substitute the conference activities.

All students will engage in the drawing up of a learning agreement on acceptance of the placement that will cover a contact plan and agreed learning outcomes with their designated academic tutor and placement coordinator.

Preparation for the year abroad will take place in Chester during level 5 and will include:

• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Host-country orientation, study methods– economic, political and social reality of the country
• Orientation specific to exchange – health, education, gender issues
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world

Theories, models and strategies of learning

• Critical thinking skills, experiential learning and models of reflection

Personal and placement-related transversal skills

• Effective self-motivation and independent resourcefulness
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development

Whilst abroad:

You will undertake study at one of the University of Chester's partner universities or undertake and approved work placement or virtual placement. If you are a student,  it is expected that you will choose a series of modules at the university abroad which must be agreed by the host institution and the Module Leader. you must supply details of you modules on a learning agreement within 4 weeks of arrival at the host university.

This is an opportunity for you to design and execute your own research project on a topic of your choice. Working under the guidance of a member of the archaeology team, and drawing on the skills and knowledge you have already developed, you will identify an original research question, undertake background research that will place this in its academic context, design a suitable methodology, and then carry out the necessary research.

On completion of the module you will have enhanced your knowledge of your chosen topic, and its wider archaeological context. You will have learnt how to plan and execute a piece of independent research, manage your own time, and work independently, while also continuing to enhance your ability to effectively communicate complex ideas through writing.

Archaeology is often characterised as a subject that is concerned with the distant past, but it also provides critical insights into our own time, where we are witnessing the global transformation of our planet by our species: ‘the Anthropocene’. In this module you will explore the archaeology of the contemporary past and the relationship between archaeology and the contemporary world, exploring the role of archaeology as ‘material witness’ on 20th- and 21st-century material cultures, monuments, built environments and landscapes. You will learn about the role our discipline can play in addressing some of the major issues that face society today, and the responsibilities that this places upon us as archaeologists. You will also learn how research contributes to an ‘archaeology of us and now’, and how people draw on ideas of the human past to influence the way we understand the present, the roles that archaeology plays in contemporary issues of power and social justice, and the place of archaeology in debates around climate and environmental activism and protest.

On completion of this module you will have a clear understanding of the application of archaeological theory, methods and techniques to the investigation of the contemporary, the place of archaeology within contemporary society, and of the responsibilities that this places on us as archaeologists. You will have continued to develop the ability to deal with complex ideas, critically evaluate different and competing arguments, and to communicate in a clear and effective manner.

This module will provide an insight into the biological aspects of the work of forensic scientists and related professions. It will also provide an understanding of the work of associated services e.g. police, crime scene investigator, identification specialists, legal specialists.

The main aim is to place forensic science in its historical context and give insight into the development of this modern science. The module will give you an insight into the use of forensic techniques in areas of research including crime scene analysis.

This module will discuss advanced analytical and sampling techniques used for forensic science, building on previous material that you have covered throughout your degree. The underlying theories will be supported with case studies and practical elements, showcasing how to apply these procedures and techniques to active crime scenes.

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of pharmacology and toxicology and the way that medicines and drugs impact the body. The module will provide you with an overview of the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness, and toxicity, of these molecules, and consider the mechanisms in action when exposed to major classes of medicines, drugs and toxins.

You will undertake an in-depth research project on a topic of your choice that aligns with your course and reflects the interests and passions you have developed during the first two years of your degree. This is your opportunity to explore a subject in detail, applying and extending your knowledge in a meaningful way.

Throughout this process, you will strengthen your critical thinking and analytical skills while conducting independent research under the guidance of a lecturer. Your dissertation will serve as a substantial piece of scholarly work, demonstrating your ability to understand, apply, and evaluate scientific concepts relevant to your discipline.

In completing this project, you will refine your academic writing and learn to communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision. Ultimately, the dissertation represents the culmination of your undergraduate education and provides a strong foundation for your future career as a biological scientist.

In Archaeological Heritage and Public Archaeology you will learn how we present the results of archaeological research to a wider audience, and manage and protect the remains of the past for future generations. As well as these broad themes, the module will also address more specific issues, such as the social benefit of archaeology and heritage, how we can involve wider audiences in archaeological work, and how we ensure a positive relationship between archaeology, archaeologists and the public. You will also learn more about the career paths available to you, both within archaeology and heritage, and outside of the discipline.

On completion of the module you will have developed a detailed understanding of the current theoretical and practical issues in archaeological heritage and public archaeology. You will have continued to develop and enhance your ability to deal with complex issues and concepts, critically discuss different and competing ideas, and to communicate effectively. You will also have a clear understanding of the potential careers that are available to you, and how to effectively communicate the skills you have developed through covering letters, CVs and job applications.

This module provides you with a practical introduction to the scientific study of past human lives and the relationship between humans and the environment they inhabit. You will work under the guidance of members of staff as you learn the techniques used to study both human and environmental remains, and then apply these to archaeological materials. You will also explore the relevance of this work to our understanding of the human past.

On completion of this module you will have developed practical skills in both human osteology and environmental archaeology. You will also have enhanced your ability to analyse and interpret quantitative data, to present the results of your work in a professional manner, and to work safely and effectively in a laboratory environment.

This module is an opportunity for you to undertake advanced study in the archaeology of a period of the British and north European past of your choice. Indicative foci might include the Mesolithic and Neolithic transition in North-West Europe, Roman Britain, early medieval Britain, and the Viking world. The module will provide you with a detailed background to the archaeology of each period, and the key themes and debates that relate to it. There will be opportunities to explore specific aspects of the period in considerable depth, and to critically assess the archaeological evidence from key sites and finds.

On completion of this module you will have a detailed understanding of your chosen archaeological period, which will have built upon the knowledge you have gained through your previous years of study. You will also have enhanced your ability to critically evaluate different sources of evidence, assess different arguments, and make informed opinions of your own, while further developing your written and verbal communication skills.

This is an opportunity for you to design and execute your own research project on a topic of your choice. Working under the guidance of a member of the archaeology team, and drawing on the skills and knowledge you have already developed, you will identify an original research question, undertake background research that will place this in its academic context, design a suitable methodology, and then carry out the necessary research.

On completion of the module you will have enhanced your knowledge of your chosen topic, and its wider archaeological context. You will have learnt how to plan and execute a piece of independent research, manage your own time, and work independently, while also continuing to enhance your ability to effectively communicate complex ideas through writing.

This module provides you with a practical introduction to the scientific study of past human lives and the relationship between humans and the environment they inhabit. You will work under the guidance of members of staff as you learn the techniques used to study both human and environmental remains, and then apply these to archaeological materials. You will also explore the relevance of this work to our understanding of the human past.

On completion of this module you will have developed practical skills in both human osteology and environmental archaeology. You will also have enhanced your ability to analyse and interpret quantitative data, to present the results of your work in a professional manner, and to work safely and effectively in a laboratory environment.

Archaeology is often characterised as a subject that is concerned with the distant past, but it also provides critical insights into our own time, where we are witnessing the global transformation of our planet by our species: ‘the Anthropocene’. In this module you will explore the archaeology of the contemporary past and the relationship between archaeology and the contemporary world, exploring the role of archaeology as ‘material witness’ on 20th- and 21st-century material cultures, monuments, built environments and landscapes. You will learn about the role our discipline can play in addressing some of the major issues that face society today, and the responsibilities that this places upon us as archaeologists. You will also learn how research contributes to an ‘archaeology of us and now’, and how people draw on ideas of the human past to influence the way we understand the present, the roles that archaeology plays in contemporary issues of power and social justice, and the place of archaeology in debates around climate and environmental activism and protest.

On completion of this module you will have a clear understanding of the application of archaeological theory, methods and techniques to the investigation of the contemporary, the place of archaeology within contemporary society, and of the responsibilities that this places on us as archaeologists. You will have continued to develop the ability to deal with complex ideas, critically evaluate different and competing arguments, and to communicate in a clear and effective manner.

This module will provide an insight into the biological aspects of the work of forensic scientists and related professions. It will also provide an understanding of the work of associated services e.g. police, crime scene investigator, identification specialists, legal specialists.

The main aim is to place forensic science in its historical context and give insight into the development of this modern science. The module will give you an insight into the use of forensic techniques in areas of research including crime scene analysis.

This module will discuss advanced analytical and sampling techniques used for forensic science, building on previous material that you have covered throughout your degree. The underlying theories will be supported with case studies and practical elements, showcasing how to apply these procedures and techniques to active crime scenes.

You will undertake an in-depth research project on a topic of your choice that aligns with your course and reflects the interests and passions you have developed during the first two years of your degree. This is your opportunity to explore a subject in detail, applying and extending your knowledge in a meaningful way.

Throughout this process, you will strengthen your critical thinking and analytical skills while conducting independent research under the guidance of a lecturer. Your dissertation will serve as a substantial piece of scholarly work, demonstrating your ability to understand, apply, and evaluate scientific concepts relevant to your discipline.

In completing this project, you will refine your academic writing and learn to communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision. Ultimately, the dissertation represents the culmination of your undergraduate education and provides a strong foundation for your future career as a biological scientist.

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of pharmacology and toxicology and the way that medicines and drugs impact the body. The module will provide you with an overview of the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness, and toxicity, of these molecules, and consider the mechanisms in action when exposed to major classes of medicines, drugs and toxins.

In Archaeological Heritage and Public Archaeology you will learn how we present the results of archaeological research to a wider audience, and manage and protect the remains of the past for future generations. As well as these broad themes, the module will also address more specific issues, such as the social benefit of archaeology and heritage, how we can involve wider audiences in archaeological work, and how we ensure a positive relationship between archaeology, archaeologists and the public. You will also learn more about the career paths available to you, both within archaeology and heritage, and outside of the discipline.

On completion of the module you will have developed a detailed understanding of the current theoretical and practical issues in archaeological heritage and public archaeology. You will have continued to develop and enhance your ability to deal with complex issues and concepts, critically discuss different and competing ideas, and to communicate effectively. You will also have a clear understanding of the potential careers that are available to you, and how to effectively communicate the skills you have developed through covering letters, CVs and job applications.

This module is an opportunity for you to undertake advanced study in the archaeology of a period of the British and north European past of your choice. Indicative foci might include the Mesolithic and Neolithic transition in North-West Europe, Roman Britain, early medieval Britain, and the Viking world. The module will provide you with a detailed background to the archaeology of each period, and the key themes and debates that relate to it. There will be opportunities to explore specific aspects of the period in considerable depth, and to critically assess the archaeological evidence from key sites and finds.

On completion of this module you will have a detailed understanding of your chosen archaeological period, which will have built upon the knowledge you have gained through your previous years of study. You will also have enhanced your ability to critically evaluate different sources of evidence, assess different arguments, and make informed opinions of your own, while further developing your written and verbal communication skills.

This module builds on previous investigation-based learning in the IP6620/IP6614 modules and prepares the student for a career in an investigative environment. The module aims to enable students to understand and identify legislative, ethical and professional considerations and demonstrate the application (through a case study) of the highly technical skills required when conducting digital crime investigation evaluating the relevant legislation, national policy and specialist support structures available to investigators and the support of vulnerable victims and witnesses. The student will recognise and acknowledge community and business considerations when conducting digital crime investigations whilst keeping a balanced, professional and objective approach.

Biotechnology aims to use biology to enhance society. Covering areas ranging from generating new approaches to improve human health, creating improvements to food production, improving the environment, to generating new and improved biomaterials, biotechnology is a developing industry that has the potential to hugely benefit humanity and the world at large. This module will build your knowledge of the underlying principles, techniques and technology needed to apply biology positively and for the benefit of all.

This module builds on previous investigation-based learning in the IP6620/IP6614 modules and prepares the student for a career in an investigative environment. The module aims to enable students to understand and identify legislative, ethical and professional considerations and demonstrate the application (through a case study) of the highly technical skills required when conducting digital crime investigation evaluating the relevant legislation, national policy and specialist support structures available to investigators and the support of vulnerable victims and witnesses. The student will recognise and acknowledge community and business considerations when conducting digital crime investigations whilst keeping a balanced, professional and objective approach.

Biotechnology aims to use biology to enhance society. Covering areas ranging from generating new approaches to improve human health, creating improvements to food production, improving the environment, to generating new and improved biomaterials, biotechnology is a developing industry that has the potential to hugely benefit humanity and the world at large. This module will build your knowledge of the underlying principles, techniques and technology needed to apply biology positively and for the benefit of all.