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Forensic Anthropology - Minor

Forensic Anthropology - Minor

The Forensic Anthropology minor introduces students to analyses of skeletal remains, bodily fluids and DNA profiles associated with missing persons cases and violent crimes. Courses focus on the science of forensic anthropology and the presentation of such data in the courtroom.

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Minor in Forensic Anthropology

Kent State University’s Minor in Forensic Anthropology offers students a focused exploration of how human remains are analyzed in legal and investigative contexts. The program introduces key concepts in skeletal biology, osteology, and forensic science, providing a strong foundation in the techniques used to identify individuals and determine causes of death. Students gain valuable analytical and critical thinking skills through hands-on learning and case studies, preparing them to apply forensic principles in criminal justice, healthcare, or biological research. This minor complements majors such as anthropology, criminal justice, or biology, enhancing career opportunities in forensics, law enforcement, and medical fields.

Program Information for Forensic Anthropology - Minor

Learning Outcomes

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:
 
  1. Gain an understanding of basic forensic anthropological techniques and biological processes relevant to death investigations, including a working knowledge of bone biology and body decomposition. 
  2. Learn the workflow of forensic DNA laboratories, beginning with evidence examination, continuing through the benchwork steps of DNA analysis and ending with statistical evaluation. 
  3. Become familiar with courtroom procedures, specifically those relevant to criminal cases that include biological evidence, and deliver related testimony as they develop an understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of an expert witness.
Admissions for Forensic Anthropology - Minor

Admission Requirements

Admission to a minor is open to students declared in a bachelor’s degree, the A.A.B. or A.A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree (not Individualized Program major). Students declared only in the A.A. or A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree in Individualized Program may not declare a minor. Students may not pursue a minor and a major in the same discipline.

Coursework

Program Requirements

Minor Requirements

Minor Requirements
ANTH 18230INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC ANTHROPOLOGY 3
ANTH 28300INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC GENETICS 3
CRIM 12000INTRODUCTION TO JUSTICE STUDIES 3
Anthropology Electives, choose from the following:6
ANTH 38789
FACES: HUMAN HEAD ANATOMY WITH A FORENSIC ART FOCUS (DIVG) (ELR)
ANTH 48092
FORENSIC ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD SCHOOL (ELR)
ANTH 48225
ARCHAEOLOGY OF DEATH (ELR) (WIC)
ANTH 48300
ADVANCED FORENSIC GENETICS
ANTH 48550
FORENSIC SCIENCE IN THE COURTROOM
ANTH 48820
HUMAN MUSCULO-SKELETAL SYSTEM
Criminology and Justice Studies Elective, choose from the following:3
CRIM 22301
THE INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS
CRIM 33200
CRIMINAL LAW
CRIM 34200
CRIMINAL PROCEDURES AND EVIDENCE
CRIM 46200
CURRENT CONTROVERSIAL LEGAL ISSUES
CRIM 47211
COURT FUNCTIONS
Minimum Total Credit Hours:18

Graduation Requirements

Minimum Minor GPA Minimum Overall GPA
2.000 2.000
  • Minimum 6 credit hours in the minor must be upper-division coursework (30000 and 40000 level).
  • Minimum 6 credit hours in the minor must be outside of the course requirements for any major or other minor the student is pursuing.
  • Minimum 50 percent of the total credit hours for the minor must be taken at Kent State (in residence).
Program Delivery
  • Delivery:
    • In person
  • Location:
    • Kent Campus