Archaeology and Ancient History: Bone Chemistry and Bioarchaeological Analysis
Course 7.5 credits • ARKN22
The use of scientific methods in archaeological research is an ever-growing field that has in many ways revolutionised our knowledge of the past. Much of the current methodological development is linked to bioarchaeology and concerns various types of chemical studies of osteological material, such as DNA analysis, proteomics and isotopic analysis of various elements. These methods have been widely adopted in most archaeological disciplines and are used for dating as well as for providing information on diseases, diet, mobility, kinship and genetic origins, to name a few examples. This field of research, which is multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary, now accounts for a considerable proportion of published research. It has therefore become increasingly important for archaeologists and osteologists to know the basics of these methods, how the results can be interpreted, and how the methods can be combined with other methods in archaeology.
This course provides basic knowledge of various scientific analyses of human and animal skeletal material, and gives an insight into current methodological developments. It also covers sampling strategies and ethical considerations regarding destructive sampling and chemical analysis of osteological material. The course also includes non-compulsory visits to laboratories to introduce students to practical work. Furthermore, the course aims to strengthen the ability to work in a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary way in order to gain new knowledge about the past.
Study period:
autumn semester 2025
Type of studies:
part time, 50 %,
distance course
Study period:
2025-11-10 – 2026-01-18
Language of instruction:
English
Application code:
LU-30054
Eligibility:
To be admitted to the course, students must have completed Bachelor's courses in historical osteology, archaeology, historical archaeology, the culture and social life of classical antiquity or possess equivalent knowledge.
- The schedule will be published 2025-06-19.
- Library Guide Archaeology and ancient history
Information on included parts
- Workshop , 1.5 credits
- Take-home Exam , 6 credits
Second Admission Round
Nationell ansökningsomgång
Autumn semester 2025
Last application date
15April 2025