How to Become a Forensic Anthropologist

If a blend of science, anthropology, and law enforcement sounds intriguing, a career in forensic anthropology may be ideal for you.

Forensic anthropologists primarily focus on dealing with human remains. They use extensive training and education to handle several responsibilities, including excavating remains and gathering information from bones. They use their expertise to help in law enforcement and criminal justice, such as testifying in court.

Over the years, the public has gained awareness of forensic anthropology, largely due to TV shows such as "CSI" and "Bones." But those shows don't portray the long and rigorous process to join the field, including up to 10 years of education and many hours of practical experience.

This article provides a detailed guide on becoming a forensic anthropologist, highlighting the necessary skills, steps to follow, salary expectations, and additional relevant information.

What Is a Forensic Anthropologist?

Forensic anthropologists apply the study of human remains to solve forensic science cases. They analyze decomposing and skeletal remains using specialized knowledge in osteology, anatomy, and archaeology. Forensic anthropologists determine key information, including the deceased persons' identity, bone trauma, and time elapsed since death.

Forensic anthropologists use their training in archaeology to excavate and map human remains. Meticulous scene recovery procedures are essential in collecting and documenting evidence and remains. This process can help narrow down potential identities for the remains, helping law enforcement and allowing for proper burial and closure.

Because of the specialized nature of their work, casework isn't always available for forensic anthropologists. On a day-to-day basis, they may also double as physical anthropology professors at colleges and universities, assist in a medical examiner's office, or work with non-governmental organizations. Forensic anthropologists often testify in court about their findings.

Forensic anthropologists work in a variety of settings. Universities, medical examiner and coroner offices, human rights organizations, and federal government agencies all employ forensic anthropologists, according to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).

What Skills Do Forensic Anthropologists Need?

Forensic anthropologists must possess a blend of skills, from specialized science knowledge to effective communication. Typical skills for forensic anthropologists include:

• A deep knowledge of science and biology, particularly in osteology, anatomy, and archaeology.
• An understanding of systematic scientific methods and how to perform tests and report findings.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong analytical thinking abilities for analyzing human remains.
• Willingness to collaborate and work as a team with law enforcement, coroners, and other forensic experts.
• Effective communication skills, especially while presenting complex information and evidence in court.

How to Become a Forensic Anthropologist

Becoming a forensic anthropologist is a years-long process. It requires specialized training and a high level of education. The most common path involves the following steps:

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Start by obtaining a bachelor's degree in anthropology or a closely related field. This foundational education lays the groundwork for a more advanced study of anthropology.
2. Pursue a Master's Degree: Next, you should earn a master's degree in anthropology with a focus on physical or forensic anthropology. This step often involves writing a thesis based on original research and completing specialized coursework.
3. Obtain a Ph.D.: The next step involves pursuing a Ph.D. in physical or biological anthropology. Completing a Ph.D. is rigorous and includes extensive coursework and a dissertation based on original research.
4. Gain Practical Experience: Students must gain practical case experience throughout their education by assisting an established forensic anthropologist with casework. This hands-on experience provides exposure to real-world scenarios and applications of theory, experience which can fulfill typical job requirements.
5. Seek ABFA Certification: Some students may consider seeking American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) board certification. ABFA certification involves submitting case reports and letters of recommendation, followed by passing written and practical exams. This certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to the field but is not mandatory.
6. Complete Continuing Education: Maintaining ABFA certification requires continuing education. Forensic anthropologists must attend conferences, conduct research, and stay informed of new methods and advancements in the field.

Salary and Job Outlook for Forensic Anthropologists

The career outlook for forensic anthropologists is generally positive. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide job data for forensic anthropologists, it provides data for related occupations.

Forensic science technicians earned a median annual salary of $64,940 in May 2023. The BLS projects these jobs to grow by 13% from 2022-2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Anthropologists and archaeologists earned a median annual salary of $63,800 in May 2023. The BLS projects a 4% job growth for these roles over the next decade, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

While the growth rates are positive and will create opportunities for those entering the field, it remains a highly competitive profession. Those with extensive fieldwork experience, a strong professional network, and certification from the ABFA may have better job prospects.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Forensic Sciences: Provides an overview of the forensic anthropology career for students.
• American Board of Forensic Anthropology: A professional organization providing educational resources, certification, and the latest news for forensic anthropologists.
• American Association of Biological Anthropologists: A professional organization for funding, educational resources, and webinars for biological anthropologists.
• National Institute of Standards and Technology: Forensic Anthropology Subcommittee: A professional working group that creates "standards and guidelines related to application of anthropological methods and theory, particularly those relating to the recovery and analysis of human remains."

Frequently Asked Questions About Forensic Anthropology Careers