Undergraduate
Forensic Anthropology
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- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
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- Peterborough
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- Fall & Winter & Summer
- Forensics
At a glance:
- Degree Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Campus Peterborough
- Program is Offered Fall & Winter & Summer
- Study Options Full time
- OUAC Codes RBH - Peterborough
- Notice
- Apply Now Stay in Touch
The Trent Advantage
Study in one of Canada's only undergraduate Forensic Anthropology degrees, combining forensic science, archaeology, and biological anthropology with hands-on training in human skeletal analysis, forensic scene recovery, and expert witness testimony.
Forensic Anthropology applies scientific methods to the identification and analysis of human remains in forensic and archaeological contexts. At Trent, you'll develop a deep understanding of human biology while exploring how skeletal, biochemical, and genetic evidence can help answer complex questions in criminal investigations, mass disasters, and humanitarian recovery efforts.
- Specialized study in human osteology, human variation, skeletal biology, and forensic anthropology.
- Training in biochemical and genetic approaches used to support human identification.
- Access to anthropology laboratories, archaeological facilities, and Trent's 4,100-square-foot Forensics Crime Scene Facility.
- Preparation for careers in human identification, forensic investigation, archaeology, humanitarian recovery, and medico-legal fields
Career experience while you learn
Every Forensic Anthropology student has a guaranteed route to paid, credited experience before they graduate.
Research Opportunities
- Conduct independent research projects in forensic anthropology, skeletal biology, human identification, and forensic evidence analysis.
- Examine real-world case studies and pursue independent forensic and anthropological research under faculty supervision.
- Gain hands-on experience using real and replica skeletal collections in Trent's anthropology laboratories.
- Collaborate with law enforcement agencies and community partners to help address real-world forensic challenges.
Field Schools and Hands-On Courses
- Participate in the Trent Bioarchaeology Field School at the Fortress of Louisbourg, gaining hands-on experience in skeletal excavation, burial mapping, field data recording, and the ethical handling of human remains.
- Build expertise in skeletal identification, age and sex estimation, ancestry assessment, and trauma analysis through applied osteology and forensic anthropology courses.
- Develop expert witness and courtroom testimony skills through mock trial experiences, learning how forensic evidence is presented, challenged, and defended in legal settings.
Study Abroad
- Take your Trent education global. Spend a semester or year studying at one of Trent’s 50+ international partner universities, participate in a summer field course, or gain international experience through a placement or internship.
- With opportunities in more than 35 countries, you can broaden your academic perspective, experience new cultures, and build skills that prepare you for a global career.
Internships
- Complete a paid Anthropology internship working with museums, archives and community organizations.
Career Paths
- Forensic Anthropologist
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Human Identification Specialist
- Medical Examiner’s Office Analyst
- Mass Disaster & Humanitarian Recovery Specialist
In Their Own Words
I know firsthand the value students get out of their degree in our Forensics programs. The experience we offer stands out for many reasons, but if I had to pick one it would be the breadth of what we cover within Forensic Science also more broad critical thinking skills that are vital to bring into today’s workforce. Students here really get to go after their interests and explore them in practical settings. Every year I see how that interdisciplinary and experiential learning is what helps our graduates land jobs.
Dr. Aaron Shafer
Professor of Forensic Science
Admissions
Whether you're graduating from an Ontario high school, looking to study in Canada, or training for a second career, Trent has clear pathways for students to apply and be admitted to study at either of our campuses.
Requirements
If you are coming straight from high school in Ontario or are a recent grad, the general admission requirements are:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program-specific prerequisites
- ENG4U with a minimum of 60%
| Admission Requirements | Recommended Admission Requirements | Estimated Admission Average | Co-op Admission Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG4U, SBI4U, and 4U Math | 75-80% |
Requirements
Students from across Canada can use their grades from their home province to apply to Trent.
Requirements
International students from outside Canada can apply based on the curriculum of their home country.
Requirements
Mature students can apply to Trent based on previous education and professional or volunteer experience.
Requirements
With many transfer agreements and flexible pathway options, Trent University makes it easy for students to make the most of the credits you have already earned.
Tuition Estimate
Estimate your tuition, ancillary fees, and potential entrance scholarships based on your program, residency status, and academic average.
Tuition
Base Tuition Fee
$6,240.85
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary Fees (non-tuition costs supporting student services, such as athletics, campus safety, college fees, etc.)
$2,122.22
Total:
$ 8,363.07
* The tuition details and scholarships listed are for domestic students only. International applicants should contact the financial aid office directly for equivalent guidance.
Scholarships
If you’re a top scholar with an average of 80% or higher, you qualify to automatically receive an entrance scholarship to Trent. Scholars with 95% or higher? You earn free first-year tuition – no application required.
| Entrance Average | Maximum Scholarship Potential | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 95%+ | $18,241 | $6,241 first year Full Tuition + $4,000 x 3 years |
| 90-94.9% | $12,000 | $3,000 x 4 years |
| 85-89.9% | $8,000 | $2,000 x 4 years |
| 80-84.9% | $6,000 | $1,500 x 4 years |
* Available to Domestic students only. Based on 2026/27 tuition for a general arts and science program
Explore additional funding for domestic and international students