UofL's thinker statue from the side with the sky in the background. Trees on campus can be seen in the background as well as…

Forensic Anthropology (Minor)

Step into the world of forensic science with the forensic anthropology minor. Open to any major, this program gives you the skills to analyze human remains, uncover past lives and prepare for careers in criminal justice, medicine, archaeology and beyond.
Type: Minor
Format: In-Person
Credit Hours: 21
College: College of Arts and Sciences
Apply Now
Visit

Blends hands-on science with real-world application. Courses cover human osteology, skeletal forensics, paleopathology and field methods in archaeology. Students can tailor electives to interests in psychology, criminology or advanced biological anthropology. With opportunities for field schools and internships, you’ll gain practical experience that sets you apart for careers in law, medicine, public service or graduate study.

This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2025-Spring 2026 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.

Minor in Forensic Anthropology
Unit: College of Arts and Sciences (AS)
Department: Anthropology 
Academic Plan Code(s): FORSMINOR

The forensic anthropology minor provides a holistic and engaged curriculum in human osteology, paleopathology (disease in the past), and archaeology. Students receive foundational training osteology and learn how to observe and measure variation (biological age, sex, and stature)  in human skeletons.

Program Requirements

ANTH 202Biological Anthropology - S3-4
or ANTH 207 Principles of Biological Anthropology - B
ANTH 204Archaeology - P2, SB3-4
or ANTH 206 Principles of Archaeology - B
ANTH 327The Human Skeleton3
ANTH 410Skeletal Forensics3
CHEM 201General Chemistry I - S3
or BIOL 260 Human Anatomy & Physiology I
Select two of the following courses: 6
ANTH 329
Zooarchaeology
ANTH 354
Anthropology of Infectious Disease
ANTH 356
Dental Anthropology
ANTH 363
Special Topics in Biological Anthropology
ANTH 374
Forensic Anthropology Field School
ANTH 377
Field Methods in Archaeology
ANTH 401
Cooperative Internship in Anthropology
ANTH 510
Methods in Biological Anthropology - WR 1
ANTH 512
Methods in Skeletal Forensics - WR 1
CJ 355
Forensic Science and Investigative Techniques
CJ 425
Behavioral Analysis of Violent Crime
PSYC 318
Forensic Psychology
Minimum Total Hours21-23

At least three (3) semester hours of the requirements for a minor must be successfully completed while enrolled in the University of Louisville. 

1

Meets the A&S upper-level requirement in written communication (WR)