How To Become a Forensic Anthropologist for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Only 150 forensic anthropologists have been certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) since 1977. This limited number shows how specialized and competitive the field is, making it difficult for students to find clear guidance on how to enter it. Many struggle with understanding degree requirements, career paths, and necessary skills, leading to uncertainty about whether forensic anthropology is the right choice.

However, with the right education, experience, and professional connections, students can position themselves for success in this field. This article provides a step-by-step guide to becoming a forensic anthropologist, addressing common concerns and offering practical solutions.

Key Things You Should Know About How to Become a Forensic Anthropologist

• Forensic anthropology is a highly specialized field with few certified experts. Since 1977, only 150 forensic anthropologists have been certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA), making it a niche but in-demand profession.
• A graduate degree is essential for career advancement. Most forensic anthropologists hold a master’s or PhD, as a bachelor's degree alone is rarely sufficient for securing jobs in the field.
• Salaries vary depending on industry and experience. Forensic anthropologists working for the federal government earn a median annual salary of around $86,000, while those in academia or consulting roles may earn less.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial. Forensic anthropologists work closely with forensic pathologists, law enforcement, and forensic psychologists to analyze human remains and contribute to criminal investigations.
• The field is evolving with technology. Advances in 3D imaging, DNA analysis, and forensic reconstruction techniques are expanding the role of forensic anthropologists in solving cases more efficiently.

Table of Contents

1. What does a forensic anthropologist do?
2. How is forensic anthropology different from forensic pathology and forensic science?
3. What degree do you need to become a forensic anthropologist for 2025?
4. How long does it take to become a forensic anthropologist?
5. What jobs can you get with a forensic anthropology degree?
6. How much do forensic anthropologists make?
7. What skills are required to be a forensic anthropologist?
8. What certifications do forensic anthropologists need?
9. What strategies can enhance career opportunities in forensic anthropology?
10. What are the emerging career opportunities in forensic anthropology?
11. How Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance My Forensic Anthropology Career?
12. What are the ethical considerations in forensic anthropology?
13. How Do I Choose the Right Forensic Anthropology Program?
14. Can forensic anthropology benefit from environmental engineering?
15. Who do forensic anthropologists work with?
16. What are some famous forensic anthropology cases?
17. What are the latest advancements in forensic anthropology?
18. Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Forensic Anthropologist

What does a forensic anthropologist do?

Forensic anthropologists apply their specialized knowledge of human skeletal anatomy to assist in legal investigations. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Analyzing human remains. They assess skeletal structures to determine characteristics such as age, sex, ancestry, and stature, aiding in identifying deceased individuals.
• Assisting in the recovery of remains. Forensic anthropologists utilize archaeological methods when excavating and retrieving human remains from various contexts, ensuring meticulous documentation of the scene.
• Interpreting trauma and disease. By examining bones for signs of injuries or pathological conditions, they provide insights into possible causes of death or lifestyle factors of the deceased.
• Collaborating with law enforcement and medical professionals. They work alongside forensic pathologists, homicide investigators, and other experts to reconstruct events surrounding a death and contribute to criminal investigations. These interdisciplinary efforts sometimes overlap with clinical technologist careers, especially in cases involving biological evidence, laboratory analysis, and medical diagnostics, highlighting the critical role of collaboration in solving complex forensic cases.
• Testifying as expert witnesses. In legal settings, they present their findings, offering objective interpretations of skeletal evidence to inform court proceedings.

Through these activities, forensic anthropologists play a crucial role in uncovering vital information from human remains, thereby assisting in the pursuit of justice.

How is forensic anthropology different from forensic pathology and forensic science?

Forensic anthropology, forensic pathology, and forensic science are distinct disciplines that contribute uniquely to legal investigations.

Forensic anthropology specializes in analyzing human skeletal remains to determine the identity and cause of death, particularly when the body is decomposed or skeletonized. Practitioners often hold advanced degrees in physical or biological anthropology and apply their expertise to legal contexts.

Forensic pathology, one of the several types of forensic science, focuses on determining the cause and manner of death through autopsies and examination of tissues and organs. Forensic pathologists are medical doctors who perform autopsies to identify diseases or injuries that may have led to death.

Forensic science encompasses various scientific disciplines that analyze physical evidence from crime scenes. This includes fields like forensic biology, chemistry, and toxicology, where scientists examine evidence such as DNA, chemicals, and other trace materials to assist in criminal investigations.

Below is a comparative overview of these disciplines:

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for students and professionals aiming to specialize in the appropriate field and for those seeking accurate information about career paths in forensic investigations.

What degree do you need to become a forensic anthropologist for 2025?

Individuals typically follow a structured educational path to pursue a career as a forensic anthropologist. This field requires extensive training in human osteology, biological anthropology, and forensic science to analyze skeletal remains in legal investigations. Practical experience and advanced degrees are essential for working in academic and applied forensic settings. Similarly, those considering a flight nurse career path will also need specialized training and certifications to ensure they meet the requirements for the role.

• Bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree in anthropology or a closely related field provides foundational knowledge in human biology, cultural practices, and archaeological methods.
• Master's degree. A master's degree in anthropology, with a focus on biological, physical, or forensic anthropology, deepens expertise in human osteology and forensic analysis.
• Doctoral degree (PhD). A PhD in physical anthropology is often required for professional practice, research, or academic positions, as it provides the highest level of specialization and research experience.

Throughout their education, students should seek opportunities to assist experienced forensic anthropologists with casework and research projects. 

While a master's degree may qualify individuals for certain roles, most forensic anthropologists require a PhD for full professional recognition. 

Interdisciplinary studies in forensic science, archaeology, or related fields can further enhance skills and career prospects. Some forensic anthropologists also explore adjacent fields such as forensic accounting, as financial investigations sometimes intersect with forensic casework. For example, professionals pursuing a master's in forensic accounting may develop analytical skills useful in identifying financial fraud or verifying records in forensic investigations. Fieldwork, internships, and research projects provide essential hands-on experience in forensic anthropology.

How long does it take to become a forensic anthropologist?

Becoming a forensic anthropologist is a lengthy process that requires extensive education and training. It typically takes around ten years to qualify for professional practice. This includes four years to earn a bachelor's degree, two to three years for a master’s degree, and an additional four to six years for a PhD. The time frame may vary depending on research requirements, fieldwork, and dissertation completion.

A bachelor's degree in anthropology, biology, or a related field is the first step, followed by a master's degree that allows for specialization in forensic anthropology. While some forensic anthropologists enter the workforce with a master’s, most pursue a PhD to gain the necessary expertise for research, teaching, and casework. Graduate programs provide opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, lab work, and field studies.

Prospective students can explore programs from a list of regionally accredited online colleges to find options that fit their career goals. Accreditation ensures the quality and recognition of their degree, an important factor for advancing in this specialized field. After earning a PhD, forensic anthropologists may complete postdoctoral training or certification, such as the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) certification, to further establish their expertise in the field.

What jobs can you get with a forensic anthropology degree?

A degree in forensic anthropology opens the door to various career opportunities across multiple sectors. This field combines biological anthropology with forensic science, allowing professionals to analyze human remains in legal, historical, and humanitarian contexts. Graduates can apply their expertise in both research and practical settings, depending on their level of education and specialized training.

• Academic and research positions. Graduates can pursue roles as professors or researchers in universities and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of anthropological knowledge and mentoring future professionals.
• Law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement agencies often rely on forensic anthropologists to assist in criminal investigations by analyzing human remains to help identify victims and determine causes of death. For those interested in working alongside these professionals, understanding the steps to become a crime scene technician is essential. These steps typically include earning a relevant degree, gaining hands-on training in evidence collection, and completing certification programs, all of which prepare individuals to support forensic experts in the field.
• Medical examiner or coroner offices. Working alongside forensic pathologists, they provide expertise in examining skeletal remains, particularly in cases where decomposition hinders traditional identification methods.
• Museums and historical societies. Professionals may engage in curatorial roles, managing and preserving skeletal collections, and contributing to public education on human osteology and anthropology.
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Forensic anthropologists often participate in human rights investigations, analyzing remains from mass graves to document evidence of genocides or war crimes.

Higher-level positions in forensic anthropology, particularly in research and academic settings, generally require a PhD, while master's degree holders may find opportunities in applied forensic work. The degree equips individuals with specialized skills that can be applied in a variety of professional contexts, each offering unique contributions to the pursuit of justice and historical documentation.

How much do forensic anthropologists make?

Forensic anthropologists analyze human skeletal remains to assist in legal investigations, and their salaries vary based on education, experience, and employment sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), anthropologists and archeologists, which include forensic anthropologists, had a median annual wage of $63,800 as of May 2023. The lowest 10% earned less than $43,770, while the highest 10% made more than $102,150. Those employed by the federal government or private research institutions tend to earn higher salaries compared to those working in academia or museums.

Geographical location also influences earnings, as some states and metropolitan areas offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living. Salary data from ZipRecruiter and Salary.com suggest that experienced forensic anthropologists in specialized roles can earn upwards of $90,000, particularly in forensic laboratories or government agencies.

While forensic anthropology is a niche profession, related fields such as forensic accounting offer alternative career paths with strong financial prospects. According to Indeed, the average forensic accountant salary in the United States is $103,859 per year, demonstrating the higher earning potential in financial crime investigations. Forensic anthropology remains a highly specialized field, with compensation reflecting expertise, casework involvement, and academic contributions.

What skills are required to be a forensic anthropologist?

Forensic anthropologists require a diverse set of skills to analyze human remains and assist in legal investigations. These skills encompass scientific knowledge, analytical abilities, and specialized training.

• Human Osteology Expertise. A deep understanding of human skeletal anatomy is essential for identifying bones, determining age, sex, ancestry, and stature, and recognizing skeletal anomalies or pathologies.
• Archaeological Field Methods. Proficiency in excavation techniques ensures the proper recovery of remains and associated evidence, maintaining context and preventing contamination.
• Analytical and Critical Thinking. The ability to assess evidence meticulously, draw informed conclusions, and reconstruct events based on skeletal findings is crucial.
• Communication Skills. Effectively conveying findings through detailed reports and expert testimony is vital for collaborating with law enforcement and legal professionals.
• Understanding of Legal Frameworks. Knowledge of legal procedures and standards ensures that analyses and testimonies meet judicial requirements.

Forensic anthropology encompasses various specializations, each requiring additional skills:

• Forensic Taphonomy. This specialization involves studying postmortem changes to human remains, necessitating knowledge of decomposition processes and environmental effects.
• Forensic Osteology. Focusing on bone biology and pathology, practitioners identify trauma or disease, requiring advanced training in skeletal biology.
• Forensic Archaeology. Specialists apply archaeological methods to locate and recover remains, demanding expertise in site surveying and excavation.

Pursuing advanced education, such as a master's or PhD in anthropology with a focus on forensic applications, is typically necessary to develop these competencies. Additionally, interdisciplinary studies can enhance a forensic anthropologist's skill set. For example, professionals might explore forensic psychology master's programs online to gain insights into human behavior, which can be beneficial when interpreting crime scenes or providing expert testimony.

What certifications do forensic anthropologists need?

Forensic anthropologists often pursue certifications to validate their expertise and enhance professional credibility. These certifications typically require advanced education, practical experience, and successful completion of rigorous examinations.

American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) Diplomate

The ABFA offers certification to individuals who have attained a doctoral degree (PhD) in anthropology or a closely related field. Candidates must pass a comprehensive examination that assesses their competency in forensic anthropology. Achieving Diplomate status signifies adherence to high professional standards and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Forensic Anthropology Society of Europe (FASE) Certification

FASE provides two levels of certification:

• Level 2. Aimed at candidates qualified to handle skeletal remains and assist senior personnel.
• Level 1 (C-FASE). Designated for independent practitioners demonstrating extensive experience and competence in forensic anthropology.

Royal Anthropological Institute (RAI) Certification

In the United Kingdom, the RAI offers certification at two levels:

• Forensic Anthropologist II. For practitioners who have demonstrated competence in practical and theoretical aspects of forensic anthropology, though they may lack courtroom experience.
• Chartered Forensic Anthropologist (FAI). The highest certification level is reserved for highly experienced practitioners with courtroom experience.

While not mandatory, these certifications enhance a forensic anthropologist's qualifications and may be required by certain employers or jurisdictions. They also ensure adherence to ethical standards and promote continuous professional development—important aspects for anyone considering the criminalist career path, where staying current with industry standards and scientific advancements is essential.

What strategies can enhance career opportunities in forensic anthropology?

Expanding professional prospects in forensic anthropology requires deliberate strategies beyond academic excellence. Leveraging interdisciplinary collaborations, for example with legal, medical, and technological experts, can open pathways to innovative casework and research endeavors. Active participation in professional societies and continuous skill development through specialized certifications and workshops further supports career advancement. Moreover, embracing emerging sustainable practices—by integrating eco-friendly methodologies into case analyses and research—can distinguish professionals in a competitive market. For insights on aligning interdisciplinary expertise with environmental and corporate responsibility, consider exploring careers in business sustainability.

What are the emerging career opportunities in forensic anthropology?

Forensic anthropology is increasingly intersecting with other disciplines to address complex societal challenges. Professionals are now exploring roles that extend beyond traditional casework to incorporate interdisciplinary research in areas such as mass disaster management, humanitarian investigations, and even environmental forensics. These emerging career paths often require proficiency in digital imaging, data analytics, and collaborative project management, paving the way for novel applications in both public and private sectors. For instance, the synergy between forensic anthropology and environmental sciences can open opportunities to work on projects that assess environmental impact through skeletal analysis, with competitive compensation trends—as seen in the environmental scientist salary benchmarks.

How Can Interdisciplinary Education Enhance My Forensic Anthropology Career?

Integrating interdisciplinary education into forensic anthropology enriches analytical and investigative capabilities by bridging scientific methods from complementary fields. Exposure to environmental science and sustainability practices, for instance, can provide unique insights into decomposition processes and site preservation. Leveraging training in digital imaging, data analytics, and eco-friendly methodologies strengthens research outcomes and broadens the scope of forensic investigations. Interested candidates should also explore options at affordable environmental science colleges to supplement their forensic expertise with sustainable practices.

What are the ethical considerations in forensic anthropology?

Forensic anthropologists must navigate a range of ethical issues while handling sensitive human remains and associated data. They adhere to rigorous standards that prioritize respect for the deceased, cultural sensitivity toward affected communities, and the privacy of individuals and families. Professionals balance investigative objectives with legal obligations, ensuring that casework respects both scientific integrity and human dignity. They also face challenges in maintaining impartiality during collaborations with law enforcement and other agencies, where conflicts of interest might arise. Such ethical practices support not only forensic integrity but also interdisciplinary partnerships, similar to those seen in fields that address community and infrastructural challenges, like pursuing an urban planning online degree.

How Do I Choose the Right Forensic Anthropology Program?

Ensure program accreditation and curriculum rigor align with forensic casework requirements. Evaluate faculty research expertise, practical fieldwork opportunities, and available certifications without duplicating standard requirements. Consider institutions that offer integrated interdisciplinary courses to supplement forensic training, such as courses in sustainable practices and environmental impact assessments. Some programs even allow students to complement their studies with an environmental science bachelor degree online, enhancing analytical skills relevant to both decomposition processes and evidentiary preservation. Compare graduate success rates, alumni testimonials, and research opportunities to make an informed decision.

Can forensic anthropology benefit from environmental engineering?

Forensic anthropology can gain significant insights from environmental engineering, especially in understanding how local environmental factors affect decomposition and preservation. Collaborative efforts in site analysis can refine the accuracy of postmortem interval estimations by integrating environmental modeling and soil analysis. By applying techniques developed in environmental engineering, forensic anthropologists can better predict the impact of weather, humidity, and other ecological variables on skeletal remains. Such interdisciplinary expertise enhances analytical methodologies and strengthens investigative outcomes. Additionally, acquiring training in environmental engineering concepts—by pursuing an affordable online environmental engineering degree—provides professionals with advanced tools to assess and address environmental variables in forensic casework.

Who do forensic anthropologists work with?

Forensic anthropologists collaborate with a diverse range of professionals in both investigative and academic settings. In criminal investigations, they work closely with law enforcement agencies, including local police, the FBI, and international organizations, to analyze skeletal remains and provide insights into the cause of death, postmortem interval, and identity. Medical examiners and forensic pathologists rely on their expertise in skeletal analysis to supplement autopsy findings, particularly when soft tissue is no longer present.

Legal professionals, such as attorneys and prosecutors, consult forensic anthropologists for expert testimony in court cases involving unidentified remains or cases of trauma and foul play. Their ability to explain complex scientific findings in layman's terms is critical for courtroom proceedings. Additionally, forensic anthropologists collaborate with archaeologists and historians in cases involving historical or mass grave excavations, contributing to human rights investigations and repatriation efforts.

In academic and research settings, forensic anthropologists engage with students and fellow scientists to advance the field through teaching, publications, and laboratory research. Their work also intersects with sociologists and psychologists when examining social and behavioral patterns related to crime and violence. For instance, professionals in forensic anthropology may explore what can you do with a masters in sociology to understand demographic trends, human migration, and societal factors that influence forensic casework. This interdisciplinary approach broadens their investigative capabilities and contributes to a more comprehensive analysis of human remains in various forensic contexts.

What are some famous forensic anthropology cases?

Forensic anthropology has played a pivotal role in solving numerous complex cases by analyzing human remains to uncover critical information. Notable instances include:

• Identification of the Somerton Man. In 1948, an unidentified male body was discovered on Somerton Beach in South Australia. For decades, his identity remained a mystery until forensic anthropologists and genetic genealogists collaborated, extracting DNA from hair samples found in a plaster death mask. This breakthrough led to the identification of the man, resolving one of Australia's most enigmatic forensic cases.
• Pompeii Victims' Last Moments. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD led to the preservation of victims in Pompeii. Forensic anthropologists have studied these remains, using 3D casts to reveal individuals' final moments and facial expressions, providing profound insights into the disaster's human impact.
• Windover Archaeological Site Discoveries. In 1982, construction workers unearthed 8,000-year-old human skeletons in Titusville, Florida. Remarkably, forensic anthropologists found intact brain tissue in 91 of the skulls, allowing for DNA extraction and offering a unique window into ancient populations.
• Resolution of Decades-Old Cold Cases. The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office, with assistance from forensic experts, solved the 1996 murder of 15-year-old Danielle "Danni" Houchins. Advancements in DNA analysis and forensic techniques were instrumental in bringing closure to this long-standing case.
• The Art of Forensics Exhibit. This initiative showcases facial reconstructions of unidentified homicide victims. Since its inception, the exhibit has contributed to solving nearly 25 homicide cases and updating over 140 cases to current investigative standards, highlighting the synergy between art and forensic science.

These cases underscore the critical role of forensic anthropology in unraveling historical mysteries, solving modern crimes, and providing closure to affected families. The integration of forensic anthropology with other disciplines, such as forensic psychology, enhances the understanding of both the physiological and behavioral aspects of cases, leading to more comprehensive investigations.

What are the latest advancements in forensic anthropology? 

Forensic anthropology has seen significant advancements in recent years, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of human identification and crime scene analysis. One notable development is the exploration of microbiomes for individual identification. Researchers have identified approximately 20 microbes that universally drive the decomposition of animal flesh, suggesting that individualized microbiomes could assist in forensic identifications.

Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into forensic practices has shown promise. Deep learning models have been trained on extensive datasets of human decomposition images to automate the determination of stages of decay, achieving reliability levels comparable to human experts.

Advancements in imaging techniques have also contributed to the field. The Batch Artifact Scanning Protocol utilizes computed tomography (CT) scanning to rapidly create three-dimensional models of objects from large collections, streamlining the analysis process.

Furthermore, the development of new nanomaterials has improved the visualization of latent fingerprints. Innovative fluorescent nanoparticles have been created to effectively detect latent fingerprints, enhancing the ability to visualize prints that were difficult to detect previously.

These advancements underscore the dynamic nature of forensic anthropology and its integration with other scientific disciplines. The intersection of forensic anthropology with fields such as cybercrime investigations highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in modern forensic science. For individuals interested in pursuing careers that combine these disciplines, exploring a cybercrime degree online can provide a flexible pathway to gaining the necessary expertise.

What Graduates Have to Say About Their Forensic Anthropology Degrees 

"I always wanted to work in forensic science, but I wasn’t sure which field suited me best. My coursework in forensic anthropology helped me discover my passion for human skeletal analysis. The professors were incredibly supportive, guiding me through challenging case studies. The best part was connecting with other students who shared my interests. Now, I’m assisting in a human rights organization, using my degree to identify remains in historical investigations." - Mackenzie

"As a military veteran, I was looking for a career that combined structure, investigation, and meaningful work. Studying forensic anthropology online let me transition into civilian life without uprooting my family. The program was rigorous but rewarding, especially when I started working on simulated forensic cases. Now, I assist with cold case investigations, and it’s fulfilling to know that my work helps bring closure to families. This degree was the right choice for me." - George

"Balancing school with my job as a police officer wasn’t easy, but the online forensic anthropology program fit into my unpredictable schedule. The forensic case studies I worked on directly related to my fieldwork, giving me new perspectives on crime scene investigations. Now, I collaborate with forensic scientists and medical examiners in missing persons cases. It’s rewarding to use my education in such a practical way. I never expected an online program to be this immersive." - Carlos

Key Findings 

• Extensive educational commitment. Becoming a forensic anthropologist takes around ten years, including a bachelor's, master's, and PhD, with additional time for research and certification.
• Limited number of certified professionals. As of 2023, only 150 diplomates have been certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) since its founding in 1977, highlighting the exclusivity of the field.
• Competitive salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), forensic anthropologists earn a median annual salary of around $66,000, with some professionals making over $100,000 in specialized roles.
• Expanding technological advancements. New methods, including AI-driven decomposition analysis and advanced imaging techniques, are improving forensic investigations and broadening career opportunities.
• Diverse career paths. Forensic anthropologists can work in academia, government agencies, and private forensic labs. They may also collaborate with law enforcement, forensic pathologists, and even cybersecurity experts in criminal investigations.

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Forensic Anthropologist

Does the FBI hire forensic anthropologists?

Yes, the FBI employs forensic anthropologists, but typically as consultants rather than full-time staff. They assist in analyzing skeletal remains in criminal cases, mass disasters, and unidentified remains investigations.

What are the big 4 in forensic anthropology?

The "Big Four" in forensic anthropology refers to the primary biological characteristics used to identify human remains: sex, age, ancestry, and stature. These factors help forensic anthropologists reconstruct an individual’s profile.

What is the difference between a forensic anthropologist and an anthropologist?

A forensic anthropologist specializes in analyzing human remains for legal and criminal investigations, while a general anthropologist studies human societies, cultures, and biological evolution without a forensic focus.

What are the disadvantages of forensic anthropology?

Forensic anthropology can be emotionally challenging due to frequent exposure to human remains and death investigations. The job market is highly competitive, requiring extensive education and specialization. Additionally, fieldwork conditions can be physically demanding and unpredictable.

References:

• American Academy of Forensic Sciences. (n.d.). Careers in forensic anthropology. aafs.org
• American Board of Forensic Anthropology. (n.d.). General information. theabfa.org
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Anthropologists and archeologists: Occupational outlook handbook. bls.gov
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational employment and wages: Anthropologists and archeologists. bls.gov
• McKay, D. R. (2021). Forensic anthropologist career information. liveabout.com.
• Royal Anthropological Institute. (n.d.). Forensic anthropology. therai.org
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. (n.d.). Forensic anthropology. si.edu