Education, Training, and Competencies in Forensic Anthropology

Abstract

The articles in this special issue grew from a symposium at the 2019 American Academy of Forensic Sciences Annual Scientific Meeting titled “Defining Qualifications and Competencies in Forensic Anthropology: Implications for Education, Training, Accreditation, and Certification.” The symposium focused on current status and future direction in training and certification of forensic anthropologists in light of increased scrutiny of forensic practitioners and the need to enhance the value of forensic anthropologists within the medicolegal system. The symposium presentations discussed qualifications and competencies for forensic anthropologists, the history and continuous quality improvement of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA)1 certification process, the role of education and training programs in preparing graduates for board certification and practice, and the responsibilities of practitioners working in accredited laboratories. The articles in this special issue take a deep dive into these topics, identify gaps, and suggest a path forward.