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Pre- and Protohistory is an archaeological discipline that (re)constructs social, cultural and historical processes by using material culture as a unique source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of humans to the most recent past.
Prehistory covers the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, the Copper Age (Chalcolithic or Aeneolithic period), as well as the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Sources are of an archaeological nature (archaeological monuments, artefacts), meaning that prehistory is quite different to other purely historical subjects. Due to its significant overlap with the natural sciences, research of the Palaeolithic period has developed into a separate, specialized discipline. Protohistory considers the development of early literate societies, for instance of Mycenaean Greece or of Late Antique and Early Medieval Europe. Research of these periods draws on archaeological, as well as historical sources. Pre- and Protohistory – although not generally defined by regional or geographical demarcations – generally focusses on Europe, taking the neighbouring continents of Asia and North Africa into consideration where relevant.
It is mandatory to choose a minor subject in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.
Programme overview
Main Subject
History
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Pre- and Protohistory is an archaeological discipline that (re)constructs social, cultural and historical processes by using material culture as a unique source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of humans to the most recent past.
Prehistory covers the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, the Copper Age (Chalcolithic or Aeneolithic period), as well as the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Sources are of an archaeological nature (archaeological monuments, artefacts), meaning that prehistory is quite different to other purely historical subjects. Due to its significant overlap with the natural sciences, research of the Palaeolithic period has developed into a separate, specialized discipline. Protohistory considers the development of early literate societies, for instance of Mycenaean Greece or of Late Antique and Early Medieval Europe. Research of these periods draws on archaeological, as well as historical sources. Pre- and Protohistory – although not generally defined by regional or geographical demarcations – generally focusses on Europe, taking the neighbouring continents of Asia and North Africa into consideration where relevant.
It is mandatory to choose a minor subject in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.
Admission Requirements
Applicants for a Master's degree programme must have successfully completed a first university degree programme at a German or international university that qualifies them to enrol in the desired Master's programme.
31 Mar 2026
2 Years
Oct
Apr
Tuition fees
Domestic
0 EUR
International
3,000 EUR
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Master of Arts in Pre- and Protohistory
Grabengasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg,, Germany
# 51-100QS Subject Rankings
24 monthsProgramme duration
3,000 EURTuition Fee/year
31 Mar, 2026Application Deadline
Programme overview
Main Subject
History
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Pre- and Protohistory is an archaeological discipline that (re)constructs social, cultural and historical processes by using material culture as a unique source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of humans to the most recent past.
Prehistory covers the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, the Copper Age (Chalcolithic or Aeneolithic period), as well as the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Sources are of an archaeological nature (archaeological monuments, artefacts), meaning that prehistory is quite different to other purely historical subjects. Due to its significant overlap with the natural sciences, research of the Palaeolithic period has developed into a separate, specialized discipline. Protohistory considers the development of early literate societies, for instance of Mycenaean Greece or of Late Antique and Early Medieval Europe. Research of these periods draws on archaeological, as well as historical sources. Pre- and Protohistory – although not generally defined by regional or geographical demarcations – generally focusses on Europe, taking the neighbouring continents of Asia and North Africa into consideration where relevant.
It is mandatory to choose a minor subject in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.
Programme overview
Main Subject
History
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
Pre- and Protohistory is an archaeological discipline that (re)constructs social, cultural and historical processes by using material culture as a unique source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of humans to the most recent past.
Prehistory covers the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, the Copper Age (Chalcolithic or Aeneolithic period), as well as the Bronze Age and Iron Age. Sources are of an archaeological nature (archaeological monuments, artefacts), meaning that prehistory is quite different to other purely historical subjects. Due to its significant overlap with the natural sciences, research of the Palaeolithic period has developed into a separate, specialized discipline. Protohistory considers the development of early literate societies, for instance of Mycenaean Greece or of Late Antique and Early Medieval Europe. Research of these periods draws on archaeological, as well as historical sources. Pre- and Protohistory – although not generally defined by regional or geographical demarcations – generally focusses on Europe, taking the neighbouring continents of Asia and North Africa into consideration where relevant.
It is mandatory to choose a minor subject in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.
Admission Requirements
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
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