Master of Science in Prehistory and Archaeological Science

The Master of Science in Prehistory and Archaeological Science at the University of Basel offers an interdisciplinary curriculum focused on Stone Age periods, including the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic. Students explore cultural phenomena from sites like Palaeolithic settlements and Neolithic lakeshores through both classroom study and practical training. The programme integrates natural sciences such as archaeozoology, paleoethnobotany, and geoarchaeology with traditional archaeological theory and methods. Candidates examine material remains including stone artefacts, bones, and plant debris to reconstruct ancient human diets, economies, and environments. The course requires a high degree of dedication to interdisciplinary scientific methodologies.

• Engage in lectures and practical training covering prehistoric material culture and scientific techniques
• Analyze physical remains such as stone, bone, and antler artefacts, as well as animal and human bones
• Conduct sediment analyses, including micromorphology and experimental archaeology investigations
• Study ancient DNA, plant remains, and the history of cultivated plants and domestic animals
• Reconstruct past human diets, economies, cultures, and environments through interdisciplinary research