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Universität Heidelberg
Bachelor German + English Social Sciences

Pre and Protohistory

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Universität Heidelberg Heidelberg · Baden-Württemberg

About the Program

Pre- and protohistory is an archaeological discipline. The subject (re)constructs history by using material culture as a unique historical source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of man 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.
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Pre- and protohistory is an archaeological discipline. The subject (re)constructs history by using material culture as a unique historical source of information about past societies, from the first appearance of man 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.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Archaeology

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How do I apply to Pre and Protohistory at Universität Heidelberg?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Pre and Protohistory at Universität Heidelberg

Is Pre and Protohistory at Universität Heidelberg taught in German or English? ▼

This Bachelor programme is taught in German + English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Pre and Protohistory programme cost? ▼

161 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Pre and Protohistory at Universität Heidelberg? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German + English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Pre and Protohistory? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Heidelberg — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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