The International Master in Quaternary and Prehistory (IMQP) is an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) program designed to provide students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in prehistory and Quaternary geology. With a strong scientific foundation, the program equips students with cutting-edge methodologies in prehistory, paleoanthropology, archaeology, Quaternary geology, and heritage preservation.
This two-year master’s program (120 ECTS) is delivered by a consortium of five prestigious universities, offering a unique blend of theoretical courses, practical training, and international mobility. Students will have the opportunity to engage in excavations, laboratory work, and interdisciplinary research at partner institutions across Europe and Asia.
Program Details
- Project Reference: 101177274
- Status: Ongoing
- Duration: 01 October 2024 – 30 November 2030
- EU Grant: €4,856,400.00
- Countries Covered: 5
- Key Action: Erasmus+ – Partnerships for cooperation and exchanges of practices
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
Partner Institutions
The IMQP is coordinated by Università degli Studi di Ferrara (Italy) and delivered in collaboration with:
- Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (France)
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili (Spain)
- Instituto Politécnico de Tomar (Portugal)
- University of the Philippines Diliman (Philippines)
Each institution specializes in different aspects of prehistoric research, providing students with a well-rounded and internationally recognized education.
Curriculum and Academic Pathway
The program’s curriculum covers an extensive range of subjects related to prehistory and Quaternary sciences. The coursework integrates scientific, historical, and technical perspectives, ensuring a deep understanding of human evolution and environmental interactions.
Core Subjects
📌 Prehistory & Archaeology – Study of early human cultures, lithic technology, symbolic behavior, and prehistoric societies.
📌 Human Evolution & Paleoanthropology – Analysis of human biological and cultural evolution, adaptation strategies, and subsistence patterns.
📌 Quaternary Geology & Chronology – Understanding geological processes, environmental changes, and dating techniques from the Quaternary period.
📌 Paleontology & Faunal Evolution – Study of prehistoric ecosystems, extinct species, and human-animal interactions.
📌 Archaeometry & Scientific Methods – Application of geochemical, isotopic, and material analysis techniques in archaeology.
📌 Heritage Preservation & Cultural Resource Management – Strategies for conserving prehistoric sites and artifacts.
Students will participate in field excavations, laboratory analyses, and interdisciplinary research projects, gaining hands-on experience in various methodologies.
Mobility & International Experience
📍 Multi-Country Study Track
IMQP students must study at a minimum of two partner institutions to enhance their academic exposure and benefit from diverse scientific expertise. Students spending part of their studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman will receive an additional diploma.
📍 Fieldwork & Excavations
Practical experience is a cornerstone of IMQP. Students will engage in:
- Summer schools (minimum 15 days) with full immersion study activities.
- Archaeological excavations at prehistoric sites in Europe and Asia.
- Laboratory research on prehistoric artifacts, fossils, and environmental samples.
📍 Flexible Student Mobility
- At least 35% of ECTS credits must be completed at a partner institution outside the home university.
- Partner institutions facilitate affordable housing options for incoming students.
- A balanced student exchange policy ensures equal mobility opportunities for all students.
Admission Criteria & Application Process
The IMQP program follows a standardized admission process across all partner institutions.
✅ Eligibility:
- A recognized bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, such as:
- Archaeology, Prehistory, Anthropology, Paleontology
- Quaternary Geology, Natural & Environmental Sciences
- Biology, Geology, Cultural Heritage Preservation
- Technology, Education, Tourism Science
- International students’ degrees will be evaluated based on national recognition frameworks.
✅ Selection Process:
- Admission is based on academic excellence, research interests, and motivation.
- Applications will be reviewed by a joint selection committee from partner universities.
- Selected students will be enrolled at both their home university and Università degli Studi di Ferrara, which serves as the program’s administrative center.
✅ Scholarships & Funding:
- The EACEA supports 79 fully funded scholarships covering tuition, travel, and living expenses.
- An additional 83 positions are available for self-funded students with partial financial aid from the IMQP consortium.
- The scholarship application form will be available four months before the call deadline.
Career Prospects & Professional Opportunities
Graduates of the IMQP program are well-prepared for careers in:
🔹 Academic Research & Teaching – Universities, museums, and research institutes.
🔹 Archaeology & Cultural Heritage Management – Government agencies, heritage organizations, and UNESCO.
🔹 Geoarchaeology & Environmental Consultancy – Conservation projects and environmental assessments.
🔹 Museums & Science Communication – Public outreach, curation, and exhibition design.
🔹 Field Research & Excavation Management – Archaeological sites and heritage preservation initiatives.
The IMQP’s interdisciplinary focus and strong professional network provide students with significant advantages in both academia and the job market.
Why Choose the IMQP?
✔ Prestigious European & International Collaboration – Study at top universities with renowned experts.
✔ Hands-On Training & Fieldwork – Gain practical experience in archaeology and Quaternary research.
✔ Global Recognition – Earn a joint diploma from leading institutions.
✔ Fully Funded Scholarships – Access EU-funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses.
✔ Strong Career Opportunities – Enter academia, research, or professional archaeology fields.
✔ Cultural & Academic Diversity – Engage in multinational research and training with peers from around the world.
How to Apply?
📌 New Call for Applications (2025/2026) Opening Soon!
- Applications will be accepted at all partner institutions according to the joint selection procedure.
- Interested candidates should regularly check the official university websites for updates on application deadlines and scholarship opportunities.
For more details on admission, funding, and program structure, visit:
