The International Master in Quaternary and Prehistory IMQP Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree is a rigorous two-year programme (120 ECTS) designed to prepare graduates for advanced roles in prehistoric research, Quaternary geology, palaeoanthropology, archaeological science, and heritage management through an interdisciplinary European educational experience. Central to the IMQP Erasmus Mundus International Master in Quaternary and Prehistory is its balanced curriculum combining theoretical foundations with fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and exposure to diverse research traditions across partner institutions. Graduates gain in-depth competence in reconstructing human and environmental history over the Quaternary period, guided by expert faculty and international collaboration.

Jointly delivered by a consortium of leading European universities, the IMQP Erasmus Mundus fosters academic excellence and intercultural understanding, equipping students with the methodological expertise and global perspective necessary to contribute to scientific research, cultural heritage policy, and academic discourse in prehistory and related fields. Its international mobility components and interdisciplinary emphasis make the programme highly valuable for those pursuing research careers, museum leadership, and advanced studies in Quaternary and Prehistory.

Key Details of the IMQP Erasmus Mundus

Feature	Details
Programme Name	International Master in Quaternary and Prehistory (IMQP)
Duration	2 academic years (120 ECTS)
Degree Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree
Language of Instruction	English
Study Model	Year 1 at a consortium institution; Year 2 at another partner institution for specialisation
Scholarship Type	Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding and Consortium Scholarships
Academic Focus	Prehistory, Quaternary geology, Archaeology, Palaeoanthropology, Heritage Science

Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information

Item	Detail
Status	Ongoing
Start Date	01 October 2024
End Date	30 November 2030
Action Type	Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM)

Universities and Countries Involved in IMQP Erasmus Mundus

The programme is delivered by a consortium of European higher education institutions:

University	Country
Università degli Studi di Ferrara	Italy
Muséum National d’Histoire naturelle	France
Universitat Rovira i Virgili	Spain
Instituto Politécnico de Tomar	Portugal

Programme Structure

Year	Location	Academic Components
Year 1	Consortium institution (assigned)	Core foundational courses in Quaternary and Prehistory
Year 2	Another partner institution (assigned)	Advanced modules, research training, and thesis work
Optional Mobility	Additional semesters or field placements	Professional internships or field research components

Research and Industry Links

The IMQP Erasmus Mundus programme emphasises research integration and professional relevance by combining academic study with fieldwork, excavations, laboratory research, and heritage management projects. Through collaborations with museums, research centres, and international heritage bodies, students engage with real-world prehistoric inquiry and scientific analysis, reinforcing their preparedness for research, curatorial, and scientific roles upon graduation.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the IMQP Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in archaeology, prehistory, anthropology, palaeontology, Quaternary geology, heritage studies or related disciplines.
• Knowledge of English or French at a level equivalent to at least B2.
• Strong academic record and motivation for interdisciplinary prehistoric research.
• Motivation letter demonstrating research interest.
• Experience in archaeological excavations, seminars or related activities considered an asset.

Required Documents

• Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
• Proof of English or French proficiency.
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages).
• Motivation letter.
• Documents confirming relevant field experience.
• Passport identification page.
• Recommendation letters (sent by referees).

How to Apply – Step-By-Step

1. Visit the official IMQP website and check the admissions section.
2. Download the call for applications.
3. Fill in personal, academic, and background details as required.
4. Upload all required documents in PDF format.
5. Submit application before the published deadline.
6. If shortlisted, attend any interview as requested by the selection committee.

Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake

Stage	Timeline
Applications Open	December
Application Deadline	February – March
Selection and Review	April
Final Results Notification	May
Programme Start	Early September

Scholarship Benefits for IMQP Erasmus Mundus Applicants

• Erasmus+ funding covering tuition and participation for scholarship holders.
• Monthly mobility scholarship for eligible students (€1,400/month for 24 months).
• Health insurance coverage for Erasmus+ scholarship recipients.
• Mobility scholarships during second year for non-full scholarship holders.
• Additional consortium scholarships may be available.

Guidance for a Strong Application

• Clearly articulate your research motivation in prehistory and Quaternary sciences.
• Highlight any practical experience in excavations or scientific research.
• Provide strong, academic references.
• Demonstrate readiness for international mobility and interdisciplinary study.
• Ensure all documents are professionally prepared and error-free.

Alumni Experience

Graduates of the IMQP Erasmus Mundus programme often pursue PhD studies, work as researchers in academia and cultural institutions, or take roles in museums, heritage management, and scientific research organisations. Many also contribute to international archaeological projects and heritage policy initiatives, benefiting from the programme’s interdisciplinary training and international network

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)