Prehistoric archaeology (prehistory) is a historical science that deals with people, their environment and their cultures in written and non-written epochs.

Archaeological Science covers all epochs from the Palaeolithic Age to the Early Middle Ages. Using scientific methods, the remains of human culture (e.g. stone, bone and antler artifacts, plant remains, ancient DNA and isotopes), which are discovered through excavations, are analysed and placed in the context of cultural, environmental and economic history.

The study programme in Prehistory and Archaeological Science is offered by IPAS in the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel. The programme is mainly taught in German with a few courses in English.