Medieval and Renaissance Studies

The Medieval and Renaissance Studies program at University College London offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary exploration of the history, culture, literature, art, and philosophy of the Medieval and Renaissance periods. This dynamic program is designed to deepen understanding of the profound transformations that shaped Europe from approximately 300 to 1650 AD, emphasizing critical analysis of primary sources, cultural contexts, and intellectual developments. Students will engage with a wide range of materials, including medieval manuscripts, early printed books, artworks, and archaeological findings, to develop a nuanced perspective on this pivotal era. The curriculum combines courses in history, literature, art history, philosophy, and language studies, allowing students to tailor their academic journey according to their interests. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, interdisciplinary approaches, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage institutions, publishing, and related fields. The program encourages active participation through seminars, research projects, and field visits, fostering an environment of scholarly inquiry and collaborative learning. Additionally, students have the opportunity to study Latin, Old English, or other relevant languages to enhance their understanding of primary sources. With experienced faculty members specializing in medieval and Renaissance studies, students benefit from expert guidance and mentorship. The program also facilitates access to UCL’s extensive resources, including libraries, special collections, and digitized archives. Graduates of the Medieval and Renaissance Studies program acquire a solid foundation in historical methodology, critical analysis, and cultural interpretation, equipping them with the skills necessary to contribute to academic research, cultural conservation, and public engagement with the medieval and early modern periods. Overall, this program provides a rigorous and enriching educational experience for students passionate about exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

This MA provides exceptional opportunities to master medieval and renaissance languages and to acquire manuscript expertise working with original manuscripts; key skills for those who want to go on to original research. Students with primary interests in many different areas ‒ linguistic, historical, literary or archaeological ‒ will be able to build on and extend their expertise and skills.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of core language modules (30 credits), optional modules (90 credits), and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

• Old and Middle English
• Medieval Latin (Beginners)
• Medieval Latin (Intermediate)
• Medieval French
• Old and Middle French
• Medieval Italian
• Medieval German
• Classical Hebrew
• Rabbinic Hebrew
• Introduction to Old Norse

Optional modules

Up to 90 credits of options drawn from any of:

• The Medieval Papacy
• Manuscripts and Documents
• Renaissance Texts: Resources and Research Techniques
• The Medieval English Book
• Anglo-Saxon Court Culture
• Animals and the Medieval Imagination
• Comparative History of Medieval Literature
• Dante: Divina Commedia
• Travel and Writing in the Middle Ages
• Europe's Long 13th Century: Governments, Conflicts and the Cultivation of Christendom
• From Renaissance to Republic: The Netherlands c. 1555‒1609
• Giordano Bruno
• Identity and Power in Medieval Europe, 500‒1300 AD
• The Italian Book, 1465‒1600
• The Italian Dialogue of Giordano Bruno
• Magic in the Middle Ages
• Medieval Archaeology: Selected Topics and Current Problems
• Medieval Manuscripts and Documents: Research Techniques

Dissertation/research project

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of up to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and classes. Several modules include site visits to institutions, notably the British Library, the Warburg Institute, the National Archives and the Institute of Historical Research. Assessment is through unseen examination, long essays, coursework and the dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

What are we looking for?

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

• why you want to study Medieval and Renaissance Studies at graduate level
• why you want to study Medieval and Renaissance Studies at UCL
• what particularly attracts you to this programme
• how your academic background meets the demands of this challenging programme
• where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to show how your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme delivers.

Jean Orr Scholarship

Value:

£7,000 (1 year)

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

Wellcome Trust Scholarship

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

The Medieval and Renaissance Studies program at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the cultural, historical, literary, and artistic developments of the medieval and early modern periods. The program is designed for students with a strong interest in the history and culture of Europe from about the 5th to the 17th centuries. It combines interdisciplinary approaches, utilizing history, art history, literature, philosophy, and archaeology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the period’s complexities. Students engage with primary texts, artworks, and historical sources, developing critical skills in analysis, interpretation, and contextualization. The curriculum includes modules on medieval and Renaissance art and architecture, literature, philosophy, political history, and social structures. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of cultural movements across Europe, encouraging comparative analysis and cross-disciplinary research. Students have access to world-class resources, including special collections, libraries, and archives, enhancing their research projects. The program also offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in seminars and conferences, fostering a vibrant academic community. Graduates from the program pursue careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, publishing, and education. The program aims to develop both specialized knowledge and transferable skills such as critical thinking, research, and communication, equipping students for diverse professional paths. Coursework is complemented by a final dissertation, allowing students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice within the medieval or Renaissance periods. The program regularly updates its content to reflect new research and scholarship, ensuring that students receive current and relevant knowledge. Overall, the Medieval and Renaissance Studies program at UCL offers an enriching academic experience that combines rigorous scholarship with a passion for exploring one of the most fascinating periods in European history.