The MPhil in Medieval Literature at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration of the rich literary traditions produced during the medieval period, approximately from the 5th to the late 15th century. This program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the cultural, historical, and linguistic contexts of medieval texts, as well as their enduring influence on subsequent literary and artistic developments. The course provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines rigorous literary analysis with interdisciplinary approaches, including manuscript studies, palaeography, philology, and historical research.

Students will have the opportunity to study a wide range of texts in their original languages such as Latin, Old English, Old French, Middle High German, Middle English, and other medieval European languages. The program emphasizes both close textual analysis and broader contextual understanding, encouraging students to engage critically with primary sources and secondary scholarship. Courses cover themes such as chivalric literature, religious texts, courtly love, medieval poetry and drama, literature of the Crusades, and the literature of the Later Middle Ages. Additionally, students can choose specialised modules tailored to their interests, supported by expert faculty members who are leading researchers in the field of medieval studies.

The program also places strong emphasis on manuscript and book history, digital humanities, and the sociopolitical contexts that shaped literary production during the Middle Ages. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that enhance their analytical skills and scholarly independence. The programme culminates in a substantial dissertation, where students demonstrate their ability to undertake original research and contribute new insights into medieval literature.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from access to the university’s extensive library collections, special collections, and state-of-the-art facilities. The collaborative academic environment fosters dialogue between students and faculty from diverse backgrounds, providing a vibrant intellectual community. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, curation, digital humanities, publishing, and other fields related to medieval studies and literary research. The MPhil in Medieval Literature at Cambridge is an ideal choice for those seeking to deepen their expertise in one of the most fascinating periods of literary history and to develop advanced research skills in a stimulating scholarly environment.

Feedback

In addition to supervision meetings each student should also receive a supervision report at the end of each term via the online Cambridge Graduate Supervision Reporting System.

Assessment

Thesis

Submission of an 80,000 word dissertation and an examination, conducted orally, on the subject of the dissertation.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Sample of Work 
• Research Proposal 
• Personal Reference

There is no specific information available regarding the financing options for the Medieval Literature program at the University of Cambridge. Generally, funding opportunities for students pursuing postgraduate studies at Cambridge include various sources such as University-funded scholarships, college-specific bursaries, government grants, and external funding opportunities. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the University’s official scholarships and funding pages for detailed information about available awards, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. Undergraduate students may access Cambridge Trust scholarships, while postgraduate students might be eligible for fellowships, research funding, or fee waivers. Financial aid options can also include loans, sponsorship, or employer sponsorship programs, depending on the student’s country of residence and individual circumstances. The university offers guidance and support services to assist students in identifying suitable funding sources and applying successfully. Additionally, some colleges within the University provide their own financial aid programs to support students during their studies. For more detailed and specific information about financing the Medieval Literature program, prospective students should consult the official University of Cambridge website or contact the admissions and finance offices directly.

The MSt in Medieval Literature at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration of medieval texts, languages, and cultures. This program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of the literature produced during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th centuries. It provides a rigorous academic environment where students engage with primary sources in Old and Middle English, Latin, Old French, and other relevant languages, supported by world-class faculty renowned for their expertise in medieval studies. The curriculum combines compulsory core modules with flexible options, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their research interests, whether it be literary analysis, historical context, or manuscript studies.

Students are encouraged to develop a strong critical framework and advanced analytical skills through seminars, supervisions, and independent research projects. The program emphasizes not only the textual analysis but also the historical and cultural contexts underpinning medieval works. Students often have access to extensive university collections, including medieval manuscripts and rare texts, to facilitate primary source research. The University of Cambridge's interdisciplinary approach integrates aspects of philology, history, art history, and comparative literature, providing a comprehensive understanding of medieval European culture.

The program typically spans one year for full-time students, commencing in the autumn and concluding the following summer. It is suitable for those contemplating further research at doctoral level or seeking specialized knowledge for careers in academia, publishing, museums, or cultural heritage organizations. The application process requires a strong academic background in relevant fields, and the program values linguistic proficiency in medieval languages and prior experience with literary texts or historical research. Graduates of the program often publish scholarly articles, continue their academic careers, or move into roles that require expert knowledge of medieval literature and history. Overall, the MSt in Medieval Literature offers a challenging and enriching environment dedicated to the study and appreciation of one of the most vibrant periods in European cultural history.