Medieval Studies

The study of the Middle Ages has become more and more recognized as vital to a complete understanding of modern civilization. The search for the roots of our culture inevitably leads to the Medieval world which both preserved and enlarged upon the classical heritage. The University of Waterloo and St. Jerome's University offer a program in Medieval Studies which provides students with an opportunity to explore the many aspects of this formative period. Making use of various resources within the university community, this program takes an interdisciplinary approach which allows students to follow a course of studies most appropriate to their own interests.This program is available as a three- or four-year option.

Field of study: Medieval and Renaissance Studies

The Medieval Studies program at the University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to explore the history, culture, literature, and societies of the medieval period. This program provides students with a deep understanding of the medieval world from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century to the Renaissance in the 15th century. Through a variety of courses, students examine topics such as medieval European history, art, architecture, religion, philosophy, and literary traditions. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to synthesize information from different fields to gain a nuanced perspective on medieval civilization.

Students have the opportunity to study primary sources in their original languages, develop an understanding of medieval manuscripts and art forms, and investigate the social, political, and economic structures of medieval societies. The curriculum includes courses on medieval philosophy, chivalric culture, medieval drama, and the development of medieval institutions like monasteries, guilds, and universities. Additionally, the program promotes experiential learning through seminars, research projects, and potential field visits to historical sites and museums.

The interdisciplinary nature of Medieval Studies at Waterloo allows students to collaborate with faculty from history, literature, art history, religious studies, and other departments, fostering a holistic understanding of the medieval period. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for careers in education, museum work, archival research, cultural heritage management, and further academic pursuits. The program aims to cultivate critical inquiry, cultural awareness, and an appreciation of the enduring legacy of the medieval era in shaping modern society.

Bachelor of Arts in Medieval Studies: Program Requirements

The Bachelor of Arts in Medieval Studies at the University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the medieval period, approximately from the 5th to the late 15th century. To successfully complete this program, students must fulfill a combination of core courses, electives, and supplemental requirements.

Firstly, students are required to complete foundational courses in history, literature, and languages relevant to the medieval era. These courses typically include Introduction to Medieval History, Medieval Literature Survey, and Medieval Latin or Old English language courses. Such courses aim to develop a solid understanding of the cultural, social, political, and linguistic aspects of the Middle Ages.

In addition to the core courses, students need to choose a set of electives to specialize further within the field. These electives may encompass areas such as medieval art and architecture, medieval philosophy, religious studies related to Christianity and other faiths during the period, and medieval law and society. Selecting electives from different disciplines encourages an interdisciplinary approach necessary for a well-rounded Medieval Studies education.

A significant component of the program is the mandatory Senior Seminar, where students undertake a research project under faculty supervision. This project involves extensive primary and secondary source analysis, fostering skills in critical thinking, historiography, and academic writing.

Students must also complete a capstone experience, which could be an internship, a detailed research paper, or a presentation at a university conference. This experience aims to synthesize learning and prepare students for graduate studies or careers in fields such as education, museum work, archival management, or cultural heritage.

To graduate, students must accumulate a set number of credits, typically amounting to 120 credits over the duration of the program, including general education requirements. The program encourages students to undertake study abroad opportunities to enhance their understanding of medieval cultures and languages through immersive experiences.

In summary, the Bachelor of Arts in Medieval Studies at the University of Waterloo demands a structured curriculum comprising core courses in medieval history, literature, and languages; elective courses across relevant disciplines; a senior research seminar; and a capstone project. These elements collectively provide students with a deep and interdisciplinary understanding of the Middle Ages, equipping them with research, analytical, and communication skills vital for diverse career paths.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Waterloo offers various funding options and financial assistance programs for students enrolled in Medieval Studies. Undergraduate students can explore several sources of financial aid, including entrance scholarships, renewable awards, external grants, and work-study opportunities. Entrance scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, which can significantly offset the cost of tuition. Continuing students can also qualify for merit-based awards, bursaries, and need-based grants, aimed at supporting their ongoing studies in Medieval Studies.

In addition to awards provided directly by the university, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as government student aid programs, private scholarships, and sponsorships from cultural or historical foundations interested in medieval studies. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is one of the primary government-supported aid programs accessible to Canadian students, offering loans and grants depending on financial need, program duration, and other eligibility criteria.

The university also provides information about part-time employment opportunities on or near campus, enabling students to finance their studies while gaining relevant work experience. The Waterloo Work-Study Program allows eligible students to work on campus in various roles, which can help reduce financial burdens without interfering with academic commitments. Furthermore, medieval studies students might have access to specialized scholarships related to history, arts, or humanities disciplines, which are awarded based on academic record, extracurricular involvement, or both.

International students should investigate scholarship programs designed specifically for their participation, as well as opportunities for part-time work permitted under their study visas. Some students may also consider applying for fellowships, research assistantships, or summer research grants, especially those pursuing graduate studies or involved in research projects in medieval history, literature, or related fields. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on navigating these options, application procedures, and deadlines.

Overall, funding for Medieval Studies at the University of Waterloo is multifaceted, with numerous internal and external options available to help students finance their education. Early planning, diligent application for scholarships and bursaries, and exploring part-time work opportunities are key strategies for managing the costs associated with studying in this program.

The University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive program in Medieval Studies designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the medieval period, roughly spanning from the 5th to the late 15th century. This program combines courses from various disciplines such as history, literature, art history, philosophy, and archaeology to give students a multidisciplinary perspective on the medieval world. Students enrolled in the Medieval Studies program have the opportunity to explore medieval culture, society, politics, religion, and daily life through a diverse array of courses, research projects, and fieldwork opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes both the historical context and the cultural achievements of the period, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

Students may have access to specialized resources such as collections of medieval manuscripts, archaeological sites, and collaborations with museums or cultural institutions. The program may include options for study abroad or internships, which allow practical engagement with medieval artifacts and heritage. Graduates from the Medieval Studies program often pursue careers in academia, museums, cultural heritage organizations, public history, archaeology, or continue their education with postgraduate studies. The university supports student research through grants and encourages participation in conferences and scholarly networks focused on medieval history and culture.

The program aims to develop a nuanced understanding of the medieval period, encouraging students to critically analyze primary sources, interpret medieval texts, and understand the linguistic, artistic, and societal developments of the time. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles in educational, cultural, and research fields. Although specific details such as program length, entry requirements, and particular courses may vary, the general focus is on fostering a scholarly appreciation of the medieval era, its complexities, and its influence on subsequent history.