MA (Medieval Studies)

Programme description

A two-year, taught postgraduate programme designed to provide a thorough grounding in the culture and society of the Middle Ages (c. AD 400–1400). Students will learn the linguistic and other skills required to enable them to undertake original analytical and methodological evaluations of the archaeological, documentary, inscriptional, and literary materials from the period, from an inter-disciplinary perspective. Languages offered (subject to availability) will include Old & Middle Irish, Old & Middle English, Old & Middle High German, Medieval Romance Languages, and Medieval Latin (and medieval languages as may be available from time to time).

Programme aims and objectives

The first year of the programme will combines seminars and taught courses with initial research for a minor dissertation, which is completed in the second year. Students attend courses on the sources for the study of the Middle Ages, with a focus on manuscripts and palaeography, as well as language courses in Latin. These core courses are combined with ones of the student's own choosing.

By the time they graduate, all students will be expected to have acquired a good working knowledge of Medieval Latin and a second medieval language, as well as developing a thorough competency in research methods and intellectual inquiry. 

ECTS weighting

120 ECTS.

Programme fee, academic year 2009–10

E.U. students: contact Fees Office. 
Non-E.U. students: €13,000*

*Subject to ratification

Please note: fees are correct at the time of online publication, but are subject to change (E&EO); non-E.U. fees must be paid in full prior to registration. 

Application

Applications to this programme are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code above right.

Minimum entry requirements

A good Second Class Honours, Grade 1 in a BA or equivalent international undergraduate degree. No previous knowledge of Latin or any medieval language is required. 

Selection criteria

Applicants will be assessed on the basis of their undergraduate grades and transcripts, as well as letters of recommendation and a writing sample. 

Examination arrangements

Language proficiency will be assessed continuously throughout the two years and tested in written examinations at the end of each semester. Optional courses will be examined by continuous assessment and final examination, extended essay, or project work. Sources & Resources will be graded by continuous assessment. A minor thesis will be presented at the end of the programme.

Career opportunities

Graduates in Medieval Studies have a reasonable expectation of finding employment in many walks of life, outside of  academia. These include cultural and heritage development; library and museum studies; print journalism; research consultancies; financial services; the civil service; teaching, and administration.

Programme content (subject to change)

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