Medieval studies students may search the legends of King Arthur for clues
that say something about our modern society. Or they may follow the evolution
of English. They may even study old musical instruments. Basically, they study
all aspects of European civilization from 500 AD to 1500 AD.
"Medieval studies is an interdisciplinary program," says Thomas
Jambeck. He is co-director of the medieval studies program at the University
of Connecticut.
"Its premise is simply that any given field of study, whether literature
or history or science or philosophy or religion and the like, cannot be fully
appreciated or understood in a vacuum."
Students take courses in a wide range of subjects. That makes medieval
studies an excellent program for students who would like to get a broad liberal
arts education, says Michael Cornett. He is the program coordinator of the
Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Duke University.
Many schools offer courses or minors in medieval studies. Several schools
also offer the chance to get a bachelor's degree with a major in medieval
studies. A handful of schools also offer graduate and postgraduate degrees.
Entrance requirements vary. But programs generally demand that you be
comfortable with foreign languages.
Many programs demand that students pass a Latin test before they can graduate.
They may also have to show they are proficient in other languages, such as
modern French and German.
Take Latin and as many foreign languages as possible in high school.
Also, take history classes and English.
High school students should also get experience in writing and editing,
says Cornett. You can get that experience through your student newspaper and
working on the yearbook.
It doesn't hurt if you've been to Europe to get a sense of its history
and people. Better yet, you may be able to experience Europe as you study
it through an international exchange program.
You may not have to spend any money on tuition during your time in Europe
-- some programs may waive tuition fees. And you get a chance to study your
subjects up close and personal.
"A majority of our students do study abroad in their junior year," says
Cornett.
You should also be comfortable around computers. You will use them a lot
for library and special collection searches.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Social
Scientists, Other
Medieval Academy of America
An organization dedicated to medieval studies
The Labyrinth
A collection of links
The Knights Templar
Chronology of the Crusades