MA in Medieval Studies

Awards Available	MA
Duration of programme	One year full-time; two years part-time
Part-time study available?	Yes
Number of places	Not fixed

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Programme overview

Our MA in Medieval Studies is an interdisciplinary, one-year Masters programme. Drawing on the expertise of members of the Centre for Medieval Studies, you will be able to tailor your programme of study from optional units, managed by research-active medievalists across the following disciplines: Archaeology, English, Drama, European Language and Literature, History, History of Art, Late Antiquity, Latin, Music, Religion and Theology.

The dissertation component will allow you to specialise in a subject and discipline of your choice, engaging with primary sources under the supervision of a dedicated academic adviser.

The city of Bristol is an ideal place to study for medievalists of all disciplines. During the later Middle Ages, the city expanded as a trading port with continental Europe, competing with Southampton, York and Norwich as England's second medieval city after London. We also enjoy special relationships with the medieval cathedral libraries of Hereford and Wells, where students visit on day trips to practice palaeography and codicology, with real documents in their original settings.

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Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent). Non-traditional qualifications/routes may also be considered.

For information on international equivalent qualifications, please see our International Office website.

Admissions statement

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

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Programme structure

The MA programme is organised around specialised 'pathways', allowing you to focus on texts and sources using exemplars available in local medieval collections, or on comparative cultural study, or on historical topics. Each pathway is divided into three elements.

Core Units

Research Skills

This unit covers topics fundamental to the handling of medieval primary sources such as palaeography, theories of editing and the use of archival resources.

Interdisciplinary seminar series

Staff and a range of eminent visiting medievalists will introduce you to a range of texts, images and concepts central to the study of the European Middle Ages.

Latin

This unit aims to provide you with competence in essential grammar, syntax and vocabulary if you have no previous knowledge of the language. If you are already sufficiently qualified in Latin you may join a more advanced group or substitute the study of another language.

Optional Units

These will cover various themes within History, English and European Literatures, Art History, Drama, Theology and Music. You can check the website to see what new options are offered in the current year.