Students can obtain a bachelor's degree while majoring in medieval studies, investigating this important period in human history by choosing unique courses from a range of different departments and topics. Students can enhance their understanding of this history by studying languages such as Medieval Latin, Old English, or Classical Arabic. 

The major requires 12 medieval courses in at least three departments. Students must pass courses with grades of mid-C or better. Two years of Latin are recommended for those who want to do graduate work in medieval studies. Elementary Latin courses do not count for medieval studies credit, although Medieval Latin courses (offered at advanced levels) do count. Under special circumstances, it is possible for students who are highly proficient in Old English to appeal for second language certification through the Dean’s Office. For more information, contact the Medieval Studies director. 

Learning Goals for the Medieval Studies Major

Students graduating with a medieval studies major will be able to:

1. Identify materials, terminologies, and methodologies within one or more following areas of study focused on the Middle Ages:
   • Art history
   • Languages and literatures
   • History
   • Religious studies and religious backgrounds to medieval culture
   • Music history and performance
   • Cross-cultural contacts and borrowings
   • Classical backgrounds for medieval culture
2. Analyze primary material from the Middle Ages, explaining what specific features in the primary text/object carry medieval cultural content. (This can include focus, meaning, formal features, aims, assumptions, and purposes evident in the primary material.)
3. Critically assess and interpret primary and secondary sources.
4. Recognize and evaluate the cultural phenomena of the medieval world and their relationship to the modern world.
5. Synthesize an argument from textual or other evidence and express it in formal prose. (Write organized, well-structured, clear essays that make use of evidence to advance assertions and a main thesis.)