MA (Medieval Studies)

Course details

The MA in Medieval Studies is a multi-disciplinary programme distinguished by the range of subjects included: Archaeology, European & Irish History, Latin & Late Antiquity as well as Celtic, Germanic and Romance Languages & Literatures. It provides students with a thorough grounding in the study of language, culture, and society from Late Antiquity to the end of the Middle Ages. The cross-disciplinary approach encourages students to view the past in a multidimensional way, while the emphasis on languages and source study provides students with the tools they need to make original contributions to scholarship.

Key facts

Entry requirements

Either a Second Class Honours, Grade 1 BA, or a GPA of 3.3 or equivalent international undergraduate degree (at NFQ level 8), in a relevant subject. Selection is based on an applicant's academic record, academic references stating her or his potential for completing a research project, as well as on samples of the applicant's written work.

Course outline

All students take a year-long seminar (Sources and Resources) focusing on palaeography and manuscript studies, but also taking in auxiliary sciences such as diplomatic, heraldry and art history, and including a teamwork, internet-based project on a medieval scriptorium.

Students also take Latin and one other medieval language (no prior knowledge of these languages is required), as well as modules in Archaeology, History, and Literature.

By Semester 2, students will have identified a Supervisor with whom they develop a dissertation topic through intensive bibliographical investigation, before completing their research and writing over the summer.

Requirements and assessment

Assessment varies according to module and includes essays, projects, oral presentations, and exams held in December or April/May. A dissertation must be submitted by mid-August.