Lesley University

What you'll study

The programme combines core training in historical methods with specialised courses on medieval and early modern Europe. You will study political, religious and cultural developments from roughly the twelfth to the seventeenth centuries, examining topics such as the Crusades, the Byzantine world, medieval Christianity, the Renaissance, the Reformation, early modern state formation and the print revolution.

• Core skills and methods: historiography, archival research, palaeography, source criticism, quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Regional and thematic modules: Medieval Europe; The High Middle Ages; Byzantine and Ottoman contacts; The Italian Renaissance; Reformation and confessional cultures; Early modern social and economic history.
• Cultural and intellectual history: book history and the early modern print trade, visual culture, material culture, religious practice and popular belief, gender and family in the pre‑modern world.
• Language options: instruction and support for reading medieval and early modern sources in Latin and the modern vernaculars relevant to research (for example French, Italian, German or Spanish).
• Research and capstone: a senior seminar or thesis project that requires original research in primary sources, often supported by archival work or a practicum.
• Experiential learning: internships, museum placements, study abroad opportunities and partnerships that enable hands‑on work with manuscripts, rare books and artefacts.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school completion or equivalent. Typical selection is based on academic transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in historical study (including medieval and early modern topics), and at least one academic reference. Lesley considers the whole application, including evidence of writing and research potential; some applicants submit a short writing sample.

Standardised test scores may be optional; applicants should check current institutional guidance. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or other evidence of competency. Prior study of history, literature, languages or the humanities is helpful but not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates of this concentration are prepared for a variety of careers that value critical thinking, research and communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Museums and cultural heritage: curatorial assistants, collections and exhibitions staff, education officers.
• Archives and libraries: archival technicians, special collections assistants and records management roles.
• Education and public history: secondary school teaching (with appropriate certification), historical interpretation, heritage tourism and public programming.
• Publishing, journalism and communications: editorial roles, content development and research for media organisations.
• Non‑profit and government: research, policy support and programme management where historical perspective is valued.
• Further study: many students progress to graduate programmes in history, medieval studies, museum studies, library and information science, or related professional degrees such as law.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley University offers small, discussion‑based seminars and close faculty mentorship that suit in‑depth study of specialised historical periods. The Cambridge, Massachusetts location provides convenient access to world‑class research libraries, archives and museums—resources that enhance primary‑source research and internship possibilities.

The university emphasises experiential learning and interdisciplinary study; students can combine history with art history, creative writing, education or museum studies to broaden career options. Faculty working in medieval and early modern studies support undergraduate research, and career services and practicum connections help translate academic experience into professional placements in the cultural sector.