Valparaiso University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in historical methods and historiography before focusing on the medieval and early modern periods in Europe. Core work introduces comparative global history, research methods, and historical writing. Concentration courses examine political, religious, social and cultural developments from roughly the late antique period through the seventeenth century.

• Core and methods: historical theory and practice, archival research, public history methods, digital history approaches and a senior capstone seminar that emphasises original research and sustained argument.
• Medieval-focused modules: early medieval Europe, the Carolingian world, Byzantine history, the Crusades, medieval religion and monasticism, medieval law and governance, and material culture (manuscripts, art and architecture).
• Early modern-focused modules: Renaissance intellectual and artistic movements, the European Reformations, the rise of print culture, religious conflict and diplomacy, early modern science and exploration, and social and economic change in early modern Europe.
• Language and source training: study of relevant languages (commonly Latin plus one modern European language), palaeography and the critical use of primary sources; students are encouraged to develop reading skills that enable engagement with original documents.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses linked to literature, religious studies, art history, political thought and museum studies allow students to contextualise cultural developments across disciplines.
• Experiential learning: study abroad opportunities in Europe, internships with archives, libraries and museums, and faculty-led research projects give practical experience working with objects and documents.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance in secondary schooling along with a clear interest in history or the humanities. Typical preparation includes coursework in history and English, and for applicants to the medieval/early modern concentration, some prior study of languages (Latin or modern European languages) is advantageous.

Valparaiso University evaluates applications holistically. Successful applicants typically provide a personal statement or writing sample that shows analytical writing skills, and at least one academic recommendation that speaks to their readiness for sustained research and writing. International applicants should present equivalent secondary qualifications and evidence of English-language proficiency where required.

Career prospects

A degree focused on medieval and early modern European cultural history develops strong research, critical thinking and written communication skills that are valued in many fields. Graduates pursue several common pathways:

• Academic and research careers: many continue to graduate study in history, medieval studies, religious studies, art history or related fields.
• Museums, archives and libraries: roles in curation, collections management, archival work and public programming.
• Education and public history: secondary teaching, museum education, heritage management and historical interpretation for cultural sites.
• Publishing, communications and law: editorial and communications roles, cultural journalism, and graduate training for careers in law or public policy.
• Non-profit and cultural organisations: project management, fundraising, grant writing and community engagement centred on historical and cultural initiatives.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes where students work closely with faculty on original research and projects. The History Department emphasises close reading of primary sources and provides opportunities for internships and study-abroad experiences that are especially valuable for medieval and early modern studies. Faculty mentors often involve undergraduates in archival work and conference presentations, and the university’s connections with regional museums, libraries and European programmes support hands-on training in material and textual culture.

Students benefit from a curriculum that combines disciplinary rigour with interdisciplinary options in theology, art history and languages, preparing graduates both for specialised scholarly careers and for diverse roles that require strong analytical and communication abilities.