Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in historical thinking and research while allowing focused study of medieval and early modern Europe. Core skills include historical methods, source criticism, writing and introductory historiography. Concentration courses examine cultural developments such as religion and reform, intellectual and literary movements, visual and material culture, daily life, and the interaction of Europe with neighbouring regions.

• Core modules: Historical Methods and Research, Western Civilisation survey, Historical Writing and Interpretation.
• Medieval-focused topics: Early and High Middle Ages, medieval religion and monasticism, medieval literature and manuscript culture, crusades and cross-cultural contact.
• Early modern topics: Reformation and confessionalisation, Renaissance thought and art, early modern political culture, print culture and the formation of public spheres.
• Skills and methods: palaeography and manuscript studies (introductory level), archival research, languages for historians (Latin and modern European languages at entry-level and through elective study), quantitative and digital history methods.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior seminar or capstone research project, internships with archives, museums or cultural organisations, and opportunities for study abroad or research travel focused on European sites and archival collections.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in humanities and writing-intensive courses. Eastern Mennonite University evaluates applications holistically; typical supporting materials include high school transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in history and research, and one or more academic references.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional measures. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and a sample of university-level writing. While there are no strict subject prerequisites, prior coursework in history, literature, or languages is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA concentrating in Medieval and Early Modern European Cultural History move into a range of fields that value research, writing and interpretive skills. Career paths include:

• Museum and heritage work: curators, collections assistants, education officers and heritage interpreters.
• Archives and libraries: archival technicians, records managers and special collections assistants.
• Education: secondary school teaching (often followed by teacher certification), adult education and public history programming.
• Research and graduate study: MA and PhD programmes in history, medieval studies, religious studies or related humanities fields.
• Public-facing roles: publishing, cultural tourism, non-profit programme management, policy research and communications.

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University offers a small, discussion-oriented liberal arts setting where faculty mentorship and close supervision of research are emphasised. The History programme integrates classroom study with hands-on archival experience and local partnerships, enabling students to work with regional collections and community heritage projects in the Shenandoah Valley area.

EMU’s institutional focus on peacebuilding, ethics and community engagement complements historical study by encouraging interdisciplinary reflection on religion, conflict, and civil society — themes central to medieval and early modern European history. The university also supports study abroad and internship opportunities that help students gain direct experience with European archives, museums and heritage sites.