University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme combines introductory training in historical methods with specialised courses on medieval and early modern Europe. Core themes include medieval political and ecclesiastical institutions, the rise of vernacular literatures, the Renaissance and Reformation, early modern scientific and intellectual change, material culture, and the social history of everyday life.

• Foundations and methods: courses in historical research methods, historiography, and palaeography to prepare you for working with primary sources.
• Chronological surveys: broad surveys of medieval Europe and early modern Europe that establish chronological and thematic frames.
• Topical modules: focused modules on religion and society, gender and family, urban and rural economies, war and diplomacy, book culture and printing, and art and material culture.
• Language and source study: opportunities to study relevant modern and medieval languages (such as Latin, French, German, or Italian) and to work directly with manuscript and early printed sources in the university library’s special collections.
• Research and capstone: a senior seminar or honours thesis that requires independent research using primary sources, often supported by faculty mentorship.
• Interdisciplinary options: courses or minors in related fields—art history, archaeology, museum studies, literature, or digital humanities—are available to broaden training in material culture, conservation, or public history.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a high school diploma (or recognised equivalent) with a strong academic record and evidence of preparation in the humanities. Admissions consider overall academic performance, strength of curriculum, and motivation for the field.

• Suggested academic background: history, literature, languages or social sciences at secondary level where available.
• Language preparation: prior study of at least one modern foreign language is advantageous; preparation in Latin or classical languages is useful for medieval work but not always required.
• Other materials: personal statement demonstrating interest in historical study; letters of recommendation; standardised test scores if submitted (see university guidance); international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.
• Transfer students: credit for college-level history courses may be considered; consult admissions for evaluation of prior transcripts.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree focused on medieval and early modern cultural history move into a range of professions that value research, critical thinking and writing. Typical career paths include:

• Museum and heritage work: curating, collections management, education and interpretation in museums, historic sites and cultural organisations.
• Archives and libraries: positions in special collections, archival processing, digital curation and conservation, particularly when combined with internships or specialised coursework.
• Education and public history: secondary teaching, outreach, exhibition development, and roles in historical societies and public programming.
• Publishing, journalism and communications: editorial, content development and research roles that draw on source analysis and narrative skills.
• Government, law and policy: analyst and administrative roles where strong writing, research and analytical skills are required.
• Further study: many students progress to MA or PhD programmes in history, art history, museum studies, library science or related fields, or professional programmes such as law.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers focused faculty expertise in European history and a supportive environment for undergraduate research. Students benefit from small seminar classes, opportunities to work with the Morris Library Special Collections Research Center, and connections with regional cultural institutions.

• Access to primary sources: the university’s library collections and archives hold early printed books and manuscript materials that are particularly useful for medieval and early modern study.
• Interdisciplinary collaborations: partnerships with programmes such as the Winterthur/University of Delaware programmes and courses in art history, conservation and museum studies enrich training in material culture and preservation.
• Study abroad and internships: established study-abroad options in Europe and internship pathways in museums, archives and cultural organisations allow hands-on experience with historical materials and professional networks.
• Undergraduate research and mentorship: students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects and to work closely with faculty on conference presentations and publications, preparing them for advanced study or careers using historical expertise.