Alvernia University

What you'll study

This programme combines broad historical methods with concentrated study of medieval and early modern Europe. Core modules cover political, religious and social change across the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, and examine cultural production including art, literature, ritual and material culture. You will study primary sources in translation and receive practical training in palaeography, archival techniques and historical research methods.

• Core themes: chronology and periodisation of the Middle Ages and early modern period; the rise of universities and intellectual life; the Reformation and confessionalisation; state formation and diplomacy; urban and rural communities.
• Culture and society: medieval religiosity and devotion, saints and pilgrimage, courtly culture, printing and the book, everyday life and gender roles.
• Sources and skills: palaeography and manuscript studies, archival research methods, digital humanities tools for historians, historiography and critical source analysis.
• Languages: introductory and intermediate study of Latin and options to study modern European languages to support source work and study abroad.
• Capstone project: a substantial research project or honours thesis based on primary sources, supervised by faculty in the History department.

Elective modules and independent study options enable students to pursue related topics such as Byzantine and Ottoman interactions with Europe, early modern science and medicine, material culture and art history, or the history of ideas. The programme encourages study abroad and internship placements with museums, archives and heritage organisations to combine classroom learning with practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor’s in History at Alvernia typically requires a completed secondary-school qualification appropriate to the applicant’s country (for example a high school diploma or equivalent) with a demonstrated record of academic achievement. Schools will expect strong performance in humanities subjects where available; prior study of history, literature or a modern or classical language is advantageous but not essential.

• Academic background: secondary-school completion with solid grades; applicants who have taken college‑level courses, Advanced Placement (AP) or international baccalaureate (IB) subjects in history or languages are competitive.
• English language: for applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required (for example IELTS or TOEFL scores or equivalent). Alvernia also offers language support for incoming students.
• Supporting materials: personal statement indicating interest in medieval and early modern history, one or more academic references, and transcripts. Mature or transfer applicants provide college transcripts and a brief academic plan.
• Interviews and portfolios: selective applicants may be invited for an interview; a writing sample or short piece of original historical analysis can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with this specialism are well placed for a variety of careers that value analytical thinking, research skills and cultural literacy. Alumni commonly pursue careers in:

• museums, galleries and heritage organisations (curation, education, collections care)
• archives and records management
• teaching at secondary level and educational outreach
• library and information services
• publishing, journalism and cultural journalism
• public history and community heritage projects
• government, diplomacy and the civil service where research and communication skills are valued
• further study: master's and doctoral research in history, medieval studies, museum studies or related disciplines.

Employers value the programme’s emphasis on primary-source interpretation, written and oral communication, and project management. Internship placements and capstone research help students build a professional portfolio and networks in the heritage sector.

Why study at Alvernia University

• Small class sizes: seminars and tutorials provide sustained interaction with faculty who specialise in medieval and early modern history.
• Undergraduate research focus: opportunities to undertake original research with faculty supervision and to present work at student symposia.
• Hands‑on archival experience: connections with regional historical societies, local archives and museums enable practical placements and internships.
• Language and study‑abroad support: programmes to learn Latin and modern European languages and partnerships that facilitate study abroad terms in Europe.
• Integrated liberal‑arts education: a curriculum that combines historical study with interdisciplinary perspectives—art history, theology, literature and digital humanities—preparing graduates for diverse careers.
• Personalised career support: career services and faculty advising help students plan paths into heritage professions, education, graduate study or other sectors.