University of North Florida

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad foundation in historical methods and a specialised sequence concentrating on medieval and early modern Europe. Core courses cover historical research methods, historiography, and thematic surveys of Western civilization. Specialist modules typically include Medieval Europe, The Renaissance, The Reformation and Early Modern Europe, Byzantine and Ottoman interactions, Intellectual History of the Middle Ages, and Cultural History of Early Modern Europe.

Students learn to work with primary sources through courses in palaeography and archival methods and develop language skills relevant to the field, commonly including Latin and reading knowledge of modern European languages. The degree usually culminates in a senior seminar or capstone research project in which students plan, conduct and present an original piece of historical research.

• Core skills: critical analysis, primary-source interpretation, historical writing and research methodology.
• Typical options: topics in gender and religion, urban and economic history, art and material culture, comparative cultural encounters, and public history modules focused on museums and interpretation.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for internships with local archives, museums and cultural institutions, and study-abroad options for archival and on-site learning in Europe.

Entry requirements

Applicants should possess a high-school diploma or recognised equivalent. Selection normally emphasises strong achievement in humanities subjects, demonstrated writing ability and a sustained interest in history. Transfer applicants will be considered on the basis of college transcripts and previous coursework.

For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required through recognised tests or other university-accepted evidence. The department may also recommend or require preparation in introductory history and academic writing for students who have not previously studied history at a collegiate level.

Career prospects

Graduates with a concentration in Medieval and Early Modern European cultural history pursue a range of careers. Many go on to further study at graduate level (MA or PhD) for careers in academic research and teaching. Other common pathways include work in museums and historic sites, archives and libraries, cultural heritage management, publishing and editorial roles, and public history.

Skills developed in the programme—research, analysis, writing, and project management—are also valued in law, government, non-profit organisations, education, and cultural consulting. The programme’s emphasis on experiential learning and internships helps students build professional networks and practical experience for these careers.

Why study at University of North Florida

University of North Florida offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty mentoring, which benefits students pursuing in-depth historical research. Its location in Jacksonville provides proximity to regional archives, museums and historic sites that serve as practical training venues and internship partners.

The History faculty support undergraduate research and independent projects, and the department encourages study-abroad and archival study trips that complement coursework in medieval and early modern Europe. The combination of rigorous methodological training and hands-on opportunities prepares students for both professional roles in the heritage sector and advanced academic study.