Emory University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous coursework, intensive language and palaeographic training, and sustained original research. Students take core seminars in historical methods and historiography alongside specialised seminars in topics such as medieval intellectual and devotional cultures, the history of the book and print, material and visual culture, religion and society, gender and family, political and legal culture, and mobility and exchange across Europe.

• Research methods and historiography: advanced training in archival research, source criticism, and theoretical approaches to cultural history.
• Language and palaeography: preparation in Latin and one or more modern European languages, plus hands‑on palaeography and codicology for reading manuscripts and early printed books.
• Specialised seminars: focused study of topics such as medieval liturgy and devotional life, Renaissance humanism, early modern print culture, art and materiality, and networks of trade and diplomacy.
• Digital and material approaches: opportunities to learn digital humanities tools for textual analysis, mapping and image analysis, alongside object‑based research methods.
• Dissertation research: sustained, supervised work culminating in a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to medieval and early modern cultural history.
• Teaching experience: structured opportunities to lead undergraduate seminars and serve as a teaching assistant to develop pedagogy and classroom practice.

Entry requirements

Competitive applicants typically hold a master’s degree in history or a closely related field, although exceptionally well‑qualified candidates with a strong bachelor’s background may be considered. Applications should include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose that outlines research interests and fit with the faculty, a clear sample of scholarly writing, and at least three letters of recommendation from academic referees.

Successful applicants demonstrate prior experience with relevant primary sources and languages, a feasible research project or proposal in medieval or early modern European cultural history, and evidence of capacity for sustained independent research. Specific language preparation or additional prerequisites will be discussed during admissions and tailored to the student’s research needs.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge prepared for a range of careers that draw on advanced research, analytical and communicative skills. Common destinations include tenure‑track and visiting positions in history and related departments, postdoctoral research, curatorship and specialist roles in archives and museums, positions in cultural heritage and historic preservation, editorial and publishing work, and roles in public history, education and policy institutions.

The programme’s emphasis on languages, manuscript training and interdisciplinary methods also equips graduates for careers in digital humanities projects, scholarly editing, conservation and international cultural organisations.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers concentrated strengths in medieval and early modern studies supported by a collaborative faculty with expertise across history, religion, art history and classics. Students benefit from close mentorship from faculty engaged in cultural, religious and material history, and from interdisciplinary programming through the university’s Medieval and Early Modern Studies initiatives.

Outstanding research resources include Emory’s manuscript and special collections, the Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, and rich holdings in theology and art that are particularly valuable for cultural historians. The university’s location near major museums, archives and cultural institutions in Atlanta further expands opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and public‑facing scholarship. Funding, teaching assistantships and research support are available to help graduate students pursue sustained archival work and international research trips as required by their projects.