MA Medieval Studies

This programme offers an innovative way of studying medieval culture and society by exploring the inherent interdisciplinarity of medieval culture.

As a student, you will benefit from research-led teaching and skills-based training across various disciplines, including history, literature, languages, manuscript studies, music, religion and classics. You will be introduced to the rich dynamics of cultural exchange and multilingualism that define medieval culture, by drawing on the potential that medieval studies have to help us look beyond the limitations of national histories and traditions.

You will have access to one of the most active and innovative centres for medieval studies in the UK, comprising more than 40 staff members and approximately 30 postgraduate research students (MPhil/PhD) each year, forming a lively and dynamic interdisciplinary community together.

Every year, the Centre for Medieval Studies (CMS) hosts many research seminars, lectures and public talks. Staff who teach on the programme are members of the Centre, and many have an international reputation in their respective fields. In addition, this programme will give you opportunities for involvement in the yearly CMS Postgraduate Conference, enabling you to further develop your academic skills and network with an international pool of peers and scholars.

Beyond the University, you can draw on the important archival, architectural and heritage resources of the city of Bristol – the medieval gateway to Europe – and the southwest region more widely. Through our placement- and practice-led project options you have the unique opportunity to gain practical work experience with one of the University's partners in the cultural and heritage industries, which helps train you as a professional medievalist with transferable skills for careers in heritage, archives, museums, academia and beyond.