Troy University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced historiography and research-methods training with specialised coursework on medieval and early modern Europe. Typical modules explore topics such as medieval society and institutions, late medieval and Renaissance cultural movements, religion and reformations, early modern political cultures, gender and family in premodern Europe, and the history of ideas and material culture.

Core study commonly includes:

• Historiography and Research Methods – advanced techniques in archival research, palaeography where appropriate, and methodologies for cultural-historical analysis.
• Medieval Europe – examinations of political, social and cultural transformations from the early to high middle ages, including topics like feudalism, monasticism and urban life.
• Early Modern Europe – study of the Renaissance, Reformation, state formation, and intellectual and artistic developments through the seventeenth century.
• Primary Source Workshops – hands-on engagement with manuscripts, printed sources and material culture; training in translating and contextualising primary texts when required.
• Optional Electives – interdisciplinary options may include cultural heritage management, public history practicum, museum studies, or courses in related fields such as religious studies, art history or palaeography.

Students typically choose between a thesis and a non-thesis track. The thesis route emphasises original research under faculty supervision and culminates in a substantial research thesis; the non-thesis route normally requires additional coursework and a capstone project or comprehensive examination. Part-time and evening study options may be available to accommodate working students.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably with substantial coursework in history or a closely related discipline. Admissions committees look for a solid academic record, evidence of research potential and strong written communication skills.

• Transcripts – official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• References – two or three academic or professional references that can speak to the applicant's preparedness for graduate-level research.
• Personal Statement – a statement of purpose outlining academic background, research interests in medieval and early modern Europe, and career objectives.
• Writing Sample – an undergraduate or other substantial research paper demonstrating analytical and writing ability is often requested.
• Language Skills – competence in relevant languages (for example Latin, French, German or Italian) is advantageous for primary-source work; programmes may expect or recommend preparatory study if language skills are limited.

Standardised test requirements vary; applicants should consult the department for current guidance. Relevant professional experience, public history work, or archival internships can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with advanced skills in research, critical analysis, written communication and source interpretation. Career paths commonly include:

• Further academic study leading to doctoral research and university teaching
• Museums, historic houses and cultural heritage organisations (curation, interpretation and collections management)
• Archives and records management, both public and private sector
• Public history and interpretation roles, including community history projects and heritage tourism
• Publishing, editing and research positions in cultural institutions and think-tanks
• Education roles at the secondary level (often requiring additional teaching certification)
• Government, non-profit and consultancy roles where research and analytical skills are valued

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers small seminar-style classes and close faculty supervision, which suits students undertaking specialised historical research. Faculty in the history department have expertise across European history and cultural approaches, and they provide mentorship for thesis projects and conference participation.

The university's regional location gives students access to archival collections, regional museums and historical societies across the southeastern United States for comparative research and practicum placements. Flexible study patterns and a supportive campus environment make the programme accessible to full-time students and professionals returning to study.

Overall, the MA at Troy emphasises rigorous source-based training and the practical skills needed for careers in scholarship, cultural heritage and public history while allowing concentration in medieval and early modern European cultural history.