Seattle University

What you'll study

This programme combines core history training with specialised courses in medieval and early modern European cultural history. Core modules typically cover historical methods and historiography, research and writing for historians, and thematic surveys such as Late Antiquity, Medieval Europe, and the Early Modern World. Specialised courses examine topics like the intellectual and religious cultures of medieval Europe, the Renaissance and humanism, the Reformation and confessional cultures, gender and family in premodern Europe, urban and economic life, medieval and early modern art and material culture, Byzantine and Ottoman interactions with Europe, and the transmission of texts and ideas.

Students are expected to work closely with primary sources (including texts in translation and, where available, in original languages), learn palaeography methods where offered, and develop language competence—typically Latin and, depending on interests, modern European languages such as French, German, Spanish or Italian. Upper-level study often culminates in a senior seminar or capstone research project that emphasises archival research, source analysis and sustained written argument.

Interdisciplinary electives are available through related departments—Classical Studies, Religious Studies, Art History, English and Political Science—allowing students to approach cultural history through literature, visual culture, theology and legal institutions. Practical learning opportunities include archival work, internships with local museums and cultural institutions, public history projects and faculty-led study abroad options in Europe.

Entry requirements

Admission to Seattle University’s undergraduate programmes is based on a holistic review of academic records, recommendation letters and personal statements. Typical expectations for a competitive applicant include a high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in humanities and social-science courses, evidence of college-preparatory work (including several years of history or English), and demonstrated writing ability.

Seattle University considers standardised test scores according to current institutional policies; consult the university admissions pages for the latest test-optional guidance. Transfer applicants should present college transcripts showing college-level coursework in history or related fields where possible. For students targeting the medieval and early modern specialisation, prior study of foreign languages and coursework in literature, religion or classical history is advantageous but not strictly required. Applicants for whom English is not a first language will need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in History focused on medieval and early modern European cultural history pursue a wide range of careers. Common paths include roles in museums, archives and historic sites; public history and cultural heritage organisations; libraries and special collections; secondary-school teaching (often requiring a teaching credential); and nonprofit or government work where research, writing and critical thinking are valued.

The degree also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in history, medieval studies, religious studies, art history, library and information science, and law. Employers in publishing, communications, consulting and technology value history graduates for their ability to research complex problems, construct evidence-based arguments and communicate clearly.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University is a Jesuit, liberal-arts institution that emphasises close faculty mentoring, small seminar-style classes and a commitment to ethical leadership and civic engagement. History students benefit from personalised advising, opportunities to pursue original research with faculty, and a supportive environment for internships and community-engaged projects.

The university’s location in Seattle offers access to rich regional resources—archives, museums and cultural organisations—as well as international connections for study abroad in European centres of medieval and early modern history. Interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and a campus culture that encourages service and professional development give graduates practical experience alongside academic training.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want rigorous historical training rooted in cultural analysis, language study and public-facing experience, preparing them for careers or further study that require strong critical thinking and research skills.