Clark University

What you'll study

The programme centres on Europe between the fall of Rome and the eighteenth century, emphasising cultural change across religion, visual and material culture, intellectual life and everyday practices. Core work typically includes survey courses in medieval and early modern Europe, specialised seminars on topics such as the Renaissance, the Reformation, the rise of early modern states, gender and family in the Middle Ages, and the cultural history of science.

Students gain methodological training in historiography and research methods, including palaeography, archival research, and the use of primary sources. Language study (commonly Latin and France or German at introductory and intermediate levels) is strongly encouraged to enable direct engagement with manuscripts and early printed materials. Coursework often culminates in a senior capstone or honours thesis based on original research in archives, library special collections or through material culture projects.

• Typical modules and seminar topics: Medieval Europe; The Renaissance and Early Modern Europe; Church and Society; Reformation Europe; Court and State in Early Modernity; Material and Visual Culture; Palaeography and Manuscript Studies; Historiography and Methods.
• Research opportunities: independent study projects, senior thesis, archival placements in university special collections, and participation in faculty-led research.
• Complementary options: courses in art history, religious studies, classics, comparative literature, and modern languages to broaden analytical and language skills.
• Experiential learning: internships with local museums and historical organisations, and study-abroad options that provide direct access to European archives and sites.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma with strong performance in humanities subjects. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement that explains interest in medieval and early modern history, and at least one academic reference.

Successful candidates normally demonstrate strengths in reading and writing, and some background in history or related subjects is advantageous. Competence in or willingness to study relevant languages such as Latin, French, or German is important for concentration-related work. Clark accepts a range of qualifications and considers the whole application; standardised tests may be optional depending on admissions policy at the time of application.

Career prospects

Graduates with specialised training in medieval and early modern cultural history move into a variety of careers that value research, critical thinking and strong written communication. Typical pathways include:

• Museums and cultural heritage: curatorial, collections management, education and conservation support roles.
• Archives and libraries: archival processing, digitisation projects and special collections work (often alongside further professional qualification).
• Education and public history: secondary teaching (with appropriate certification) or public-facing roles in historical interpretation and outreach.
• Further study: MA and PhD programmes in history, medieval studies, art history, or related humanities fields for careers in academia or advanced research.
• Other sectors: publishing, journalism, law, public policy, and non-profit organisations that require strong analytical and communication skills.

Why study at Clark University

Clark offers a liberal arts environment with close faculty mentoring and an institutional emphasis on undergraduate research. Students benefit from small seminar classes, opportunities to work directly with faculty on research projects, and access to the university's special collections and archives for primary-source work.

Located in Worcester, Clark provides proximity to regional museums, historical societies and archival repositories that support internships and practical experience. The university encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing students to combine medieval and early modern history with languages, art history or international studies. These features make Clark a strong choice for students focused on developing scholarly skills and pursuing careers or further study where original research and cultural expertise are essential.