Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in historiography and methods with specialised seminars on medieval and early modern European culture. Core study typically includes courses in research methods and historical theory, a research seminar that trains students to design and execute an independent project, and a selection of electives that may cover topics such as medieval intellectual and religious life, early modern social and material culture, the history of science and medicine, print culture and the rise of vernacular literature, gender and family in premodern Europe, and urban and rural communities.

Students pursuing the medieval and early modern cultural history focus are encouraged to take language training (for example Latin, medieval French, early modern German, or Italian) and to develop skills in palaeography, archival research, and digital humanities methods for cultural sources. The degree can be completed with a thesis that results in an original piece of research or via a coursework option with a capstone project or comprehensive examination, depending on the plan of study agreed with the graduate advisor.

Entry requirements

• A completed bachelor's degree in history or a closely related field from an accredited institution, demonstrating strong preparation in historical methods and coursework.
• A competitive undergraduate academic record; applicants with professional experience, relevant research, or compensatory coursework are also considered.
• Academic transcripts and a statement of purpose that outlines research interests, particularly in medieval and early modern European cultural history.
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical and research skills in history; samples focused on primary-source analysis are particularly useful.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant's preparation for graduate study.
• International applicants must meet the university's English-language proficiency requirements and provide certified translations of academic records if necessary.
• Some applicants may be asked to meet faculty prerequisites in languages or methods before beginning graduate seminars; the department will advise on remediation coursework when needed.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MA focused on medieval and early modern European cultural history move into a variety of careers that value research, critical analysis and communication of complex cultural narratives. Common pathways include:

• Doctoral study in history or related fields for those seeking academic careers and advanced research roles.
• Public history careers in museums, historic sites, and cultural heritage organisations, including curatorial and interpretation roles.
• Archivist or special collections work in libraries and archives (often alongside additional professional training or certification).
• Education roles, particularly in secondary teaching with appropriate certification, educational programming in cultural institutions, and curriculum development.
• Positions in publishing, research administration, cultural policy, and non-profit organisations where skills in research, writing and historical interpretation are valued.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a supportive department with small, seminar-style classes that allow close faculty mentorship and peer engagement on specialised research topics. The university's library and special collections, together with partnerships across the region, provide strong opportunities for archival research and internships with museums and historical organisations. Students benefit from interdisciplinary links with departments such as Classics, Religious Studies, Art History and Digital Humanities, enabling rich approaches to cultural history.

The programme emphasises practical research skills—including palaeography, languages and digital methods—while allowing flexibility to tailor a curriculum to individual research interests. Graduate students have access to advising, professional development, and opportunities to present research at regional and national conferences, preparing them for both professional careers and further academic study.