Marian University

What you'll study

This programme combines broad training in historical methods and historiography with focused study of medieval and early modern Europe. Core work covers the political and ecclesiastical history of the Middle Ages, the cultural transformations of the Renaissance, the Reformation and confessional age, and the social and intellectual developments of the seventeenth century.

• Foundations and Methods: courses in historical methods, source criticism, historiography and research skills that introduce archival practice and critical reading of primary sources.
• Medieval Europe: modules on the early and high Middle Ages, medieval institutions and law, monastic and scholastic culture, and material culture (manuscripts, art and architecture).
• Early Modern Europe: study of the Renaissance, Reformation and Counter-Reformation, state formation, early modern intellectual history, and cultural change in everyday life.
• Language and Paleography: opportunities to study Latin and introductory palaeography to read original documents, and elective modern languages relevant to primary sources (for example French or German).
• Public History and Practice: classes that address museums, archives, digital humanities methods, exhibition practice and community engagement.
• Capstone Project: a senior seminar or independent research project that culminates in a substantial research paper, often supported by archival work, internships or study abroad.

Students build a personalised programme through electives, internships and optional study-abroad placements in Europe where available. Practical components emphasise close reading of manuscripts and printed sources, interpretive writing and public presentation of research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high-school diploma or equivalent and meet Marian University’s general undergraduate admission criteria. Typical preparation includes strong performance in college-preparatory coursework with emphasis on history and English. Competence in a foreign language is advantageous; prior study of Latin, French or German is helpful but not required.

Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and a record of collegiate-level coursework; mature and non-traditional applicants are considered on the basis of prior learning and experience. International students are expected to demonstrate English proficiency according to the university’s standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with this specialism pursue a wide range of careers that draw on research, analysis and communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Secondary teaching and secondary-school preparation paths (often combined with additional teaching certification).
• Museum and gallery work, including curatorial assistance, education and collections management.
• Archive and records management, plus roles in libraries and special collections.
• Public history and heritage sector roles such as site interpretation, outreach and project management.
• Publishing, cultural journalism, and digital content production for history-focused projects.
• Further academic study at graduate level (MA/PhD) in history, medieval studies, early modern studies or related humanities disciplines.
• Other professional routes where strong research, writing and critical thinking are valued, such as law, public policy, nonprofit management and cultural consultancy.

Why study at Marian University

Marian University offers an undergraduate-focused learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits students working with primary sources and on independent research. The university’s liberal arts curriculum and Catholic intellectual tradition encourage ethical reflection alongside historical inquiry.

Students can take advantage of hands-on learning through internships, community partnerships and study-abroad opportunities that enrich understanding of European cultural history. Faculty in the history programme are committed to undergraduate teaching and to supervising senior research projects, while campus resources—including library collections and research support—are geared to help students develop the practical skills needed for careers in heritage, education and research.