Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

This programme situates medieval and early modern Europe within broader global and interdisciplinary frameworks, combining chronological breadth with intensive topical study. Core work covers subjects such as medieval political and religious institutions, Renaissance humanism, Reformation and confessional cultures, early modern urban life, print culture, and the history of science and visual culture. Students learn to work with primary sources in translation and, where possible, in original languages.

Typical elements include:

• Foundations in historical methods: coursework on research methods, historiography and the practice of archival research.
• Chronological surveys: introductory modules on medieval Europe and early modern Europe that establish political, social and cultural contexts.
• Thematic seminars: smaller, discussion-based classes on topics such as medieval religious practice, Renaissance art and patronage, the history of everyday life, gender and family in early modern Europe, and the history of science and technology.
• Language training: optional or recommended study in Latin and modern European languages (e.g. French, Italian, Spanish, German) to support primary-source work.
• Material culture and sources: hands-on opportunities with manuscripts, printed books, maps, and visual objects through the university’s special collections and local archives.
• Capstone experience: a senior research seminar or thesis that develops a sustained piece of original research under faculty supervision.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses linking history to theology, classics, art history, literature and museum studies, and opportunities for study abroad or internships in cultural institutions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong secondary-school academic record with evidence of intellectual curiosity in the humanities and writing ability. Typical expectations include completion of a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and coursework in history and English; proficiency in academic writing is important. International applicants must meet Loyola’s general admissions criteria and demonstrate proficiency in English. Transfer students are evaluated on college-level work completed. Some pathways recommend or require introductory coursework in history or placement tests for language study.

Career prospects

Graduates with a specialisation in medieval and early modern European cultural history go on to a wide range of careers that value research, critical thinking and communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Archives, libraries and special collections work
• Museums, curatorial and heritage professions
• Secondary and post-secondary teaching, after suitable certification or further study
• Publishing, journalism and communications
• Public history, cultural policy and non-profit leadership
• Law, government and public service roles where analytical writing and interpretive skills are prized
• Further graduate study (MA/PhD) in history, museum studies, library science or related fields.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola offers an education shaped by its Jesuit liberal arts tradition, emphasising close faculty mentoring, ethical reflection and community engagement. Based in Chicago, students benefit from immediate access to world-class museums, archival collections and historic churches, enabling internships and collaborative research with institutions across the city. The university’s Special Collections and Archives provide teaching-focused holdings—manuscripts, early printed books and local historical materials—that support primary-source work in medieval and early modern studies.

Students join small seminars taught by faculty with expertise in European cultural, religious and intellectual history, and can customise their programme through language study, interdisciplinary electives and study-abroad opportunities that place them in European archival and museum contexts. The programme’s emphasis on research training and public-facing skills prepares graduates for both professional roles and advanced academic study.