Classics Bachelor, wants to move on to Medieval/Renaissance down the line?

Graduate School
1

Salvete omnes!

This is my first post here! Good to meet you all.

So I’m about to get a BA in Classics from the University of Miami (I know, not a big name in that field, but it’s where I am).

As much as I love Classical antiquity, I think I have a greater passion and interest for the medieval period. I was wondering how hard it is to apply to graduate work in good Medieval/Renaissance programs if I’ve only done classes in Antiquity?

My problem is muddied a bit since my interests can be so specific and specialized: though I find I have interests in Medieval Latin and Neo-Latin philology, but I can’t get my mind off the auxiliary discipline of diplomatics, especially the productions of the Papal and German Imperial chanceries. Clearly not something commonly taught.

I ONLY have Latin, no Greek. I’m going to teach myself reading-level German, and can wade through french, but that’s it.

My apologies if this post is too broad; may it be moved wherever it actually belongs!

Any help or guidance in how to find good programs for my situation is greatly appreciated!

2

It’s perfectly possible. People enter Medieval studies from a variety of backgrounds (classics, history, art history, religion, etc.). Knowledge of Greek will be less important than Latin unless you’re interested in doing Byzantine work.

I recommend doing as much reading in the field as you can do to figure out what your research interests are. Matching your research interests with those of professors in each program is critical for graduate admissions. You should also figure out whether you’re more interested in an interdisciplinary Medieval studies program or doing Medieval studies within a traditional department like history. The coursework and exam requirements can vary quite a bit between programs.

As for finding programs, you can begin with the list on the Medieval Academy of America’s website. Medievalists.net also has a good list of programs.

http://www.medievalacademy.org/?page=CARA_Affiliates

http://www.medievalists.net/2013/08/medieval-studies-programs-in-the-united-states/

I recommend applying for funded MA programs as well as PhD programs.

3

The University of Toronto is a leader in medieval studies.
http://www.sgs.utoronto.ca/prospectivestudents/Pages/Programs/Medieval-Studies.aspx