Research Master’s in Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance Studies
Explore the history, culture, and interdisciplinary developments of Europe from Antiquity to the Renaissance through specialised tracks in Ancient, Medieval, North Sea Area, and Renaissance Studies.
Best for:Best for students with a strong interest in European pre-modern history, culture, and interdisciplinary research, seeking a flexible and customisable Master’s programme.
Overview
This two-year research Master’s programme at Utrecht University offers a multidisciplinary exploration of European history and culture from Antiquity through the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Students engage with material, social, and intellectual developments across this expansive period, tailoring their studies to specific interests via tracks in Ancient Studies, Medieval Studies, North Sea Area Studies, or Renaissance Studies. The programme’s flexibility allows for customised course selection, including options from other institutions, ensuring a personalised research focus. Ideal for those passionate about pre-modern civilisations, this programme blends rigorous academic study with independent research, culminating in a thesis under expert supervision.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research within one of the specialised tracks: Ancient Studies, Medieval Studies, North Sea Area Studies, or Renaissance Studies.
- Develop a tailored curriculum by selecting courses from Utrecht University and potentially other institutions, guided by your academic interests and research focus.
- Collaborate closely with a supervisor to design and execute a two-year research project culminating in a Master’s thesis.
- Engage with interdisciplinary methodologies to analyse material, social, and intellectual developments across the specified historical periods.
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and academic discussions to deepen understanding of pre-modern European history and culture.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in History, Humanities, or a related field (or equivalent).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; proficiency demonstrated by one of the following: Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (B1), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (C1), IELTS overall band 6.5 (with writing score of 6.0), TOEFL internet-based 93, TOEFL paper-based 580, TOEFL computer-based 237.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic ability in historical or humanities research.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to conduct independent research and write a thesis.
- No nationality restrictions.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior experience caps.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Utrecht University Master’s application portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and proof of English proficiency. Additional documents may be requested depending on the chosen track or background.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Research proposal (2-3 pages)
- Reference letters (2-3)
Contact
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