Medieval History

To train scholars moving into academic work after completing an undergraduate degree, but also for those who want to deepen their knowledge of the period.

King’s is internationally recognised as a centre of excellence for the study of medieval history, with particular expertise in the study of Anglo-Saxon England, Britain in the central Middle Ages and early medieval Europe, recently strengthened by the arrival of new members of staff. The MA programme is amongst the most successful of its kind worldwide, teaching students the skills and analysis required for medieval historical study and delving into significant topics of the period, from Magna Carta to the history of medieval women. Furthermore, the MA introduces students to the burgeoning field of the digital humanities through collaboration with the Centre for Computing in the Humanities (CCH). Staff and students also regularly contribute to and attend lectures by the multidisciplinary Centre for Late Antique and Medieval Studies (CLAMS).

The History department has particular expertise in Anglo-Saxon England, Britain in the central Middle Ages and early medieval Europe. Major research projects in medieval history currently being undertaken by MA teaching staff include the AHRC-funded online databases Prosopography of Anglo-Saxon England (PASE) and Henry III Fine Rolls and the Leverhulme Trust funded project Profile of a Doomed Elite: The Structure of English Landed Society in 1066.

Teaching
Modules on the MA in Medieval History are taught by weekly seminars where students are expected to contribute to discussion and prepare presentations. Students can also attend relevant undergraduate lecture series such as European History 400-1500 or The Making of Britain 400-1400. Students on the one year full-time programme attend 4-8 hours of taught classes per week, whilst students following the two year part-time MA attend 2-6 hours of taught classes per week. The compulsory 15,000 word dissertation enables students to research a topic of their choice, working one-to-one with an academic supervisor.

Institute of Historical Research (IHR)
King’s history students are encouraged to make full use of the opportunities available to them through the Institute of Historical Research (IHR). Many members of the History department convene its period-based seminars, including the flourishing Early Medieval History and European History 1150-1550 seminars. In addition, the IHR offers a wide range of other events besides: from student-run workshops to specialist training days. This intersection between Department, School and the IHR makes King’s a uniquely productive environment for graduate study in History.