Medieval & Renaissance Studies

Medieval & Renaissance studies (Med-Ren) encourages the interdisciplinary study of societies and their interactions in the global premodern period between 300 CE and 1700 CE. Med-Ren studies have moved beyond their traditional Eurocentric/Western paradigm. In addition to Europe, you will explore non-European societies such as medieval China, Japan and Africa. You will capture the values and practices of people in these centuries as it is critical to understand the shaping of our modern times. Med-Ren offers a serious investigation of history, languages, religions and cultures to provide intellectual depth and inspire lifelong learning.

Paths of Study

What Makes Us Different

High-Level Courses

The majority of the course credits are from 300- and 400-level classes.
Linguistic Requirements

Significant training in a modern European language, Arabic, Hebrew, Latin or Greek.
Global Careers

The academic rigor and linguistic requirements prepare students for the future.

Rankings

^# 2

Best College for Global Studies in Virginia

Niche 2025
^# 3

Best College for History in Virginia

Niche 2025
^# 5

Best College Library

The Princeton Review 2025

Applied Learning

Courses

Customize your study with courses in Medieval Philosophy (PHIL 232), The Crusades (HIST 240), Old English (ENGL 314) and Perspectives in Italian Renaissance Art (ARTH 361).*
Research

Showcase your research in the annual undergraduate research symposium in Medieval & Renaissance studies.
Noetica

Read this peer-reviewed undergraduate journal and embrace the belief that Eruditio flumen vivendi ("Knowledge is the flow of living").

Outcomes

Med-Ren majors have taken their interdisciplinary degrees into successful graduate programs and professional careers, including secondary school and university research and teaching, fundraising, publishing, social work and counseling as well as law and dental school.

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