Medieval Studies

Program Overview

Bangor University's Medieval Studies program offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the medieval world, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of its history, literature, culture, and language. The program equips students with research skills, critical thinking abilities, and prepares them for careers in academia, research, education, and beyond. With a focus on Arthurian literature, Welsh history and archaeology, and Welsh language and music, the program offers a unique blend of specializations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Medieval Studies

at Bangor University is a well-renowned program that provides postgraduate students with an in-depth understanding of the medieval world. The program offers a unique blend of specializations, including Arthurian literature, Welsh History and Archaeology, and Welsh language and music. The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students to explore a variety of topics within the broader context of medieval history and culture.

Objectives:

The primary objectives of the Medieval Studies program are:

• To equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct independent research in medieval studies.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the medieval world, including its history, literature, culture, and language.
• To develop students' critical thinking and analytical skills.
• To enhance students' communication and research skills.
• To prepare students for careers in academia, research, education, and other fields.

Outline:

The Medieval Studies program consists of two parts:

Part 1:

This part focuses on developing key skills and acquiring subject knowledge in preparation for the Part 2 dissertation. Students must register for two core modules:

• Understanding the Middle Ages: This module provides a comprehensive overview of the medieval period, covering various aspects such as social, political, economic, and cultural history.
• Manuscripts and Printed Books: This module equips students with the ability to identify, analyze, and interpret medieval manuscripts and printed books.
In addition to the core modules, students choose an additional 70 credits from a range of optional modules. These modules are categorized into various subject areas, including:
• Cymraeg: This subject area focuses on the Welsh language and literature, including modules such as "Britain's Celtic Heritage" and "Medieval Welsh literature."
• English Literature: This subject area offers modules such as "Medieval Arthur," which explores the Arthurian myth and its evolution, and "Women's Devotional Writing," which examines the devotional writings of women from the late medieval and early modern period.
• History, Welsh History and Archaeology: This subject area offers modules such as "The Age of Llywelyn ap Iorwerth," which explores the history of Wales during the 13th century, and "The Archaeology of the Early Medieval Celtic Churches," which investigates the early medieval churches in Britain and Ireland.
• Music: This subject area focuses on the music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, with modules such as "Early Music" and "Preparing for the Part II Project."

Part 2:

This part involves the writing of a 20,000-word dissertation on a topic of the student's choice. The dissertation is supervised by a member of the academic staff.

Assessment:

The assessment methods used in the Medieval Studies program vary depending on the module. Typical assessment methods include:

• Essays
• Presentations
• Examinations
• Research projects
• Dissertations
Assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes of each module and are designed to assess students' knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, as well as their critical thinking, analytical, and research skills.

Teaching:

The teaching methods used in the Medieval Studies program are varied and engaging. Lectures, seminars, and tutorials are used to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The program also incorporates a variety of learning activities, such as field trips, guest lectures, and workshops. The faculty of the Medieval Studies program are experts in their respective fields, with extensive research experience and publications. They are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality learning experience and are readily available to offer guidance and support.

Careers:

The Medieval Studies program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in various fields, including:

• Academia
• Research
• Education
• Heritage management
• Publishing
• Libraries and archives
• Museums and galleries
Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue successful careers in these and other fields, both in the UK and abroad.

Other:

The Medieval Studies program offers a unique opportunity to study in a stimulating and supportive environment. The program benefits from the expertise of a dedicated team of academics, a wealth of resources, and a vibrant postgraduate community. In addition to the academic components, the program also offers a variety of extracurricular activities and events, providing students with opportunities to socialize, network, and develop their interests.