PhD Medieval Studies

Program Overview

The PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York offers interdisciplinary research training in various fields, including history, literature, archaeology, and art. Students benefit from co-supervision by experts from multiple disciplines and access to primary sources through language and palaeography training. The program emphasizes original research, teaching skills development, and prepares graduates for diverse careers in academia, publishing, museums, and other fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

The PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York aims to train students to be interdisciplinary researchers in the field of Medieval Studies. Students are typically co-supervised by staff from two different departments, allowing them to benefit from expertise in multiple disciplines. The program welcomes research projects that cross disciplinary boundaries. Subject areas include:

• Archaeology
• Art and Architectural History
• History (social, economic, political, cultural, ecclesiastical, and intellectual)
• Literature (including Old and Middle English, Old Norse, Latin, Italian and Arabic)
• Natural Sciences
• Gender and Sexuality
• Viking Studies
• Islamic Cultures
• Codicology and Palaeography

Outline

The PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York offers a flexible structure to accommodate diverse research interests. Students work closely with their supervisors to design and carry out an original research project, gaining experience in a specific field while learning how to conduct primary research, develop arguments, and write an extended thesis. The program also provides opportunities for students to develop their skills in languages and palaeography, allowing them to access primary sources directly. Tuition is offered in medieval languages (Arabic, Latin, Old English, Old French and Old Norse), and palaeography and diplomatic are taught by specialists covering the early, high, and late Middle Ages. Additionally, students can take advantage of modern language teaching provided by the university's Languages for All center.

Assessment

Assessment in the PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York is primarily based on the thesis, which is expected to be approximately 80,000 words in length. The thesis is assessed by two external examiners, one of whom is usually an international scholar. In addition to the thesis, students may also be required to submit written work, give presentations, and participate in oral examinations.

Teaching

The PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York benefits from the expertise of a diverse faculty with research interests spanning a wide range of areas within medieval studies. Students are encouraged to engage with faculty members and participate in the vibrant research community at the Centre for Medieval Studies. The program also emphasizes the importance of developing teaching skills. Students often have the opportunity to gain teaching experience in their area of interest during their second or third year of the program.

Careers

Graduates of the PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York have gone on to pursue diverse careers. Some common career paths include:

• University academic lecturer/professor/researcher
• Publishing
• Broadcasting
• Museums and heritage careers (English Heritage/Historic England)
• University administrative careers
• School teaching
• Creative writing
• Arts administration
• Charity administration
• Library and archives careers
• Policy advisor
• Civil Service

Other

The PhD program in Medieval Studies at the University of York is housed in the historic King's Manor, located in the heart of the medieval city of York. The program provides access to excellent library and archival resources in both the university and the city. The program also fosters a strong sense of community among its students. Students are encouraged to participate in research groups, seminars, and talks by visiting speakers. They also have access to a dedicated workroom with desks, Wi-Fi, and printing facilities.