A total of 42 credits (usually 7 courses) is required for the minor: 18 credits in Core courses, 18 credits in Supporting courses; and a capstone research experience (usually 6 credits).

Core Courses (18 credits)

Core courses are generally those which offer a survey of a subject or period or which focus on a work/period/author of central importance within medieval and Renaissance studies (e.g., Chaucer, Shakespeare).

Supporting Courses (18 credits)

Supporting courses tend to be more focused topically or temporally (e.g., The Age of Bede) or spend less time on materials from the period. Any Core course may be used to fulfill the Supporting Course requirements.

Capstone Research Experience (6 credits)

Each year different departments offer advanced courses (either at the 200- or 300-level) in which students may pursue an independent research project on topics in Medieval and Renaissance Studies. Art History, English, and History most often do so. A minor must take one of these courses to fulfill the minor requirements or arrange with the Program Director and the instructor of another 200-level course in the minor to complete the requirement in that course through the preparation of an appropriate research project. 

Field Diversity and Interdisciplinary Study

Although the minor does not prescribe that a certain number of credits occur in different departments, we strongly advise students to explore different disciplines in their study of this fascinating period. Most minors take courses in at least two, and usually three, disciplines.

Medieval and Renaissance Studies draws its courses from a wide range of disciplines across the College:

  • Arabic
  • Archaeology
  • Art History
  • Asian Languages and Literatures
  • Classics (including Latin and Greek)
  • English
  • French
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science (Political Theory)
  • Religion
  • Spanish
  • Theater

Optional Off-Campus Programs

Off-campus study can be an important part of the minor. Students interested in study abroad as part of the minor are advised to consult with their academic advisers in deciding when to go off-campus and with the program directors to discuss the range of programs available and potential programs of study. Courses taken abroad may count as up to two “core” courses (12 credits) and two “supporting courses” (12 credits). Program Directors are happy to assist you in finding the right program for your interests.