Medieval English and History: University of Birmingham

This programme combines study of English and History, concentrating on language, literature, culture and society before about 1600 AD. You learn how to analyse and interpret a range of medieval sources: literary, historical, artistic, architectural or archaeological.

First year

When you arrive, you are introduced to the study of the medieval period from both a literary and historical perspective: a broad survey of English and European history from c.500 to c.1500 complements your learning of English as used by Anglo-Saxon writers and Chaucer. You develop study skills in both disciplines.You also take an option in a related area, which may be in another department; for example, another European language.

Second year

You explore how heritage sites and museums interpret the past in today’s culture, get to grips with English medieval literature, and assess the development of recent historical writing by examining a selected theme. You develop your research and presentation skills through dissertation preparation modules, and can choose an option in a related area such as Women and Gender in Medieval Society; or Medieval Monasticism.

Third year

In this year you write a dissertation or research project, either in History or English, continue to study medieval literature and history, and participate in an interdisciplinary seminar. Depending on your choices, you may be able to take a further option in a related area, such as Origins of the English 400–750, or Reading Beowulf.

Career opportunities

You acquire skills in reasoning, research, independent learning, communication and organisation, which are relevant to graduate employment of all kinds. Your subject knowledge and experience equips you for further study in English, History and related disciplines, and is relevant to employment in cultural, media and heritage organisations and businesses, as well as many other professions.

Entry requirements

• Number of A levels required: 3
• Typical offer: ABB
• Required subjects and grades: A level English and/or History; normally a language other than English at GCSE grade C if not offered at A or AS level
• General Studies: accepted
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points

Other qualifications are considered – see the entry requirements section for full details

Contact details

• Admissions Tutor: Dr Simon Yarrow
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 5744
• Email:

For general information about open days

• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3374
• Website: http://www.undergraduate.bham.ac.uk/visitsopendays/

Admissions

• Email:
• Tel: +44 (0)121 415 8900
• Website: www.marketing.bham.ac.uk/admissions_recruitment

Student Recruitment

• Email:
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3374
• Website: www.marketing.bham.ac.uk/recruitment

International Relations

• Email:
• Tel: +44 (0)121 414 2894
• Website: www.international.bham.ac.uk