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Focus on a pivotal period in Western civilization's evolution. As part of Canada's oldest Medieval Studies program, you'll examine the intellectual currents and historical developments across Europe and the Near East from Rome's decline through the dawn of the modern age around 1500 CE. Studying medieval history, art, philosophy, legal frameworks, and governance isn't merely about looking backward. This discipline provides critical perspectives on contemporary European politics, evolving gender roles, the dynamics of global powers, interfaith relations between Islam and Christianity, and more - with opportunities to apply these insights through optional co-op placements. The program fosters strong student connections through intimate class sizes and vibrant academic/social programming by the Classical and Medieval Students Society.
Our Medieval Studies curriculum champions cross-disciplinary examination of medieval Europe and the Near East, the cradle of Western thought. The Faculty of Arts recognizes our presence on the ancestral lands of the Attawandaron (Neutral), Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee nations. Waterloo's campus occupies the Haldimand Tract, territory pledged to the Six Nations encompassing six miles on either side of the Grand River.
The Honours Medieval Studies program can be combined with most Arts honours majors or numerous honours programs across other faculties.