PhD in History - Early Modern History in Nashville United States | Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt boasts a dynamic community of scholars specializing in Early Modern history. Faculty members explore diverse regions through their research and teaching, with expertise spanning England/Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Eastern Europe, India, and China. Their investigations cover legal systems, religious movements, economic developments, cultural transformations, and gender/sexuality studies. The Early Modern scholars collaborate extensively with experts in ancient and medieval history, while also partnering with programs in Classical and Mediterranean Studies, Jewish Studies, Women's and Gender Studies, and various language and literature departments, as well as the History of Art and the Pro-Modern Cultural Studies Seminar at the Robert Penn Warren Center.

We encourage prospective graduate students to apply, whether they have specific thematic interests or broader methodological questions about studying early modern societies. These include challenges like interpreting partial or deceptive historical sources, reconstructing cultural frameworks, moving beyond elite written records, and formulating significant historical inquiries.

The graduate program offers flexibility without a fixed curriculum, allowing students to design their academic path within the History Department's PhD requirements. However, applicants should demonstrate strong foundational preparation, including relevant language skills for doctoral research, and submit a compelling writing sample. Prospective students are advised to reach out to potential advisors before applying.