German and Mediaeval History

German and mediaeval history is a combination that makes particular intellectual sense, because the German-speaking lands, the Holy Roman Empire, its successor states and the cultures that flourished across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, were central to the political, religious and cultural history of medieval Europe. Studying the German language to a high level of proficiency gives you direct access to primary sources, literary texts, philosophical writings and historical scholarship in one of the major European intellectual traditions. Mediaeval history provides the chronological and geographical scope to understand the long period between the fall of Rome and the beginnings of modernity, a period of extraordinary creativity, conflict and transformation.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year full-time programme develops your German language and communication skills to a high level of proficiency, allowing you to follow your own particular interests by choosing from a broad range of course options that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the German-speaking lands. The mediaeval history component engages you with the political, religious, social and cultural history of the period, developing the research and analytical skills that historical study demands. A year abroad is a central part of the programme, giving you the opportunity to live and study in a German-speaking country and to achieve the depth of linguistic immersion that produces genuine proficiency.

A typical entry tariff of 200 points reflects the level of academic preparation the programme expects.

Graduates with strong German and a grounding in mediaeval history pursue careers in academic research, heritage, archives, museums, education, translation and interpreting, international business, the diplomatic service and cultural institutions. Postgraduate study in German, medieval history, European history, translation or area studies is a natural progression for those who wish to develop their expertise further or pursue research careers.