Medieval and Renaissance Studies (Minor)

About This Program

The undergraduate program in Medieval and Renaissance Studies (MARS) is part of the Medieval and Renaissance Center (MARC). It focuses on the history, institutions, languages, literatures, thought, faith, art, and music of Europe, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean world together with their global connections–-from Timbuktu to India to Mongolia and beyond–-from the collapse of the Roman empire to about 1700. Notably “other” from modern and contemporary societies, this important period invites us to engage its multifold diversity (cultural, linguistic, religious, philosophical, aesthetic) and also to grapple with the roots of questions that remain urgent today, ranging from humanitarian ideals (individual freedom, equality, social and environmental responsibility) to long-lasting systems that continue to counter those ideals (racism, colonialism, environmental exploitation). Studying the Middle Ages and the Renaissance is therefore a powerful tool for facing the complexity not only of the past, but also of our own present. The MARS curriculum links undergraduates with NYU’s outstanding humanities faculty; with the superb libraries, museums, and collections in the New York area; and with musical and theatrical performances of works from this period that are given regularly in the city. It also enriches students’ experience in NYU and CAS study away programs. Students design their own programs in consultation with the program director and faculty, receiving individualized attention from a center of excellence situated within a great university and a vibrant city. MARS majors and minors have gone on to graduate work in medieval studies, early modern studies, archival and museum studies, religious studies, history, art history, music, and literature and language studies, as well as to professional schools (medicine, law, management) and careers in business and education. The minor requires the completion of four 4-credit courses (16 credits) completed with a grade of C or better (courses graded Pass/Fail do not count) as outlined below.

Degree Requirements