The M.A. degree program in Medieval and Byzantine Studies offers students broad and interdisciplinary training in various components of medieval civilization, providing both perspective and tools for specialized research. The program recognizes the complex intertwining of religious studies, philosophy, history, languages, literatures, and cultures for advanced study in any field. Thus it draws upon course offerings from the School of Arts and Sciences, Canon Law, Music, Philosophy, and Theology and Religious Studies. Students must choose one of three possible regional and civilizational foci:<br><br>The Medieval West<br>Byzantine and Orthodox Studies<br>The Islamic World<br><br>Permutations of these regional divisions-such as studies of borders and intersections of these areas-can also be accommodated with the approval of the MBS director. The program requires 30 hours of academic credit taken from three broad categories: History and Social Structures; Thought and Worship; and Cultural and Artistic Expressions.