Specialties of medieval universities

I was doing a project on the history of higher education and came across medieval universities. I was wondering what they were particularly known for at that time. Can anyone provide some insights on their areas of focus or specialties?

Medieval universities, which emerged around the 11th century in Europe, were known for their focus on a few key areas of study. These institutions generally specialized in the following disciplines:

1. Theology: Theology played a central role in medieval universities, as many of these institutions were founded by religious entities. The study of religious texts and doctrine was essential across various fields, and students often engaged in theological debates and discussions.

2. Philosophy: Philosophy was another major area of focus in medieval universities. The curriculum often included the works of Aristotle, as well as other classical philosophers. Scholasticism, an intellectual movement that combined Christian theology with Aristotelian thought, was prominent during this period.

3. Law: Law was an important area of study in medieval universities, particularly in institutions located in Italy, such as the University of Bologna. Both Canon Law (related to the Church) and Civil Law (related to secular matters) were taught, preparing students for careers in the legal profession or Church administration.

4. Medicine: Medicine was another key discipline, with the University of Salerno being one of the earliest institutions to have a medical school. Medical education included lectures on anatomy, the works of ancient medical scholars, and practical training in clinical settings.

5. The Liberal Arts: Medieval universities also laid the foundation for the study of the liberal arts, which encompassed the trivium (grammar, rhetoric, and logic) and the quadrivium (arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy). These subjects provided students with a broad, well-rounded education.

While these disciplines formed the core of medieval education, access to knowledge was often limited since students had to rely on handwritten manuscripts and texts that were difficult to obtain. Additionally, education was primarily available to a select few, primarily those of religious or noble backgrounds. Over time, universities diversified their curricula and expanded access to higher learning, paving the way for the modern academic experience.