University of Ithra

The University of Ithra is a Kingdom-wide educational system focused on sharing knowledge and skills of the Middle Ages and Renaissance as well as of the SCA.

The University of Ithra was established in AS IX. The institution was originally founded as the University of Madrone, but was rechartered to expand outside of the Barony. The word Ithra means excellence in Arabic. University sessions are held throughout the year all over the Kingdom of An Tir. Classes are held on a wide variety of topics. Peak session times are early spring and fall.

There are numerous campuses throughout the Kingdom each headed by a Chancellor whose job it is to arrange sessions for a particular geographic area. The University is governed by a Lord High Regent and a Board of Regents.

The University has much to offer everyone; however it is particularly helpful to newcomers and others desiring a rapid and comprehensive introduction to life in the Current Middle Ages. Many students take classes for their own information and pleasure. It can be truthfully said that the University offers classes that students are not likely to find elsewhere.

Because the University operates through a Central Registry, any classes taken at any of the campuses throughout the Kingdom apply to the earning of Ithra degrees. These degrees are Lector Artis (“Reader in Arts") and Lector Scientae (“Reader in Sciences"). They do not have application in the modern world, save to enhance the student's understanding of history and historic applications.

The badge for the University is Gules, on a sun Or eclipsed gules, an Arabian lamp flammant Or.

The University of Ithra exists only in An Tir -- other Kingdoms have their own educational systems.

General Information

Although SCA membership is not necessary to participate, participants at Ithra must make some attempt at pre-17th century costume. Students must agree to obey all rules and regulations as set forth by the Regents and enforced by the Provost, faculty and staff.

An instructor receives Ithra credit for the class the first time it is taught. A Magisters Degree will be awarded to instructors who teach the same class at three sessions. Instructors also receive a registration fee waiver for the session in which they teach.

All grades are pass/fail, decided by the instructor; non-attendance is a “no show” and all class fees are forfeited, although handouts may be obtained upon request. If you need to cancel your registration, do so at least a week in advance to receive a refund. Any appeal to a grade must be made to the Board of Proctors. Notification will be given only to those who attend but fail a class.

No classes may be audited; this is a long-standing policy of Ithra. Class limits are chosen by the instructor; although the size of a class may be expanded in case of need, this is not a routine or acceptable practice. Overfilling a class will only result in less effective teaching and learning.

All fees must be paid in advance before class sessions begin.

The Matriculation fee, which covers the cost of the Compendium and maintaining the records of classes the student attains, is $2.00 and is only paid the first time the student registers at an Ithra session.

The Registration fee, which covers operating costs, is variable from session to session depending on the costs. This fee is in addition to the Matriculation Fee. If fees do not accompany the registration form, you will not be registered. If you register late and the classes are filled, you will receive a refund or an opportunity to switch to a different class.

Class fees are set by the instructor based on cost estimates for handouts and materials and may include travel costs for the instructor. We do not sell handouts—if you would like to obtain a copy of a handout, speak directly to the instructor.