Sustainable Development with Gaelic Studies

The world is facing the prospect of a climate emergency, with decision-makers grappling with how to understand and respond to the pressures on our environment and society. Sustainable development, from the local to the global, is essential if society is to tackle the challenges faced. The necessary changes will impact on every facet of society, culture and the economy: this is a critical moment to study sustainability.

To develop a critical understanding of the three pillars of sustainability (social, environmental, economic), you will study modules drawn from a range of social science disciplines such as geography, economics, politics, sociology, and environmental studies, as well as developing practical skills in research and working with communities. The modules take a critical approach to examining the historical context to development whilst looking firmly to the future drawing examples of change in action from around the globe.

As part of the BA (Hons) Sustainable Development with Gaelic Studies, you will develop a good understanding of Gaelic issues, Gaelic language, and culture, as well as elements of Gaelic history and literature. There is no requirement for Gaelic language skills on entry, you will have the opportunity to learn the language or develop your language skills depending on your starting point. The Gaelic Studies are about Gaelic, taught in English, with Gaelic language modules suitable for all levels of ability.

Delivered entirely online and available to study from anywhere in the world, you will benefit from collaborative discussions and activities with colleagues from a range of diverse backgrounds and experiences, facilitated by tutors with many years of experience in delivering online education.

Please see our FAQ sheet on our website for further information on this course.

Please note this course is delivered entirely online and available to study from anywhere in the world. Applicants outwith Scotland including International, should apply to the UHI North, West and Hebrides study location.

Module outline

Year 1 - CertHE

You will study the following modules:

• Exploring economics in a changing world

• Gaelic for learners 1a

• Gaelic for learners 1b

• Understanding sustainable development

You will also choose two further option modules from other humanities subjects.

Year 2 - DipHE

You will study the following core modules:

• Approaches to economic development

• Empowering communities

• Exploring the urban and rural: places, people and policies

• Folklore

• Introduction to Gaelic poetry

You will also choose two further option modules from across the Humanities subject area, which includes our optional international field trip module, 'Sustainable development approaches in an international context'.

Year 3 - BA

You will study the following core modules:

• Advanced social research methods

• Language policy and planning

• Traditional Gaelic culture

You will also choose three sustainable development option modules, which may include:

• Climate science

• Community-based economic development

• Globalisation and sustainable development

• Sustainable tourism and the environment

Year 4 - BA (Hons)

You will complete the following core modules:

• Dissertation (Sustainable Development)

• Language policy in the workplace

• Traditional Gaelic culture in the 21st century

You will also choose two sustainable development option modules which may include:

• Agroecology: regenerative food systems

• Consumerism and the circular economy

• Geo-political development issues

• Social enterprise and the social economy

This outline reflects the modules as currently delivered and is subject to change.

For more information on what you’ll study on your degree, as well as our range of other degree options, please explore our Humanities subject area page on our website.