Celtic and English Language

Study Celtic and English Language at the University of Edinburgh and you will learn about extraordinarily rich cultures, from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Our joint honours programme gives you the opportunity to study the languages, literatures and cultures of the Celtic world while exploring how English has evolved over time, including in an international context.

Combining the study of how language works with linguistic changes and literary tradition demonstrates that you are a good communicator, and someone open to other cultures and new ideas.

When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

Celtic

At all levels of study on this programme, we offer courses in the languages, literatures, histories and cultures of the Celtic world.

A choice of pathways through the programme enables you to develop your own interests in particular areas, periods and disciplines of Celtic studies.

As well as rich literary and oral traditions, from the medieval to the present, our expertise covers:

• sociolinguistics - the relationship between language and society

• 19th and 20th-century responses to the rapid social, cultural, and linguistic changes in countries where the Celtic languages are spoken

• contemporary language policy and revitalisation

Celtic language study

You have the option to study Scottish Gaelic and build up to advanced competency in the language. It does not matter if you are a complete beginner; we stream our Year 1 classes to suit all levels of prior knowledge or none.

You can also learn a medieval Celtic language at honours level (Years 3 and 4). Both Old Irish and Middle Welsh are available.

English Language

Using techniques from modern linguistics, you will analyse the structure of written and spoken English and explore how the language has changed throughout its history.

As well as the study of change in English, we have a strong tradition of investigating variations of the language, including:

• Scots

• distinct dialects of English

• international variations

You will study modern-day English and Scots and identify the similarities and differences between English and other languages.

Why Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a long-established Gaelic community and a lively contemporary cultural scene. As Scotland's capital city, its collections are outstanding, as are the University's own resources for the study of Celtic and English Language.

How long it takes to complete this degree programme

This programme is studied over 4 years. This enables us to build choice and flexibility into your studies, giving you time to explore options, find what you like and build your skills.

Your first two years will be your pre-honours years. They will give you a good grounding in your subjects. In addition to studying core courses, you will broaden your education and skill set by choosing option courses from a range of disciplines. This gives you the chance to build your intercultural awareness in other areas of the arts, humanities, social sciences and beyond.

Your final two years will be your honours years. They will be tailored to your interests in specific topics or approaches to Celtic Studies and English Language. If you have chosen to study Scottish Gaelic, you'll progress to advanced language study in these years.

Programme benefits

• Study over four years, giving you choice and flexibility.

• Learn in the heart of Scotland's capital city.

• Try out different subjects in your first two years.

• Join societies related to what you are studying.

• Delve into fantastic libraries and collections.