Program Overview
The University of Aberdeen's Gaelic Studies MPhil/PhD program offers research opportunities in Gaelic literature, cultural history, and contemporary society. Students develop research skills, collaborate with experts, and prepare for careers in academia, Gaelic language planning, education, and related fields. The program emphasizes original research, fostering a vibrant research culture and providing opportunities for collaboration and publication.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Gaelic Studies - Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The University of Aberdeen offers postgraduate research programs in Gaelic Studies, focusing on Gaelic literature, cultural history, and contemporary Gaelic society. Research areas include:
- Prose literature of the eighteenth century
- Understanding sociolinguistic change in Gaelic-English bilingual speech communities
- Gaelic language planning and policy
- New historic dictionary The program aims to:
- Equip students with the necessary research skills and knowledge to conduct original research in Gaelic Studies.
- Foster a vibrant research culture through collaboration with other institutions and researchers.
- Prepare graduates for careers in academia, Gaelic language planning and development, Gaelic education, and other related fields.
Outline:
The program structure is flexible and tailored to individual research interests. Students work closely with a supervisor to develop a research proposal and conduct independent research. Modules may include:
- Gaelic Literature and Culture
- Research Methods in Gaelic Studies
- Contemporary Gaelic Society
- Gaelic Language Planning and Policy
- Historical Linguistics
- Sociolinguistics The program culminates in the submission of a thesis or dissertation.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the chosen modules and research project. They may include:
- Essays
- Presentations
- Research proposals
- Thesis or dissertation Assessment criteria are based on the program's learning outcomes and focus on the quality of research, originality, analysis, and presentation.
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Individual supervision
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Guest lectures The program benefits from the expertise of a dedicated team of researchers with extensive experience in Gaelic Studies.
Careers:
Graduates of the program can pursue careers in:
- Academia
- Gaelic language planning and development
- Gaelic education
- Gaelic arts and publishing
- Research Institute of Irish and Scottish Studies
- Soillse project
- Faclair na Gàidhlig project The program also publishes Scottish Gaelic Studies, the leading journal in the field.