Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies PhD

University of Edinburgh

Research profile

Doctorate-level study is an opportunity to expand upon your interests and expertise in a community that really values research; and to make an original, positive contribution to learning in Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies.

We specialise in the languages, literatures and cultures of the Celtic and in particular the Gaelic peoples, from Iron Age Europe to the present, and Scottish Ethnology, the study of Scotland's traditions, belief systems, and forms of cultural expression.

Research community

Based in Scotland's capital and festival city, our research community is at the forefront of policy development and cultural innovation.

We work at the cutting edge of linguistic, cultural, literary, and sociolinguistic research in the Celtic languages, with a particular focus on Scottish Gaelic. We play a leading role in relation to language planning and maintenance, particularly for Scottish Gaelic.

Join our community and undertake a specialised research project under the guidance of experienced and well-published supervisors.

Celtic studies

Our Celtic studies expertise covers:

Old Irish and Middle Welsh language, literature and culture
Scottish Gaelic and modern Irish language, literature, and culture
Celtic sociolinguistics and language policy

Scottish studies and ethnology

Our Scottish studies and ethnology expertise covers:

oral narrative
song and instrumental music
material culture
social organisation
custom and belief
place names

Training and support

This programme includes training on research skills, methods and problems in Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies using a combination of traditional and innovative methods.

You will be encouraged and supported to make direct contact with original sources and to gain hands-on experience, whether in reading medieval manuscripts or in handling electronically-stored data.

Between the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC), the Careers Service and the Institute for Academic Development (IAD), you'll find a further range of programmes and resources to help you develop your postgraduate skills.

You will also have access to the University's fantastic libraries, collections and worldwide strategic partnerships.