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.
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.Entry Requirements:
Applicants to the MPhil or PhD in Gaelic Studies at the University of Aberdeen must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a UK Honours degree at 2:1 or above, or equivalent international qualification, in a relevant subject.
- Provide a detailed research proposal. However, they are responsible for covering their living expenses and other costs associated with their studies.
- International overseas students may be eligible for scholarships and grants to help cover the costs of their studies.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English. The University of Aberdeen accepts a variety of English language tests, such as IELTS and TOEFL. The minimum required score for these tests varies depending on the program of study. However, students who wish to conduct research on Gaelic language or literature are encouraged to have a strong foundation in Gaelic.
- The university also maintains a comprehensive funding database that lists scholarships and grants available to postgraduate students.
Additional Resources
- Gaelic Studies program website: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/llmvc/postgraduate/research/gaelic-studies/
