Soillse
We collaborate in inter-university projects such as Soillse, which supports research on Gaelic language planning and policy, and Faclair na Gàidhlig, which aims to produce a new historic dictionary.
Leading research and teaching in Gaelic literature, society and culture.
Based in the School of Language, Literature, Film and Visual Culture, our research programmes in Gaelic studies are distinguished for research on Gaelic literature, cultural history and contemporary Gaelic society. Within these themes, we conduct research on topics ranging from the prose literature of the eighteenth century to understanding sociolinguistic change in Gaelic-English bilingual speech communities today. Gaelic as a subject has been taught at the University since the eighteenth century.
Gaelic studies have long-standing links with other institutions across the university, particularly Research Institute of Irish and Scottish Studies.
Gaelic research is centred on staff research interests.
Supervisors: Professor Michelle Macleod, Dr Moray Watson, Professor Ralph O’Connor
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipApplicants to the MPhil or PhD must provide a detailed research proposal and two academic references from their most recent academic institution.
International Applicants
The Department benefits from the existence of the Milne Bequest Scholarship and the MacLeod Scholarship. Both of these awards have been made available, on a competitive and rotational basis, to help cover the costs of postgraduate study. Typically, they are sufficient to offset the cost of UK/EU fees. Enquiries should be sent in the first instance to: Prof. Michelle Macleod.
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
In addition to entering academia, graduates with higher degrees in Gaelic can find employment in the Gaelic language planning and development, Gaelic education, Gaelic arts and publishing and Gaelic broadcasting.