Archaeology and Gaelic Studies, MA
Introduction
By combining the study of archaeology with Gaelic, you will have the opportunity to explore the culture, history and language of Scotland through a unique and interdisciplinary lens.
Did you know? Aberdeen is ranked 3rd in the UK for Anthropology and Archaeology (Guardian University Guide 2025)
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MA
- Duration
- 48 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
- UCAS Code
- FQ44
Gaelic is an integral part of Scotland's cultural heritage, with a rich history that spans centuries. This joint program not only provides students with a deeper understanding of Gaelic history, but also equips them with the relevant professional and theoretical skills needed for their future research paths and careers, including archaeology and heritage but also as educators and contributors to living Gaelic culture.
You will explore the richness of the archaeological record in historically Gaelic cultural regions by combining the study of Gaelic with archaeology. You will have the opportunity to explore the language and culture of Gaelic Scotland through a unique and interdisciplinary lens, while your Archaeology courses will actively shape your understanding of human development through fieldwork and discovery.
Aberdeen is set amongst some of the richest archaeological remains in the UK and opportunities will be available to experience and get involved in discovering more about this resource and our shared human past.
This joint programme not only provides you with a deeper understanding of Gaelic history but also equips you with the relevant professional and theoretical skills needed for a career in a range of areas, including archaeology and heritage but also as educators and contributors to living Gaelic culture. You will also be well-prepared for further studies and research.
What You'll Study
- Year 1
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Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD1002)
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This course, which is prescribed for level 1 undergraduate students (and articulating students who are in their first year at the University), is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.
Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- Academic Writing for Social Sciences (AW1006)
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This compulsory evaluation is designed to find out if your academic writing is of a sufficient standard to enable you to succeed at university and, if you need it, to provide support to improve. It is completed on-line via MyAberdeen with clear instructions to guide you through it. If you pass the evaluation at the first assessment it will not take much of your time. If you do not, you will be provided with resources to help you improve. This evaluation does not carry credits but if you do not complete it this will be recorded on your degree transcript.
- Archaeology in Action (AY1003)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides an introduction to how archaeological discoveries are made, the types of questions we can ask about past human societies using the evidence of their material remains, and the range of methods that archaeologists can draw on to try to answer the questions that excite them. By visiting archaeological sites, focussing on some of the world's most spectacular archaeological discoveries, and discussing some of the department's own original research projects, we will explore what the discipline of archaeology adds to our understanding of the human past and present, and what tools and techniques archaeologists employ in different environments.
- Gaelic Scotland (GH1015)
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15 Credit Points
Gaelic is Scotland's oldest living language. In this introductory course you will learn about the Gaels, their history and their role in the shaping modern Scotland. You will also learn about how Gaelic language and culture became minoritised in its own country. Students will learn learn about various contemporary initiatives that are aimed at saving and promoting this indigenous language and culture and this will be compared to minority languages and cultures elsewhere in the world.
- Caves to Kingdoms: an Introduction to Prehistoric Archaeology (AY1503)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides a romping introduction to the deep human past, from our earliest hominin origins in Africa to the emergence of the first Early Medieval Kingdoms in Northern Europe. Along the way we will discover the key stages in the evolution of our species and what it means to be 'human', from our use of symbols to express thoughts, ritualistic behaviours to our domestication of plants and animals and militarized empires. The archaeological evidence for these fundamental transitions in human societies provides us with powerful insights into some of the world's most fascinating civilizations,
Optional Courses
Plus select one of the following options:
Gaelic Beginner
- Gaelic for Beginners 1A (GH1007)
- Gaelic for Beginners 1B (GH1507)
Gaelic Intermediate/Advanced
- Gaelic Language 1A (GH1013)
- Gaelic Language 1B (GH1513)
Plus 45 credits from Level 1 courses of choice for a total of 120 credits.
- Gaelic for Beginners 1a (GH1007)
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15 Credit Points
This is an 11-week course in the modern Scottish Gaelic language for students who have little or no prior experience of the language, or for students with no formal qualifications in Gaelic.
You will learn Gaelic through a mixture of interactive language classes, a class which focuses on conversational skills, and a programme of homework exercises, together with self-directed learning.
By the end of the course, you will be able to speak, read, write and understand Gaelic at a basic level and you will have mastered a large working vocabulary.
- Gaelic for Beginners 1b (GH1507)
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15 Credit Points
This is an 11-week course in the modern Scottish Gaelic language for students who have completed GH1007 Gaelic for Beginners 1A.
You will attend three interactive language classes and one conversation class each week, as well as undertaking self-directed learning.
By the end of the course you will be expected to have mastered a large working vocabulary and to be competent in understanding and using most of the major structures of the language.
- Gaelic Language 1a (GH1013)
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15 Credit Points
This is a Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or have studied it to a similar level elsewhere.
- Gaelic Language 1b (GH1513)
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15 Credit Points
This is the second-half of the first year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or have studied it to a similar level elsewhere.
- Year 2
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Compulsory Courses
- Prehistoric Britain: from Boxgrove to Bede (AY2009)
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15 Credit Points
Britain has been inhabited by humans for more than half a million years. This course provides an introduction to the peoples and societies that have occupied this island from the first pioneer populations to the dawn of history.
- Test Tubes and Trowels: an Introduction to Archaeological Science (AY2006)
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15 Credit Points
Ever wondered how Archaeologists know what Neandertals ate, or what killed Ötzi the Iceman? Test Tubes & Trowels provides an accessible overview of the key scientific approaches used in modern archaeology to better understand archaeological sites and materials and to reconstruct past lives. Using a combination of lectures and practical workshops, the course will cover scientific methods of dating, artefact provenancing and ancient technologies, methods used for the study of diet, health, and movements of humans and animals in the past, and the identification of the environmental impacts of past human activities.
- Otherworld: Lost Gods and Hidden Monsters of Medieval Scotland (GH2010)
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15 Credit Points
Godlike ‘immortals’, elves, fairies, the walking dead, the Loch Ness Monster: uncanny Otherworldly beings feature widely in the literature and folklore of medieval Scotland. This course will explore the nature and significance of Gaelic Otherworld-traditions in their wider North Atlantic context. We investigate how Germanic and Celtic beliefs merged in Gaelic Otherworld-lore, how these related to pre-Christian myth and religion, and why they continued to be significant in Scotland many centuries after Christianization. All texts will be studied in translation.
- Past Lives (AY2508)
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15 Credit Points
Archaeology is ultimately the study of human social lives. This course provides students with a detailed introduction to archaeological approaches to the study of human society. Through case studies and key texts we will investigate how archaeology can generate detailed insights into the richness and diversity of the diverse human communities and individuals of the past.
- The Archaeology of The North: Lifeways & Cultural Change (AY2505)
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15 Credit Points
This course is a detailed introduction to the ecological, economic and spiritual dimensions to the archaeology of the northern world. Lectures will draw on a series of case-studies to examine the human adaptations to northern landscapes, ritual and spirituality, and finally the impact of colonisation and contact upon northern cultures.
- Introduction to Scottish Gaelic Literature (GH2514)
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15 Credit Points
This survey course is an introduction to Scottish Gaelic literature from the 17th century to the modern day. Scottish Gaelic has one of Europe's oldest secular literatures and this is an exciting choice for anyone with an interest in Scotland's history, literature and culture: it is taught using translated texts and originals for those whose Gaelic language is good enough. Students will gain new perspectives on key areas of Scottish society such as Jacobitism, the Clearances, the Highland Land Wars, the Celtic Twilight Movement and the Gaelic renaissance in the modern period. This course is suitable for anyone in Programme Year 2 with an interest in Scottish society.
Optional Courses
Plus select one of the following options:
Gaelic Beginner
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2A (GH2009)
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2B (GH2509)
Gaelic Intermediate/Advanced
- Gaelic Language 2A (GH2013)
- Gaelic Language 2B (GH2513)
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2a (GH2009)
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15 Credit Points
This is the second year Gaelic language course for people who started learning in their first year. It builds on the foundations already set in the first year and continues to develop vocabulary, grammatical structures and idioms in both writing and speech.
- Gaelic for Advanced Beginners 2b (GH2509)
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15 Credit Points
This course follows on from GH2009 and is for people who started learning in their first year. It continues to develop a range of linguistic competencies in written and oral language.
- Gaelic Language 2a (GH2013)
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15 Credit Points
This is the first half of the second year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or similar level. It follows on from GH1513. It continues to develop accuracy in the language and increases usage across a wider variety of domains.
- Gaelic Language 2b (GH2513)
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15 Credit Points
This is the second half of the second year Gaelic language course for students who are relatively fluent in the language already and have studied it to at least Higher in school (Higher Gaelic or Gàidhlig) or similar level. It follows on from GH2013.
- Year 3
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Compulsory Courses
- Professional Archaeology i: Field Methods (AY3010)
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15 Credit Points
We only have three days to find out! Excavation and field survey in modern archaeology can lead to spectacular discoveries regarding our past. This course, built around a short fieldschool and follow-up practicals and classes, will introduce and develop key skills in field archaeology, including excavation, field survey and sampling. Students will go through the whole process of designing, carrying out and reporting on a site and landscape in a course that will provide invaluable professional development.
- Gaelic Language A (GH3022)
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30 Credit Points
A level three Gaelic language course for students taking honours Gaelic. The course runs over both semesters and is topic based, enabling students to develop their ability to deal with a large range of subjects in Gaelic. The course also develops students' generic writing and oral skills.
- Professional Archaeology II: Post - Excavation Analysis and Employment (AY3514)
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15 Credit Points
Lectures and laboratory practicals will provide experience in the techniques used to process and analyse archaeological artefacts and samples. We will introduce analytical basics for lithic, ceramic, faunal and historic artefact analysis as well as techniques for conserving, cataloguing and curating archaeological collections. This course also introduces practical skills required to obtain employment and placement in an archaeological workplace through practical exercises in writing CVs, job cover letters and job interview skills.
Optional Courses
Plus further credit points from Level 3 course(s) in Archaeology to gain a total of 60 credits in the discipline.
If you intend to take your dissertation in Archaeology you must take Archaeological Research Project Part I (AY3512) in Level 3.
Plus a further 30 credit points from Level 3 course(s) in Gaelic to gain a total of 60 credits in the discipline.
- Archaeological Research Project Part 1 (AY3512)
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15 Credit Points
This course is the first stage in producing an archaeological dissertation, which is completed in Level 4. Lectures and practical training sessions introduce the theory and practice of archaeological research design. As the course progresses the student puts this into practice through the development of their own original research project, its presentation at a research seminar, and the submission of a full research proposal, which they subsequently take forward as their dissertation. A personal supervisor is identified and provides support, in addition to the other lecturers involved in delivering the lectures and skills training.
- Year 4
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Compulsory Courses
- Gaelic Language B (GH4022)
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30 Credit Points
A level four Gaelic language course for students taking honours Gaelic. The course runs over both semesters and is topic based, enabling students to develop their ability to deal with a large range of subjects in Gaelic. The course also develops students' generic writing and oral skills.
- Current Issues in Archaeology (AY4510)
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30 Credit Points
Archaeology is a contemporary discipline and the focus in archaeological questions, subject areas and theoretical debates constantly change with time. In this course we focus on some of the topics that are important for the ongoing research within our department, from domestication and climate change to community archaeology and relating to death. The different issues are discussed in text-based seminars, where the students themselves are responsible for presenting the topic and leading the seminars. The course aims to explore and challenge current trends in the archaeological discourse.
Optional Courses
Select one of the following dissertation options:
- Archaeological Research Project (AY4002 with AY3512 as pre-requisite)
- Dissertation in Language & Linguistics (LN4501)
Plus further credit points from Level 4 course(s) in Archaeology and Gaelic to gain a total of 60 credits in each discipline
- Archaeological Research Project Part 2 (AY4002)
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30 Credit Points
Building directly on the skills learnt in AY3512, the student undertakes an original research project, under the guidance of their personal supervisor and course co-ordinator, and at the end of the course submits an archaeological dissertation. The session begins with a research seminar when students present how their research has progressed over the summer and what they will now be doing to complete it.
- Dissertation in Language and Linguistics (LN4501)
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30 Credit Points
Once you have successfully completed three years of university-level study of Linguistics, this course allows you to develop and carry out an independent piece of research on a topic of your choice. It might be that a particular taught course has inspired you to explore a topic in more depth; your own reading might have prompted you to wonder about a particular question. You will be supervised by a member of the department who will be happy to give advice and support as you complete your dissertation of 7000-8000 words.
Dissertations are completed in HS2 (spring), but students will be offered research training workshops in HS1 (autumn), and will be expected to submit a short research proposal for their dissertion in December.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
How You'll Study
Learning Methods
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Research
- Tutorials
Assessment Methods
Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:
- coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
- practical assessments of the skills and competencies they learn on the course; and
- written examinations at the end of each course.
The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, years of study and individual courses.
Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.
Why Study Archaeology and Gaelic Studies?
- Aberdeen is ranked 3rd in the UK for Anthropology and Archaeology (Guardian University Guide 2025) and is in the Global Top 100 for Archaeology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). We are also 1st in Scotland for Overall Student Satisfaction in Forensic and Archaeological Sciences (National Student Survey 2024)
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Archaeology at Aberdeen has a northern focus unique in the UK, covering the heritage of Scotland, Scandinavia, northern Europe, the North Atlantic and the northern latitudes of Asia and North America.
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Aberdeen is at the heart of a region that is among the richest in the UK in terms of sites of outstanding archaeological interest and is in close proximity to the World Heritage sites in Orkney. Your studies will include field-based teaching and visits to local archaeological sites, monuments, and museums.
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You will have the opportunity to participate in outstanding national and international department-led field research projects, from Aberdeenshire to Alaska, and receive practical training in survey, excavation and documentation methods.
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A warm welcome for students whatever your level of Gaelic, and long-standing experience in teaching this fascinating language to complete beginners.
- Student-run Celtic Society famous for its musical events, ceilidhs and trips, and a great opportunity to use Gaelic in an informal, social context.
- Strong tradition of commitment to Gaelic, and a University Gaelic Language Plan to promote and develop Gaelic in the University in line with the Gaelic Language (Scotland) Act 2005.
- The spectacular, award-winning Sir Duncan Rice Library, with an extensive Gaelic collection and treasures.
- An opportunity to study abroad at the University College Cork.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme.
View the Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEntry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
General Entry Requirements
- 2024 Entry
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SCOTTISH QUALIFICATIONS (SQA)
4H at ABBB from S4 and S5. Those seeking to qualify over S5 and S6 will be expected to exceed this minimum.
Qualifications such as Early Education and Childcare will be accepted as one subject alongside 3 additional subjects at Higher Level or equivalent. We require a minimum of 4 separate SCQF Level 6 subjects. So an HNC or an HND in any subject counts as one. Three more SCQF Level 6 subjects are required. This must include Higher English at Grade B (or an equivalent as detailed below), plus two further separate subjects at SCQF Level 6. If these are Highers, grade C or above is required. Where a FA is presented, this will count as an SCQF Level 6 subject at grade B. In addition, a Maths qualification, as detailed below, must be achieved.
English and Mathematics as below.
GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (GCE)
A Levels: BBB
English and Mathematics as below.
IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE/ARDTEISTIMEIREACHT
H2, H3, H3, H3, H3 including English, and 2 at Ordinary Level, including Maths which must be at Grade 3 or above.
English and Mathematics Entry Requirements
All students are required to fulfil the English and Mathematics entry requirements for entry to our MA Primary Education degree, in addition to those mentioned above. These can be accessed here.
- 2025 Entry
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SQA:
Higher English and N5 Mathematics or Applications of Mathematics required as part of the entry requirements. See detailed entry requirements for more information.
Standard: BBBB from S4 and S5. Those seeking to qualify over S5 and S6 will be expected to exceed this minimum.
Adjusted: BBBC by the end of S6 those who meet one or more Widening Access criteria.
- HNC/HND: Qualifications such as an HNC or HND (eg Education and Childcare) will be accepted as one subject alongside 3 additional subjects at Higher. You must still meet the English and Maths requirements.
- Foundation Apprenticeship: this will count as one SCQF Level 6 (Higher) subject at grade A. You must still meet the English and Maths requirements.
NOTE: We require a minimum of 4 separate SCQF Level 6 subjects.
A Levels:
A Levels: BBC English and Mathematics as below.
International Baccalaureate:
Minimum of 32 points including at least 5, 5, 5 at HL. SL in Maths/Maths Studies at 4 or above.
HL in English at 5 or above.IRISH LEAVING CERTIFICATE/ARDTEISTIMEIREACHT
Four subjects at Higher, with one at H2 and three at H3. Must have English at H3 minimum and Maths at O4 minimum.
English and Mathematics Entry Requirements
All students are required to fulfil the English and Mathematics entry requirements for entry to our MA Primary Education degree, in addition to those mentioned above. These can be accessed here.
UNIVERSITY GRADUATES:
Graduates wishing to apply for primary teaching training must apply for the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). PGDE Courses in both primary and secondary education are available and are professionally accredited by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GCTS). More information on the PGDE can be found here.
- HNC/HND: Qualifications such as an HNC or HND (eg Education and Childcare) will be accepted as one subject alongside 3 additional subjects at Higher. You must still meet the English and Maths requirements.
The information displayed in this section shows a shortened summary of our entry requirements. For more information, or for full entry requirements for Arts and Social Sciences degrees, see our detailed entry requirements section.
English Language Requirements
To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.0 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 78 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 59 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 169 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Fees and Funding
Please refer to our Tuition Fees page for fee information for this programme, or contact study@abdn.ac.uk.
Additional Fees
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships and Funding
UK Scholarship
Students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who pay tuition fees may be eligible for specific scholarships allowing them to receive additional funding. These are designed to provide assistance to help students support themselves during their time at Aberdeen.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
The University of Aberdeen is delighted to offer eligible self-funded international on-campus undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for every year of their programme. More about this funding opportunity.Funding Database
View all funding options in our Funding Database.
Careers
There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success. The Careers and Employability Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us, from first to final year – and beyond.
- More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen
- More information on the Careers and Employability Service
Our Experts
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
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Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX