Celtic Civilisation/Scottish History

Celtic civilisation and Scottish history is a combination that places the distinctive cultural and historical heritage of Scotland within the longer and broader context of Celtic civilisation across the British Isles and the European continent. Celtic civilisation studies immerses you in the history of Celtic peoples from their earliest appearance in Europe through to the present-day Gaelic communities of Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, engaging with their literature, material culture, art, and religion. Scottish history focuses more specifically on the complex and contested story of Scotland as a nation, examining its political, social, and economic development from the medieval period to the present.

At the University of Glasgow, you will study both disciplines in an institution with genuine depth of expertise in Celtic languages, literature, and history. You will develop skills in historical research and textual analysis, engaging with primary sources in both Gaelic and English and with the material and cultural evidence of Celtic civilisation. The programme includes a year abroad and is studied part-time, giving you flexibility alongside your studies.

Graduates of this combination pursue careers in education, research, museum and heritage work, cultural and community organisations, and archival and library work. The specialist knowledge of Celtic civilisation and Scottish history is valued in organisations concerned with cultural heritage, national identity, and the conservation of minority languages and traditions. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in Celtic studies, Scottish history, or related disciplines, where the depth and specificity of their undergraduate training is a significant academic advantage.