Studying through the medium of Welsh

Don’t worry. Key terminology is introduced in both Welsh and English, and support is available to help you become familiar with new terms. You can also use resources in both languages and ask questions in whichever language you find most comfortable.

That is not a barrier. Many students begin using Welsh academically for the first time at university. You can start with one module or assessment, use resources in both languages and gradually do more in Welsh as your confidence develops. 

No. You decide how much Welsh you want to use. You can study complete modules in Welsh or begin with a single assignment, presentation or examination. 

All undergraduate degree schemes in the Department of Life Sciences can be studied partly through the medium of Welsh. On some schemes, more than two-thirds of the modules are available in Welsh. 

A bilingual module includes elements in both Welsh and English. This allows you to use Welsh at a level suited to your confidence and ability. Each module has a Welsh-medium weighting indicating the level of Welsh-medium provision it contains, calculated using the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol’s system.

Yes. You have the right to submit assignments, give oral presentations and sit written examinations in Welsh, regardless of the language in which the module is taught. 

No. Students begin with different levels of confidence and ability. Support is available if you are learning Welsh, want to build your confidence or would like to develop your use of scientific terminology. 

Every Welsh-speaking student will be allocated a personal tutor and dissertation supervisor who can speak Welsh. You will also receive support from lecturers and through dedicated sessions designed to develop your academic Welsh. 

Yes. Studying through the medium of Welsh allows you to develop terminology in both languages, which is useful when reading research and preparing for the workplace.

The ability to work confidently in Welsh and English is a valuable skill for employers across Wales. Studying in Welsh can strengthen your CV and prepare you to use the language in professional settings. 

Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol scholarships, worth £1,500 over three years, are available for several of the Department’s degree schemes. These include Agriculture, Veterinary Biosciences, Animal Science, Biology, Plant Biology and Microbiology.

Aberystwyth University’s Welsh-medium Study Bursary also offers eligible students up to £400 per year. 

Smaller groups provide more opportunities to discuss topics, ask questions, receive support and get to know your lecturers and fellow students.

Yes. As well as studying in Welsh, you will have opportunities to make friends and join a close and welcoming Welsh-speaking community. UMCA and Y Geltaidd also offer a range of Welsh-language activities and social events.

You can start small—for example, with one module or assessment. Departmental staff can discuss the options with you and help you find an approach that works best for you.