Celtic Studies

Do you want the opportunity to study Welsh alongside other Celtic languages, including Irish, Scottish Gaelic, and Breton? Join us here in Aberystwyth and you will study the literature of these languages, medieval and modern, read texts in the medieval and early modern languages, and improve your conversational and written skills in the modern languages. You will also learn about the languages and cultures of the ancient Celts and how they helped to shape modern Europe. The interdisciplinary study of cultures helps us to better understand ourselves, others, and the world around us.

This area is one of the strongholds of the Welsh language and is rich in history. It provides an environment where yesterday, today and tomorrow come together. This combination is what creates the background and special dynamic for our academic and social lives, and is what makes the Department, and Aberystwyth, an ideal place to study some of Europe's oldest languages.

Why study Celtic Studies at Aberystwyth University?

A location like no other - On the west coast of Wales between Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains, you’ll be part of a friendly, outward-looking community - the ideal place to study the rich history and cultural heritage of the Celtic people and regions.
Expertise - The department is a world-renowned centre for research and home to an inspirational team of world-leading experts in Welsh and Irish language and literature.
Other Celtic Languages - You will have the opportunity to learn Scottish Gaelic and Breton as well as their respective literature.
Wide Choice - You will have a wide choice of stimulating modules to choose from that reflect the current research interests of our lecturers.
A Vibrant Welsh Community - You will flourish in our vibrant, Welsh community. Not only do we have a Students Union, but UMCA (Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Aberystwyth) hosts many events and societies for those who wish to be part of the wider welsh community.
Stimulating Events - Studying here will provide the opportunity to attend a wealth of public lectures, book launches, performances and talks in the Department itself and beyond.
Irish Government Scholarship - You can apply to follow an intensive language course in Ireland, courtesy of the Irish Government.

Employability

Employability is embedded in the Celtic Studies curriculum that is available to our students. Through our wide range of modules, we aim to nurture the following skills:

critical skills
analytical skills
creative skills
linguistic ability.

Our modules will:

reinforce your Welsh or another of the Celtic languages, both written and spoken
prepare you for the competitive job market
hone your ability to communicate effectively
hone your ability to work with others.

Facilities

The National Library of Wales, located a stone's throw from the Campus, is a wonderful resource. All Aberystwyth University students have free access to the library and its collections.

The Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies – a research institute located next to the National Library of Wales.

Research

All the work of the Department of Welsh and Celtic Studies is guided by research and our staff specialise in the language and literature of Wales and the other Celtic countries. We hold open research seminars every term which is an opportunity to listen to specialists in the field and to have discussions with people who are equally fascinated by the subject.

In the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) the Department maintained its reputation for research publications of world-leading and internationally excellent standard. 42% of the department’s publications were deemed world-leading (4*) and a further 30% was judged ‘internationally excellent (3*).

Study or Work Abroad

Aberystwyth University offers every student the opportunity to study, volunteer or work in another country either for an academic year, a single semester, or a few weeks during your holidays.

Find more information on our Global Opportunities webpages.

Studying through the medium of Welsh

Aberystwyth University prides itself on being a bilingual University. As a leading Welsh university, we are proud to offer dedicated support services and Halls of Residence for Welsh-speaking students, encouraging the sense of community and the feeling of a home away from home. Qualifying students will automatically receive the University's Welsh-medium scholarships and can also apply for Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol scholarships. Find out more about our Welsh Medium Scholarships here.