Celtic Civilisation/Philosophy

Celtic civilisation and philosophy is a combination that brings together the deep history of a distinctive cultural tradition and one of the most fundamental forms of intellectual inquiry. Celtic civilisation encompasses the study of the Celtic peoples of ancient Europe and the British Isles, their languages, literature, material culture, art, religious traditions and social organisation, from the earliest archaeological evidence to the surviving Celtic languages and cultures of the present day. Philosophy asks the foundational questions: what can we know, what is right, what is real, and how should we reason about these questions?

Studying them together creates an unusually rich perspective on how human beings have constructed meaning, ethical frameworks and cultural identity across very different historical and intellectual contexts.

At the University of Glasgow, this part-time programme allows you to develop your knowledge and understanding of both disciplines while managing other commitments. Glasgow has particular strengths in Celtic studies, and the programme benefits from research expertise in Celtic languages, medieval texts and the history of Celtic societies. The philosophy component introduces you to the main traditions of philosophical thought, developing your capacity for rigorous argument, conceptual analysis and ethical reasoning.

A year abroad is available, giving you the opportunity to extend your academic experience in an international context.

You will develop strong analytical and interpretive skills alongside detailed knowledge of Celtic history and culture. The combination of historical and philosophical training is intellectually demanding and produces graduates with a distinctive and unusual range of competences.

Graduates move into academic research, education, cultural and heritage work, archiving and library services, the arts, the civil service, and a range of careers that value analytical thinking and strong communication. Postgraduate study in Celtic studies, philosophy, history or related fields is a natural pathway for those who want to pursue research.