Gaelic Studies and Politics
Gaelic Studies and Politics is a combination that joins the study of Scotland's oldest living language with a rigorous engagement with political systems and democratic processes. Gaelic carries a distinctive literary and oral tradition, and studying it in depth, whether as a native speaker or from the beginning, gives you access to a heritage that has shaped Scottish cultural identity over many centuries. Politics adds an analytical dimension, examining how political institutions function, how different democratic systems are organised, and how political power interacts with cultural, economic, and social life.
At the University of Aberdeen, this four-year, full-time programme includes a year abroad, giving you the chance to develop your studies in a different national context. You will develop genuine proficiency in Gaelic and a deep understanding of its literature and culture, while also engaging with the full breadth of political science, from political theory and comparative politics to the study of democracy, policy-making, and international relations. The combination is particularly relevant in a Scotland where the status and promotion of the Gaelic language intersects with questions of cultural policy, devolution, and national identity.
Aberdeen's expertise in both areas and its location in north-east Scotland, with its strong connections to Gaelic communities, make it a distinctive place to pursue this combination.
Graduates of Gaelic Studies and Politics are well placed for careers in Scottish and UK politics, media, public administration, cultural policy, and organisations focused on Gaelic language promotion and education. The political science training opens paths in public affairs, policy analysis, journalism, international development, and research, while Gaelic proficiency adds value in roles connected to Scottish cultural and public life. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in politics, Celtic studies, or public policy, building specialist expertise for academic or professional careers.