Welsh & Celtic Studies
By studying Welsh at Aberystwyth University you will be introduced to a fascinating variety of topics that reflect the current research interests of our lecturers. These include: the history of our literature and contemporary literature, literary theory, women and gender studies, creative writing and scriptwriting, registers and dialects of Welsh, the language in professional contexts, translation and adaptation, Welsh and the media, sociology of the Welsh language.
In addition to studying Welsh, we also offer other Celtic languages, including Irish, Scottish Gaelic, and Breton. At Aberystwyth, 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.
By choosing to study Welsh and Celtic Studies at degree level, you will develop not only your capacity to speak and use Welsh in a wide range of professional and social contexts. You will also consider the place of Welsh in the context of other languages and cultures, and enhance your abilities to speak and learn other languages. 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 Welsh and Celtic Studies at Aberystwyth University?
- Leading - The Department leads the sector in fields such as creative writing, Welsh in the professional workplace and translation services. Everybody in the Department shares the aim of promoting a wider understanding of the Welsh language, its history, literature, and its place in the modern world.
- History - This is the oldest department of its kind in Wales (established in 1875).
- Experts - You will be taught by lecturers who are experts in their field.
- Wide choice of modules - You will study fascinating subjects that reflect the current interests of our lecturers: from the history of our literature to contemporary literature; from the sociology of the Welsh language to registers and dialects; from creative writing and scriptwriting to editing and proofreading.
- The National Library of Wales – As well as the extensive resources of the University, we are on the doorstep of the National Library of Wales and its amazing collections of literary and audio and visual media resources.
- A vibrant Welsh community in the heart of Wales - You'll be joining a community where Welsh is an integral part of the social fabric, and you will have the opportunity to live and study in a town that is one of the strongholds of the Welsh language.
- 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.
- Good reputation - The standard of research and teaching in this department is one of the highest around.
- A lively Welsh Social Life - You will be able to join the Aberystwyth Welsh Students' Union (UMCA), live in the Pantycelyn Hall or Fferm Penglais , and take place in numerous fun activities that are organised by the union.
- Irish Government Scholarship - You can apply to follow an intensive language course in Ireland, courtesy of the Irish Government.
