Anthropology and Gaelic Studies - MA (Hons)

University of Aberdeen

Anthropology and Gaelic Studies at Aberdeen is a great study combination, adding to your existing grounding in what it means to ‘be human’. With a special focus on the people of the north, you will undertake and in-depth study of Gaelic, Scotland’s oldest living language, and its origins and culture. The language, perspective and skills you will develop will open up a wide range of career options with an international flavour.Anthropology will give you a thorough grounding in humanity, the differences in human cultures and communities and how they have developed. You will gain unique insights into behaviours, beliefs and attitudes all over the world and find connections between aspects of life such as family, economics, politics and religion.At Aberdeen, we’ve been teaching Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig) and culture for one hundred years, led by teachers and researchers passionate about Gaelic, and whose work directly influences Scottish policy on keeping Gaelic alive, healthy and important in Scotland today. Today there are nearly 3,000 people in north-east Scotland with knowledge of Gaelic and our students and staff play an important role in the local community through Gaelic-interest clubs, activities, networks and organisations.Opportunities for graduates fluent in Scottish Gaelic are plentiful. With the skills and perspective developed through anthropology, your career prospects are very bright and may include roles in teaching, Gaelic development, arts management and media.dia.Anthropology at Aberdeen is ranked 1st in the UK for overall student satisfaction in the 2025 National Student SurveyRanked 3rd in the UK for Anthropology and Archaeology (Guardian University Guide 2025)Ranked 4th in the UK for Anthropology (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)Global Top 100 for Anthropology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)