Scottish literature is the study of the poetry, drama, fiction and prose of Scotland from the 14th century to the most contemporary work. The University hosts the only academic unit in the UK exclusively dedicated to the teaching of, and research into, Scottish literature. We are home to the Centre for Robert Burns Studies, which is engaged in the production of a new, multi-volume, scholarly edition of the works of Scotland’s national poet. You will study a wide range of texts from the past 250 years of Scottish literary history. They will range from eerie ballads, through historical epics, Gothic thrillers and radical contemporary works. You will explore the rich variety of Scottish literature from the medieval period until the end of the 18th century, including Scotland’s earliest play, c1550, by David Lyndsay the great medieval ''Makars'' (poets) Dunbar and Henryson Allan Ramsay and Robert Burns from the 18th century ''Vernacular Revival'' and the early novel, as well as the ballad throughout the centuries. If you progress to Honours (years 3 and 4) you will explore in depth fresh approaches to Scottish literature. You will have the opportunity to take innovative courses which include online delivery in our award-winning Robert Burns course, or special student placements in libraries, museums and other institutions as part of our Memorialising Scottish culture course. You can choose to specialise in different genres and periods from medieval literature to the contemporary scene.This degree equips you with skills valuable to many employers, including skills of critical and creative thinking that set arts and humanities graduates apart. Our graduates have gone into careers in media, journalism, teaching, research, education and heritage sector, taking jobs with the BBC, the Herald newspaper, the National Library of Scotland, national publishers and TV production companies.