Research programmes (MScR and PhD)

Choose from Masters by Research and PhD programmes in Celtic and Scottish Studies.

Masters by Research (MScR) programmes

A Masters by Research (MScR) programme is ideal if you would like to complete a short piece of independent research in Celtic and Scottish Studies. It is a good stepping stone to a PhD, but is equally of value as a stand-alone qualification.

We currently offer two different MScR programmes in Celtic and Scottish Studies. On each programme:

  • you will take courses in research skills and methods
  • you will complete two research assignments, each of 5,000 words
  • you will write a 20,000 word dissertation under the guidance of an experienced and well-published supervisor

An MScR programme is likely to suit you if:

  • you have a clear idea what you would like to write your dissertation about, right from the beginning of the programme
  • you would like to be part of a large and supportive masters community while working independently 

Masters by Research (MScR) in Celtic Studies

Full-time, one year (all students) ꟾ part-time, two years (eligibility criteria apply)

The University of Edinburgh Degree Finder gives you lots of information about what topics and themes we can supervise in Celtic Studies. 

Masters by Research (MScR) in Scottish Ethnology

Full-time, one year (all students) ꟾ part-time, two years (eligibility criteria apply)

The University of Edinburgh Degree Finder gives you lots of information about what topics and themes we can supervise in Scottish Ethnology.

Entrance requirements, fees, funding and more...

You can find out about entrance requirements, start dates, fees and scholarship opportunities for all our postgraduate programmes on the University of Edinburgh’s Degree Finder. Degree Finder links straight through to EUCLID, the online system for applying to postgraduate programmes at the University of Edinburgh.

 

Applications to start a Masters by Research (MScR) programme in September 2025 are now open.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

PhD programme

Doctorate-level study is an opportunity to expand upon your interests and expertise in a community that really values research, and to make an original, positive contribution to learning in Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies.

Our programme includes access to training on research skills, methods, and problems, including research methodologies specific to Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies. You will be assigned at least two supervisors.

Over the course of your PhD, you will be expected to complete an original body of work under the expert guidance of your supervisors leading to a dissertation of between 70,000 and 100,000 words.

Before you apply, it's a good idea to have a look at the interests and expertise of our research community.

PhD in Celtic and Scottish Studies

Full-time, three years (all students) ꟾ part-time, six years (eligibility criteria apply)

The University of Edinburgh Degree Finder gives you lots of information about what topics and themes we can supervise in Celtic Studies and Scottish Studies. 

Entrance requirements, fees, funding and more...

You can find out about entrance requirements, start dates, fees and scholarship opportunities for all our postgraduate programmes on the University of Edinburgh’s Degree Finder. Degree Finder links straight through to EUCLID, the online system for applying to postgraduate programmes at the University of Edinburgh.

 

Applications to start a PhD programme in September 2025 and January 2026 are now open. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Are you currently studying with us?

There’s lots more information for postgraduate research students on our LLC Student Information Hub. You will need your student log in to access the site.

Where to next?