BA (Hons) Politics with Gaelic Studies at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

BA (Hons) Politics with Gaelic Studies combines political theory, international relations and comparative politics with Gaelic language, culture and contemporary Gaelic life. It is a four-year joint honours degree with a broad foundation in both subjects in the first two years.

Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time | Intake: January and September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core modules include Conflict and the balance of power, Evolving politics of the British Isles, Gaelic for learners 1a and 1b and Ideas and ideologies in politics. Year 2 includes Comparative politics, Folklore, History of political ideas, Introduction to Gaelic poetry and Qualitative research methods. Year 3 includes Advanced social research and analysis, Language policy and planning and Traditional Gaelic culture, with a politics dissertation in year 4.

Career pathways

Local government official, political adviser, political party administrator, Civil Service Fast Stream, trade union management, policy analyst and parliamentary assistant.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Three Scottish Highers at grade BBC or above, or two A levels at grade BC or above, with at least two in the list of relevant academic subjects; applicants with other relevant qualifications or experience are considered individually. Advanced entry to year 2 with an HNC Social Sciences (12 SQA credits plus 3 additional credits at level 7, at least grade C in the Graded Unit) or NextGen HNC Social Sciences (15 credits at SCQF level 7); advanced entry to year 3 with an HND Social Sciences (30 SQA credits, minimum AB in the level 8 graded units) or NextGen HND at SCQF level 8 achieved with Distinction, considered case by case. SWAP access courses are an accepted route.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Students normally domiciled in Scotland with a term-time address in Scotland (includes EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status) Source

International applicants: GBP 16,820 a year (2026/27). International students with a term-time address in Scotland; part-time study not open to Student Route visa holders Source

Intake: January and September

Duration: 4 years full-time; 8 years part-time

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