Welsh: Language and Literature
Bangor , United Kingdom
MA in Welsh: Language and Literature
Prifysgol Bangor University
Welsh Language and Literature
Program Overview: MA Welsh Language and Literature
The MA in Welsh: Language and Literature (MA Cymraeg: Iaith a Llenyddiaeth) at Bangor University offers you an exciting opportunity to study various aspects of the Welsh language and its literature, from the early heroic poetry of Aneirin to 21st-century literature in translation. The program can be studied through the medium of English or Welsh, making it accessible to a wide range of students with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Within the flexible course framework, the contents can be tailored to suit your individual interests, and you will be supervised by specialists in their respective academic fields. You will have access to the rich resources relating to Wales and the Welsh language housed in Shankland Library, together with the outstanding facilities offered by the Archives and Special Collections at Bangor University.
This program is suitable both for students who have fluency in Welsh and for those who aim to acquire a greater understanding of the language, its literature, and Welsh culture in general within a rigorous academic context. Students are also welcomed to embark on comparative studies linking Welsh with areas such as English literature, medieval studies, European languages, language revitalization, Arthurian studies, and more.
Key Program Highlights
- Flexible program allowing free choice of topics from early medieval poetry to contemporary Welsh literature and culture
- Can be studied entirely through the medium of English or Welsh, with opportunities to learn Welsh within Bangor's bilingual community
- Access to Shankland Library's extensive Welsh language collections and Bangor University's Archives and Special Collections
- Exchange programme with Harvard University's Department of Celtic Languages and Literatures for eligible students
Curriculum and Modules
You study for the MA in Welsh by the traditional route of essay and dissertation. The first part comprises three course essays (3 x 4,000-6,000 words) displaying a solid grasp of your chosen field of study, and the second part is a 20,000-word dissertation comprising original research based in part on primary material. During Semester 1, you will also follow an induction course on research methodology in the field of Welsh.
Research Methodology in Welsh Studies
20 CreditsAn induction module providing essential training in research methods, critical analysis, and scholarly approaches specific to Welsh language and literature studies.
Course Essay I: Welsh Literature
20 CreditsA supervised essay of 4,000-6,000 words exploring a chosen topic within Welsh literary traditions, from medieval poetry to modern prose and drama.
Course Essay II: Welsh Language and Linguistics
20 CreditsA supervised essay of 4,000-6,000 words investigating aspects of the Welsh language, its history, structure, sociolinguistics, or language revitalization.
Course Essay III: Comparative or Specialist Topic
20 CreditsA supervised essay of 4,000-6,000 words on a specialist or comparative topic linking Welsh studies with areas such as medieval studies, Arthurian literature, or cultural theory.
Directed Readings and Seminars
40 CreditsGuided independent study and seminar participation to deepen your knowledge of primary texts, critical frameworks, and scholarly debates in your chosen areas of specialization.
MA Dissertation
60 CreditsA 20,000-word dissertation comprising original research based in part on primary material, allowing you to engage deeply with a specialist topic under expert supervision.
Elective Study Areas
Admission Requirements
Bangor University welcomes applications from students with a strong academic background in a relevant subject area. The program is open to both Welsh-speaking students and those who wish to develop their understanding of the language and its culture in a scholarly context. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA 2:ii (Lower Second Class Honours) degree or equivalent in a relevant subject
- Relevant SubjectsWelsh Language/Literature, English Language/Literature, History, or a closely related discipline
- Welsh Language ProficiencyFluency in Welsh is not required; the program can be studied through the medium of English
- Professional ExperienceApplicants with equivalent qualifications or relevant professional experience may be considered on an individual basis
- Welsh Language SupportSuccessful applicants whose first language is not Welsh will have the opportunity to take Welsh lessons
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current equivalent score requirements
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current equivalent score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support postgraduate students, with over GBP 1,000,000 in bursaries and scholarships available for new and returning students each year. International students are automatically considered for certain awards when they apply through Uni4Edu.
Bangor University International Scholarship
Up to GBP 3,000Available for all postgraduate taught courses. International applicants are automatically considered based on criteria including academic performance, personal statement, and references. No separate application is required.
Inclusive Bangor Scholarships
Up to GBP 9,500Payment towards tuition fees for a one-year taught or research postgraduate Masters. Designed to support students from underrepresented groups continuing their studies at Bangor. One scholarship per College is awarded.
Commonwealth Masters Scholarships
Full Funding (Tuition + Living Allowance)Funded jointly by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, these scholarships are open to nationals of Commonwealth countries pursuing a Masters degree at a UK university including Bangor. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MA in Welsh: Language and Literature provides an excellent foundation for a wide range of careers in Wales's growing bilingual society and beyond. As well as being a valuable qualification in its own right, the MA also prepares graduates for further research at PhD level. With increasing demand for professionals who can operate at senior levels in the Welsh language, graduates of this program are well-positioned for diverse career paths.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Founded in 1884, Bangor University has over 140 years of academic heritage and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK. In the REF2021, 85% of Bangor's research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. The university is located in North Wales between Snowdonia and the Menai Strait, offering a unique environment for the study of Welsh language and culture.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | QS World Rankings | Top 500 — Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Celtic Studies / Welsh | National Recognition | Leading UK Department — Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Cymraeg Welsh (For First and Second language) BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
17000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Welsh for Beginners BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
18000 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
Creative Writing (Welsh Medium)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
21000 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Welsh and Linguistics BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
December 2026
Gross Tuition
18000 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Welsh with Journalism BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
December 2026
Gross Tuition
18000 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
