Island Studies MLitt

Entry requirements

• 2.1 honours degree or above (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as history, archaeology, literature or ethnology
• Other disciplines, such as human geography and the social sciences, will also be considered
• International students whose first language is not English must meet language competency standards as noted on the international page of our website

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

This masters programme is the only dedicated postgraduate degree in Island Studies in Scotland. It focuses on the study of islands and their communities, both in Scotland and internationally. Delivered by the Institute for Northern Studies, the MLitt Island Studies gives you the opportunity to explore the islands of the world.

Island communities are often culturally unique, yet by their nature they share many commonalities, sometimes referred to as 'islandness'. As part of the degree you will undertake comparative and multi-disciplinary study of the Scottish islands, however, island communities as diverse as the Baltic, the Faroe islands, the Isle of Man, the Falklands and Canadian islands, will also be integral to your studies, particularly the critical appraisal of insular governance, tourism and autonomy.

Special features

• The first masters degree in a flourishing and respected field of study and research
• You will explore the insular identities, achievements, threats and futures of island communities, in Scotland and worldwide
• You will study the cultural identity, language, literature and politics of island communities
• There are opportunities to participate in question and answer sessions with islanders across the world
• You can study individual modules for personal and professional development, or work towards the PgCert, PgDip or full masters degree

Information for international students

Fees and funding