Modern Languages & Linguistics - Research Programmes

Celtic Studies Research Programmes

Our world leading or internationally excellent specialisms include the study of medieval Irish language and literature, palaeography and the research into the Gaelic manuscript tradition, Classical Irish bardic poetry, place-names research on the island of Ireland, dialectology, Modern Irish lexicography, minority languages, language policy and planning, sociolinguistics, creative writing, Modern Irish literature and poetry in translation, applied language studies (CALL, digitization, language corpora) and Irish ethnography, folklore, oral tradition and heritage studies.



Linguistics Research Programmes

Work in the linguistics group spans a range of areas in the discipline from syntactic and semantic theory to applied linguistics. In particular, colleagues supervise in synchronic and diachronic syntax, syntax/morphology interface, speech and language therapy, first and second language acquisition, language processing and language development, and bilingualism.

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study. We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.



In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.



English language requirements

In order to be admitted to research study at Ulster, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as part of your application.

Careers and opportunities

PhD graduates are recognised by employers to hold valuable transferrable skills, as the nature of the degree trains candidates in creativity, critical inquiry, problem solving, negotiation skills, professionalism and confidence.