Program Overview

Within Welsh, you will study literature and language which extends from the early northern-British poetry of Aneirin to the authors of post-industrial Wales. Welsh History will look at the evolution of Wales, its politics, society, industry and religion through the centuries and its relationship with broader historical forces.

Welsh is spoken in north-west Wales more than anywhere else in the world, providing unrivalled opportunities to improve your proficiency in the use of Welsh. At Bangor University, we offer Welsh-speaking work placements and the chance to interact with the many Welsh-speaking professionals and communities we collaborate with. Many of our students join Bangor University’s Welsh Students' Union and choose to live in our Welsh-speaking halls of residence, Neuadd JMJ.

Welsh and Celtic Studies is one of the oldest subjects taught at Bangor University. Since its establishment in 1889, its contribution to the literary and cultural life of Wales has been crucial. Our academic team include some of the most prominent writers and poets in contemporary Wales. Garnering international acclaim, they have won awards including Book of the Year, Prose Medals, Drama Medals, Chairs and Crowns at the Urdd Eisteddfod and National Eisteddfod.

In medieval and early modern history, strengths encompass the Normans and Anglo-Normans, Welsh princes, Tudors, and Stuarts. Our expertise in modern and contemporary history includes nationalism, the labour movement, consumerism, protest, government policy, country houses and estates, gender and colonialism. The Welsh History element of this programme provides a focused exploration of a small political and cultural region, Wales.

The Archives and Special Collections of Bangor University is an accredited repository with a distinguished collection of archival material and a diverse range of rare books and printed material. Fascinating material includes Welsh collections such as the Mostyn and Penrhyn estates, and papers of modern politicians, literary figures and scholars, such as Kate Roberts, the pioneering socialist David Roberts and historian JE Lloyd.

As a study location, Bangor University is perfectly situated for the study of Welsh and History. The oldest city in Wales, Bangor’s Cathedral has been used for Christian worship since the sixth century, while Bangor Pier provided access to and from passenger ferries as far back as 1292.

We’re surrounded by historical hot spots, a short journey from Bangor University you can explore the Segontium Roman Fort, established nearly two millennia ag or visit the medieval Caernarfon Castle. The island of Anglesey is home to the prehistoric burial ground and Neolithic chambered tomb of Bryn Celli Ddu, Caer Gybi, a Roman fort built in the third century, and Beaumaris Castle – the last in the ‘iron ring’ of imposing castles built by Edward I.