Island Studies MLitt

What is special about this course?

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.

How long will my course last?

Full-time:1 year @ 20 hours per week
Part-time (structured): 2 years @ 10 hours per week

How will I study my course?

You will study this course through a combination of video conference seminars and learning via the university's virtual learning environment (VLE), with support from your tutors and student advisor
International students requiring a Tier 4 visa to study with us must be based at Orkney College UHI during their studies. International students undertaking the course from their home country can study online and by video conference, in real-time or recordings
All other students can choose to study at Orkney College UHI or from their own location studying online and by video conference in real-time or recordings
An online induction will be offered at the start of your course

What can I do on completion of my course?

Once you have successfully completed your masters course in Island Studies, there are a variety of careers you might like to consider. Here is just a taster of the kind of opportunities available to you:

Tourism and heritage sector
Journalism
Local government agencies
Community or adult education
School teaching on completion of relevant PGDE qualification.