Programme description
This programme offers you the opportunity to study Scottish History over a very wide ranging period, starting from the early medieval era, through to contemporary developments.
Taught by one of the largest groups of specialist Scottish historians found at any university, this programme is world leading. It offers an unrivalled range of courses that explore Scotland’s past across a broad period – from the early medieval period to contemporary developments – and Scotland’s place in comparative and global contexts.
The examination of Scotland’s past has been at the centre of history teaching at the University since the Sir William Fraser Chair of Scottish History and Palaeography was established in 1901. You’ll have access to some of the most impressive archival collections in the UK, including our Centre for Research Collections and the nationally significant collections held by the National Library of Scotland and the National Records of Scotland, both of which are nearby.
Breadth of expertise
History at Edinburgh is one of the largest and most distinguished departments of its kind and is home to the oldest established Chair in Scottish History.
Our research expertise in Scottish History ranges from the early medieval period to the present day. Topics in which we specialise include:
- the Scottish Highlands
- medieval kingship
- medieval sainthood
- government and politics in Scotland in most periods
- religious history
- intellectual, educational and cultural history
- the Scottish Enlightenment
- Scotland’s evolving place within the Union
- Scotland’s overseas links with Europe, America and the British Empire.
The focal point of our research culture is our regular Scottish History Seminar Series.