Celtic Studies is a field that encompasses all things Celtic – that is, all things related to the languages and cultures of Celtic-speaking peoples. From ancient Gaul to contemporary Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Brittany, Cornwall and the Isle of Man, Celtic Studies covers it all. This is a rewarding field with much to offer, whether your interests lie with King Arthur or James Joyce. Though most programs in Celtic Studies are to be found in the British Isles, UC Berkeley has been offering classes in the subject since 1909.
Today, the Celtic Studies Program is unique in the United States. UC Berkeley is the only university in the country to offer a BA in Celtic Studies. While pursuing their studies, majors, minors, and other students in the Celtic Studies Program enjoy small class sizes and a supportive and enthusiastic academic community. The degree program and course offerings are balanced and comprehensive, affording students a rare opportunity to learn about a broad range of topics within the field of Celtic Studies. Indeed, the Celtic Studies Program is uniquely positioned
to provide regular and consistent course offerings in the languages, literatures, and cultures of Ireland and Wales, as well as occasional offerings in the other Celtic languages.
The balance in our course offerings extends to our faculty, whose complimentary interests and experience in medieval and modern fields bring a range of expertise to the Celtic Studies Program. Aspects of their research have earned international attention and their work has been published in both academic journals and literary magazines. Affiliated faculty in the English Department bring further expertise to the Program and our connection with the Irish Studies Program – a hub supported by the Government of Ireland that fosters research and discussion in cultural and creative areas of Irish interest – reflects UC Berkeley’s important and historic role as a locus for Celtic Studies in the United States.