PhD in Celtic Languages and Literatures in Cambridge United States | Harvard University

Harvard's Department of Celtic Languages and Literatures stands unique in North America as the sole institution of its kind. Our program provides instruction in multiple Celtic languages and their literary traditions, with PhD candidates required to achieve proficiency in both early Irish and Welsh (medieval forms) plus one modern Celtic language. The curriculum equips doctoral students with comprehensive expertise across Celtic studies, encompassing historical foundations, theoretical frameworks, and specialized disciplines. We emphasize contextualizing Celtic literature and oral traditions within their historical and cultural landscapes. Interdisciplinary approaches are fundamental to our department, with many PhD candidates pursuing Secondary Fields in areas like Medieval Studies or Comparative Literature. The average PhD completion timeframe spans six years within our close-knit academic community. Students collaborate extensively with faculty through coursework, independent research projects, advisory sessions, reading groups, and participation in the GSAS Celtic Studies Research and Conference Workshop. A highlight of our program is the annual Harvard Celtic Colloquium - a three-day global conference organized by graduate students with faculty support, attracting international scholars across Celtic studies disciplines. Additionally, the Mahindra Humanities Center's Seminar on Celtic Literatures and Culture further enhances our academic offerings through distinguished guest lectures.