Gaelic Media DipHE

Course code P390

What is special about this course?

If you aspire to a career within the Gaelic media industry, this dynamic DipHE Gaelic Media course will provide you with the experience and knowledge required for direct entry to the workplace.

The course is delivered at our Sabhal Mòr Ostaig campus on the Isle of Skye, and in conjunction with the broadcast and media industry in Scotland. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI has been successfully providing training in Gaelic media for over 20 years and you will gain real opportunities through their experienced and dedicated staff and strong industry links.

Throughout the course you will develop the necessary industry-specific knowledge and skills alongside the transferable skills sought after by employers. You will also be able to enhance your language skills both while studying and in the wider Gaelic community.

In year one, you will have the opportunity of a week’s work-based learning with a BBC Outside Broadcast Unit at The Royal National Mòd and will have regular input from industry practitioners across a range of modules. There will also be masterclasses from nationally and internationally recognised industry specialists in technical and communication skills.

During the second year, you will spend ten months on industry placement at various media companies and broadcasters and will learn and be assessed on the work you undertake during this time. These workplace opportunities will be supported by MG Alba* and an advisory panel consisting of various industry practitioners as well as representatives of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI.

*MG ALBA is regulated by Ofcom and its board is appointed by Ofcom, with the agreement of the Scottish Ministers. MG ALBA is the operating name of Seirbheis nam Meadhanan Gàidhlig (Gaelic Media Service).

Special features

  • You will be taught and supported by highly experienced teaching and support staff
  • You will benefit from the expertise and support of recognised industry specialists
  • Specialised masterclasses
  • Excellent technical facilities at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI on the Isle of Skye
  • Completion of year two study through a ten-month work placement

Entry requirements

  • 3 Scottish Highers at grade BBC or above, preferably including Gàidhlig (fluent speakers) or Gaelic (learners) at B or above
  • 2 A levels at grade BC or above
  • Applicants with other qualifications or experience will be considered on an individual basis
  • Applicants will be expected to demonstrate that they have a commitment to working in the industry and to have a certain level of fluency in both spoken and written Gàidhlig: this will be assessed during interview
  • Please note: this course does not accept applications for deferred entry; if you wish to take a year out, for example, you must apply next year

Access routes

  • Those who are not at the required level of fluency in Gaidhlig may gain entry to the course after successful completion of our An Cùrsa Comais CertHE

I chose this course because it gave me lots of good opportunities I knew I wouldn’t get anywhere else. My highlight so far is definitely when we went on placement the National Mod in Perth with the BBC!  

I would highly recommend it, you develop such a tight knit bond with everyone, all the teachers and staff are so helpful. They are willing to help you at the drop of a hat. And, on the campus, the views are insane, and you can see otters and seals!  

Mhairi is studying on the DipHE Gaelic Media at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, a partner of UHI. 

Apply for Gaelic Media DipHE

I want to start in Aug/Sep 2025

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We operate a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of gender, age, disability, ethnicity and socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.