The course will develop a broad-based understanding of how Ethnology and Folklore evolved and their approaches to the major genres of study: material culture, custom and belief, oral narrative, song, childlore and games, sports and pastimes.

Through case-studies of Scottish material, the course will show how the concepts of ethnology and folklore can be used to investigate important issues in contemporary society. Graduates from a variety of backgrounds will gain a sound knowledge of the concepts, skills and methodologies of ethnology and folklore, whether in preparation for doctoral research, or as an end in itself.

It is the only course in the United Kingdom designed to prepare appropriate candidates from any discipline for doctoral research in Ethnology and Folklore in a Scottish context with a North-East and North focus.