Scotland in 10 Buildings

Key facts

  • Cost: £170
  • Credits: 10

Summary

Scotland has a rich tradition of architecture, from the prehistoric settlements of Skara Brae and Kilmartin, through Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance castles and palaces, to the Victorian splendour of our city centres and beyond. This course offers case studies of ten significant structures in Scotland, including the contentious Scottish Parliament building. We’ll discuss the buildings themselves, the people who planned them, their historic and social contexts, the uses to which they were put, and the meanings they have had over the years.  

Areas you'll explore include: 

  • The architectural history of Scotland, through ten case studies of significant structures. 
  • How the various structures discussed in the course fit within their various architectural, historical and cultural contexts  

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to: 

  • Identify the key architectural styles encountered in Scotland, as evident through the case studies. 
  • Describe and discuss the social, political and cultural influences on Scottish architecture. 
  • Place Scottish buildings within their time frame and context. 

The follow-on course is 

Palaces of Industry: exploring Glasgow’s industrial architecture ADED11627  

Who is this course for?

Anyone who has an interest in art history and in particular Scottish architectural history.

Qualifications/credits

10 Credits at SCQF level 7 (level 1 at undergraduate study).  Can contribute towards a CertHE in art history 

Assessment

Essay (approximately 1500 words) from a choice of titles (75%); visual test in class: identification, comparison and discussion of buildings (as shown through slides) (25%). An alternative assessment can be arranged for students whose disabilities would prevent them performing satisfactorily in the visual test.

Mode of study

This course is a mixture of seminars and lectures, delivered once a week over 10 weeks in 2-hour sessions.

Prospects

Can contribute towards a CertHE in the history of art.  

Find out more

The University holds open days throughout the year where you can meet with staff to discuss our short course provision. Find out more about University of Glasgow open days