Why study this course?
The MLitt offers a unique opportunity to study the history of photography as a specialised field of research.
Highlights
- This innovative degree is inspired by the important role played by St Andrews in the early history of the most influential visual medium of the modern era.
- Students are introduced to the theoretical and methodological challenges and debates that photography’s multiple functions and contexts have provoked since its invention.
- Classes make full use of the outstanding photographic collections of Special Collections, University Library and associated photographic archives.
- Small class sizes prioritise discussion with peers and interaction with the tutor.
- Students may apply to take part in exchange programmes at our partner institutions.
Flexible study
Learn full-time (two semesters) or part-time (four semesters).
Class sizes
Groups range from 4 to 8 students.
Dissertation
A 15,000-word project with regular support.
Assessment
Coursework including book reviews, critical bibliographies, visual analysis and object analysis essays, reading journals, and research papers.
Modules
History of Photography students choose three postgraduate-level course modules. One of the three modules may be selected from the undergraduate-level Honours programme, from the MLitt programme in Art History or from reading and bibliography modules on advisement.
Each module has a minimum contact time of 16 hours.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
Recent postgraduates in History of Photography are employed in:
- universities
- archives
- museums
- galleries
- auction houses
- web design
- publishing houses and magazines.
Further study
In addition to the MLitt, the School offers a two-year Art History Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree option.
Many History of Photography graduates continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews or elsewhere.
Why St Andrews?
The School organises postgraduate research seminars and occasional symposia. Each year they invite a number of artists and scholars to give lectures.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
“I was attracted to the MLitt History of Photography programme because of its close engagement with the extant photographic archive here, which is used both as a resource for teaching and further research. The tutors have been incredibly supportive of my research interests and my personal development during my time here. The School of Art History facilitates a programme of research seminars with visiting scholars from the UK and internationally, including talks from photo-journalists and contemporary photographers. One of the best parts about studying here is proximity to the sea. There’s something incredibly calming about being so close to the coast.”
- Lanarkshire, Scotland
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Entry requirements
- A 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree. A degree in art history is recommended but is not an essential requirement. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV or résumé
- personal statement (500 words)
- sample of your own, single-authored academic written work (2,000 words)
- two original signed academic references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates.
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £25,900
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 13 March 2025
