English
Study a wide range of English, Scottish, Irish, American and world literature from Anglo-Saxon times to the present day.
At St Andrews, English is taught by notable scholars and leading creative writers who challenge you to consider the ideas, human values and history behind a broad variety of texts.
Undergraduate
Postgraduate taught
Postgraduate research
The School of English at St Andrews offers PhD, MPhil and MSt(Res) programmes. Research in English typically falls into one of four main groups:
- medieval and Renaissance
- 18th century, romantic and Victorian
- modern and contemporary
- creative writing.
The University also offers two MFA degrees, one in Creative Writing and another in Playwriting & Screenwriting.
To apply, you should first identify and contact a potential supervisor you would like to work with in your intended research area. Find out how to contact a research supervisor.
“The most important thing about English for me is the ability to think outside of the box and consider texts in new lights. Learning everything from Anglo-Saxon poetry in its original language to contemporary theatre offers such a wealth of information about the development of literature. All of my tutors are incredibly supportive of approaching texts in an unconventional manner to create new and interesting analyses.”
- Derbyshire, England
Awards
First in the UK for English
Guardian University Guide 2023
First in Scotland and third in the UK for English
The Complete University Guide 2023
91% of research activity rated 3* or 4*
The most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021)
School of English
The School of English at the University of St Andrews has a long and distinguished history. Today, the School enjoys an international reputation as a centre for both academic research and literary creativity.
Studying in St Andrews
The University offers a variety of flexible entry options in order to allow all students, regardless of background or personal circumstances, to apply.
Scholarships and funding options are available at every level of study.
St Andrews has variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Visit St Andrews
If you’re interested in studying at St Andrews, join us at a visiting day or talk and tour to explore the town, find out about our courses and meet current students. You can also join us for one of our upcoming online events.
