The MLitt in Biblical Languages and Literature offers students with existing competence in Biblical languages the opportunity of sustained close and critical engagement with the Biblical texts.
Postgraduate; leading to a Master of Letters (MLitt)
One year full time
A good 2.1 undergraduate Honours degree in Biblical Studies or a closely related discipline. Students must also have taken at least two semesters each of Hebrew and Greek, plus at least an additional semester of one or the other, at undergraduate level.
If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
UK and EU: £6,800
Overseas: £17,090
Applications for 2016 entry are now closed. Please check back for applications information for 2017 entry.
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
If you are looking to start this programme in 2017, you can find information about 2017 entry on the 2017 Biblical Languages and Literature (MLitt) page. Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in our archive.
The MLitt in Biblical Languages and Literature is a one-year taught programme run by the School of Divinity. The programme pays special attention to text-critical issues and familiarises students with the use of critical editions of texts, exploring the methods, sources and norms of Biblical scholarship.
The programme comprises five to six taught modules held over two semesters, featuring both lectures and discussions. Class sizes for this degree are small, typically fewer than 10 students, so students have ready access to instructors. Students also have access to substantial library holdings in the areas of biblical languages and literatures.
Over the course of the year, but with particular focus over the last three months, you will research and write a 15,000 word dissertation.
Further particulars regarding curriculum development.
The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue.
The modules listed ran in the academic year 2015-2016 and are indicative of this course. There is no guarantee that these modules will run for 2016 entry.
Take a look at the most up to date modules in the module catalogue.
Student dissertations will be supervised by members of the teaching staff who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the research process. The completed dissertation of 15,000 words must be submitted by a date specified in August.
If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MLitt, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma. By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the second semester of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MLitt.
The School of Divinity regularly hosts international conferences and smaller symposia on themes across the field of biblical and theological studies.
There are many potential scholarships or support schemes available to postgraduates.
In addition to the MLitt, the School offers a two-year residential Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree option in Biblical Languages and Literature.
Some of our graduates continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews.
Recent Graduate Discount
The University of St Andrews offers a 10% reduction in postgraduate tuition fees for students who have graduated during the last three years and are now starting a postgraduate programme.
The MLitt in Biblical Languages and Literature provides excellent preparation for a PhD in Biblical Studies. Many of its graduates have moved on to PhD programmes either at St Andrews or other major institutions.
Regular workshops, both general and subject-specific, in areas such as publishing, conference presentations, and job searches are offered by the School of Divinity and the University.
School of Divinity
St Mary's College
South Street
St Andrews
Scotland
KY16 9JU
Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 2850
Email: divinitypg@st-andrews.ac.uk
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy.
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. (PDF, 72 KB).
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. (PDF, 84 KB).