Studying the MLitt in Medieval English
The MLitt in Medieval English is an intensive taught programme culminating in a 15,000-word dissertation. In 2017, students will study the full range of medieval literature in English, c.800-1500. Compulsory modules in Old English and Middle English are combined with specialist training in palaeography, codicology and medieval literary theory to ensure that students emerge fully equipped to carry out further research in any area of medieval English literature, whether Old or Middle, English or Scottish.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Dissertation
Over the summer you will complete a 15,000 word dissertation on a research subject of your choice, supervised by an appropriate member of the School’s staff.
Contact
School of English
Castle House
The Scores
St Andrews
KY16 9AL
Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 2668
Email: pgeng@st-andrews.ac.uk
Why St Andrews?
St Andrews was one of the first universities in the world to teach English literature, and the study of medieval texts has always been at the core of the School of English.
Modern St Andrews students may find themselves studying the works of some of their more illustrious forbears - Older Scots poets Gavin Douglas (MA St Andrews, 1494) or William Dunbar (MA St Andrews, 1479).
Today, with four full-time members of medievalist staff covering all periods of the medieval age and its subsequent reception, the School prides itself on its friendliness, and on the common enthusiasm for great medieval literature. You will be part of a welcoming and lively academic community.
Postgraduate students working in the field of medieval English can access the many research resources and opportunities of both the School of English and the Institute of Medieval Studies. Expert palaeography classes and access to unique manuscript material are also provided by the University’s Special Collections.
Each semester, both the School of English and the Institute invite distinguished visiting academics to lead seminars, lectures and workshops as part of regular research events. There is also an active, student-run Medieval Reading Group, a Literary Society and the Postgraduate Forum, where postgraduates meet to present and discuss their ongoing work.
Academic staff
The staff teaching on the programme will vary in any one year, but will always include some of the following:
Student testimonials
"Studying on the MLitt in Medieval English course at St Andrews was a truly fantastic experience. The coursework was rigorous and the content diverse. I was able to build a solid foundation from which I have built my doctoral research – also here at St Andrews.
I found the small class size extremely beneficial to my success in the course as a result of the substantial individual tuition lecturers are able to give each student. This environment also fosters lively discussion in seminars and a close-knit student community. My experience at St Andrews has greatly influenced my choice of career in academia. And, on a more personal note, I have made lifelong friendships from my time at St Andrews."
Caitlin Flynn – 2012
"The year I spent studying for an MLitt in Medieval English was one of the best, most challenging and most illuminating years I’ve had. You get exposed to a great variety of medieval thought and writing. The staff are incredibly helpful and very willing to equip you with the necessary tools to carry out research. It exposes you to various forms of medieval thought and writing while allowing opportunity for more detailed study in an area of your interest.
Alongside studying Old and Middle English texts, I was able to do a beginner’s course in Latin and attend a weekly Old Norse reading group. This course also prepares you for working life. The time you spend in seminars discussing texts with lecturers and peers will push your ability to express your views clearly when thinking on the spot. You will end up writing a lot of words throughout your year, and the feedback you receive on your written output will teach you how to handle feedback and criticism. While you are writing all of those words, you will be writing with various members of academic staff and learn a great deal about how to maintain a productive and professional relationship. These are useful skills to have for any career, whether in academia or elsewhere.
On a different note, though one equally important, St Andrews is a lovely place to be. For a tiny seaside town on the coast of Scotland, there is a lot going on. It’s a great environment to be in. If you are considering doing a masters, I can only warmly recommend the St Andrews School of English."
Katarina Nordin – 2014