Part-time Day Study
Studying for the General Degree
Part-time students usually enrol for the University's modular General Degree scheme, which is very broadly based and allows you to sample a number of different subjects of your choice. The final decision about these initial subjects does not need to be taken until you have discussed your intentions with an Adviser of Studies at matriculation. However you are welcome to discuss this choice beforehand with your Admissions Officer.
It is possible for part-time students to complete the part-time General Degree in a minimum of four and a half years or a maximum of nine years. Depending on your Faculty you either gain a BSc or an MA degree.
Entrance requirements
The entrance requirements for the General Degree are the same for both full-time and part-time students. However entrance requirements to undergraduate degree programmes can be more flexible for mature students (i.e. those who are returning to education after a break of 3 years or more). All applicants must demonstrate that they are capable of succeeding in a demanding academic environment.
As part of their overall entry qualifications, all applicants will be expected to have achieved passes at Standard grade (Grades 1,2 or 3) or GCSE (Grades A, B or C) or an equivalent in:
- English
- Mathematics or a Science
Reference
You will be required to provide a recommendation from someone who knows you well and can comment authoritatively on your potential ability as a Higher Education student. This might be an employer, a former employer or a former/ current tutor. This reference should be sent directly by the referee or included with the completed application form.
Interview
In most cases we will ask you to come to St Andrews for an informal interview during which we will ask you about your reasons for applying to the programme, how you are thinking of using your degree once completed, your organisational skills and your general motivation. We will also discuss with you your choice of modules for the first year. The interview will also, of course, provide you with the opportunity to ask questions.
How to apply
Part-time degree application form (Word, 74 KB) The Application Form - Applications must be made on the special Part-time Degree Application Form. Alternatively you can print out and complete the online application form.
Please DO NOT use a UCAS application form for part-time study.
Make sure your referee either provides a recommendation to accompany the application form or sends one directly to us.
Application Deadlines
Students wishing to commence their studies in September should return their forms by 1st July of the year of entry.
What happens next?
When we have received your completed application form and reference we may contact you to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time. Either at the interview, or shortly after, we will be able to let you know if your application has been successful. Successful applicants who receive an offer of a place will then receive an Acceptance Form to complete, sign and return.
If we feel that an applicant is not yet adequately prepared for the programme, we will offer constructive advice on how to improve the chances of acceptance, and we will often be able to make a conditional offer of a place for the following year.
How long will it take?
Students who enrol for the maximum possible number of daytime modules can accumulate 40 credits per semester or 80 credits per academic year. The total number of credits required for the award of the General MA Degree is 360 so that it is possible to complete the requirements for the degree in a minimum of four and a half years.
In order to be permitted to continue with their studies, part-time students must have gained:
- 80 credits after 3 years as a matriculated student.
- 160 credits after 5 years as a matriculated student.
- The requirements for the General Degree (i.e. 360 credits) after 9 years of study as a matriculated student.
It is possible to request to transfer to a named Honours degree after gaining 240 credits with at least 80 at 2000 level.
Fee Remission
Certain part-time students may be eligible for remission of their tuition fees. Please read about the Part-Time Fee Waiver. Fee waiver scheme (PDF, 18 KB)