Kimberley-Joy Knight

I found that the M.Litt transformed me from a history graduate into a historian ready to undertake independent historical research. The language skills, alongside palaeographical training, and continued research in fields of personal interest, provide the foundations for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in history.

Since completing the M.Litt I have continued my studies in St Andrews, undertaking an AHRC funded Ph.D. My decision to stay in St Andrews was conditioned by my experiences during the M.Litt. The combination of excellent one-to-one supervision with taught components, supported by the setting both of specialist historians and of an interdisciplinary institute, provides a wonderful opportunity for academic growth.

Kimberley-Joy Knight (M.Litt 2008)

Rick Sowerby

The MLitt in Medieval History at St Andrews delivered on its promises to develop both general historical research skills and specific chosen subjects. This has enabled my own transformation from undergraduate to independent research student, equipping me with both the tools and subject specific background necessary for my current doctoral study. To have this take place in the friendly and stimulating surroundings of the Medieval History department ensured that my time at St Andrews was as enjoyable as it was rewarding.

Since completing my MLitt, I have begun study for a DPhil in History at the University of Oxford. My thesis looks at Anglo-Saxon descriptions of encounters of angels; narratives that held importance for the monastic communities who remembered them. Outside my doctorate, I have written studies of both early Anglo-Saxon origin-myths and problematic Breton saints' Lives. I am also currently exploring the practices of punishment in Anglo-Saxon culture; investigating the disciplinary practices used by monasteries, and the wider attitude to wounds and visible marks of punishment.

Rick Sowerby (MLitt 2008)

Andy Woods

The M.Litt in Mediaeval History at St. Andrews offered a big contrast to my undergraduate degree at a different University; a lot more was expected but a huge amount more was offered. Latin, palaeography and ready access to some of the finest medievalists around are standard. The course itself was very open and allowed me to pursue my own interests in partnership with my supervisor, something that I relished.
The skills I learned and the interests that were fostered have led me into a role within the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge. Here I am working with Viking antiquities, the subject of much of my M.Litt research and eventual dissertation. This is an incredible opportunity, working with material I love, and one that I couldn’t even imagine before I embarked upon the M.Litt.

Andy Woods (MLitt 2008)