Study in Scotland

Why St Andrews?

Continue your study with a one-year Masters degree.
Expand your knowledge and skills, gain an advantage for your chosen career.
Build on your college experience at an internationally-diverse university.
Immerse yourself in Scottish culture and traditions as you join the graduate community.

Hear from current US grad students and learn the Scottish terms for some common American words around studying and university life.

Talk to Admissions Register your interest

view through a gate of St Salvator's Quad

One-year Masters degree

Study at St Andrews for one full calendar year and graduate with a Masters degree from a world-leading institution:

Two semesters of seminar and group teaching
Summer semester of research and completing a dissertation or final project
Supportive graduate community.

And above all, become part of your chosen School - get to know the professors and fellow graduate students of all levels.

Careers support and next steps

A Masters degree from St Andrews will set you firmly on the path to success, whether you wish to go into employment or continued study with a PhD.

Careers opportunities manager for North American students
95% of students in work or further study within 15 months
Access to the Global Network of St Andrews Alumni
After your degree, apply for a graduate visa to stay in the UK for two years.

PhD and Research programmes

Complete a PhD in three to four years, or focus on a research-led Masters degree:

Start with your own research from day one.
Work with a supervisor who understands your topic and supports your journey.
Enjoy the supportive and friendly community of researchers.
Engage with undergraduate students through potential teaching and mentorship opportunities.

And above all, become part of your chosen School - get to know the professors and fellow graduate students of all levels.

Explore our subjects

Accommodation

Learn more about graduate housing options, both University-managed housing and beyond.

Scholarships and funding

Find out more about scholarships, loans and other ways to fund your degree.

Graduate Student Life

Discover the clubs, societies, sports and more that you can join as part of the graduate student community.

Meet an American grad student

Kate

MSc Sustainable Development

"Having never visited St Andrews prior to the start of my program, I was pleasantly surprised at how inviting, warm, and unique the town is. It was very easy to settle in and find my top spots. The small size of St Andrews, along with its international community, create the perfect atmosphere to pursue your degree, and account for this being my favourite period of life thus far. As an international student, it was easy to make friends through my program in addition to the numerous societies and sports clubs on campus."

Cam

MLitt Legal and Constitutional Studies

"The University has a great deal of scholarships and bursaries on offer. Check the deadlines and apply if you meet the criteria. Don't miss out on these opportunities, just make sure you are aware and applied for everything you are entitled to."

Hope

MLitt Terrorism and Political Violence

"Something I have found unique about St Andrews at least compared to my undergraduate institution is the lack of divide between undergraduates and postgraduates...During my time here I have been able to participate in any event or aspect of student life and nothing is closed off to postgraduates. I have played on a sports team, joined a few societies, and attended a few balls and have never felt separated from the undergraduates in any way."

US to UK Glossary

We speak the same language in the US and UK, but sometimes there are a few terms that need some translation.

Postgraduate is what we call our graduate students who are studying a Masters or PhD.
A taught postgraduate programme is a Masters, while a research postgraduate programme is a Doctorate, PhD or research-led programme.
We say Sport, you say Sports.
A module is a class in a particular subject.
We ask for a referee as part of your application, which means we are asking for a recommendation from that person.
Arts subjects in Scotland are similar to the Humanities in the US.
And finally, a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is a Scottish country dance that is incredibly fun! If you are familiar with US square dancing, you will recognize some familiar steps.