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The MA (Hons) in English program trains students to critically analyze diverse literary works spanning various genres and historical periods, while exploring the ideas, values, and cultural forces that have influenced literature. This four-year degree, offered by the School of English, begins with two foundational years where students examine a wide spectrum of texts from medieval times to contemporary works. These initial studies provide the essential literary knowledge and analytical skills needed for specialized honors-level coursework. The curriculum combines advanced study of English and French literature with research-focused learning, fostering students' ability to engage with academic inquiry. The program cultivates independent scholarship characterized by intellectual curiosity, precision, and academic rigor. Structured as a 48-month course leading to a Master of Arts (Honours) degree, it follows St Andrews' credit-based system requiring 480 credits (typically 120 per year). The first half of the program features core requirements alongside elective options (sometimes including cross-disciplinary courses), while the latter years focus on specialized, research-driven modules tailored to the degree.