PhD (Doctorate), normally of three years duration leading to a thesis of no more than 80,000 words and an oral examination.St Andrews was one of the first universities in the world to teach English literature and is consistently ranked as one of the United Kingdom's pre-eminent universities. Today, with around 30 members of permanent staff, the School of English prides itself on its friendliness and common enthusiasm for great literature. In the School, you will be part of a welcoming and lively academic community of approximately 80 postgraduates based in the School's centre for research students. You will be invited to take part in the regular research events which see distinguished visiting academics and creative writers lead seminars, lectures and workshops. You can also participate in the School's Postgraduate Forum, which brings postgraduates together to present and discuss their on-going work.