The Part-time MA Evening Degree Programme – Frequently Asked Questions

What subjects can I study?

We offer you the opportunity of studying individual subject modules that can lead to a recognised undergraduate qualification. Each year we offer a variety of subject modules; details of those available for 2012/13 are listed in our brochure.

If you are not sure which modules to choose, your Advisor of Studies will be happy to offer you advice and guidance on the selection of modules, which will allow you to put together a coherent and individual programme of study to suit your particular interests.

How are subject modules taught?

The P/T MA Evening Degree programme offers a variety of different subject modules.  Each tutor will have different styles and methods and teaching is based on the belief that learning can only occur in a relaxed, though structured atmosphere and with a respect for the opinions and qualities of all the members of the class.

Examples of some of the teaching methods include lectures, tutorials in which students and tutor discuss key aspects of the course, seminars where students might be asked to make a small presentation, workshops where students are asked to work together to solve problems, group working and individual study.

How are subject modules assessed?

Each subject module will use a range of different methods to assess student progress.  The majority of our modules are assessed through continuous coursework which may take the form of essays, written reports, seminar presentations and in the case of language classes, oral presentations. 

When and where will I study?

Classes are taught in the evenings and are held in the Tower Building, Scrymgeour Building or Dalhousie Building which are all situated on the main campus.  Details of individual module arrangements will be provided on matriculation.   

The academic year is divided into two semesters. The semester dates for 2012/13 are as follows:

Welcome week: 3 Sept 2012 – 7 Sept 2012
Semester 1: 10 Sept 2012 – 14 Dec 2012
Semester 2: 14 Jan 2013 – 24 May 2013

What entry qualifications do I need?

Students should normally be over 18 years of age.  All our Level one accredited modules are open to all students, regardless of educational background. 

Students who wish to enroll on Level two or Level three modules should preferably be able to demonstrate evidence of recent study and/or an ability to undertake undergraduate level of study e.g. other evening/day classes recently studied.  In some cases there may be a specified pre-requisite requirement for entry into a module e.g. the 'equivalent' Level one module should be studied before entry in the Level two module.  All students however will be treated on an individual basis and their particular circumstances taken into consideration. 

My first language is not English. What language qualification do I need?

If English is not your first language you must provide documentary evidence of your ability in English by obtaining a recognised English qualification. Normally we would expect students to have a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.

I haven't studied for many years. What academic support is available?

The Academic Achievement Teaching Unit provides learning support by providing advice and guidance on a wide variety of learning skills including essay writing, presentation skills, time management, effective reading and note-taking skills.

Can I transfer credit from modules studied previously?

All Scottish universities use a credit system in their undergraduate degree programmes.  If you have already accumulated credit, either at this University or other higher education institutions, you may be able to use some or all of that credit towards our P/T MA Evening Degree programme. 

It may also be possible for you to gain credits towards the P/T MA Evening Degree by taking approved daytime modules offered by the University of Dundee or modules from the evening programme provided by the University of St Andrews. Your Advisor of Studies can discuss these options with you.

How long will my studies take?

You can take a maximum of 80 credits in one academic year.