The UK higher education system offers degrees that sound similar to those in the US, but there are some important differences. The undergraduate BA in the UK is typically a three-year degree, focused on a particular subject area and lacking the general education component of our degree requirements. Scottish universities do have a four-year undergraduate degree, very similar to our own structure. For graduate degrees (post-graduate study), there are masters and doctoral degrees, just as in the US, but they vary in both the depth of focus, the duration and the method of instructions. While there may be individual programmatic or institutional variants, here’s a general overview:
Taught Masters: e.g. MSt, MSc, and others. Usually one year in length, but may vary between 9-15 months. Consists of course instruction and independent research work.
Research Masters: e.g.MPhil and others. Usually two years in length, highly independent research program, working with a faculty mentor. Depending on the program, there may a be a broad research methods course, but typically, you’ll be immersing yourself in a specific area of research.
DPhil: PhD, usually 3-4 years in duration. This is shorter than the US program, which is typically 5-7 years, depending on the field. But some key differences–the DPhil does not include the kind of broad coursework that an American PhD does, nor does it incorporate teaching experience into the degree program. Some UK programs may require you to begin as a MA student and then convert your program to the DPhil; others allow you to begin the DPhil immediately. But key to note–this is a very self-directed, research intensive degree, without the kind of taught course foundation you’re used to in the undergraduate degree.
That’s the quick primer–so when looking at degree programs in different faculties, you’ll have a sense of what’s involved. It’s important to talk with the department about your background and your interests to know what the best degree program for your interest area is.