Notable programs
International Relations (MA Hons)
Ranked 1st in the UK by Guardian 2026 and Complete University Guide, with tutorial groups of 8 to 12 students and direct links to the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies. Graduates enter the Foreign Office, UN, and NATO at above-average rates for UK institutions.
Physics (BSc/MPhys)
Home to the Photonics and Quantum Science research group, with undergraduates accessing lab placements from second year. The department ranks in the UK top 5 and feeds graduates into CERN, ESA, and UK national laboratories.
Computer Science (BSc Hons)
Cohorts of around 60 students per year enable close faculty mentorship. Research strengths in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and data science attract industry partnerships with Google DeepMind and Amazon.
Philosophy (MA Hons)
Ranked consistently in the UK top 3, the department traces its lineage to the Scottish Enlightenment. Small seminar teaching (6 to 10 students) and a joint programme with St Andrews/Stirling graduate school produce leading PhD candidates.
Marine Biology (BSc Hons)
The Scottish Oceans Institute provides direct coastal fieldwork access from campus. Students conduct research in the North Sea from first year, with facilities including a dedicated aquarium and research vessels.
Divinity (MA Hons)
The oldest academic discipline at St Andrews, taught continuously since 1413. The School of Divinity ranks among the world's top 10 for theology and religious studies, with manuscript collections spanning six centuries.