OXBRIDGE MA Meaning and
Definition
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Oxbridge MA refers to a postgraduate degree offered jointly by the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge in the United Kingdom. The term "Oxbridge" combines the names of these prestigious institutions, which are renowned worldwide for their academic excellence and long-standing tradition in higher education. The Oxbridge MA is not a research-based Master's degree but rather an honorary title that can be obtained by those who have completed a certain number of years of study at either Oxford or Cambridge.
The Oxbridge MA is not automatically awarded upon completion of a Bachelor's degree from either university; it is generally granted to individuals who have completed a Bachelor's degree and then continue their studies at either Oxford or Cambridge for a specific period of time, typically between three and seven years. During this time, students engage in further academic work, which varies depending on the subject pursued.
The Oxbridge MA is often considered an honorary degree because it is awarded without any additional coursework or examinations beyond the undergraduate level. It is primarily a recognition of the individual's dedication to their field of study and their affiliation with one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions.
Overall, the Oxbridge MA is a symbolic title bestowed upon individuals who have extended their academic journey at Oxford or Cambridge, serving as a testament to their commitment and association with the scholarly traditions and intellectual rigor of these renowned universities.
Etymology of OXBRIDGE MA
The term "Oxbridge" is a portmanteau of the names Oxford and Cambridge, two prestigious universities located in England. These institutions have a long and storied history and are known for their academic excellence and rivalry. The term "Oxbridge" is often used to refer collectively to both universities or to describe similarities between the two.
As for the inclusion of "MA" in the term "Oxbridge MA", it typically refers to the degree of Master of Arts. At Oxford and Cambridge, the MA is a postgraduate degree that can be obtained by those who already hold a Bachelor's degree from the university. Originally, this degree was granted as a rank, rather than a further level of study. Over time, it evolved into an honorary degree conferred upon graduates who have completed a specified period of time, typically between three to seven years, after obtaining their Bachelor's degree.
