The phrase "read for a degree" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a person who is studying for an academic qualification. For example, "She is currently in university reading for a degree in Mathematics."
I read for a degree in materials science and, afterwards, began working as a damp and timber surveyor.
Excerpt: Thinking that she might welcome time off from the job, he had suggested that she should apply for one of the university-entrance schemes and read for a degree.
On Alexander Gibb's advice Paton read for a degree in civil engineering at University College London (UCL), where he had won a scholarship at the age of 17. Whilst at UCL Paton earned half-colours for long distance running and became the only student to graduate with a first class honours Bachelor of Sciences degree in engineering in 1925.
That year, he began reading for a degree in botany and zoology at the city's university.
Why don't I do the same for you?" Jean did well at Hull University and, after graduating in 1972, was accepted to read for a BPhil degree.
Perched on a table at Sussex university, where he read for a master's degree, he spoke urgently of the need to drive John Major's government out.
The only exceptions are applicants for organ scholarships and those applying to read for a second undergraduate degree.
RecordSetter named her both 'Youngest Person to Read for a Ph.D. Academic Degree in the U.K.' and 'Youngest Ph.D. Student in Politics Department.' Last year she placed first at the Tennessee Academy of Sciences Collegiate Division Conference -- following in her first place footsteps there over the last five years.
Enrolling at the start of 1938, Smith read for a Bachelor of Commerce degree.
I'm about to enter into my third year reading for a nursing degree at the local university.
