Both in Classical languages and literature, and in ancient history, the DPhil programme is a research degree intended to make it possible for the successful candidate to aspire to a career in research and teaching at university level anywhere in the world where the Classical subjects are studied.
PhD Program Requirements
A master’s degree with scores at the same level as first-class or high upper second-class honours in a relevant subject; and
A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in Classics or a similar course of academic study with substantial course components in the area of Classics.
If you apply whilst studying for a master’s degree, these scores may be required as a condition of any offer made.
For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.
Degree-level competence in at least one ancient language is a requirement for admission.
Publications are not normally expected at this stage, but you should mention any publications that you have produced.
PhD Funding Coverage
The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25.
You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships, if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline.
Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential.
Application Requirement
1. Online Application
2. Official transcript(s): Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.
3. Research proposal: The research proposal should describe the proposed thesis topic in some detail, explain why it is important and worthwhile, situate it within the existing research in the area in question and provide a basic account of methodology as well as a provisional timetable.
4. Written work: Academic essays or other writing samples from your most recent qualification, written in English, are required. Extracts of the requisite length from longer work are also permissible provided that these are clearly indicated (highlight extracts in yellow). Where necessary, a cover note may be attached to place an extract in a larger context. Two extracts from one longer piece are acceptable, though two separate pieces are more illuminating.
5. GRE General Test scores: No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.
6. English language proficiency: This course requires proficiency in English at the University’s higher level. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement.
Application Deadline
5 January 2025
Application Fee
An application fee of £75 is payable per course application.