The DPhil in Public Policy provides academically outstanding students who are committed to public service an unrivalled opportunity to study for a rigorous research degree that prepares them to have substantial impact on future policymaking processes.
PhD Program Requirements
A master’s degree with a mark of at least 70% (or an equivalent level of distinction for both the thesis and overall degree) in a relevant subject; and
A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject.
Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or equivalent.
Applicants should hold a master’s degree with training in research methods and design or be able to demonstrate significant knowledge and experience of research methods appropriate to their intended area of doctoral study. The master’s course must be completed and a final transcript available prior to the start of the DPhil.
For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is usually 3.8 out of 4.0.
Your research interests focus on policy-relevant challenges facing governments and/or publicly-oriented agencies around the world;
You show an interest and ability to make real world change happen through your research and/or your employment or voluntary work.
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. Statement of purpose: Your statement of purpose should briefly describe your reasons for choosing the Blavatnik School of Government as well as outlining your interest in public policy and public service, your capacity for sustained and focused work, and what your previous experience and future career plans are. You should make clear who you would ideally like to be supervised by, together with a rationale for your preference.
4. Written work: You are required to submit a sample of work, which must be entirely your own and in English. You may not submit a co-authored piece. An extract from a longer piece may be submitted but should be prefaced by a note that puts it in context.
5. CV/résumé: A CV/résumé is compulsory for all applications. Most applicants choose to submit a document of one to two pages highlighting their academic achievements and any relevant professional experience.
6. GRE General Test scores: No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.
7. 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.
