The DPhil in Social Data Science is an advanced research degree which provides the opportunity to investigate and address novel research questions at the intersection of the computational and social sciences, supported by the multidisciplinary faculty at the OII, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Statistics, and other departments across the University of Oxford. The DPhil, normally taking three to four years of full-time study to complete, is known as a PhD at other universities.
The DPhil in Social Data Science at the Oxford Internet Institute (OII) will introduce you to cutting-edge research whilst studying in a beautiful, historic setting that is both student- and family-friendly.
During your study at Oxford, you are encouraged to pioneer new approaches to contemporary social and policy issues online, developing new computational and data-driven methodology to inform the development and governance of technology.
PhD Program Requirements
A master’s degree with a mark of at least 65%; and
A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject.
It is expected that all applicants will hold a taught masters or other advanced degree.
For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.
Strong analytical abilities in understanding the social aspects of the internet, World Wide Web and related technologies, as shown by the candidate’s writing sample and/or the reports of referees, are required.
It would be expected that graduate applicants would be familiar with the recent published work of their proposed supervisor.
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. Personal statement: Your statement should explain your motivation for applying for the DPhil course at Oxford and the specific research areas that interest you and/or you intend to specialise in. It should focus on your academic achievements and research interests rather than personal achievements, interests and aspirations. You should also include details of any relevant experience in engaging in social data science related research.
4. Research proposal: A coherent thesis proposal is required in an area of study covered by at least one member of the research staff within the Social Data Science programme. Your proposal should focus on specific research you propose to undertake rather than personal achievements, interests and aspirations.
5. Written work: An academic essay or other writing sample from your most recent qualification, written in English, is required. If you have not previously written on areas closely related to the proposed research topic, you may provide written work on any topic that best demonstrates your academic abilities. The written work does not need to be data science related, but should demonstrate your critical and analytical capabilities and ability to present ideas clearly.
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.
