DPhil in Economic and Social History at University of Oxford

Programme overview

Economic and Social History is the study of economic activities, institutional change and social organisation in the historical past, using mainly social-scientific approaches. Some theses use entirely qualitative empirical findings, while most combine qualitative and quantitative approaches.

What you will study

Independent doctoral research leading to a thesis within the Faculty of History.

Career pathways

Approximately half of students who complete their doctoral thesis go on to further academic posts worldwide; others work as freelance historians or in other fields.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree with a minimum of 68% overall and 68% for the dissertation and an undergraduate degree with a minimum of 68% overall and 68% for the dissertation, in history or cognate disciplines; entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or equivalent. Professional experience in cognate areas may compensate for shortcomings in the formal record for mature students or career changers. Publications are not required. English language (higher level): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall with 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall with 155 per component. Test must be taken no more than two years before the course start. Application deadline 7 January 2027.

Intake: 3 October 2027

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time

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