DPhil in English at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A research-based doctorate focused on original research in English language and literature from anywhere in the world, and related fields. Students complete a thesis of 80,000 to 100,000 words under the guidance of a supervisor.

Faculty: English Faculty | Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time | Intake: 5 October 2027 | Study mode: full-time or part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent research towards an 80,000-100,000 word thesis, supported by classes, seminars, lectures, bibliographic and research skills training and faculty research seminars. Themes include English language and literature worldwide, other languages and literatures of Britain, Ireland and Anglophone countries, comparative and translated literatures, performance arts, and theoretical and interdisciplinary reflection on literature.

Career pathways

Graduates work across many sectors: many take academic positions in the UK and overseas, others go into teaching, the arts, heritage, librarianship, journalism, publishing, law and the civil service.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold or be predicted a first-class or high upper second-class UK honours degree (or equivalent) and a master's degree with at least 68% overall and at least 68% for the master's thesis, both in English literature and/or English language or exceptionally a related subject. US bachelor's degrees normally need a minimum GPA of 3.6/4.0, and successful applicants are expected to reach a master's GPA of 3.75/4.0. Evidence of training in research techniques may be an advantage and applicants are expected to be familiar with their proposed supervisor's recent work. Publications are not required. No GRE or GMAT scores are sought. English language (higher level, if first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 with minimum Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24; C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall and 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall and 155 per component. Test must be taken no more than two years before the course start. Application deadline for 2027-28 entry: 5 January 2027 (12:00 UK time), the final deadline.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,030 a year (2027/28). Home fee, full-time, per year, 2027-28 Source

International applicants: GBP 39,300 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee, full-time, per year, 2027-28 Source

Intake: 5 October 2027

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

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