DPhil in Experimental Psychology at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A research degree in which students carry out independent research under the supervision of principal investigators within a research group or lab in the Department of Experimental Psychology. Research areas include behavioural neuroscience, cognition, development, psychological and brain health, perception and social psychology.

Department: Department of Experimental Psychology | Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time | Intake: 3 October 2027 | Study mode: full-time or part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent doctoral research with supervision, plus attendance at the department's seminar programmes. Graduates are expected to have in-depth knowledge of their field, to have contributed to scholarship in it and to have the skills to pursue independent research in psychology. A small number of part-time students are admitted where the topic suits part-time study.

Career pathways

Most DPhil students remain in academia; others go into consultancy and government.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry for 2027-28. A first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate degree with honours in psychology or a related discipline relevant to the proposed research (or equivalent; US GPA normally 3.5/4.0). A previous master's degree is not required, though ESRC funding consideration requires evidence that core training requirements have been met, for example a recognised master's degree. Applicants should be familiar with the published work of their proposed supervisor and must contact a potential supervisor first to discuss the project (and part-time study if intended). Publications are not required but are considered if available. Three references and supporting documents. No GRE or GMAT. English language (standard level, if first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with at least 6.5 in each component; TOEFL iBT 100 with minimum Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24; C1 Advanced 185 overall and 176 per component; C2 Proficiency 185 overall and 176 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 155 overall and 145 per component. Test must have been taken no more than two years before course start. Application deadline: 12:00 midday UK time on 1 December 2026.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,940 a year (2027/28). Full-time home fee Source

International applicants: GBP 36,260 a year (2027/28). Full-time overseas fee Source

Intake: 3 October 2027

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

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities