DPhil in Fine Art (Practice-led) at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A research degree supporting practice-led research in contemporary art, one of two pathways of the DPhil in Fine Art at the Ruskin School of Art. The Ruskin School of Art provides a research environment in which artists, art historians and art theorists work closely together, with specially designed Ruskin research seminars where students present studio and theoretical research in a small workshop format. The two DPhil pathways are brought into dialogue at these seminars and informally in the studios.

Department: Ruskin School of Art | Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 6-8 years part-time | Intake: 10 October 2027 | Study mode: full-time or part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent doctoral research combining studio practice and theory, supported by the Ruskin research seminars and informal exchange in the studios.

Career pathways

Ruskin alumni work as practising artists, teachers, curators and gallery professionals in public and private galleries, and in education, finance, architecture and the film industry.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry for 2027-28. A master's degree in fine art, art history or a related subject (substantial professional experience equivalent to a master's may be acceptable) and a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in fine art, art history or a related subject (or equivalent; US undergraduate GPA normally 3.6/4.0, though most successful applicants achieve higher). Details of relevant publications and/or exhibitions should be included. Interviews are normally held for shortlisted candidates. Three references and supporting documents. No GRE or GMAT. 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 191 overall and 185 per component; C2 Proficiency 191 overall and 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall and 155 per component. Test must have been taken no more than two years before course start. Application deadline: 12:00 midday UK time on 5 January 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,030 a year (2027/28). Full-time home fee Source

International applicants: GBP 39,300 a year (2027/28). Full-time overseas fee Source

Intake: 10 October 2027

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

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