DPhil in History at University of Oxford

Programme overview

An advanced research degree in history covering periods from late antiquity to the 21st century and worldwide themes from intellectual history to the history of war. It is awarded on a thesis and oral examination with no taught elements.

What you will study

Students undertake independent research on a thesis supervised by a faculty member, present at the faculty's research seminars and may convene their own networks and workshops. Places are offered only where full supervision is available.

Career pathways

About half of students who complete the thesis go on to academic posts worldwide; others work in museums, as freelance historians or in administration, civil service, banking and publishing.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree and an undergraduate degree in history or cognate disciplines, each with a minimum of 68% overall and 68% for the dissertation; entry is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first. USA applicants: minimum GPA normally 3.6/4.0 at both levels, with successful candidates normally 3.75 or higher. A master's in a historical subject and graduate-level historical research experience are expected. Applicants should check that their interests match faculty supervision. A research proposal and written work are required; professional experience may compensate for formal shortcomings for mature students; a master's component may be required before transfer to full DPhil status. English language (higher level): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall with at least 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall with at least 155 per component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24), although TOEFL iBT taken from 21 January 2026 is not accepted pending review. Tests must be taken no more than two years before the course starts. No GRE or GMAT required. Application deadline for 2027-28 entry: 12:00 midday UK time, 7 January 2027.

Intake: 3 October 2027

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

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