DPhil in Literature and Arts at University of Oxford

Programme overview

The DPhil in Literature and Arts is a part-time research degree exploring British cultural history c. 1450-1945 through independent, interdisciplinary research in literature, art and architectural history, history and the history of ideas. Students complete a 100,000-word thesis; most admitted students have completed the MSt in Literature and Arts, though the course is open to any suitably qualified humanities master's graduate.

Faculty: Oxford Lifelong Learning (Continuing Education) | Department: Oxford Lifelong Learning, Graduate School | Duration: 4-8 years, part time (average about six years) | Intake: 10 October 2027 (2027-28 entry) | Study mode: part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students are admitted as Probationary Research Students, apply for Transfer of Status (between the sixth and eighth term) and Confirmation of Status (between the twelfth and eighteenth term), and submit a 100,000-word thesis defended by viva voce. They develop research skills through Graduate School training and must attend course activities in Oxford for at least 30 days each year. Past thesis topics include Whig use of ancient Greece c. 1710-1780, John Evelyn and the visual arts, and Shakespeare on the Victorian stage.

Career pathways

Many students continue to work full or part time while studying; the course team and the University Careers Service support decisions about graduate destinations.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree, usually with distinction, in a humanities subject, and a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a relevant subject. Minimum GPA 3.6/4.0 for US degrees (most successful applicants higher). The research topic must fall within British history and culture c. 1450-1945 and align with the interests of a department Professor or Associate Professor. No GRE/GMAT. Three referees (academic preferred; one from the master's supervisor or course director if applicable), transcripts, CV, research proposal (500-1,000 words) and written work (two essays of up to 2,000 words each, or one essay of 4,000-5,000 words). Interviews are normally held with shortlisted candidates (online where necessary). English language (University higher level): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 (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. Tests must be taken within two years of the start date. Application deadline: 12:00 UK time, 27 January 2027 (final deadline for Oxford scholarships; expected final deadline 2 March 2027; 2027-28 entry). Part-time study cannot be sponsored for a student visa.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,410 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, home fee, annual course fee Source

International applicants: GBP 15,505 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, overseas fee, annual course fee Source

Intake: 10 October 2027

Duration: 4-8 years part-time

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