DPhil in Sustainable Urban Development at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A part-time research degree on urban sustainability, exploring environmental, economic and social development challenges through independent, interdisciplinary research, alongside students on the part-time MSc in Sustainable Urban Development.

What you will study

Independent research within themes including climate action and city governance, energy geographies, housing and property markets, transport mobilities, southern urbanisms, urban infrastructures and technologies, urban planning and policymaking, and work, gender and mobility.

Career pathways

Students are usually already working in urban development; the DPhil may enhance professional practice, career prospects and promotion opportunities, and some pursue academic careers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree with distinction overall (or a distinction grade on the dissertation) in a discipline relevant to sustainable urban development, and a first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate degree with honours in any discipline, or equivalent. US applicants: minimum GPA 3.6/4.0. No GRE or GMAT. Professional experience in a relevant field is anticipated but not required; no publications expected. Deadline 12:00 UK time 27 January 2027 (scholarship deadline), final expected deadline 2 March 2027. English language (higher level, international applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (minimum Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); tests taken no more than two years before course start.

Domestic applicants: GBP 17,425 a year (2027/28). Annual course fee for part-time study Source

International applicants: GBP 17,425 a year (2027/28). Annual course fee for part-time study Source

Intake: 10 October 2027

Duration: 4-8 years part-time

Explore more study programmes

Engineering