DPhil in Theology and Religion at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A research degree offering advanced independent research in theology and religion, with specialists in world religions, biblical studies, science and religion, ecclesiastical history, systematic theology, ethics, patristics and philosophical theology.

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

What you will study

Independent research within a research area, with an extensive programme of research skills development and participation in the faculty's graduate research community.

Career pathways

Graduates go on to academic posts in research universities, liberal arts colleges or seminaries, or to charities, development and non-profit organisations, think tanks, faith-based work, the civil service and consultancy.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A master's degree in theology, religious studies or a closely related field, and a first-class or strong upper second-class (67% or above) UK undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, or equivalent; most successful applicants have a first-class undergraduate degree and 67%+ in a relevant master's. US applicants: minimum GPA 3.6/4.0 at bachelor's and master's level (most successful 3.8+). Deadline 12:00 UK time 7 January 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 15,030 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual course fee Source

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

Intake: 4 October 2027

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

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