MPhil in Russian and East European Studies at University of Oxford

Programme overview

Taught MPhil on the histories, societies, politics, economies and international relations of Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia. It draws on the social sciences and humanities and includes discourse analysis skills focused on the region. Students complete a research thesis over the two years.

Duration: 21 months full time | Intake: 4 October 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year one covers four core courses (history of Russia, the USSR and Eastern Europe in the twentieth century; Contemporary Russian and East European Studies parts 1 and 2; Analysing Russian Discourse and Communication) plus Research Methods for Area Studies. Year two adds two option courses and the thesis.

Career pathways

Careers in research, diplomacy, policy and analysis; the MPhil can also lead on to doctoral study.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

First-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in politics, economics, international relations, history, sociology or Slavic languages; applicants with degrees in other subjects are eligible. Proficiency in Russian at A1 level is required. Application includes three references, official transcripts, a statement of purpose (maximum 1,500 words), one essay (maximum 2,000 words) and evidence of Russian proficiency. US bachelor's applicants normally need a minimum GPA of 3.6/4.0, though selection depends on other factors. English language for international applicants: IELTS Academic overall 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component (University higher level; equivalents such as TOEFL iBT 110 with minimum component scores accepted).

Domestic applicants: GBP 20,710 a year (2027/28) Source

International applicants: GBP 32,970 a year (2027/28) Source

Intake: 4 October 2027

Duration: 21 months full-time

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