MSt in Histories and Cultures of Colonisation at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A nine-month full-time MSt examining colonial rule and thought across medieval, early modern, modern and contemporary periods and territories in Europe, the Americas and Africa. It is offered jointly by the Faculties of Medieval and Modern Languages and of History.

Faculty: Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages and Faculty of History | Department: Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages and Faculty of History | Duration: 9 months full time | Intake: 10 October 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students examine the historical mechanics of colonialism and its aftermaths in different geographic, linguistic, political and cultural contexts, through core and option modules.

Career pathways

Prepares students for doctoral work in Modern Languages, History and English, and for professional roles in museums, governmental and non-governmental organisations and cultural institutions in the UK and internationally.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in history, modern languages, literature or related disciplines; entry is very competitive and most successful applicants have a high first. USA applicants: minimum GPA 3.6/4.0. 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, 5 January 2027 (Oxford scholarships deadline also 5 January; final deadline stated 2 March 2027).

Intake: 10 October 2027

Duration: 9 months full-time

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