PGCert in Historical Studies at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A part-time Postgraduate Certificate in historical studies made up of five themed weekend units, three online modules and a dissertation. It can be taken standalone or as the first year of the MSt in Historical Studies.

Department: Oxford Lifelong Learning | Duration: 9 months part time | Intake: 1 September 2027 | Study mode: part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Five taught weekend units, with one-to-one dissertation tutorials in the final Special Subject weekend, plus three online modules and a dissertation on a topic of the student's choice. Students are expected to spend about 14-16 hours a week in private study.

Career pathways

Completing students can apply for master's courses at Oxford Lifelong Learning, the University of Oxford or other institutions, including the linked MSt in Historical Studies; completion does not give automatic right of entry.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in any discipline; preference may be given to those who studied a historically related subject. USA applicants: minimum GPA normally 3.5/4.0. Applicants must show sustained interest in history and academic potential for graduate-level research and writing. 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, 27 January 2027 (final deadline for 2027-28 entry 2 March 2027).

Intake: 1 September 2027

Duration: 9 months part-time

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