Ancient History DPhil
The DPhil in Ancient History at the University of Oxford is one of the most prestigious and intellectually stimulating doctoral programs in the world. Designed for students who wish to conduct advanced research into the civilizations of Greece, Rome, and the broader ancient Mediterranean world, this program provides unparalleled academic depth and research training. Oxford’s long-standing tradition in classical studies and access to exceptional resources make it the ideal place to pursue doctoral-level research in ancient history.
For students passionate about exploring the political systems, cultures, economies, and societies of the ancient world, the Oxford DPhil offers an extraordinary opportunity to work with world-leading historians, archaeologists, and linguists. This program not only nurtures academic excellence but also equips graduates with analytical and critical thinking skills essential for a successful career in academia or beyond.
Why Study Ancient History DPhil at Oxford?
Oxford University reputation in ancient studies is unmatched. The Faculty of Classics, which oversees the Ancient History DPhil, is one of the largest and most distinguished in the world. Its scholars have made significant contributions to our understanding of the ancient world, from early Greek civilizations to the fall of the Roman Empire.
Students at Oxford benefit from:
Global Academic Excellence: Oxford University consistently ranks among the top universities globally for Classics and Ancient History.
Expert Supervision: Each student works closely with one or more supervisors who are leading authorities in their field.
World-Class Resources: Access to the Sackler Library, Ashmolean Museum, Bodleian Libraries, and the Ioannou Centre for Classical and Byzantine Studies.
Research Community: A vibrant academic environment where seminars, workshops, and conferences foster intellectual exchange and collaboration.
Funding and Scholarships: Multiple scholarship options are available for outstanding candidates, including the Clarendon Fund and college-specific awards.
Course Overview
The Ancient History DPhil is a research-based program that allows students to explore their chosen area of specialization under expert supervision. The degree typically takes three to four years of full-time study or six to eight years part-time.
During the course, students are expected to:
Undertake original research leading to a doctoral thesis of up to 100,000 words.
Participate in seminars, lectures, and workshops to enhance research skills.
Engage with interdisciplinary methods, including epigraphy, archaeology, numismatics, and literary studies.
Present research findings at academic forums and conferences.
Contribute to Oxford’s vibrant intellectual community.
The program begins with the development of a research proposal, followed by systematic exploration of primary sources, critical analysis, and scholarly writing. Students receive regular feedback and participate in discussions that challenge and refine their arguments.
Research Areas
The Ancient History DPhil covers a wide range of topics, allowing students to explore the ancient world from multiple perspectives. Some key areas of research include:
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Greek political and social history
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Roman imperial and republican history
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Economic systems in ancient civilizations
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Ancient warfare and diplomacy
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Gender, identity, and society in antiquity
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Epigraphy and numismatics
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Religion and mythology in the classical world
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Cross-cultural interactions between Greece, Rome, and other ancient societies
Oxford University interdisciplinary approach encourages students to combine historical research with archaeological, literary, and philosophical perspectives, leading to richer and more comprehensive studies.
Teaching and Supervision
Supervision is central to the DPhil experience. Each student is assigned a primary supervisor—a senior academic whose expertise aligns with the student’s research interests. Supervisors provide continuous guidance on research design, methodology, and thesis writing.
In addition to one-on-one supervision, students participate in:
Research Seminars: Regular departmental meetings where DPhil candidates present their ongoing work.
Workshops and Colloquia: Collaborative sessions that allow students to engage with visiting scholars.
Graduate Training Programs: Courses focused on academic writing, teaching skills, and data management.
Language Training: Support for those studying ancient languages or modern research languages such as German, French, or Italian.
The supportive academic environment at Oxford University ensures that every student develops the intellectual independence and scholarly discipline required to produce original, high-quality research.
Entry Requirements
Applicants to the DPhil in Ancient History should demonstrate strong academic potential and research capability. The general entry requirements include:
Academic Background: A master’s degree in Ancient History, Classics, Archaeology, or a closely related discipline with high academic standing (typically a distinction or high merit).
Research Proposal: A detailed statement outlining the proposed research topic, methodology, and relevance.
Writing Sample: Submission of a piece of written work demonstrating critical analysis and research ability.
References: Two or three strong academic references supporting the applicant’s potential for doctoral research.
English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must meet the University’s higher level of proficiency:
IELTS: Overall score of 7.5 (minimum 7.0 in each component)
TOEFL iBT: 110 overall (with minimum section scores of Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24)
C1 Advanced: 191 overall (minimum 185 per component)
Fees and Funding
Tuition fees vary based on residency status. For the 2026–27 academic year, the fees are approximately:
Home Students: £18,970 per year
Overseas Students: £43,730 per year
Course fees cover academic supervision, access to libraries and research facilities, and departmental support. However, living costs such as accommodation, food, and travel are not included.
Scholarships and Financial Support
University of Oxford offers a wide range of funding options, including:
Clarendon Scholarships – Full scholarships covering tuition and living expenses for outstanding graduate students.
College Scholarships – Many colleges offer partial or full awards.
Departmental and Research Council Funding – For specific research themes or UK/EU students.
External Scholarships – Such as the Rhodes Scholarship, Chevening Awards, and Commonwealth Scholarships.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by the January deadline to be automatically considered for most scholarships.
Duration and Assessment
The DPhil in Ancient History normally takes:
3–4 years (Full-time)
6–8 years (Part-time)
The final award is based on the submission and successful defense of a doctoral thesis, examined by internal and external experts in the field. The thesis must represent a significant and original contribution to the study of ancient history.
Students also undergo a Transfer of Status and Confirmation of Status process—two formal reviews to ensure satisfactory academic progress before submission.
College Affiliation
Every Oxford student belongs to one of the University’s 43 colleges. Colleges provide academic and social support, accommodation options, and a sense of community. For the DPhil in Ancient History, students may apply to colleges such as:
Explore Oxford University Colleges
Full-time
- Balliol College
- Blackfriars
- Brasenose College
- Campion Hall
- Christ Church
- Corpus Christi College
- Exeter College
- Hertford College
- Kellogg College
- Lady Margaret Hall
- Linacre College
- Lincoln College
- Magdalen College
- Merton College
- New College
- Oriel College
- The Queen’s College
- Regent’s Park College
- Reuben College
- St Anne’s College
- St Catherine’s College
- St Cross College
- St Hilda’s College
- St Hugh’s College
- St John’s College
- Somerville College
- Trinity College
- University College
- Wadham College
- Wolfson College
- Worcester College
- Wycliffe Hall
Part-time
- Balliol College
- Blackfriars
- Campion Hall
- Christ Church
- Exeter College
- Kellogg College
- Lady Margaret Hall
- Linacre College
- New College
- Regent’s Park College
- St Catherine’s College
- St Hilda’s College
- Somerville College
- University College
- Wolfson College
- Worcester College
- Wycliffe Hall
Each college offers different facilities, scholarships, and environments, so applicants are encouraged to explore which one aligns best with their academic and personal preferences.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the DPhil in Ancient History at Oxford go on to build exceptional careers in academia and beyond. The rigorous training in critical thinking, analysis, and research prepares them for diverse professional roles, including:
University Lecturers and Professors
Museum Curators and Archivists
Policy Advisors in Cultural and Educational Institutions
Writers, Editors, and Researchers
Consultants for Heritage and Archaeological Projects
Diplomatic and International Organizations
The transferable skills gained during the DPhil—such as communication, independent research, and data analysis—make Oxford graduates highly valued in both academic and non-academic sectors.
Student Life and Support
Life at Oxford extends far beyond the library. DPhil students are part of a dynamic academic community where intellectual engagement meets personal growth. The University offers:
Workshops and Mentoring: Designed to support mental health and professional development.
Graduate Common Rooms (GCRs): Spaces for networking and social activities.
Cultural and Academic Events: Including lectures, museum exhibitions, and international conferences.
Access to Libraries and Museums: Over 100 libraries, including the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest in Europe.
Oxford’s historic charm, combined with its vibrant scholarly community, creates an inspiring environment for doctoral research.
How to Apply
Applications for the DPhil in Ancient History are submitted through the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions portal. Applicants should ensure they have the following before applying:
A well-developed research proposal
Official transcripts and degree certificates
Two or three academic references
Writing samples
Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
It’s strongly recommended to contact potential supervisors in advance to discuss research compatibility. The January deadline is the most important for those seeking scholarship consideration.
Conclusion
The DPhil in Ancient History at the University of Oxford represents the pinnacle of academic research in the study of the ancient world. With a focus on originality, critical inquiry, and intellectual rigor, this program empowers students to explore humanity’s earliest civilizations while contributing to modern scholarly debates.
Whether your goal is to become a university professor, a museum curator, or a leader in cultural heritage, Oxford provides the foundation and network to achieve your ambitions. The blend of academic excellence, mentorship, and tradition ensures that every graduate leaves not only with a world-class degree but also with the confidence to shape the future of historical understanding.
If you are passionate about uncovering the stories of ancient civilizations and ready to contribute to the global field of historical research, the Oxford DPhil in Ancient History is your path to excellence.