Atmospheric Oceanic and Planetary Physics

The Bachelor of Arts in Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics at the University of Oxford offers an in-depth exploration of the physical processes governing our planet and beyond. This interdisciplinary program combines fundamental physics with earth and planetary sciences, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the atmosphere, oceans, and planetary environments. Throughout the course, students investigate the dynamics of weather and climate systems, the physical properties of the Earth's interior and surface, and the processes shaping planets and other celestial bodies. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills, including data analysis, mathematical modeling, and experimental techniques. Students engage with a diverse range of topics such as atmospheric thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, climate variability, planetary geology, and astrophysics. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced research, scientific careers, or further study in Earth and planetary sciences, meteorology, climatology, or astrophysics. Teaching is delivered through lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and field studies, offering a well-rounded academic experience. Research opportunities are available, enabling students to participate in cutting-edge projects and collaborations. The program prepares students to understand the complex interactions within our planetary environment and to contribute to addressing global challenges such as climate change, natural hazards, and resource management. Graduates from the degree often pursue careers in academia, government agencies, environmental consulting, or aerospace industries, armed with a robust scientific education grounded in physical principles and empirical research. Enrolling in this program at Oxford means joining a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing knowledge of the physical world at a local and cosmic scale.

You are allocated at least one supervisor who should be your primary contact for guidance throughout your research degree. Research students join an existing research group that typically comprises at least one lead academic plus postdoctoral research assistants or fellows and other research students. Research projects in AOPP can be highly interdisciplinary and students often have additional co-supervisors either within AOPP or another University department.

The structure of the taught course components and initial (first year) assessment for a DPhil in AOPP is determined by the method of entry onto the course:

• if you wish to enter via the Oxford Doctoral Training Partnership in Environmental Research, your initial training will be within the DTP, before transferring to AOPP usually at the beginning of the second term of your first year; or
• if you applying directly to AOPP, typically for projects in the area of planetary physics or a specifically-funded research project, courses will be provided either in collaboration with the DTP in Environmental Research or via lectures given as part of fourth year major option in the University's undergraduate degree in physics, Physics of atmospheres and oceans.

If admitted directly to AOPP, you will be assessed via the successful completion of classes and a first year transfer report of around 10,000 words, submitted during the summer of your first year. For the DTP, please see Environmental Research (NERC Doctoral Training Partnership).

You are admitted as a probationary DPhil student, and transfer from a probationary status is dependent on successful completion of the taught component of the course and assessment of your first year report by at least two academics that are not directly connected to your project. A further second year report, also assessed, is required before status as a DPhil candidate is confirmed and your thesis can be submitted.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in physics, mathematics or related subjects. UK-based students should normally have taken/be taking the MPhys, MChem, MMath or an equivalent course, rather than the BSc or equivalent. Where appropriate, further details on the preferred academic background for individual research projects will be available via the AOPP website.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the typical minimum GPA sought is 3.3 out of 4.0. However, selection of candidates also depends on other factors in your application. Entry is competitive and most successful applicants have achieved higher GPA scores.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

A graduate-level master's degree is not required. The requirement for a first-class or strong upper-second class degree with honours can be alternatively demonstrated by a graduate master’s degree or substantial relevant professional experience.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: 500 words and a list of up to four potential supervisors
• Written work: Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation: Three overall, all of which must be academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Standard level

The Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics (AOPP) program at the University of Oxford offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with UK and EU students typically paying a different rate compared to international students. For example, the annual tuition fee for UK students is approximately £10,000, while international students may pay around £27,000 per year. These fees cover access to world-class teaching, facilities, and resources essential for advanced research and coursework in atmospheric and planetary sciences.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider the cost of living in Oxford, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. The estimated annual living costs for students are approximately £14,000 to £20,000, depending on individual preferences and accommodation choices. Many students fund their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, and bursaries.

The University of Oxford provides several scholarship opportunities specifically targeted at students studying sciences, including programmes like the Rhodes Scholarships, Clarendon Fund, and departmental scholarships. The Clarendon Fund is one of the largest a fully-funded scholarship scheme available at Oxford, offering approximately 130 new scholarships annually, covering tuition fees and living costs for outstanding students. Other external funding options include national research councils, charitable foundations, and industry sponsorships.

Graduate students are also encouraged to explore research council grants, such as those from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), which may cover a significant portion of research expenses for students engaged in scientific research projects. Furthermore, students can apply for departmental funding, which may be awarded based on academic merit or financial need. Some students may also have the opportunity to work as teaching or research assistants, providing additional income and valuable academic experience.

International students should also investigate funding opportunities available through their home governments, as many countries offer scholarships for students studying abroad. The university’s dedicated financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on available funding sources and application procedures to help prospective students plan their finances effectively.

Overall, financing an Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics degree at Oxford involves a combination of tuition fee payments, living costs, and securing external or internal funding sources. Planning ahead and applying early for scholarships and grants can significantly reduce financial burdens, enabling students to focus fully on their rigorous scientific studies and research activities. The university’s commitment to supporting graduate students ensures that many talented individuals, regardless of financial background, have access to world-class education and research opportunities in atmospheric, oceanic, and planetary sciences.

The MSc in Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics at the University of Oxford is a highly specialized and research-driven postgraduate programme designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the physical processes governing the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and broader planetary systems. This programme is offered by the Department of Physics and aims to prepare students for careers in scientific research, environmental policy, forecasting, and academia. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, allowing students to develop skills in data analysis, numerical modelling, and experimental methods. Core modules include atmospheric dynamics, ocean circulation, climate change, planetary science, and observational techniques. Students also have the opportunity to undertake a significant research project, often in collaboration with leading laboratories and research institutes, which enables them to apply their learning to real-world problems. The programme encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating physics, chemistry, and earth sciences, to foster a well-rounded understanding of planetary systems. The faculty comprises internationally recognized experts in atmospheric physics, oceanography, and planetary science, providing students with mentorship and insights into current research frontiers. Students typically engage in seminars, workshops, and fieldwork activities, which complement their coursework and enhance practical skills. Graduates of this programme have pursued careers in academia, government agencies, environmental consulting, and space agencies, contributing to our understanding of climate change, weather prediction, and planetary exploration. Admission requirements include a strong background in physics or related sciences. The course is taught at the University of Oxford’s Department of Physics, which offers world-class facilities and an inspiring academic environment. The programme duration is typically one year full-time. Graduates are well-positioned to contribute to scientific advancements, policy-making, and technological innovations addressing planetary and environmental challenges worldwide.