Politics

Description: The Politics programme at the University of Oxford offers students a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of political systems, theories, and institutions. Designed for those interested in understanding the complexities of governance, power, and political behavior, this course combines historical perspectives with contemporary issues to provide a well-rounded education in political science. Students will examine the development of political ideas from classical to modern times, analyze the structure and function of political institutions both in the UK and internationally, and explore the social, economic, and cultural factors that influence political decision-making. The programme encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research, enabling students to evaluate diverse political viewpoints and develop their own informed perspectives. With access to Oxford's world-renowned library resources and expert academics, students will engage in stimulating debates, participate in seminars, and undertake original research projects. The curriculum covers a range of topics including comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy. In addition to theoretical frameworks, practical applications of political analysis are emphasized to prepare graduates for careers in academia, government, journalism, or international organizations. The programme's modular structure allows for specialization in areas such as European politics, American politics, or development studies, depending on student interests. Throughout their studies, students benefit from a collaborative learning environment that fosters intellectual growth and global awareness. The duration of the programme is typically three years for the undergraduate degree, with options for postgraduate study available. Graduates of the Politics programme at Oxford leave equipped with a deep understanding of political processes and the skills required to engage meaningfully with political challenges in a diverse and changing world.

If you are admitted to this degree, you will conduct your own research under the guidance of a University supervisor. You must be prepared to work on your own a good deal, and will need considerable personal motivation. You are required to have a good general knowledge, to master's level, of the field within which your research falls and of the methods appropriate to the study of this field.

Candidates for the DPhil are normally admitted with Probationer Research Student (PRS) status. As a PRS, you will develop your research proposal and skills, and produce a draft section or sections of the thesis, in order to apply for the Transfer of Status that will end your probationary period as a research student.

You will spend the first year in the development of, and early work on, the thesis topic; in improving knowledge of research design, including statistical, qualitative and other methods appropriate to the advanced study of politics; in attendance at relevant lectures, seminars and classes; and in preparing your transfer from PRS to DPhil status. You must be resident in Oxford in term time throughout the probationary period and should not normally undertake fieldwork until after you have successfully transferred to full DPhil status.

Your research training needs will be discussed between yourself, your supervisor and the department's Director of Research Training, and a suitable programme of research training (Training Need Analysis) to assist your research will be agreed. You should then review progress on a termly basis with your supervisor, as part of the process of continuous personal development. The Politics Graduate Studies Committee will require satisfactory completion of this training programme as a condition of your change of status from PRS to DPhil.

Finally, you will be expected to participate in the various workshops and research groups - most notably the Oxford Politics Research Colloquium, which involves research presentations by faculty, senior researchers, academic visitors and DPhil students.

Once you have been admitted to full DPhil status, you must achieve confirmation of that status by the end of your ninth term as a doctoral student.

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 political science or international relations, or in a closely related discipline (eg economics, history, philosophy, sociology, law, etc).

Applicants are also normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a distinction grade at master’s level in politics, or in a closely related discipline that has prepared you to undertake advanced graduate research on your chosen thesis topic.

Nonetheless, each application will be assessed upon its own merits, and so candidates with a degree in an unrelated discipline should demonstrate the relevance of their academic background to their proposed subject or topic of study. 

Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

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).

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

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal:At least 4,000 words
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• A number of Research Council awards are available each year from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

The Politics undergraduate degree program at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth exploration of political processes, theories, institutions, and issues from a variety of perspectives. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of political dynamics both in the UK and globally. The curriculum covers core areas such as Political Theory, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Public Policy, providing students with a broad foundation and the flexibility to specialize in specific topics of interest.

Students have the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of political issues, including democracy, authoritarianism, human rights, development, conflict, and governance. The program encourages the examination of current events and historical contexts, fostering an understanding of how political influence shapes societies. Oxford's Politics course is distinguished by its tutorial-based teaching system, which emphasizes personalized feedback, rigorous discussion, and active participation. This small-group learning promotes critical analysis and allows students to develop their ideas in a supportive academic environment.

The degree prepares graduates for careers across a wide spectrum of fields, including politics, public administration, international organizations, journalism, academia, and advocacy work. Many students pursue postgraduate studies in political science, law, international relations, or public policy. Oxford’s vibrant academic community provides access to renowned scholars, extensive library resources, and numerous conferences, seminars, and debate societies, enhancing students’ educational experience.

Admission to the program is highly competitive, requiring excellent academic records, particularly in essay-based subjects, and strong performance in interviews and tests. The program typically lasts three years for full-time students and may include options for study abroad or research projects. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop a critical awareness of the ethical and societal implications of political actions and policies, fostering responsible future leaders. The university’s supportive academic environment, combined with rigorous coursework, ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute actively to political and social developments worldwide.