Water Science, Policy and Management

Water Science, Policy and Management at the University of Oxford offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges related to water resources worldwide. This program combines scientific understanding of water systems with an in-depth analysis of policy, governance, and management strategies, fostering a holistic approach to sustainable water use and environmental protection. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers hydrology, water quality, water policy, governance frameworks, and socio-economic factors influencing water management. The program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and practical application through case studies, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, preparing graduates to work effectively in research, policymaking, and management roles across various sectors and geographical contexts. The coursework is delivered by world-renowned experts from multiple disciplines, ensuring a rich learning environment that bridges scientific inquiry with policy development. Students also benefit from exposure to real-world challenges through partnerships with governmental agencies, NGOs, and industry stakeholders. The program aims to develop professionals capable of designing innovative solutions to water scarcity, pollution, climate change impacts, and other pressing issues affecting global water security. Graduates of the Water Science, Policy and Management program are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to sustainable water resource management, policy formulation, environmental conservation, and scientific research, making a positive impact on society and the planet.

The DPhil is examined only by thesis and there is no formal course of instruction. Instead, students develop their own topic under the guidance of their supervisors, who are experts in their field of research. Projects which cross disciplinary boundaries, for example with archaeology or classical archaeology, are welcome.

While the degree of contact varies depending on individual circumstances, students generally develop a close relationship with their supervisors. You are also encouraged to attend lectures and participate in research seminars, including the numerous and wide-ranging weekly seminar series organised within the cutting-edge research groups, particularly bioarchaeology, chronology, and materials and technology. These also often provide opportunities for you to present your own work. You are strongly encouraged to undertake fieldwork, which, if appropriate, can often be in relation to one of the department's projects.

The DPhil is a full-time degree and students are expected to complete their theses, which have a maximum word length of 80,000 words, within  three or at the most four years. To begin with, students are admitted as Probationer Research Students, transferring to full doctoral status within four terms of their arrival. Their progress is formally assessed through the submission of written work and an interview by a small assessment panel ('transfer of status'), while a further similar assessment ('confirmation of status') is held within seven terms of their arrival.

At each stage you will also make a short formal presentation of your research at one of the doctoral student symposia organised by the School of Archaeology, which will help you to develop your presentational skills at an early stage of your career.

Successful doctoral theses must, among other things, display evidence of substantial and original research, lucid and scholarly presentation and a sound knowledge of the general field within which the thesis falls.

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 archaeology or science.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.7 or above, a first-class degree or the equivalent.

A previous master's degree in archaeological science is normally required.

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: Up to two pages
• Written work: Two essays of 2,500 words each
• References/letters of recommendation: Three overall, all of which must be academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The Water Science, Policy and Management program at the University of Oxford offers a range of funding options to support its students throughout their studies. Scholarships are available from various sources, including university-specific awards, external organizations, and government agencies. The University of Oxford provides competitive scholarships, such as the Oxford Graduate Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Additionally, all students are encouraged to explore funding opportunities through external bodies like the Rhodes Trust, the Chevening Scholarships, and the Commonwealth Scholarships, which may provide full or partial tuition fee coverage, living stipends, and other allowances.

Applicants are advised to thoroughly review the program's official webpage and the university's dedicated financing section for detailed information on application processes, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. The program also benefits from departmental funding schemes, research grants, and studentships that support specific research projects or areas within water science, policy, and management. International students should consider applying for external funding, as well as possible university-sponsored scholarships tailored specifically for international applicants, which can help offset tuition fees and living expenses.

The cost of studying at Oxford varies depending on the student's nationality and the duration of the program. Tuition fees are published annually and are subject to change; therefore, prospective students should check for the latest fee structure on the official website. Students are also encouraged to budget for additional costs such as accommodation, books, insurance, and personal expenses. Many students finance their studies through a combination of scholarships, loans, savings, and part-time employment. The university offers guidance and resources for financial planning and support services to assist students in managing their finances effectively throughout their academic journey.

Overall, the Water Science, Policy and Management program aims to be accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds by providing a comprehensive suite of funding options. Prospective students are encouraged to start their funding search early and to apply for multiple sources of support to ensure they can fully participate in this prestigious academic program at Oxford.

Water Science, Policy and Management at the University of Oxford is an interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific, political, and social aspects of water resources and management. The course aims to develop expertise in water-related issues such as water quality, hydrology, water policy, governance, and sustainable management practices. Students will explore the scientific principles underlying water systems, including hydrological processes, water cycle dynamics, and the impact of climate change on water availability. The programme emphasizes the importance of effective policy-making and governance frameworks, preparing students to address complex challenges faced by governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations involved in water management.

Throughout the course, students engage with a mix of lectures, seminars, practical fieldwork, and independent research projects. They learn to analyze water management strategies, evaluate policy options, and develop innovative solutions to water scarcity, pollution, and equitable distribution. The curriculum includes modules on environmental law, economics of water resources, international water treaties, and the science of water treatment and sanitation. The programme also fosters skills in data analysis, modelling, and communication, enabling graduates to inform decision-making processes at local, national, and global levels.

The programme is suitable for students coming from diverse academic backgrounds, including environmental sciences, policy studies, engineering, geography, and social sciences. It prepares graduates for careers in research, consultancy, policy advisory roles, sustainable development organizations, and government agencies. The programme benefits from Oxford’s world-class faculty, research centers, and extensive networks with international organizations involved in water issues. By the end of the course, students are expected to become informed leaders capable of integrating scientific knowledge with policy and management strategies to promote sustainable water use and equitable access worldwide.