Classical Archaeology

The DPhil in Classical Archaeology provides you with the opportunity to pursue substantial independent research from within a wide range of periods and subjects, ranging from the prehistoric Aegean through the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods to Late Antiquity.

Many graduates from the DPhil in Classical Archaeology are successful in obtaining academic posts at universities in the UK, USA and elsewhere, while others engage in post-doctoral research, or go on to positions within museums of classical or fine art. Others find careers elsewhere in education, museums, commercial archaeology and the heritage industry.

The DPhil is examined only by thesis and there is no formal course of instruction. Instead, student develop their own topic under the guidance of their supervisors, who are experts in their field of research. There is also the possibility to develop projects which cross disciplinary boundaries, for example in ancient history or archaeological science as appropriate.

While the degree of contact varies depending on individual circumstances, students generally develop a close relationship with their supervisors. However, you will be encouraged to attend lectures and participate in research seminars, particularly the numerous and wide-ranging weekly seminar series organised within the cutting-edge Historical and Classical Research Group. These also often provide opportunities for research students to present their own work. The department strongly encourages fieldwork which, if appropriate, can often be in relation to a departmental project.

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 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 classical archaeology or closely related fields. 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 first-class degree, a GPA of 3.7 or above, or the equivalent.

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).

Entry to the DPhil normally requires a previous master's qualification in Classical archaeology.

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

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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