Evidence-Based Health Care

The Evidence-Based Health Care programme at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive and rigorous course designed to equip healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers with the essential skills and knowledge required to make informed clinical and policy decisions grounded in the best available evidence. This programme integrates principles from epidemiology, statistics, and health sciences to promote a systematic approach to evaluating medical research and applying findings to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Throughout the course, students will develop proficiency in critically appraising research articles, understanding research methodologies, and synthesizing evidence from diverse sources. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills such as designing and conducting systematic reviews, conducting meta-analyses, and interpreting statistical data with confidence. Additionally, students will explore the ethical considerations involved in evidence-based practice and learn how to communicate complex scientific information effectively to a variety of audiences, including clinicians, patients, and policymakers. The programme combines expert-led lectures, interactive workshops, and hands-on training, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world healthcare challenges. By completing this programme, participants will be empowered to lead initiatives that promote transparency, rigor, and inclusiveness in health research, ultimately contributing to evidence-informed improvements across health systems worldwide. The University of Oxford’s prestigious reputation, world-class faculty, and extensive resources make this programme an ideal choice for those committed to advancing evidence-based healthcare practice and research at the highest standards. Graduates of the course are well-prepared for roles in clinical research, health policy development, academic positions, and evidence synthesis organizations. The programme also provides a strong foundation for further academic pursuits, including doctoral research and specialization in evidence-based practice. Overall, the Evidence-Based Health Care programme offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge methodologies, advance critical thinking skills, and make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare through rigorous evidence-based practices.

The DPhil follows on from the taught MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care (EBHC) and is overseen by the University's Continuing Education Board. Admission is through the Department for Continuing Education.

Supervision is arranged to suit your DPhil topic and may involve staff from within the Medical Sciences Division as well as co-supervision with members of the Evidence-Based network.

The part-time DPhil is part of the Evidence-Based Health Care Programme, which is jointly run with the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine in the Nuffield Department of Primary Health Care Sciences. The programme also works closely with the Centres of Evidence-Based Nursing, Evidence-Based Mental Health, and Evidence-Based Dentistry. You have access to the full range of Oxford's library and computing facilities.

The part-time DPhil regulations normally require a minimum of four years' part-time study, equivalent to two years' full-time, up to a maximum of eight years part-time study. If you are a research student you may be required to undertake appropriate research training provided within the department. In addition, you will be strongly encouraged to participate in seminars and informal meetings with staff and other researchers. The major commitment of your time will be to individual study and research.

If you are a research student you are also a member of the University with one of two statuses, depending on the stage of your research - Probationer Research Students (PRS) status, or DPhil student status.

Between each status, you must pass through a milestone assessment. To pass from PRS to DPhil, the milestone is the 'transfer of status'. Before submitting the thesis, you must pass the 'confirmation of status' milestone.

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 a relevant subject.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.

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

You will also have completed the MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care, or equivalent qualification, and are expected to achieve an average of at least 70% across all components of the MSc.

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: Around two pages
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The Evidence-Based Health Care programme at the University of Oxford offers a range of financing options to support its students. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with international students typically paying higher fees than domestic students. The university provides detailed information about tuition costs on its official website, along with guidance on payment schedules and methods. Funding opportunities include scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically aimed at supporting students engaged in health sciences and evidence-based medicine. These financial aids are awarded based on merit, need, or specific eligibility criteria, and applicants are encouraged to consult the university’s scholarship portal for updated listings and application procedures. Additionally, the university collaborates with various external organizations and health institutions to offer funded placements and research grants that may cover part of the programme costs or provide stipends for research activities. Students are also advised to explore government funding schemes, professional body sponsorships, and loans available for postgraduate study. The university’s admissions office provides comprehensive support to prospective students seeking financial advice, including information on eligibility, application processes, and deadlines. It is important for applicants to plan their finances well in advance and to consider all available sources of funding to ensure smooth progress through their studies. The university maintains transparency regarding fees and financial obligations, and students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the terms and conditions associated with any financial aid they receive. Overall, the programme aims to make high-quality education accessible by offering various financial support mechanisms, although specific details can vary year by year and are subject to change.

Evidence-Based Health Care at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to make informed clinical decisions through the integration of the best available research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values. The program emphasizes the importance of critical appraisal of scientific literature, systematic review techniques, and the application of research findings within diverse healthcare settings. It aims to foster a deep understanding of the principles and methodologies involved in generating, interpreting, and applying evidence in real-world contexts, thus improving healthcare outcomes and promoting best practices.

The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including research design, statistical analysis, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and the implementation of healthcare interventions. Students gain hands-on experience through practical training in critically appraising research articles and conducting their own systematic reviews. The program also emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and ethical considerations in health research, preparing graduates to work effectively within teams and in policy development environments.

Students participate in lectures, seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects led by leading experts in the field of health research and evidence synthesis. They benefit from the university’s cutting-edge library resources and access to extensive health data repositories. The program's structure is modular, allowing students to tailor their learning paths according to their professional interests and career goals.

Graduates of the program are equipped to work as clinicians, researchers, policy makers, and educators, contributing to healthcare improvement and evidence-based practice. The program’s reputation for rigorous academic standards and its strong links with healthcare institutions enable graduates to engage in high-quality research and support health innovations worldwide.

The duration of the program typically spans one year for full-time study, with options for part-time enrollment to accommodate working professionals. Entry requirements include a relevant undergraduate degree in health sciences or a related field, along with professional experience in healthcare. The program is designed to attract students from around the world, fostering an international community committed to advancing evidence-based healthcare standards globally.