Mathematics

This is a higher research degree suitable for candidates with a very strong academic record. The DPhil requires a significant and substantial contribution to knowledge. Subject areas cover the entire spectrum of mathematics and the department’s research is conducted in many fields.

The DPhil is a research-based degree, with subject areas including:

• algebra (primarily group theory and representation theory)
• number theory
• algebraic geometry
• differential geometry
• complex manifolds
• global analysis
• functional analysis
• stochastic analysis
• dynamical systems
• mathematical logic
• optimisation
• combinatorial theory
• quantum theory
• string theory
• relativity
• mathematical biology and ecology
• mathematical modelling
• fluid and continuum mechanics
• numerical analysis
• mathematics applied to problems in earth sciences, materials science and finance.

You are normally admitted to a research group suitable to your research interests and allocated a supervisor before arrival. You are admitted initially to a probationary status and approved for transfer to DPhil only when the Mathematical Institute is satisfied of your ability to attempt such a contribution; this transfer involves the submission of written work and oral examination.

You normally undergo a confirmation of status in the third year of your DPhil. Similarly to transfer this involves the submission of written work and oral examination. The purpose of the confirmation of status is to enable you to receive an assessment of your work by one or more assessors. It is intended to provide an important indication that if work on the thesis continues to develop satisfactorily, and then it would be reasonable for you to consider submitting your thesis within three terms.

You are expected to undergo 100 hours of broadening courses before confirmation of status. This involves the submission of written work for five 16-hour lecture courses, which should be distinct from and not linked to your research area, and attendance at workshops and colloquia. You will also be expected to participate in skills training. Your progress in these areas will be assessed at both transfer and confirmation status.

Undertaking the course is regarded as equivalent to working full-time hours and may also sometimes require some additional hours. The minimum period of registration for the DPhil is six terms but in practice you may need nine terms at least.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in mathematics or a related discipline. 

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

A previous master's degree is not required, though the requirement for a first-class undergraduate degree with honours can be alternatively demonstrated by strong performance in a master's degree.

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
• Statement of purpose/personal statement: Up to two pages
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships