Medieval and Modern Languages

The MSc in Medieval and Modern Languages at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and flexible postgraduate study experience designed for students with a passion for languages, linguistics, and cultural history. This interdisciplinary programme provides an opportunity to explore the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Europe, from the medieval period to the present day, through the study of at least two different languages and their associated literatures, histories, and societies. Students can choose from a wide array of languages, including but not limited to French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Slavic languages, alongside medieval languages such as Latin and Old English, depending on their interests and prior qualifications.

The programme aims to deepen students' understanding of the historical development of languages, their relationships, and their cultural contexts. It combines rigorous language training with advanced literary, historical, and linguistic analysis, enabling students to develop critical skills in textual analysis, historical research, and linguistic methodology. The curriculum typically includes core modules focusing on language acquisition and linguistic theory, alongside optional modules tailored to individual academic interests, such as medieval literature, modern literary theory, translation studies, or socio-linguistics. The programme also emphasizes the importance of research skills, preparing students either for doctoral study or careers in areas such as academia, publishing, translation, or cultural heritage sectors.

Assessment methods vary across modules but generally involve a mixture of essays, translation exercises, presentations, and examinations. Students are encouraged to engage actively with primary texts and historical sources, fostering a nuanced understanding of how language and culture intertwine across different periods and regions. The programme is supported by the university’s extensive resources, including specialized libraries, language labs, and dedicated academic staff with expertise spanning medieval and modern linguistic and cultural studies. Graduates of the MSc in Medieval and Modern Languages are well-positioned for further academic research or professional careers that require advanced language and cultural competence, analytical skills, and a broad understanding of European history and literature.

The DPhil programme enables you to acquire the research skills necessary to complete a substantial piece of original research. You will work under the guidance of a supervisor who is a specialist in their subject. In cases where two areas of expertise are essential, joint supervision will be arranged.

The faculty groups a large number of research-active staff with an exceptionally wide range of interests. We are therefore able to offer supervision in most fields, covering not only modern and contemporary literature in each language, but medieval and early modern literature as well. Areas of particular strength include:

• Enlightenment studies
• women’s writing and gender studies
• life writing
• Walter Benjamin and Modernism
• Dante studies
• the Spanish Golden Age
• Latin American (including Brazilian) studies
• Russian cultural studies.

Please note that the Celtic language options are no longer available for entry in 2017-18.

All applicants for research degrees are admitted first as Probationer Research Students (PRS). Full-time DPhil students spend up to four years completing a thesis of not more that 80,000 words. Part-time students spend up to eight years completing their thesis.

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 the relevant modern language for their proposed study, or a similar course of academic study with substantial course components in the area of modern language to be studied.

Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a high first-class degree or the equivalent. For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.75 out of 4.0.

Applicants are also expected to be predicted or to have achieved a very good result or a Distinction in a master's degree in a relevant subject. Degree level competence in at least one modern language is a requirement for admission.

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 1,200 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
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme

The Medieval and Modern Languages program at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth study of the languages, literatures, and cultures of the medieval and modern periods. The course is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of European languages, with a particular focus on the languages from the medieval period through to contemporary times. Students have the opportunity to specialize in one or more of the languages offered, such as French, German, Italian, Spanish, or other European languages, depending on their interests and proficiency levels.

The program is structured to provide a blend of language learning, literature, and cultural studies, enabling students to engage critically with primary texts from different periods and cultural contexts. In the initial years, students typically focus on acquiring a strong foundation in their chosen languages, including advanced language skills, grammar, and vocabulary. This is complemented by the study of essential literary and cultural texts, which helps students develop analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of historical and literary contexts.

As students progress, they have the opportunity to undertake more specialized modules, including translation, philology, linguistic history, and comparative studies. The course often includes options for studying classical languages or other related disciplines, enabling a broad and interdisciplinary approach to medieval and modern European cultures. Assessment methods typically include written examinations, coursework, and oral examinations, with a focus on both language proficiency and critical analysis.

The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, and effective communication, which are valuable in many career pathways. Students are encouraged to participate in language immersion programs, internships, or study abroad opportunities to enhance their practical language skills and cultural awareness. The university provides excellent resources, including language laboratories, libraries, and access to a wide range of academic journals.

Graduates of the Medieval and Modern Languages course are well-equipped for careers in academia, publishing, translation, diplomacy, international relations, and cultural heritage sectors. The program's rigorous academic framework, combined with its emphasis on linguistic and cultural expertise, makes it a highly respected and enriching educational experience. Overall, Oxford's Medieval and Modern Languages program aims to produce graduates who are not only fluent in their chosen languages but also possess a deep understanding of the rich historical and cultural tapestry that shapes European societies.