Obstetrics and Gynaecology

The Master of Science in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and specialized postgraduate education for medical graduates and healthcare professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of women’s reproductive health. This programme is designed to provide advanced knowledge of the scientific and clinical aspects of obstetrics and gynaecology, integrating the latest research developments with practical applications. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including fetal development, maternal health, reproductive endocrinology, minimally invasive surgery, and management of complex gynaecological conditions. Through a combination of taught modules, research projects, and clinical placements, participants will develop critical thinking skills and evidence-based approaches essential for expert practice.

The course emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration among specialists in obstetrics, gynaecology, reproductive medicine, and related fields. Students will engage in rigorous study complemented by opportunities for research, allowing them to contribute to advancements in women’s health. The programme prepares graduates for a variety of career paths, including clinical practice, academic research, and leadership roles within healthcare systems. With access to Oxford’s renowned medical facilities and expert faculty, students benefit from a stimulating learning environment that fosters innovation and excellence in the field. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve patient outcomes, influence policy, and advance the scientific understanding of obstetrics and gynaecology worldwide.

Applicants are strongly advised to visit the Medical Sciences Graduate School website to help them identify the most suitable course and supervisors.

Research carried out in the Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology encompasses a broad range of topics, with groups working on oocytes and sperm, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, genetic studies, molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying normal and aberrant reproductive function, immunology of pregnancy, gynaecological cancer, clinical studies in women's health and pregnancy, and epidemiological and health services research. 

You will be a member of your supervisor’s research group in which you will develop your research skills with one to one supervision. Your supervision team will consist of your principal supervisor, a secondary supervisor (often a senior member of the research staff), the Director of Graduate Studies and a college advisor. You will meet regularly with your primary supervisor to plan your research and review your progress. As well as carrying out research projects, you will also have the opportunity to attend a variety of skills training sessions and career planning events offered by the Medical Sciences Division. Formal assessments of your progress will be carried out by external assessors through the Transfer of Status (term 4) and Confirmation of Status (term 6-9) procedures, both of which have to be passed before you are allowed to defend your 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 a subject related to biomedical science or a medical degree. 

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

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).

You do not need a previous master's degree to apply to the course.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: Up to two pages
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers a range of funding options to support students enrolled in its Obstetrics and Gynaecology postgraduate programmes. These include scholarships, grants, loans, and departmental funding schemes designed to assist both domestic and international students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of financial aid to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs. Scholarships are available based on various criteria, including academic excellence, research proposal quality, and financial need. Notable scholarships include the Rhodes Scholarship, Clarendon Fund, and departmental bursaries specific to the Faculty of Medicine. Additionally, the university provides funding through research councils and government schemes, especially for students undertaking doctoral-level research. Many students also secure funding from external organizations, charitable foundations, and professional bodies relevant to Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The application process for these funding options typically requires submission of a personal statement, academic records, and sometimes an interview. Some programmes may include teaching or research assistantships that provide stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. International students may have access to specific scholarships aimed at promoting diversity and supporting overseas applicants. Funding opportunities often have limited availability, so early application is recommended to maximize chances of receiving financial support. Students are advised to consult the university’s dedicated scholarships and funding webpages for comprehensive, up-to-date listings and detailed eligibility criteria. Furthermore, the university’s central bursary office offers guidance and support on alternative funding routes, including student loans and external grants. Overall, the University of Oxford is committed to supporting its students financially throughout their studies in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can pursue advanced training and research in this crucial medical field.

The MSc in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Oxford is a specialized postgraduate program designed for medical professionals, researchers, and clinicians seeking to deepen their understanding of women's reproductive health. This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the latest developments in obstetrics and gynaecology, integrating theoretical learning with practical application. Throughout the course, students explore topics such as reproductive endocrinology, fetal medicine, maternal health, infertility, gynecological oncology, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The curriculum is structured to promote critical analysis, clinical reasoning, and research skills, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to clinical practice, academic research, or healthcare policy formulation.

The program typically involves a combination of taught modules, seminars, case discussions, and research projects. Students are encouraged to engage with current research and participate in clinical placements where possible, fostering a practical understanding of the clinical settings related to obstetrics and gynaecology. The program also emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to work alongside specialists in different fields, including radiology, pathology, and anesthesiology.

Students benefit from Oxford's extensive resources, including access to world-renowned faculty members, state-of-the-art laboratories, and comprehensive library collections. The university’s academic staff are involved in cutting-edge research, providing students with insights into the latest scientific advancements. Coursework includes rigorous assessments, such as examinations, research papers, and presentations, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct independent research.

Graduates of the MSc in Obstetrics and Gynaecology are well-equipped for careers in clinical practice, academic research, or healthcare management. They may pursue further specialization through higher doctoral studies, or they may assume leadership roles in hospitals, research institutions, or health authorities. The program’s flexible structure allows international students to tailor their learning to their career goals, incorporating opportunities for global health perspectives. Overall, the MSc offers an intensive, comprehensive education in women’s reproductive health, preparing students to improve patient outcomes and advance medical knowledge in this vital medical specialty.