Oriental Studies

Program Overview:

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate degree in Oriental Studies, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the languages, cultures, history, and societies of Asia and the Middle East. This multidisciplinary program aims to cultivate linguistic proficiency alongside a broad contextual knowledge, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in academia, diplomacy, international development, translation, journalism, and beyond.

Students enrolled in the degree have the opportunity to specialize in one or more of several regions and languages, including Modern Chinese, Japanese, Middle Eastern Studies, South Asian Studies, and Classical or Modern Persian, among others. The course combines language acquisition with detailed cultural, political, and historical studies, emphasizing critical analysis, research skills, and comparative perspectives. Teaching methods include lectures, seminar discussions, language seminars, individual tutorials, and project work, facilitating personalized academic mentoring and in-depth engagement with subject matter.

Throughout the program, students explore essential topics such as the development of Asian and Middle Eastern civilizations, contemporary social and political issues, religious traditions, and literary and artistic heritage. They also improve their research skills by engaging in original research projects, supported by access to extensive collections and resources. The program encourages students to develop a nuanced understanding of the diverse societies and historical contexts of Asia and the Middle East, fostering intercultural awareness and language mastery.

The degree typically spans three or four years, with options for integrated year abroad or study secondments in relevant countries, further enhancing linguistic competence and cultural understanding. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in academia, government, international organizations, business, media, or further postgraduate study. They emerge with a global perspective, intercultural sensitivity, and a scholarly approach to complex issues arising from the study of Asian and Middle Eastern nations.

In summary, Oxford’s Oriental Studies degree combines high-level language training, cultural immersion, and analytical inquiry, offering an intellectually challenging environment that cultivates expertise and prepares students for impactful careers in a globalized world.

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive degree programme in Oriental Studies, which provides students with an in-depth understanding of the languages, cultures, history, and societies of the Asian and Middle Eastern regions. The programme typically includes a combination of language acquisition, regional studies, and historical context, allowing students to develop a nuanced perspective on these diverse areas. Students are often able to choose from a wide array of languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Persian, and others, depending on their interests and the specific course offerings in a given year. The course structure usually involves core modules in language proficiency, alongside optional modules that delve into literature, politics, religion, and societal developments within the Asian and Middle Eastern worlds.

The programme emphasizes the development of advanced language skills, critical analysis, and research capabilities. Students may participate in tutorials, seminars, and workshops that foster independent thinking and academic debate. Practical elements such as language practice, cultural immersion, and research projects are integral to the learning process. The programme aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary for careers in academia, international relations, public policy, journalism, or cultural institutions. It also provides a solid foundation for further postgraduate research.

Students benefit from Oxford’s extensive resources, including dedicated language centers, libraries, and research institutes focused on Asian and Middle Eastern studies. Interdisciplinary approaches are encouraged, and collaborations across different departments contribute to a rich academic environment. The programme fosters not only language mastery but also cultural competence and historical understanding, essential for engaging with complex regional issues. It prepares students to become informed and culturally sensitive professionals capable of contributing to global discussions and policy-making related to these vital regions of the world.