Psychiatry

The University of Oxford offers an exceptional training programme in Psychiatry designed to equip future clinicians, researchers, and academics with a comprehensive understanding of mental health disorders and the latest advances in their diagnosis and treatment. This programme combines rigorous academic coursework, clinical exposure, and research opportunities to prepare students for a diverse range of careers in mental health sciences. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health, learning through a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and hands-on clinical practice. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based approaches and encourages critical analysis of emerging research to foster innovative thinking and effective problem-solving skills. Participants will benefit from teaching by world-renowned experts in the field, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and participation in cutting-edge research projects that advance understanding of psychiatric conditions. The programme aims to develop not only clinical competence but also the capacity for multidisciplinary collaboration, advocacy, and leadership within the mental health sector. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers as consultant psychiatrists, clinical researchers, academic faculty, or policy advisors, contributing significantly to the improvement of mental health services. The University of Oxford's Psychiatry programme is committed to fostering an inclusive, dynamic learning environment that promotes scholarly excellence and the ethical conduct of research and practice. Whether students are interested in clinical application or academic inquiry, this programme offers a robust foundation for a meaningful and impactful career in mental health.

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

The DPhil in Psychiatry is designed to allow you to develop the skills required to become an independent researcher, as well as acquiring expertise within a particular research area. You will have a supervisor from within the department and may have a co-supervisor/advisor from within the department or from elsewhere, such as the departments of Experimental Psychology, Clinical Neuroscience and Pharmacology and/or the Centre for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Brain (fMRIB).

Working on a project of your own under the guidance of a supervisor provides you with a primary learning experience. You are encouraged to take advantage of the comprehensive, flexible training programme offered by the Medical Sciences Graduate School which includes general and specific research skills and more advanced academic courses.

You may also be required to undertake one or more training courses related to your area of research. In addition to this, the department organises opportunities for students to meet together and to present their research to their peers, enabling you to benefit from feedback and to begin networking with students in other research areas.

The range of research topics available to you is extensive and includes core areas of neurobiology, psychological treatments, developmental psychiatry and social psychiatry. You will be based in Oxford for the three to four years of your DPhil but you can be based elsewhere in the world during the data collection phase of your research.

Examination of a DPhil involves submission of a thesis which is examined by viva. In addition to this, there are two interim assessments of progress that you must pass. The first, transfer of status, involves the submission of a short report of progress to date and future plans for the research which is examined by viva. For the second, confirmation of status, you are required to make a brief presentation of your work including a timetable for completion of 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 discipline that is relevant to your proposed research.

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

A previous master’s degree is not required for entry to the DPhil programme.

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: Two pages
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The financing studies for the Psychiatry program at the University of Oxford are primarily composed of a combination of government-funded scholarships, university-specific bursaries, external funding opportunities, and personal financing options. As one of the prestigious programs at Oxford, students are encouraged to explore various sources of funding to support their academic pursuits. The UK government offers a range of funding options for domestic students, including student loans that cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans are typically administered through the Student Loans Company and have favorable repayment conditions contingent on income levels after graduation.

For international students, funding opportunities are more limited but still available through Oxford’s own scholarship programs. The university offers numerous prestigious scholarships, such as the Rhodes Scholarships, Clarendon Fund, and other faculty-specific bursaries, which can significantly reduce financial burdens. Applicants are advised to check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship well in advance of application submission.

Additionally, there are private foundations and charitable organizations that provide grants aimed at supporting students in health sciences and medical fields, including psychiatry. Students are encouraged to seek external funding sources early in their application process. Personal financial arrangements, including savings, family support, or private loans, may also play a role in financing studies.

The university’s Careers Service and student support offices provide resources and guidance on financial planning, applying for funding, and managing finances during the course of study. It is important for prospective students to consider the total cost of attendance, including tuition, accommodation, insurance, books, and miscellaneous expenses, and to plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth academic experience. Overall, while funding for the Psychiatry program involves multiple channels, proactive planning and early application are crucial for securing necessary financial resources for successful completion of the degree.

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive postgraduate training program in Psychiatry, designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of mental health disorders. The program emphasizes a rigorous scientific approach, integrating theoretical foundations with clinical practice, and prepares students for careers in academic, clinical, or research settings. Candidates benefit from access to world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and a vibrant academic community focused on mental health innovation. The curriculum covers core topics such as neurobiology, psychopharmacology, clinical assessment, psychotherapy, and the ethical considerations involved in psychiatric practice. Additionally, students have opportunities to engage in specialized research projects, attend seminars, and participate in clinical placements within Oxford’s hospital settings and affiliated clinics. The program fosters multidisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to explore the biological, psychological, and social factors influencing mental health. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers as clinical practitioners, researchers, or policy advisors, contributing to advances in mental health care both in the UK and internationally. The duration of the course, entry requirements, and specific modules can vary, but they are structured to provide a thorough education in all aspects of psychiatric medicine. The University of Oxford’s Psychiatry program is highly competitive, seeking applicants with strong academic backgrounds and a demonstrated commitment to mental health. Overall, the program aims to develop skilled, ethical, and innovative psychiatrists capable of addressing complex mental health challenges in diverse populations.