English

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2024). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.

The DPhil in English is intended to develop the skills and understanding necessary to undertake and present original research at a high level, and provide a thorough foundation for a career in research.

The study of English language, literature and related interdisciplinary fields is continually reshaped by the new questions that DPhil students and faculty members pursue.

Current research topics include:

English language and literature from anywhere in the world;
the other languages and literatures of Great Britain, Ireland, neighbouring islands (including Iceland) and of other Anglophone countries;
the above literatures in comparison with, or in translation into, other languages and literary traditions.
performance arts in English anywhere in the world or in the other languages of Anglophone countries; and
theoretical, interdisciplinary and philosophical reflection on literature composed in any language.
Under the guidance of your supervisor, you will complete a thesis of 80,000 to 100,000 words. A typical term will involve a great deal of independent research, punctuated by meetings with the supervisor who will be able to suggest direction and address concerns throughout the writing process.

In addition you will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of classes, seminars and lectures in order to learn bibliographic and research skills, interact with other researchers or gain new perspectives on your work. You may also be encouraged to attend the research skills courses available as part of the master's (MSt) course, depending how much of this training has been covered previously.

The English Faculty is not responsible for providing teaching opportunities for research students as most undergraduate teaching in Oxford is organised by individual colleges. Teaching is not a compulsory part of the DPhil. But research students may wish to gain some teaching experience, so long as it does not interfere with their own progress. Those research students who wish to gain teaching experience are invited to attend faculty-run preparatory teaching workshops and seminars, as well as enrolling on a Teaching Mentor Scheme.

You will have the opportunity to hear lectures and papers by leading writers, critics, and theorists from inside and outside the University. You are encouraged to participate in the many research seminars and reading groups that run throughout term time, many of which are coordinated by graduates themselves.