UGP 2018 Entry Courses

Visit
ox.ac.uk/courses
Courses to use the A–Z search

and see page 191
Oxford degrees cover subjects in great breadth and

their huge range of options also lets you probe deeply
into the areas that most interest you. You will be
studying your course for three or four years, or possibly
more, so be sure to choose something you really want
to explore. We recommend that you read about lots of
courses including some you might not have considered
before. The perfect course might be something new
or might combine several favourite subjects.
Joint courses qualifications. The exact requirements

There is a wide range of courses at vary depending on the course you
Oxford which allow you to study two or want to apply for, but as a guide you
more subjects together. Our joint course will need to achieve:
combinations are carefully chosen to A-levels: AAA–A*A*A
provide opportunities to explore Apart from any specific requirements,
different subjects and examine the we accept all subjects (except General
connections between them, revealing Studies). We expect you to have taken
insights that you might not find by and passed any practical component in
studying them individually. Choosing your chosen science subjects.
a joint course may also give you the International Baccalaureate:
chance to study something completely 38–40 (including core points)
new alongside an old favourite. There Many more qualifications are acceptable:
are a few subjects which it is only see the list at ox.ac.uk/enreqs.
possible to study as part of a joint course
at undergraduate level, for example Selection criteria
Philosophy or Economics. The selection criteria for all
Oxford’s courses relate to your
Entrance requirements academic achievement and potential.
To make a competitive application, Extra-curricular activities are only
you need to have, or expect to achieve, relevant if they help to demonstrate
three A-levels or any other equivalent how you meet the selection criteria.
38
The vast majority of jobs It made sense to me to try I love the choice of papers:
do not specify the subject to study at the place that I never have to do a paper
studied at university; all offered the best education I dislike, which makes the
degree courses equip for my chosen area. course really enjoyable.
you with a wide range of Many of the textbooks Harry
valuable employability skills. are written by tutors and
Jonathan Black, Careers Service lecturers at the University,
which is a reflection of the I had the opportunity to
standard of the education. dictate what I learnt; there
I like the diversity of my Bertrand was a lot of freedom for
course and the broad range me to choose courses that
of ideas I get to cover. interested me.
Eleanor My course takes the Naveed
two big beasts of the
humanities (for me) and
I was torn between my creates a chimera out of Studying at Oxford will
favourite two subjects them.Tons of resources change the way you
at degree level, before to draw from both think about the universe,
learning I could study both! disciplines, which are as and make you a more
Holly complementary as they analytical and thoughtful
are broad. worker.
Giuseppe Sam
It’s especially exciting
when you meet the
author of the article you It’s a constant challenge. The most unexpected
have just been reading, It’s far more in-depth thing about my course has
standing right in front than the A-level course - been the breadth of what
of you. They might be in your first term it can you can study - you can
giving a lecture, or even be quite a shock - but write your dissertation
engaging in heated debate the more detail you go on just about anything!
with another author into the more interesting All with the full support
you’ve just read. it gets. of your tutors.
Leanne Ian Ryan
39
CHECK
Subject requirements Not taking A-levels?
See:
ox.ac.uk/enreqs
These tables give a summary of the entrance requirements, but
please check the details on your course pages as well.
Essential Recommended Helpful

Colleges will normally expect It is highly desirable to study these A background in these subjects at
students to take the full A-level, or subjects to full A-level, or either full A-level or AS-level (or
equivalent, in these subjects. See equivalent equivalent) may be useful for some
Subject course pages for details elements of the course
Combination of arts
Archaeology and Anthropology
and science subjects
Biochemistry Chemistry and another science Biology beyond GCSE (or
Mathematics
(Molecular and Cellular) or Mathematics equivalent)
Biological Sciences Biology or Human Biology Another science or Mathematics
Two from Biology, Chemistry,

Biomedical Sciences
Mathematics or Physics
Chemistry and Another science or
Chemistry
Mathematics Further Mathematics
Classical Archaeology A classical language, Classical
and Ancient History Civilisation or Ancient History
Latin and/or Greek
Classics
(for Course I only)
Latin and/or Greek (for Course I

Classics and English only), English Literature or English
Language and Literature
Latin and/or Greek (for Course I

Classics and Modern Languages only) and a modern language
(depending on course choice)
Classics with Oriental Studies Latin and/or Greek
Computer Science Mathematics Further Mathematics or a science
Computer Science and A subject involving

Mathematics Further Mathematics or a science
Philosophy essay writing
Mathematics, plus Chemistry Biology, Geology,
Earth Sciences (Geology) Chemistry or Physics
or Physics Further Mathematics
Economics and Management Mathematics
Inclusion of Mathematics
Engineering Science Mathematics and Physics Further Mathematics
Mechanics modules
English Literature or
English Language and Literature A language, History
English Language and Literature
A modern language (depending
on course choice) and English
English and Modern Languages
Literature, or English Language
and Literature
European and Middle Eastern A modern language
Languages (depending on course choice)
Fine Art Art
Geography Geography
History History
A classical language, Classical

History (Ancient and Modern) History
Civilisation, Ancient History
40
Essential Recommended Helpful
Colleges will normally expect It is highly desirable to study these A background in these subjects at
students to take the full A-level, or subjects to full A-level, or either full A-level or AS-level (or
equivalent, in these subjects. See equivalent equivalent) may be useful for some
Subject course pages for details elements of the course
History and Economics History, Mathematics
English Literature or
History and English History
English Language and Literature
A modern language
History and Modern Languages History
Sociology, Politics,
History and Politics History
Government and Politics
A subject involving essay History of Art, Fine Art, History,
History of Art
writing English, a language
Human Sciences Biology, Mathematics
Law (Jurisprudence)
A relevant modern language

Law with Law Studies in Europe
(not required for European Law)
Further Mathematics, Design and
Materials Science Mathematics and Physics Chemistry
Technology (Resistant Materials)
Mathematics Mathematics Further Mathematics
Mathematics and
Mathematics Further Mathematics A science
Computer Science
Mathematics and Philosophy Mathematics Further Mathematics
Mathematics and Statistics Mathematics Further Mathematics
Chemistry with either Mathematics

Medicine
or Biology or Physics
One or more modern languages
Modern Languages
Modern Languages and A modern language English Language, Mathematics,
Linguistics (depending on course choice) a science or any other language
Keyboard ability to ABRSM Grade V
Music Music
or above
Oriental Studies A language
Philosophy and A modern language

Modern Languages (depending on course choice)
Philosophy, Politics and
Mathematics, History
Economics (PPE)
Philosophy and Theology A subject involving essay writing
Inclusion of Mathematics
Physics Physics and Mathematics Further Mathematics
Mechanics module
Inclusion of Mathematics An arts subject and
Physics and Philosophy Physics and Mathematics
Mechanics module Further Mathematics
One or more science subjects
Psychology (Experimental) (including Psychology) or
Mathematics
For Psychology: one or more For Linguistics: English Language,
Psychology, Philosophy
science subjects (including Mathematics, a science or any
and Linguistics
Psychology) or Mathematics other language
A subject involving essay writing,

Religion and Oriental Studies
a language
Theology and Religion A subject involving essay writing
41
Archaeology and Anthropology BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV64 Archaeology and anthropology together trading systems and the spread of
Entrance requirements encompass the study of humankind from world religions
A-levels: AAA the origins of the human species to the • assess the relative importance of
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
present day. Both disciplines have a long environmental, genetic and social
IB: 38 (including core points)
history: archaeology grew from factors in understanding patterns of
Or any other equivalent
A background of studying both arts and 18th-century antiquarianism, while human growth and nutrition
science subjects can be helpful to students anthropology began even earlier in the • learn why societies structure their
in completing the course, although there
are no specific subject requirements for
first days of colonial encounter. Today families, economies and political
admission. both subjects involve a range of systems in the ways that they do
3-year average (2014–16) sophisticated approaches shared with • investigate how material culture
Interviewed: 76% the arts, social sciences and physical represents and reproduces beliefs and
Successful: 26% sciences. ideologies.
Intake: 23 The Oxford degree is distinctive in
How to apply Work placements/international
the way it combines archaeology and
Tests: None required opportunities
anthropology throughout the course,
Written work: Two pieces of As part of your course you will undertake
marked work, written over two
offering an unusually broad perspective
at least three weeks of fieldwork
weeks or less, and one shorter on human societies from earliest
anywhere in the world (subject to
essay of no more than 500 words prehistory to the present. Six institutions
approval by tutors). Recent destinations
in response to a given question. specialise in these subjects: the Institutes
include South Africa, the Andes and
See ox.ac.uk/writwork of Archaeology and of Social and Cultural
Georgia. Fieldwork can take place in field
Fees, living costs and funding Anthropology, the Ashmolean Museum,
See pages 18–19 and settings, or in a laboratory or museum.
the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford
ox.ac.uk/funding Financial support for this fieldwork is
University Museum of Natural History,
available from the University and may
and the Research Laboratory for
be available from your college. You may
Archaeology and the History of Art. All
also engage in fieldwork as part of your
play a key role in the degree, are
final-year dissertation, while other
supported by world-class libraries and
opportunities may exist for work-based
are well equipped with laboratories and
learning in the University’s museums.
computing resources.
Oxford’s Archaeology and Anthropology A typical weekly timetable
course offers a comprehensive guide to Your work is divided among lectures,
the richness and diversity of human tutorials and practical classes. In the first
cultural experience throughout space year you will spend about six hours a
and time. By choosing to study here you week in lectures, closely tied to the
will be able to: course’s core papers. Lectures for core
• explore how humans evolved and option papers take up about ten
• get to grips with major hours a week in years 2 and 3.
transformational processes in human Throughout the course, there are one or
history such as the development of two tutorials a week (normally a total of
farming, the emergence of towns and twelve in each term).
42
What are tutors looking for? A&A CAREERS OXFORD Podcasts
on iTunes
Tutors will primarily be looking for an Archaeology and Anthropology opens up
interest in, and enthusiasm for, the study a wide range of career opportunities, in
of humans and their material culture, Audio and video podcasts are
part because the degree offers a unique
now available from the School
ideally from both humanities and science perspective on how human societies of Archaeology. Interviews
perspectives, combined with an ability to operate and develop and on how people with Professor Barry Cunliffe,
digest and assimilate significant quantities interact with each other. It is also due to Professor Mark Pollard, Professor
of data and to argue from evidence. You the intellectually demanding Chris Gosden and DPhil student
don’t need any experience of archaeology requirements of an Oxford degree, and Wendy Morrison are available
or anthropology, but fieldwork experience to its ideal combination of personal from the University of Oxford
and general reading in the subject further learning, independent study and tutorial podcasts page or directly from
demonstrate your interest and teaching. Graduates of this course have iTunes at:
commitment. podcasts.ox.ac.uk/units/
found opportunities in heritage
Our tutors will be looking for the archaeology-institute
management, museum curation,
following qualities at interview: education, regional archaeological
• an ability to think independently services, international development, the
• potential and motivation for studying Civil Service, advertising, marketing,
archaeology and anthropology computing, energy supply, community
• enthusiasm and interest in the relations, law and media.
combined disciplines
• commitment to the requirements of
the course.
For further information on selection
MORE ABOUT
criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Requirements and applying: Course details:

ox.ac.uk/ugarchant www.arch.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 278246
2017 Open Days:
ugsupport@arch.ox.ac.uk
28 and 29 June and 15 September
ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
course? See page 146
1st year 2nd and 3rd years

Courses Courses
Four core courses are taken: Four core courses are taken:
••Introduction to world archaeology ••Social analysis and interpretation
••Introduction to anthropological ••Cultural representations, beliefs and practices
theory ••Landscape and ecology
••Perspectives on human evolution ••Urbanisation and change in complex societies
••The nature of archaeological and Options (three from a broad range of anthropological and archaeological
anthropological enquiry courses)
Practical classes Thesis
Fieldwork A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment Assessment
First University examinations: Final University examinations:
Four written papers Seven written papers; thesis
43
Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular) MBiochem 4 years
UCAS code: C700 The study of living things at the An important aspect of the Oxford
Entrance requirements molecular level has undergone Biochemistry course is its fourth-year
A-levels: A*AA with A* in tremendous expansion in recent years, project, lasting 18 full-time weeks, which
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or allows you to explore in detail both
leading to ever-increasing insights into
Biology, or a closely related subject
topics as various as the origin of life, the laboratory-based research and specific
nature of disease and the development recent advances in biochemistry. You
IB: 39 (including core points) with 7
in HL Chemistry and 6 in two other of individual organisms. Powerful new choose the project yourself. Under the
relevant subjects at HL or SL techniques, such as those of molecular supervision of a group leader, you will
Or any other equivalent genetics and NMR spectroscopy, enable design your own experiments and will
Candidates are expected to have Chemistry us to analyse biological phenomena in learn to plan research programmes and
to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level
in the IB or any other equivalent, plus more and more precise molecular terms. present your results and ideas – orally
another science or Mathematics. These studies have led to commercially and in written form – to other workers in
Mathematics to A-level or the equivalent is valuable developments in drug design the field. The experience gained is much
very helpful to students in completing the
course and, although not required for and synthesis, forensic science, valued by employers. The project also
admission, may make an application more environmental sensing and a whole range gives you the opportunity to reflect on
competitive. Biology beyond GCSE or the
of other areas. Furthermore, advances in your aptitude and enthusiasm for a
equivalent (eg AS-level, Scottish High,
Standard Level in the IB) can be helpful to biochemistry are largely responsible for research career.
students in completing the course, the breakdown of traditional boundaries
although is not required for admission. Research placements/
between cell biology, medicine, physics
More detailed information is available at: international opportunities
www.bioch.ox.ac.uk. and chemistry as their applications
A wide choice of fourth-year research
3-year average (2014–16) become increasingly wide reaching.
Interviewed: 73% projects is available both within the
The Biochemistry Department in
Successful: 20% Biochemistry Department and in related
Oxford is one of the largest in Europe,
Intake: 101 departments, such as Molecular
and is subdivided into research areas: Cell
How to apply Medicine, Clinical Biochemistry,
Biology, Development and Genetics;
Tests: None required Pathology and Pharmacology. Currently,
Chromosomal and RNA Biology; Infection
Written work: None required about ten students each year can carry
Fees, living costs and funding and Disease Processes; Microbiology and
out their project in selected European
See pages 18–19 and Systems Biology; and Structural Biology
universities under the Erasmus exchange
ox.ac.uk/funding and Molecular Biophysics. The
scheme, and at Princeton University in
Additional costs department is extremely active in
the US, although the availability of the
Students in their fourth year research, with about 300 postgraduate
undertake full-time research over an programmes may change.
students and research staff. The breadth
18-week extended term. This means and excellence of these activities are A typical weekly timetable
that your living costs will be higher in
reflected in the scope of the During years 1–3, your work is divided
your final year.
undergraduate course and underpin the between lectures (about ten a week),
teaching. tutorials and classes (one to three a
The department has superb research week) and practicals (averaging one full
and teaching facilities and excellent IT day a week). The remaining time is spent
resources together with access to a wide on private study (set reading or
range of online and hard-copy journals. problem-solving exercises). In the
44
fourth year, the project occupies you in Biochem CAREERS and Princeton
Exchanges
full-time research for 18 weeks and the Biochemists are playing an increasingly
remainder of the year is spent in writing wide role in biological, environmental and
up your research project and studying For details of current student
clinical fields, with employment areas
specialist option topics. Your final degree exchange schemes for this
stretching from healthcare through course, see:
class is derived from a combination of forensic science to the food and www.bioch.ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
marks from courses taken in the second, pharmaceutical industries. Typically
third and fourth years. about 60% of our biochemistry
What are tutors looking for? graduates go on to do research or
As Biochemistry is not taught as an further study, mostly in the biochemistry
A-level subject, tutors will not expect field, while others find employment in
you to have a detailed knowledge of the industry, commerce or other areas, such
subject. However, if you are shortlisted as finance and law. Further details of
for interview, tutors will be looking for an careers in biochemistry can be found on
informed interest in the subject the UK Biochemical Society website
(originating from news items, books, www.biochemistry.org.
magazine articles etc) together with an
ability to use information (from other
school or college subjects, particularly
MORE ABOUT
Chemistry) to analyse and solve problems
ox.ac.uk/ugbiochem www.bioch.ox.ac.uk
and to construct your own opinions. For
admissions@bioch.ox.ac.uk
further information about the selection 2017 Open Days:
criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. 28 and 29 June and 15 September Which colleges offer this
ox.ac.uk/opendays course? See page 146
1st year 2nd and 3rd years 4th year (extended first term)
Courses Courses Courses
Five courses are taken: Five courses are taken: A research project (full time, 18
••Molecular cell biology ••Structure and function of weeks) plus two courses taken from
••Biological chemistry macromolecules a list of six options. The list typically
••Biophysical chemistry ••Energetics and metabolic includes subjects such as:
••Organic chemistry processes ••Bionanotechnology
••Mathematics and statistics ••Molecular biology and genetics ••Cancer biology
••Cell biology and integration of ••Clinical and applied immunology
function ••Membrane transport
••Data analysis and interpretation ••Neuropharmacology
••Signalling and coordination in
plants
••Structural proteomics
••Virology
These options are illustrative and
may change. A full list of current
options is available on the course
website (details above).
Assessment Assessment Assessment

First University examinations: Final University examinations, Part I: Final University examinations, Part II:
Five written papers; satisfactory Six written papers; satisfactory Project dissertation and oral
practical record practical record presentation; options written papers
and/or submitted coursework
45
Biological Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: C100 Biological Sciences is an exciting and A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements rapidly developing subject area. The Almost all teaching takes place in the
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in a study of living things has undergone departments of Plant Sciences and
science or Mathematics
tremendous expansion in recent years, Zoology and can be broken down into the
and topics such as cell biology, following categories:
in HL Mathematics or a science
neuroscience, evolutionary biology and • Lectures: around ten hours a week
Or any other equivalent ecology are advancing rapidly. This • Practicals: around eight hours a week
Candidates are expected to have Biology expansion has been accompanied by a • Tutorials: one hour a week, plus
(or Human Biology) to A-level, Advanced blurring of the distinctions between preparation time
Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another
equivalent. disciplines: a biologist with an interest in • Research projects: variable hours in
3-year average (2014–16) tropical plants may well use many of the second and third year.
Interviewed: 70% tools and techniques that are
What are tutors looking for?
Successful: 22% indispensable to a molecular geneticist.
Intake: 110 Tutors are looking for enthusiasm for
The degree of Biological Sciences is
How to apply biology and potential to study it at
taught jointly by the departments of
Tests: None required university. Interviews are not to test
Plant Sciences and Zoology. Additional
Written work: None required factual knowledge – they are designed to
resources include: Oxford University
Fees, living costs and funding enable applicants to show an ability to
See pages 18–19 and
Museum of Natural History, Botanic
think and to understand whatever facts
ox.ac.uk/funding Garden, Herbarium, Arboretum and
have been encountered up to that time.
Wytham Woods.
Be prepared to talk intelligently about
Practical laboratory work is an integral
particular aspects of biology that are
part of teaching and there is a
personally interesting. The process is
compulsory one-week field trip for all
rigorous but sympathetic. Applicants may
first-year students to Pembrokeshire to
be asked to examine and comment on
study ecology (for which a contribution
biological objects, or to interpret a
of £200 is required from every student).
written passage or a simple set of data,
Fieldwork is a crucial part of some
provided during the interview.
courses; for example, there are field days
associated with a number of the second-
year practical courses and in the third
year students may be able to attend an
optional overseas field course. Most
students carry out their research
projects in the lab or the field, either in
the UK or abroad. All overseas work
requires financial contributions from the
student. Current costs are detailed
at ox.ac.uk/ugbiosci: see Fees and
Funding tab.
46
BIOSci CAREERS present them clearly and concisely
A significant proportion of Oxford in context and discuss results of
biologists embark on a professional, clinical trials.’
scientific or technical career after Hannah, now a research assistant
graduating, while more than a third go at the Royal Veterinary College,
on to further study such as a research reports: ‘My degree gave me a keen
doctorate or a postgraduate course in interest in my subject and the skills to
an applied field. Others will take up pursue it. So far I have tracked rhinos
careers in areas such as industry, across deserts, chased birds across
finance, medicine, law, teaching, the oceans, and am currently working with
media or conservation. chickens!’
After graduation, Jenny spent several
years in a medical communication
agency environment, and now has her
own business, working directly with
MORE ABOUT
major global pharmaceutical companies. Requirements and applying: Course details:
She explains: ‘The tutorial system and ox.ac.uk/ugbiosci www.biology.ox.ac.uk
writing opportunities during my degree 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 281214
were critical in developing the skills 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate.enquires@biology.ox.ac.uk
needed to analyse and interpret data, ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this course?
See page 146
1st year 2nd year 3rd year

Four courses are taken: Eight courses are offered. Students Around 20 options covering the full
••Cells and genes are encouraged to attend lectures on breadth of active research in the
••Organisms all themes. departments. Students are expected
••Ecology and evolution Compulsory: to take 6–8 of these specialist
••Quantitative methods (a two-year ••Evolution options, which are chosen freely.
course, assessed during the ••Quantitative methods Two overseas field courses are also
second University examinations) Themes: available but numbers able to attend
••Adaptations to the environment are capped for logistical reasons.
••Animal behaviour
••Cell and developmental biology A full list of current options is
••Disease available on the course website
••Ecology (details above).
••Plants and people

First University examinations: Final University examinations, Part I: Final University examinations, Part II:
Three written papers: Three written papers: Four written papers:
••Organisms ••Evolution paper ••A general paper
••Cells and genes ••Essay paper covering the six ••A data interpretation paper
••Ecology and evolution themes ••A short essay-based paper
Satisfactory practical record ••Quantitative methods paper ••A long essay-based paper
Satisfactory practical record Two course assignments and
research project (prepared work
counts for 30% of overall
assessment)
47
Biomedical Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: BC98 Biomedical scientists focus on how cells, A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements organs and systems function in the A first-year student would typically attend
A-levels: A*AA excluding Critical human body; an exciting and dynamic six to ten lectures, a Mathematics or
Thinking and General Studies.
Candidates are required to have two of their area that is highly relevant to the Statistics class and a three-hour practical
A-levels from Biology, Chemistry, Physics understanding and treatment of human class. Practical work undertaken in
and Mathematics.
diseases. This course does not provide a laboratories forms an integral part of this
Advanced Highers: AA
Highers: AAAAA medical training. programme; students are required to
Candidates are required to have an Oxford is a highly respected and complete practical work to a satisfactory
Advanced Higher in at least one from internationally recognised centre for
Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics,
standard in order to progress through the
and two Highers from Biology, Chemistry, biomedical research and, on this degree course. In addition, students
Physics and Mathematics. interdisciplinary course, students will prepare for weekly tutorials during which
IB: 39 (including core points) with receive the benefit of tuition from students and tutors discuss, through
766 at HL
Candidates are required to have two leading experts working within a variety consideration of experimental studies, the
subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics of non-clinical and clinical departments. significance and limitations of a given
and Mathematics at Higher Level.
This course provides students with an topic. Students’ remaining time is
If not taken on to a higher level (A-level intellectually stimulating education in available for self-directed study and
or equivalent), all candidates will need to modern molecular, cellular and systems extra-curricular activities.
show that they have received a basic
education (achieving at least a grade C/4 at biology and neuroscience. During the first two terms of the
GCSE, Intermediate 2 or Standard grade The course has been designed so that second year, work is divided between
(Credit) or equivalent) in Biology,
Chemistry, Physics (GCSE Dual Award students first acquire an integrated lectures (about five a week), tutorials
Combined Sciences or equivalent is also understanding of biomedical science that (one or two a week) and practical
acceptable) and Mathematics.
Please see www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms
allows them to shape their subsequent classes. The final term of the second year
for further details. studies towards the topics that interest concentrates on experimental research in
3-year average (2014–16) them the most. a laboratory.
Interviewed: 39% As the course progresses, increasing During the third year students attend
Successful: 13% emphasis is placed on relating knowledge lectures, seminars and tutorials in their
Intake: 35 to scientific research. That emphasis is chosen specialist area.
How to apply
demonstrated by the opportunity for all
Tests: BMAT. For test date and What are tutors looking for?
students to obtain first-hand experience
registration details please see Tutors look for lively, receptive minds with
ox.ac.uk/tests of laboratory research in the later stages
the ability to evaluate evidence critically.
Written work: None required of the course. Students choose their own
You should be able to consider issues
Fees, living costs and funding project and the possible areas for research
from different perspectives and have a
See pages 18–19 and within the University are wide ranging.
capacity for logical and creative thinking.
ox.ac.uk/funding On the basis of the specialisation
Additional costs BMAT results will be considered when
initiated by the selection of second-year
Some students opt to stay longer in shortlisting candidates for interview. For
modules and confirmed by the choice of
Oxford at the end of year 2 to further information about the selection
third-year options, students will be
complete their project. This is not criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria
awarded a degree in Neuroscience or
required, but can increase living costs.
Cell and Systems Biology.
For further details on the structure
of the course, please refer to
www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms.
48
BIOMEDICAL CAREERS LEADERS in biomedical
This course provides a strong foundation
to pursue academic research, work in
teaching & research
A flexible and modern under-
the pharmaceutical and biotechnology
graduate science programme at
sectors, or apply for an accelerated a university leading the way in
graduate entry course in medicine. biomedical teaching and research.
The Biomedical Sciences course
at the University of Oxford is a
basic science degree course,
MORE ABOUT offering education in cell and
systems physiology and
neuroscience. It is not accredited
ox.ac.uk/ugbiomed www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms
by the Institute of Biomedical
2017 Open Days: bmsadmissions@medsci.ox.ac.uk Science.
28 and 29 June and 15 September Which colleges offer this course?
ox.ac.uk/opendays See page 146
Terms 1–3 (1st year) Terms 4–5: Part 1 Finals Terms 6–9: Part 2 Finals
Courses Courses Term 6–8
••Numerical and scientific skills Students select courses totalling Students work on their research project.
(Mathematics and Statistics, ten units from a wide range of Terms 6–9
Chemistry and Physics) subject areas, which currently Options currently offered are:
••Body and cells include: ••Neuroscience (cellular and systems)
••Genes and molecules ••Psychological processes and ••Molecular medicine
••Brain and behaviour disorders ••Cardiovascular, renal and respiratory
••Neurophysiology biology
••Cellular and systems ••Infection and immunity
physiology ••Cellular physiology and pharmacology
••Intra- and intercellular ••Experimental psychology
signalling Cell and Systems Biology: students study
••Genetics and developmental two options from the first five above.
biology Neuroscience: students study the
••Pharmacology Neuroscience and experimental psychology
••Cellular pathology and options.
immunology Students select topics within an option to
study in depth.
The full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).

Examined by five written Examined by two written papers Examined by four written papers during the
papers at the end of the year. at the start of Term 6. These third term of the final year. Students will also
A satisfactory practical record papers contribute 20% to the submit a project report and deliver a
is required for progression to final degree mark. An academic presentation on their research findings to the
Year 2. penalty will be applied for an examiners.
unsatisfactory practical record. 80% of the final degree mark is determined
by performance in the written papers and
the project report/presentation.
49
Chemistry MChem 4 years
UCAS code: F100 Chemistry is a wide-ranging science distinctive feature of Chemistry at

Entrance requirements concerned with matter at the atomic and Oxford since 1916.
A-levels: A*A*A (including Chemistry molecular scale. Important facets are
and Mathematics) with both A*s in A typical weekly timetable
synthesis, structure, microscopic
science subjects and/or Mathematics (yrs 1–3)
mechanisms, properties, analysis and
transformations of all types of materials.
• About ten lectures, at 9am and 10am
(including Chemistry and
Chemists are a constant source of
• One or two tutorials in your college
Mathematics) with set work to be completed in your
IB: 40 (including core points) with innovation: it is hard to imagine any
own time
7 in HL Chemistry and EITHER 6/7 product introduced in recent times that
in HL Mathematics OR 7 in SL did not require the creative efforts of a
• Two afternoons of laboratory work
(11am to 5pm)
Mathematics plus a second science chemist. Chemistry underpins the
with 7 HL conceptual framework and methodology
• A problems class, eg a mathematics
Or any other equivalent class in the first year.
of biochemistry and molecular medicine
3-year average (2014–16) The course is challenging but there
and is at the heart of many major
Interviewed: 88% is plenty of time for extra-curricular
industries.
Successful: 26% pursuits.
Intake: 183
A good Chemistry degree opens the
How to apply door to an extensive choice of careers. Work placements/international
Tests: TSA. For test date and Teaching and research are closely opportunities
registration details please see linked: Oxford is one of the leading Part II (the fourth year) involves full-time
ox.ac.uk/tests chemistry departments in the world with work with an established research group.
Written work: None required a state-of-the-art lab, and international- There is the possibility of a few students
Fees, living costs and funding level research in a broad range of areas spending time at laboratories in industry
See pages 18–19 and including: synthesis and catalysis, or at universities abroad. Many students
ox.ac.uk/funding
medicinal and biological chemistry, find work placements during vacations –
Additional costs
sustainable energy, advanced materials, the Careers Service helps with this – and
Students in their fourth year
undertake full-time research over
innovative measurement and theoretical there are some opportunities within the
three extended terms of 12–13 and computational chemistry. A new department.
weeks each (38 weeks in total). This teaching lab is under construction and
means that your living costs will be expected to be completed in 2018.
• Evidence of motivation
higher in your final year. The department has an outstanding
• Academic excellence
track record in commercialising the
• Potential for advanced study
innovative work of research staff, which
• Capacity to analyse, explain and use
has raised millions of pounds for the
your knowledge
University.
• Readiness to have a go at problems
The MChem is a four-year course,
even when you cannot see how.
and is not modular, enabling us to explore
the links within the subject. The core
material is taken by all students, with
opportunities to specialise later in the
course. The fourth year (Part II) is
devoted exclusively to research – a
50
Chemistry CAREERS professions such as publishing and Amazing chemistry
at Oxford
Chemistry provides an excellent marketing, banking and finance,
opportunity for the development of manufacturing, IT, law and teaching.
Long term, more than half our The fourth year is entirely
your critical faculties and intellect, and
graduates remain in posts related to devoted to a research project.
also instills important transferable skills This unique feature of the
that will serve you well, whatever your Chemistry in some way. The Royal
degree can be a life-changing
subsequent choice of career. About 55% Society of Chemistry provides further
experience.
of our Chemistry graduates go on to do information about careers using
research or further study. Others enter chemistry at www.rsc.org.
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugchem www.chem.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 272568
28 and 29 June and 15 September admissions@chem.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays or Which colleges offer this
www.chem.ox.ac.uk course? See page 146
1st year 2nd year 3rd year 4th year

(extended terms)
Courses Courses Courses Research
Four courses are taken: Core material, including Further core material, plus Full-time research under
••Inorganic chemistry courses on: advanced courses with a the supervision of a
••Physical chemistry ••Theoretical chemistry choice from a wide variety member of the academic
••Organic chemistry ••Biological chemistry of options staff
••Mathematics for ••Molecular spectroscopy Optional supplementary Optional supplementary
chemistry ••Synthetic chemistry subject course subject course
••Practical work
Optional supplementary
subject course
More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment Assessment Assessment Assessment

First University Part IA examinations: Part IB examinations: Part II examination:
examinations: Four written Three written papers; Seven written papers; Dissertation; oral
papers; satisfactory continuous assessment of continuous assessment of examination; determination
practical record practicals but overall practicals of the class of honours
results are not calculated degree
until the end of the 3rd For the most up-to-date
year details on assessment,
please refer to the course
website.
51
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History BA 3 years
UCAS code: VV14 The course combines study of the history, preparation of a report in the second and
Entrance requirements archaeology and art of the classical world. third years focusing either on a particular
A-levels: AAA It looks at the societies and cultures of ancient site or on an artefact or set of
the ancient Mediterranean world through artefacts in a museum of your choice.
IB: 39 (including core points) with
their written texts, visual art and material
666 at HL A typical weekly timetable
remains, and has at its centre the two
First year:
classical cultures of Greece and Rome. It
A classical language, Classical Civilisation or
Ancient History can be helpful to students is aimed at anyone interested in
• lectures (four–six per week)
in completing this course, although they investigating ancient civilisations and
• team-taught classes (one per week for
are not required for admission. the first two terms)
their remains: from Greek temples and
3-year average (2014–16)
Roman amphitheatres to wall paintings
• tutorials (one every one–two weeks)
Interviewed: 90% and/or language classes.
Successful: 23% and the poignant residues of everyday
Second and third years:
Intake: 21 life. While it is primarily a historical and
You will take six options and produce a
How to apply non-linguistic degree, ancient languages
site or museum report. Currently, the
Tests: None required can be used and learned as part of the
Written work: Two pieces options are chosen from:
course.
See ox.ac.uk/writwork The degree is taught through a mixture
• integrated classes, bringing together
Fees, living costs and funding historical and archaeological
of tutorials, lectures and classes. Some
See pages 18–19 and approaches to a particular period
cover specifically archaeological or
ox.ac.uk/funding
historical approaches to ancient
• core papers, which deal with central
Additional costs topics in Greco-Roman studies
Mediterranean cultures, but the degree is
At the end of the first year, you will
unique in also offering courses that
• further papers, which allow you either
attend an archaeological fieldwork to build up concentrated expertise in
project. You will receive a grant combine both approaches. In every year
some central areas and periods or to
(currently £500) from the faculty of the course there are classes led by
extend into earlier and later periods,
towards your fieldwork, but may both an archaeologist and a historian,
need to budget for additional costs and into non-classical cultures
which are designed to give an integrated,
depending on your choice of project. interdisciplinary approach to the topics
• Greek or Latin Language papers.
studied. What are tutors looking for?
The University’s resources for this Tutors are looking for intellectual
combined subject are excellent, in terms potential, the specific visual, textual and
of both library facilities, especially the reasoning abilities required for this course
Sackler Library, and the range and and, of course, serious interest in and
number of postholders in the two fields. commitment to both classical
The Ashmolean Museum also contains archaeology and ancient history.
wide-ranging collections of art and Tutors will consider all the available
artefacts from classical cultures. information – past and predicted
examination results, the personal
Fieldwork and international
statement, academic reference,
opportunities
submitted written work and interviews –
There are two practical elements – two
to assess your potential to benefit from
weeks at the end of the first year spent
the course, to be a good tutorial student,
on an archaeological field project, and the
and to attain good results in examinations.
52
Sackler Library
The weight given to the different criteria Oxford provided the challenging The Sackler Library is a
will vary according to your individual environment in which I developed the principal research library of
background and circumstances. skills I later needed to successfully the University specialising
For further information on selection complete Reed’s rigorous application in Archaeology, Art History
criteria, see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. procedure.’ and Classics (Ancient
History and Literature).
CAAH CAREERS MORE ABOUT

Some CAAH graduates go on to further Requirements and applying: Course details:
ox.ac.uk/ugcaah www.classics.ox.ac.uk
study and research to become
professional archaeologists and historians. 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 288372
Others move into different areas, including 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
museum curation, heritage management, ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
education, finance, advertising, publishing, Oxford and Cambridge Classics course? See page 146
the Civil Service and law. Recent CAAH Open Day in Oxford: 17 March
graduates include a financial adviser, a 2017 – booking required
teacher and a curator. Sarah is now a www.classics.ox.ac.uk/
personal adviser. She says: ‘My degree at admiss-open.html

Courses Courses
Four courses are taken. Six courses are taken from a wide choice of options. These currently include:
Core elements: ••Rome, Italy and the Hellenistic East, 300–100 BC
••Aristocracy and ••Imperial culture and society, cAD 50–150: Archaeology and history
democracy in the Greek ••The Greeks and the Mediterranean World, c950–500 BC
world, 550–450 BC ••Greek art and archaeology, c500–300 BC
••Republic to empire: Rome, ••Cities and settlement under the Empire
50 BC to AD 50 ••Art under the Roman Empire, AD 14–337
Current optional elements: ••Archaeology of the late Roman Empire, AD 284–641
••Archaeology: Homeric ••Thucydides and the Greek world, 479–403 BC
archaeology and early ••Alexander the Great and his early successors
Greece from 1550 to ••Roman history 146–46 BC
700 BC; Greek vases; ••Egyptian art and architecture
Greek sculpture c600– ••Archaeology of Minoan Crete, 3200–1000 BC
300 BC; Roman ••Etruscan Italy, 900–300 BC
architecture ••Science-based methods in archaeology
••History: Thucydides and ••Greek and Roman coins
the West; Aristophanes’ ••Mediterranean maritime archaeology
political comedy; Cicero ••Epigraphy of the Greek and/or Roman world
and Catiline; Tacitus and ••Athenian democracy in the classical age
Tiberius ••Sexuality and gender in Greece and Rome
••Ancient Languages: ••Cicero: Politics and thought in the late Republic
Beginning Ancient Greek; ••Religions in the Greek and Roman world, c31 BC–AD 312
Beginning Latin; ••St Augustine and the Last Days of Rome, AD 370–430
Intermediate Ancient ••Intermediate Ancient Greek or Latin
Greek; Intermediate Latin; ••Advanced Ancient Greek or Latin
Advanced Ancient Greek; ••Research for a site or museum report
Advanced Latin More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Four written papers Six written papers; one site or museum report
53
Classics (Literae Humaniores) BA 4 years
Classical Languages and Literature, Ancient History, Classical Archaeology, Philology, Ancient and Modern Philosophy
UCAS codes: Q800 (Course I) Classics (Literae Humaniores) is a wide- reputation. The large number of
or Q810 (Course II) ranging degree devoted to the study of undergraduates and graduates reading
Entrance requirements the literature, history, philosophy, Philosophy with a variety of other
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and disciplines affords the opportunity to
languages and archaeology of the
Greek, if taken)
ancient Greek and Roman worlds. It is participate in a diverse and lively
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with
one of the most interdisciplinary of all philosophical community.
As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
IB: 39 (including core points) with subjects, and offers the opportunity to
Fieldwork/international
666 at HL (and an aggregate of 12 study two foundational ancient
opportunities
in Latin and Greek, if taken) civilisations and their reception in
Fieldwork is not a requirement in any
Or any other equivalent modern times. The degree permits
For Course I, candidates should normally part of the course, but some
students also to take extensive options
have Latin and/or Greek to A-level, undergraduates may participate in
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or in modern philosophy, a flexibility which
archaeological excavations.
equivalent. Course II is for candidates with makes Oxford’s Literae Humaniores
no or lesser experience of these languages.
different from most other Classics A typical weekly timetable
courses. Your time is divided between lectures,
Interviewed: 95%
Successful: 37%
Oxford has the largest Classics tutorials and private study. Most of your
Intake: 112 department and programme of courses work will be in preparation of essays for
How to apply in the world, with outstanding teaching, your tutorials, although systematic
Tests: CAT. For test date and library and museum resources, including language-learning and reading of texts
registration details please see the Sackler and Bodleian Libraries, the also require considerable time and effort.
ox.ac.uk/tests Ashmolean Museum and a designated
Written work: Two pieces What are tutors looking for?
Classics Centre. The degree involves
See ox.ac.uk/writwork Tutors are looking for potential and an
extensive study of ancient languages,
Fees, living costs and funding enquiring mind, and a real commitment
with a view to studying texts in the
See pages 18–19 and to this wide-ranging subject. For
original. Applications are welcomed from
ox.ac.uk/funding information about the selection criteria
candidates with and without prior
see ox.ac.uk/criteria.
knowledge of Greek and/or Latin. The
breadth of options available means you
can study papers ranging from Homeric
Archaeology to Byzantine Literature, and Classics CAREERS
the four-year course allows all students The breadth of subjects studied and
to explore the various disciplines within variety of skills learned to a high level
this vast subject and to engage with leave Classics graduates in high demand
their particular interests within the among employers. Occupations for
classical world in real depth. Classics graduates have recently included
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest in teaching, the Civil Service, finance, the
the UK and one of the largest in the media, software development, film
world, with more than 70 full-time production, conducting, NHS
members and admitting around 450 administration, consultancy, accountancy,
undergraduates annually to read the the law, medicine, publishing and further
various degrees involving Philosophy. classical study.
Many faculty members have a worldwide Menai is a project manager for Kent
54
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugclassics www.classics.ox.ac.uk
County Council. She says: ‘I joined
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 288372
Kingfisher Retail and subsequently
28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
WHSmith. I then worked for a charity
and finally moved to local government. ox.ac.uk/opendays www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk/
The training in logical thinking and a Oxford and Cambridge Classics admissions/undergraduate/courses
questioning approach I developed Open Day in Oxford: 17 March
Which colleges offer this course?
while studying for my degree have 2017 – booking required
See page 146
been invaluable.’ www.classics.ox.ac.uk/
admiss-open.html
Course Terms 1–5 Terms 1–5 Terms 6–12 Terms 6–12

names Courses Assessment Courses Assessment
Course IA ••Homer’s Iliad First University Choose eight options Final University
(Latin and Greek, ••Virgil’s Aeneid examinations IA: from more than 80 in examinations:
for those who have ••Texts and contexts: Ten papers, the following subjects Eight exam subjects
studied Latin and integrating literary/ including four (no area is compulsory; taken, with the
Greek to A-level or archaeological language papers in most of these possibility of offering
equivalent) material (Latin and Greek) subjects it is possible to one paper as a thesis.
••A special subject in offer an undergraduate For some Literature
Course IB First University
Philosophy (ancient thesis in place of one of options: instead of a
(Latin and Greek, examinations IB:
or modern) the papers): three-hour paper,
for those who have Ten papers,
••A classical special ••Greek and Roman assessment involves
studied only Latin including four
subject: historical, history (choose up to the composition of
to A-level or language papers
archaeological or five): some are one long essay over a
equivalent) (Greek language
philological period papers, others three-week period
work at a less
Work on the Greek topic-based
advanced level than
and Latin languages ••Philosophy (choose The options listed
IA, Latin at the
up to five): numerous here are illustrative
same level as IA)
ancient and modern and may change. A
Course IC First University options; up to four full list of current
(Latin and Greek, examinations IC: can be in modern options is available on
for those who have Ten papers, Philosophy the Classics website
studied only Greek including four ••Greek and Latin (details above)
to A-level or language papers literature (choose up
equivalent) (Latin language to five)
work at a less ••Greek and Roman
advanced level than archaeology (choose
IA, Greek at the up to two, plus a
same level as IA) thesis if you wish)
••Philology and
Course IIA ••Virgil’s Aeneid First University Final University
Linguistics (choose
(Latin only, for ••Special subjects and examinations IIA: examinations:
up to two, plus a
those who have Texts and contexts Seven papers, As Course I, but Latin
thesis if you wish)
not studied Greek (as Course I) including two only, unless you take
••Second classical
or Latin to A-level ••Work on the Latin language papers optional second
language: Course II
or equivalent) language classical language
students can take up
Course IIB ••Homer’s Iliad First University the second classical Final University
(Greek only, for ••Special subjects and examinations IIB: language if they wish examinations:
those who have Texts and contexts Seven papers, (will count as two As Course I, but
not studied Latin or (as Course I) including two papers in the final Greek only, unless you
Greek to A-level or ••Work on the Greek language papers exam) take optional second
equivalent) language classical language
55
Classics and English BA 3 years (Course I) or 4 years (Course II)
UCAS codes: Classics and English appeals to those A typical weekly timetable
QQ38 (Classics and English) interested in the interactions of Students usually have two tutorials a
QQH8 (Classics II and English) historically diverse literary cultures. week, plus language classes. They are
Entrance requirements
English may be taken with Latin or often (but not always) working on two
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and
Greek or both. Course I is for papers simultaneously. Most students
Greek, if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with
candidates with an A-level or attend three to four lectures a week
As in Latin and Greek, if taken) equivalent in either Latin or Greek or and produce around twelve pieces of
IB: 39 (including core points) with both: this is a three-year course. written work during a term.
666 at HL (with an aggregate of 12 Course II is for those who have not
in Latin and Greek, if taken) had the opportunity to study either
Successful candidates will be expected
Or any other equivalent language at school or college. It
Candidates are expected to have English to display competence in Latin or
includes a preliminary year, in which
Literature, or English Language and Greek (or general language aptitude if
Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher, students learn Latin or Greek
applying for Course II). They will have
Higher Level in the IB or any other alongside some study of classical
equivalent. Applicants for Course I would read widely in English and classical
be expected to have Latin and/or Greek to
literature, so this course lasts four
literature (in the original or
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in years.
the IB or any other equivalent. Course II is translation), and will enjoy talking and
Oxford has a long and distinguished
designed for candidates with no experience writing about literature and
of studying the classical languages. tradition of research and teaching in
approaches to it. Shortlisted
3-year average (2014–16) both Classics and English, and
candidates may be asked to discuss a
Interviewed: 82% possesses remarkable library provision
piece of prose or verse, supplied
Successful: 25% in both subjects.
Intake: 10 before or in the interview.
The first year of the course (which
How to apply For further information about the
follows the preliminary year of
Tests: CAT and ELAT. For test date selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
language learning for those taking
and registration details please see
Course II) is divided between the
ox.ac.uk/tests
classical and English elements. The
Written work: Two pieces
See ox.ac.uk/writwork highlight of the Classics and English
Fees, living costs and funding course is the link papers, which are
See pages 18–19 and studied over the second and third
ox.ac.uk/funding years. They provide an opportunity to
compare texts from both sides of the
course and to study classical influence.
Further papers are also chosen from
each of the ‘parent’ subjects.
56
C&E CAREERS FROM A C&E STUDENT
Many graduates in Classics and English
have entered fields such as teaching,
Classics & English at Oxford is an excellent course for
the media, management, advertising those who have a real interest in how the two subjects
and librarianship, or have continued to interact; not only through the fascinating range of link
further study in their subject. papers available, but also through the number of other
Philip is now a writer. He says: ‘Since papers associated with only one half of the course.There
graduating I have embarked on a is so much choice, and such personalised teaching due to
career in writing and journalism. I have the small year size, that there are always opportunities to
published two novels, and write for a specialise in your own interests, which is a real privilege.
wide range of magazines and papers, I have also been able to study both Greek and Latin from
and am a Contributing Editor to scratch since starting at Oxford, which makes for a deep
Literary Review, the Periscope Post
and Port. My degree helped me
understanding of classical and modern languages, and a
develop the analytical, presentational
far richer understanding of literature.
and linguistic skills that are paramount India, Course II
in the media world.’
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugce www.classics.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 288372
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.english.ox.ac.uk
Oxford and Cambridge Classics +44 (0) 1865 271055
Open Day in Oxford: 17 March undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
2017 – booking required
Which colleges offer this
www.classics.ox.ac.uk/
admiss-open.html

Courses Courses
Five papers are taken: Seven papers are taken:
••Introduction to English Language and Literature ••Two link papers, one compulsory (Epic), and a choice
••Literature in English 1550–1660 from Comedy, Tragedy, Reception
••Unseen translation for Classics ••Two papers from the English single honours course,
••Greek and/or Latin literature (two papers) including one period paper not taken in the first year
••One core paper in Latin or in Greek literature
••One Classics option
Note: Course II students spend an additional preliminary ••Dissertation of 8,000 words, either interdisciplinary or
year learning Latin or Greek, alongside some study of focused on English or Classics
classical literature. More information on current options is available on the
Classics course website (details above).
Four written papers form the First University Examination, Up to three papers examined as coursework (extended
together with a submitted portfolio of two essays for essays and dissertation). The remaining papers will then
Introduction to English Language and Literature. be examined by final written examinations.
All exams must be passed, but marks do not count
towards the final degree.
57
Classics and Modern Languages BA 4 or 5 years including a year abroad
UCAS code: see combinations Classics and Modern Languages enables

Entrance requirements Course combinations you to combine study of Latin and/or
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and Classics (I or II) and: Ancient Greek with a modern language.
Greek, if taken) Czech QR87
The course involves extensive study of
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with French QR81
major literary texts, alongside training in
As in Latin and Greek, if taken) German QR82
IB: 39 (including core points) with Modern Greek QQ87
linguistic skills. Some papers on offer
666 at HL. Italian QR83 provide an opportunity to compare texts
Or any other equivalent. Portuguese QR85 from both sides of the course, and to
Candidates are not required to have Russian QRV7 study classical influence on modern
studied Greek or Latin at the point of
application. Course I is designed for
Spanish QR84 European literature.
candidates with Greek and/or Latin to Classics I and Beginners’: Oxford has the largest Classics
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in Czech Q8R7 department in the world, and the Modern
the IB or equivalent. Course II is tailored
for candidates without an A-level or other Modern Greek QR8Y Languages Faculty is also one of the
qualifications in either Greek or Latin. Italian QR38 largest in the country, with a major
Classics II candidates would usually be Portuguese QR8N research library and a well-equipped
expected to have studied the modern 3-year average (2014–16)
language before, or to speak it at home Language Centre. Undergraduates also
Interviewed: 86%
or school. develop oral proficiency in the modern
For French, German, Russian Successful: 26%
language by regular contact with native
and Spanish Intake: 7
How to apply
speakers.
Candidates would usually be
expected to have the language to Tests: CAT and MLAT. For test International opportunities
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher date and registration details please Students spend a year abroad before their
Level in the IB or another academic see ox.ac.uk/tests
final year. Please see Modern Languages
equivalent. Written work: Three/four pieces
(page 114) for more information.
For Czech, Modern Greek, See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Italian and Portuguese Fees, living costs and funding A typical weekly timetable
Candidates may apply with an A-level See pages 18–19 and Your time is divided between lectures,
or equivalent in the relevant language ox.ac.uk/funding
language classes, tutorials and private
or for a beginners’ course, which The year abroad has lower fees and
study. Most of your work will be in
allows students to start studying one may have extra funding: see
ox.ac.uk/erasmus
preparation of essays for your tutorials
of these languages from scratch.
and classes, although independent
Beginners’ courses are not available
language work and systematic reading,
to Course II candidates, who will be
taking a beginners’ course in Ancient
not necessarily aimed at any particular
Greek or Latin. tutorial, also requires a considerable input
of time and effort.
For information about the selection
criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
58
Please see ox.ac.uk/erasmus
for details of current Erasmus
MORE ABOUT
opportunities for this course.
CML CAREERS
Careers for CML graduates include the Requirements and applying: Course details:
media, teaching, acting, management, ox.ac.uk/ugcml www.classics.ox.ac.uk
advertising and librarianship, as well as 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 288372
working with international companies 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
or organisations. Recent Classics and ox.ac.uk/opendays www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Modern Languages graduates include an +44 (0) 1865 270750
Oxford and Cambridge Classics
investment manager and a trainee solicitor. Open Day in Oxford: 17 March reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
2017 – booking required
FROM A CML STUDENT www.classics.ox.ac.uk/
admiss-open.html
I’d recommend CML to anyone Modern Languages and joint
passionate about languages and courses Open Day:
literature who likes to keep their 29 April 2017 – booking required
area of study broad. www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/
Olivia open-days
Course structure
Two routes through the course, called ‘options’, are available to CML students. This is separate from whether you will study
Course I (if you have studied Latin and/or Greek to A-level standard) or Course II (if you have not). You will be asked which route
you wish to take only after you have applied to Oxford. The two routes are identical in their last two years, and lead to the same
final exams; they differ only in their first one or two years.
Option A divides its time evenly between Classics (mostly language and literature) and Modern Languages. This option (also
known as the ‘Prelims route’, because you will take a Preliminary Examination similar to that taken by Classics and English or Modern
Languages students) lasts three years for Course I students, and four years for Course II students. (With the year abroad, this
makes a total of four or five years.)
Option B begins with a focus on Classics. For the first five terms, students take all the same options in Greek and/or Latin language,
literature, ancient history, archaeology, philology and ancient or modern philosophy as are available to students of Classics. This option
(also known as the ‘Mods route’, because you will take Honour Moderations (first exams) in Classics identical to those taken by
Classics students) lasts four years for students on both Course I and Course II. (With the year abroad, this makes a total of five years.)
Option A Option B Options A and B (plus intercalated year abroad)

1st year (Course I) or 1st and 2nd 1st and 2nd year Terms 4–9 (Option 1 Course I), 6–12 (Option
year (Course II) (terms 1–5) 2), or 7–12 (Option 1 Course II)
Course II students spend a preliminary Courses Courses
year studying Latin or Greek, then As for Classics (see entry ••Classics (three/four papers): a core paper in
follow Course I for Classics (page 54) Latin or in Greek literature, two or three
Courses for the first five terms). Classics options
••Translation from the ancient Course II students follow ••Modern Language (four/five papers)
language(s) into English (one paper) Classics Course II. ••Possibility of a paper or a long essay exploring
••Literature in the ancient language or In addition, the links between ancient and modern
languages (two papers) undergraduates normally literatures
••Practical language work for the maintain their modern
modern language (two papers) language through The options listed above are illustrative and may
••Literature in your modern language language classes. change. More information about current options is
(two papers) available on the course websites (details above).

First University examinations: Three First University Final University examinations: Nine papers in total
papers in the ancient language; four examinations in Classics: (eight compulsory, one optional) plus oral exam in
papers in the modern language Ten papers the modern language. A thesis may be offered in
place of one of the compulsory papers in Classics.
59
Classics with Oriental Studies BA 4 years (3 years if Oriental Studies is
the main subject and no year abroad is taken)
UCAS codes: This course allows you to combine the Roman civilisations. The languages to
Q8T9 (Classics with Oriental study of an Oriental language and culture choose between are numerous, each of
Studies) with Latin and/or Greek and the study of which has the potential to change your
T9Q8 (Oriental Studies with
the ancient world. There are two options: perspective both of Classics and of the
Classics)
Classics with Oriental Studies (Q8T9) and world. On the other hand, the study of
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA with As in Latin and
Oriental Studies with Classics (T9Q8). In Classics will teach you a lot about how to
Greek, if taken each case the subject mentioned first is look at the language of the Oriental
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB, with the main subject (about two-thirds of the Studies part. I am reading Classics IB with
As in Latin and Greek, if taken degree) and the second subject is an Arabic. Having chosen a linguistics paper
IB: 39 (including core points) with additional subject (about one-third of the for Mods (second-year examinations),
666 at HL and an aggregate of 12 in degree). which focuses on Indo-European, the
Latin and Greek, if taken Oxford is ideally placed for the study of Arabic, a Semitic and unrelated
Or any other equivalent combined study of Classics and Oriental language, is fascinating. In many ways, this
Candidates for Classics with Oriental
Studies without an A-level or similar Studies, not least in the numerous and course can be remarkably stimulating for
qualification in either Greek or Latin will varied teaching staff in each faculty, and students who wish to learn about linguistics.
follow Classics Course II – please see page You can choose to take Sanskrit or
the resources of the Ashmolean Museum
54 for details.
How to apply and the Sackler Library. Armenian, for example, both instrumental
Tests:
in understanding Indo-European. The
What are tutors looking for? relationship between a language and its
Classics with Oriental Studies:
CAT (including part B for Arabic/ Tutors are keen to find out about your literature is also something which I find
Hebrew/Persian/Turkish options) linguistic ability and commitment to a particularly interesting, and Latin, Greek
Oriental Studies with Classics: wide-ranging course. Ability to sustain an and Arabic are an inviting combination of
OLAT (Arabic/Hebrew/Persian/ argument is also important.
Turkish options only).
cases to observe. On an intellectual level,
For further information about the I find my course satisfactory because it is
For test date and registration
details please see selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. thorough: the fact that I must follow the
ox.ac.uk/tests Classics course until after the middle of
Written work: Two pieces COS CAREERS second year means that my knowledge of
See ox.ac.uk/writwork Students develop good linguistic and Greek and Latin is stable and accurate
Fees, living costs and funding when starting to learn Arabic. I also
analytical abilities and will be very
See pages 18–19 and believe that the Classics with Oriental
attractive to employers from a wide
ox.ac.uk/funding Studies course is interesting in times
variety of sectors. Knowledge of a
modern language opens up opportunities where cultural prejudices are
for careers with international companies commonplace. So far, this course has
and organisations. taught me that looking at some things
from the outside is the finest lens to see
FROM A Cos STUDENT
through to their innermost workings.
Overall, this external eye has helped me
The Classics and Oriental Studies course to think about the roots of civilisation and
is an enriching opportunity to broaden the the relationship between language and
usual frontiers of the study of Classics, by society. Simply look at the name of the
adding to it one language considered to course: who are Classics classic for?
be culturally external to the Greek and Dominique
60
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugcos www.classics.ox.ac.uk
Bodleian Oriental 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 288372
Institute Library
ox.ac.uk/opendays
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk
The Bodleian Oriental Institute
Oxford and Cambridge Classics +44 (0) 1865 278312
Library has core collections
Open Day in Oxford: 17 March undergraduate.admissions@
comprising Islamic, South Asian
2017 – booking required orinst.ox.ac.uk
and Jewish Studies.
www.classics.ox.ac.uk/
admiss-open.html Which colleges offer this
Oriental Studies Open Day:
29 April 2017 – booking required
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/
undergraduate/admissions.html
Classics with Oriental Studies
1st year, 2nd year (terms 1–5) 2nd, 3rd and 4th years (terms 6–12)
Courses Courses
Follow the course for Classics (see Carry on with Classics options and start with chosen Oriental language from
page 54) ••Akkadian
••Arabic
••Aramaic and Syriac
••Armenian
••Coptic
••Egyptian
••Hebrew
••Old Iranian
••Pali
••Persian The options listed here are illustrative
••Sanskrit and may change. More information
or about current options is available on
the course websites (details above).
••Turkish
First University examinations in Classics Final University examinations: Eight written papers (five in Classics, three in
(see page 54) Oriental Studies); one paper may be substituted by a thesis
Oriental Studies with Classics

1st year 2nd year (for languages 2nd and 3rd year (for languages without a year abroad)
with a year abroad) or 3rd and 4th year (for languages with a year abroad)
Select main language: Year abroad: approved Carry on with Oriental Studies options and
••Akkadian course of language choose classical language:
••Arabic* instruction ••Greek
••Egyptian or
••Hebrew ••Latin
••Persian* *These languages
••Sanskrit include a year A full list of current options is available on the
or abroad in the course websites (details above).
••Turkish* second year.
First University examinations in Oriental Final University examinations: Eight to ten
Studies (see page 122) written papers (five to seven in Oriental
Studies, three in Classics)
61
Computer Science BA 3 years or MCompSci 4 years
UCAS code: G400 Computer Science is about hardware technologies and their
Entrance requirements understanding computer systems and applications. We are looking for students
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in networks at a deep level. Computers and with a real flair for mathematics, which
Mathematics, Further Mathematics you will develop into skills that can be
the programs they run are among the
or Computing/Computer Science
most complex products ever created; used both for reasoning rigorously about
designing and using them effectively the behaviour of programs and computer
766 at HL presents immense challenges. Facing systems, and for applications such as
Or any other equivalent these challenges is the aim of Computer scientific computing. You will also gain
Candidates are expected to have Science as a practical discipline, and this practical problem-solving and program
Mathematics to A-level (A or A* grade),
leads to some fundamental questions: design skills; the majority of subjects
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in
the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. • How can we capture in a precise way within the course are linked with
Further Mathematics or another science what we want a computer system to practical work in our well-equipped
would also be highly recommended.
do? laboratory.
• Can we mathematically prove that a
Interviewed: 33% A typical weekly timetable
Successful: 8% computer system does what we want
During the first part of the course, your
Intake: 26 it to?
work is divided between lectures (about
How to apply • How can computers help us to model
ten a week), tutorials (about two a week)
Tests: MAT. For test date and and investigate complex systems like
and practical classes (about two sessions
registration details please see the Earth’s climate, financial systems or
ox.ac.uk/tests a week).
our own bodies?
Written work: None required In tutorials you discuss ideas in depth
• What are the limits to computing? Will
Fees, living costs and funding with an experienced computer scientist,
quantum computers extend those
See pages 18–19 and usually with just one or two other
limits?
ox.ac.uk/funding students. You will be expected to spend
The theories that are now emerging
a considerable amount of time
to answer these kinds of questions can
developing your own understanding of
be immediately applied to design new
the topics covered in lectures, answering
computers, programs, networks and
questions designed to check your
systems that are transforming science,
understanding, and preparing for
business, culture and all other aspects
tutorials. As the course progresses, you
of life.
will also begin to work in small classes
Computer Science can be studied for
(up to ten people) on more specialised
three years (BA) or four years (Master
topics. In the second year you will take
of Computer Science). The fourth year
part in an industry-sponsored group
allows the study of advanced topics and
design practical. In years three and four
an in-depth research project. Everyone
about a third of your time is spent
applies for the four-year course. Exit
working on your chosen individual
points are not decided until the
project.
third year.
The course concentrates on creating
links between theory and practice. It
covers a wide variety of software and
62
What are tutors looking for? CS CAREERS Amazing computer
science at Oxford
We look for proven mathematical flair, Common roles for graduates include
the ability to think and work computer programmer, software
independently, the capacity to absorb We’re changing the world:
designer and engineer, financial analyst
modelling the human body
and use new ideas, and enthusiasm. We and scientific researcher.
in the fight to cure cancer;
use these criteria and the MAT results to
programming swarms of
decide whom to interview. autonomous helicopters that
At interview, we explore how you can find survivors in disaster
tackle unfamiliar problems and respond zones; ensuring privacy online.
to new ideas; we are more interested in
how you approach problem-solving than
the solution. We don’t require any
MORE ABOUT
previous formal qualification in Requirements and applying: Course details:
computing, but we do expect a real ox.ac.uk/ugcs www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions
interest in the subject. 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863
28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.ac.uk
Computer Science Open Day: course? See page 146
www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays

Courses Courses Courses Courses
Core courses Core courses (50%): Current options (67%) Current options (62%)
(100%): ••Algorithms include: include:
••Continuous ••Compilers ••Computational complexity ••Automata, logic and games
mathematics ••Concurrent ••Machine learning ••Advanced security
••Design and programming ••Computer security ••Categories, proofs and
analysis of ••Models of computation ••Computer-aided formal processes
algorithms Current options (50%) verification ••Computational game theory
••Digital systems include: ••Geometric modelling ••Computer animation
••Discrete ••Computer architecture ••Knowledge representation ••Concurrent algorithms and
mathematics ••Computer graphics and reasoning data structures
••Functional ••Computer networks ••Lambda calculus and ••Database systems
programming ••Databases types implementation
••Imperative ••Intelligent systems ••Principles of programming ••Advanced machine learning
programming ••Logic and proof languages ••Probabilistic model checking
••Introduction to ••Object-oriented Project work (33%) ••Probability and computing
formal proof programming ••Quantum computer science
••Linear algebra ••Program analysis
••Probability ••Theory of data and
knowledge bases
Project work (38%)
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options
is available on the course website (details above).

Four exam papers Four exam papers Ten exam papers plus Five take-home exams or
project report written papers
63
Computer Science and Philosophy BA 3 years
or MCompPhil 4 years
UCAS code: IV15 Artificial intelligence (AI), logic, robotics, Computer Science as a practical
Entrance requirements virtual reality: fascinating areas where discipline.
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in Computer Science and Philosophy meet. Both subjects are intellectually exciting
Mathematics, Further Mathematics and creative. The degree combines
There are many others, since the two
or Computing/Computer Science
disciplines share a broad focus on the analytical and technical knowledge with
representation of information and rhetorical and literary skills, and the chance
766 at HL rational inference, embracing common to study within two internationally
Or any other equivalent interests in algorithms, cognition, acclaimed academic departments.
Candidates are expected to have intelligence, language, models, proof and Computer Science and Philosophy can
verification. Computer scientists need to be studied for three years (BA) or four
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in
the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. be able to reflect critically and years (Master of Computer Science and
Further Mathematics or another science philosophically about these, as they push Philosophy). Everyone applies for the
would also be highly recommended. Recent
experience of writing essays would be
forward into novel domains. Philosophers four-year course. Exit points are not
helpful but is not essential. need to understand a world increasingly decided until the third year.
3-year average (2014–16) shaped by technology, in which a whole The first year covers core material in
Interviewed: 38% new range of enquiry has opened up, both subjects, including a bridging course
Successful: 12% from the philosophy of AI, to the ethics studying Turing’s pioneering work on
Intake: 7 computability and artificial intelligence.
of privacy and intellectual property.
How to apply
Some of the greatest thinkers of the Later years include a wide range of
Tests: MAT. For test date and
past – including Aristotle, Hobbes and options, with an emphasis on courses
registration details please see
ox.ac.uk/tests Turing – dreamed of automating near the interface between the two
Written work: None required reasoning and what this might achieve; subjects. The fourth year allows the study
Fees, living costs and funding the computer has now made it a reality, of advanced topics and an in-depth
See pages 18–19 and providing a wonderful tool for extending research project.
ox.ac.uk/funding our speculation and understanding.
A typical weekly timetable
The study of Philosophy develops
For the first two years, your work is divided
analytical, critical and logical rigour, and
between lectures (about ten a week),
the ability to think through the
tutorials in your college (two or three a
consequences of novel ideas and
week) and Computer Science practical
speculations. It stretches the mind by
classes (about one session a week). In the
considering a wide range of thought on
second year you will take part in an
subjects as fundamental as the limits of
industry-sponsored Computer Science
knowledge, the nature of reality and our
group design practical. In your third and
place in it, and the basis of morality.
fourth years the Philosophy courses
Computer Science is about understanding
continue similarly, but most Computer
computer systems at a deep level.
Science courses are run as classes in the
Computers and the programs they run
department rather than tutorials.
are among the most complex products
ever created. Designing and using them What are tutors looking for?
effectively presents immense challenges. For Computer Science: strong
Facing these challenges is the aim of mathematical aptitude, the ability to think
64
and work independently, the capacity to elegantly and precisely, in written form.
absorb and use new ideas, and a great This ability to analyse complex issues,
deal of enthusiasm. For Philosophy: a both technically and discursively, provides
critical and analytical approach to the intellectual equipment needed for
abstract questions, the ability to defend a technical leadership and high-level
viewpoint by reasoned argument, and a positions in today’s complex world.
desire to delve deeper into the way we
think about things. You do not need to
have previously studied either subject. MORE ABOUT
CSP CAREERS
ox.ac.uk/ugcsp www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions
Graduates will have highly marketable 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863
skills. Computer Science teaches you how 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.ac.uk
to program, to design processes that are ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
effective and efficient, to reason logically course? See page 146
Computer Science Open Day:
and formally. Philosophy teaches how to
analyse complex concepts and the www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays
interconnections between them and –
crucially – how to express this analysis,

Computer Science: Computer Science core Computer Science Computer Science:
••Functional courses (25%): (25–75%): Current advanced options
programming ••Models of computation Current options include: include:
••Design and analysis ••Algorithms ••Computational complexity ••Advanced security
of algorithms Computer Science ••Machine learning ••Automata, logic and
••Imperative options (25%): ••Computer-aided formal games
programming Current options include: verification ••Computational game
••Discrete ••Compilers ••Computers in society theory
mathematics ••Concurrent programming ••Knowledge representation ••Concurrent algorithms
••Probability ••Databases and reasoning and data structures
Philosophy: ••Intelligent systems Philosophy (25–75%): ••Advanced machine
••General philosophy ••Object-oriented Current options include: learning
••Elements of programming ••Philosophical logic ••Optional Computer
deductive logic Philosophy (50%): ••Philosophy of cognitive Science project
••Turing on Current options include: science ••Quantum Computer
computability and ••Knowledge and reality ••Philosophy of mathematics Science
intelligence ••Early Modern philosophy ••Philosophy of logic and Philosophy:
••Philosophy of science language Advanced options in
••Philosophy of mind and many others Philosophy
••Ethics Optional Philosophy thesis

Five written papers Two Computer Science 9–11 three-hour written Computer Science: written
papers papers, including at least two paper or take-home exam;
in Computer Science and at Philosophy: three-hour
least three in Philosophy written paper and 5,000-
word essay
65
Earth Sciences (Geology) BA (Geology) 3 years
or MEarthSc 4 years
UCAS codes: F642 (Geology) The Earth Sciences are changing rapidly an independent project to study and map
F644 (Earth Sciences) in scope and nature. The course at an area chosen by the student. Many of
Entrance requirements Oxford reflects these changes, and the field excursions take place out of term
A-levels: A*AA/AAAA
provides sound and broadly based time, so students must be available
scientific training. Students are trained in outside term.
the skills required for the interpretation
766 at HL A typical weekly timetable
Or any other equivalent of rock materials and geological
During years 1–3, your work is divided
Candidates are required to have phenomena as well as applying theory
Mathematics plus Physics or Chemistry between lectures, tutorials, and practical
and techniques from physics, chemistry,
either to A-level, Advanced Higher, classes. In year 4 you have the
Higher Level in the IB, or an equivalent materials science and biology to the
opportunity for independent work on
qualification. Chemistry or Physics are also study of the Earth and the environment.
highly recommended as a third subject. special topics or in a research laboratory.
The department has an international
Biology, Geology or Further Mathematics
can also be helpful to candidates in reputation, and houses state-of-the-art Application information
completing this course. laboratories and computing facilities. Students can apply for a three-year BA in
3-year average (2014–16) Students, teachers and visitors mix and Geology or a four-year MEarthSc. These
Interviewed: 90%
work together. Offices and teaching labs are the same for the first three years. If
Successful: 28%
are close together but with plenty of students are not sure which course they
Intake: 29
How to apply
shared open space, so you will become would prefer, it is best to apply for the
Tests: None required part of a vibrant community. This creates MEarthSc, as it is easier to transfer to
Written work: None required an atmosphere in which a student does the BA later on. Continuation to 4th year
Fees, living costs and funding not only learn the basics, but also gets and the MEarthSc is dependent on
See pages 18–19 and some feel for the discoveries emerging satisfactory performance in the 3rd year.
ox.ac.uk/funding from current research. Students who do not meet the MEarthSc
Additional costs The diversity of the subject is reflected requirements will be awarded the BA
There are several compulsory field in the range of courses which cover Geology.
courses outside term. Costs of travel
processes from the Earth’s interior, as
and accommodation are covered by What are tutors looking for?
mapped by seismic waves, to the
the department, although students Tutors are looking for highly motivated
must provide suitable attire and
evolution of the Earth’s crust
individuals with the intellectual skills
sometimes their own lunch. The final documented in the rocks at the surface,
necessary to do well on the course. As
term of this course is a week longer to ocean and atmospheric circulation,
part of the interview process, candidates
than usual, which may lead to slightly through to the evolution of life on Earth.
may be asked to comment on geological
higher living costs.
Fieldwork/international specimens, or carry out simple
opportunities calculations, but always with due
The Earth Sciences course includes recognition of their previous knowledge
several excursions. These link closely to of the subject being discussed.
material covered in lectures, and convey For information about selection criteria
the practice of geology, geophysics, please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
geochemistry and palaeontology in the
field environment. This work culminates in
66
ESG CAREERS Rachael works for BP as a geoscientist.
Typical destinations for Earth Sciences She says: ‘I am currently working as an
graduates include the energy industry, the Operations Geologist in London for a
environmental sector and engineering/ project based in North Africa. My degree
technical consultancies. Some enter gave me the technical basis for my career,
unrelated professions, in which the but more importantly it taught me how to
analytical and problem-solving skills they think out complex issues from basic
have developed are highly sought after. principles and to motivate myself to
Around 40% continue to study, through a produce the best results I can.’
PhD or further master’s course.
Martin works in the mining industry for
De Beers Canada as a Field Geologist. He MORE ABOUT
says: ‘My Oxford degree helped me to Requirements and applying: Course details:
develop the knowledge, understanding ox.ac.uk/ugearth www.earth.ox.ac.uk
and confidence to approach geological +44 (0) 1865 272040
2017 Open Days:
problems in a critical and informed enquiries@earth.ox.ac.uk
manner. I appreciate the course’s focus on
both the theoretical and practical side of
geology.’

Students take all Students take all Students take a combination of core Students choose four
courses in five parallel courses in five and optional papers from the options (currently out of
streams: parallel streams: following: eight to ten); generally two
••Planet Earth ••Earth deformation ••Natural resources in each term:
••Fundamentals of and materials ••Sedimentary basins ••Anatomy of a mountain
geology I ••Palaeobiology ••The oceans belt
••Fundamentals of ••Petrology ••Climate ••Planetary chemistry
geology II ••Geochemistry and ••Seismology and earth structure/ ••Structure and dynamics
••Physics, chemistry ocean chemistry Vector calculus of the Earth’s mantle
and biology for ••Mathematical and ••Geodynamics and continental ••Records of major
Earth Sciences geophysical tools deformation environmental change in
••Mathematics for Field courses ••Volcanology, igneous processes and Earth’s history
Materials and Earth ••Dorset field course petrogenesis ••Palaeobiology
Sciences ••Assynt field course ••Evolutionary turning points/ ••Environmental, rock and
Field courses (mapping) Vertebrate palaeobiology palaeomagnetism
••Pembroke field ••Earth materials, rock deformation ••Topics in oceanography
course (pre- and metamorphism ••Topics in volcanology
session) Field courses Field courses
••Arran field course ••South-east Spain field course Optional field courses as
(introduction) Independent field mapping announced each year
••Local field courses project (conducted over summer Independent work
break between 2nd and 3rd years) Research project over 2.5
Extended essay terms
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of
current options is available on the course website (details above).
First University Part A1 Examinations: Part A2 Examinations: Theory, Part B Examination:
Examinations: Theory Theory and Practical Practical for Field course: BA Hons (Theory) MEarthSc Hons
and Practical (Geology) (Earth Sciences)
67
Economics and Management BA 3 years
UCAS code: LN12 Economics studies how consumers, firms A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements and governments make decisions that • Six lectures and two tutorials or classes
A-levels: A*AA including
Mathematics at grade A or above
together determine how resources are • Preparation for the tutorials and
allocated. An appreciation of economics classes: reading, writing essays, solving
helps to make sense of government problem sets; up to two and a half days
766 at HL
policy-making, the conduct of for each tutorial or class
Or any other equivalent businesses and the enormous changes in • Discussing the essay or the problems in
Candidates are required to have economic systems which are occurring the tutorial or class
Mathematics to A-level (A* or A grade), throughout the world.
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in What are tutors looking for?
Management is concerned with the
the IB (score 7) or another equivalent.
3-year average (2014–16) effective use and coordination of • An interest in and a motivation for
studying the organisation of businesses
Interviewed: 26% materials and labour within organisations
and the economy
Successful: 8% in the pursuit of the organisation’s
Intake: 85 defined objectives. It considers the inter- • Independence and flexibility of mind
How to apply relationship and interactions between • An ability to analyse and solve
Tests: TSA. For test date and problems logically and critically
distinct parts of an organisation, and
between the organisation and its • A capacity to construct and critically
ox.ac.uk/tests assess arguments
environment. Management students look
Written work: None required
at theories, models and frameworks in • A willingness and an ability to express
Fees, living costs and funding ideas clearly and effectively both on
See pages 18–19 and order to understand how managers
paper and orally.
ox.ac.uk/funding behave and consider their role in the
The interview is not primarily a test of
process of decision-making.
existing knowledge and, in particular, is
This top-ranking Economics and
not a test of economics or management,
Management undergraduate degree
unless these subjects have been studied
programme examines issues central to
before.
the world: how the economy and
organisations function, and how
resources are allocated and coordinated.
Economics and Management are ideal
FROM AN EM STUDENT
intellectual partners. Economics provides
It’s not just about doing the work
a broad understanding of economic - it’s about engaging fully in the
activity within which all organisations subject. You’re going to discuss this
function; Management in turn analyses subject each week with a world
the character and goals of that expert, who is passionate about it
functioning. as well.
The lectures and seminars are Listen to more from Dara at ox.ac.uk/ugem
provided by the Department of
Economics and the Saïd Business School.
68
E&M CAREERS Dean is an analyst for Greenhill & Co,
Graduates in Economics and a leading independent mergers and
Management are among the most acquisitions advisory firm. He says:
sought after in the University. Their ‘Oxford provided an unparalleled
current employers include leading opportunity to enhance my self-
international organisations in traditional confidence, develop thorough analytical
activities, as well as new start-up skills and hone my ability to
companies in a variety of high-tech communicate in a clear and articulate
fields. Recent graduates have secured manner – prerequisites for a career in
positions in banking and finance, investment banking.’
consultancy, research and teaching
as well as a wide range of other
sectors.
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugem www.economics.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 271098
28 and 29 June and 15 September econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.sbs.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 288800

Courses Courses
Three courses are taken: Compulsory courses:
••Introductory economics ••Microeconomics
••General management ••Macroeconomics
••Financial management ••Quantitative economics
Optional courses, of which at least two must be in Management.
Choose from more than 20 options papers. Current options include:
••Strategic management
••Finance
••Organisational behaviour
••Marketing
••Economics of industry
••International economics
••Development economics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information
about current options is available on the Saïd Business School website
(details above).
First University examinations: Final University examinations: The three core Economics papers and five
Three written papers optional papers (including at least two from Management) are examined by
written examinations. It is possible to write a thesis in either Economics or
Management in place of one optional paper.
69
Engineering Science MEng 4 years
UCAS codes: see table Course options about which of these will be your
Entrance requirements Engineering Science H100 specialisation can be deferred until the
A-levels: A*A*A to include Biomedical Engineering H811 third year. In the fourth year there may
Mathematics and Physics. The A*s Chemical Engineering H800 be opportunities to study abroad.
must be in Mathematics, Physics or
Civil Engineering H200 The course is accredited every four
Further Mathematics
Electrical Engineering H620 years by the major engineering
Information Engineering H630 institutions in respect of the initial
776 at HL (with 7s in HL Mechanical Engineering H300 requirements for the designation of
Mathematics and Physics) chartered engineer.
Or any other equivalent Engineering Science encompasses a Industrial experience is an extremely
Candidates are expected to have Physics and vast range of subjects, from micro- important adjunct to an academic
Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. electronics to offshore oil platforms, engineering education, and under-
Inclusion of Mathematics Mechanics modules and involves the application of creative graduates are strongly encouraged to
is highly recommended. Further Mathematics
reasoning, science, mathematics (and of obtain it. One way to do so is by being
can be helpful to students in completing this
course, although it is not required for course experience and common sense) sponsored. Further information is
admission. Details of the requirements for to real problems. generally available through your careers
other qualifications, including the Advanced
Diploma in Engineering, can be found at The Department of Engineering teacher, or from the engineering
www.eng.ox.ac.uk. Science at Oxford has a top-level quality institutions.
For candidates who are predicted A*AA assessment rating for teaching, and a If your sponsoring company wants
serious consideration will be given to
extenuating circumstances, such as disruption world-class reputation for research. you to spend a year with them before
to education or bereavement, which have led Because we believe that future university, you will be asked to declare
to under-performance in exams and which
engineering innovation will benefit from this at your interview and in your
are described in their application. Any offer
would be conditional on achieving A*A*A. broad foundations as well as specialised UCAS application.
3-year average (2014–16) knowledge, teaching is based on a
Interviewed: 50% unified course in Engineering Science,
Successful: 17% As a guide, in an average week you will
which integrates study of the subject
Intake: 163 have approximately ten lectures and two
across the traditional boundaries of
How to apply college tutorials or classes. In some
engineering disciplines. Links between
Tests: PAT. For test date and weeks in the first two years you will also
topics in apparently diverse fields of
registration details please see have up to five hours of practical work.
ox.ac.uk/tests
engineering provide well-structured
Written work: None required fundamental understanding, and can be What are tutors looking for?
Fees, living costs and funding exploited to give efficient teaching. Enthusiasm for engineering combined
See pages 18–19 and The Engineering Science programme is with high ability in mathematics and
ox.ac.uk/funding a four-year course, leading to the degree physics is essential for those wishing to
of Master of Engineering. The first two study any engineering course. These
years are devoted to topics which we qualities will be tested at the interview
believe all Engineering undergraduates and combined with an assessment of
should study. In the third and fourth your predicted and attained examination
years there is scope for specialisation performance (especially in mathematics
into one of six branches of engineering: and physics, and your PAT score) to
Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, decide who will be offered places.
Information and Mechanical. Decisions
70
ES CAREERS Mark now works as a race strategy SET Awards
Success
Oxford Engineering Science graduates modeller at Ferrari and says: ‘My work
work in many different sectors such as involves applying mathematical
techniques to a variety of engineering These are Europe’s
banking and investment, consultancy, most important science,
accountancy, IT and computing, problems related to Formula One cars.
engineering and technology
energy and the environment. One recent example has been with
awards for undergraduates.
However, as you may expect, most race strategy, where we try to choose A small number of students
go on to work in the engineering and the optimum times to pit the car from Oxford’s Department of
manufacturing sector. Some decide to throughout a race and the best tyres Engineering Science choose
continue their studies at Oxford, or to put on. I believe the reputation of to enter for these awards
elsewhere, by working towards a the Oxford engineering degree was an each year, gaining recognition
important factor in securing a job in for themselves and the
doctorate.
Formula One.’ department.
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/uges www.eng.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 273006
28 and 29 June and 15 September faculty.office@eng.ox.ac.uk

••Mathematics ••Mathematics ••Five optional A major project, plus six
••Electrical and ••Electrical and Engineering courses specialist courses chosen
information engineering information engineering ••Engineering in society from within the areas of:
••Structures and ••Structures, materials ••Engineering computation ••Biomedical engineering
mechanics and dynamics ••Engineering practical ••Chemical engineering
••Energy and the ••Energy systems work ••Civil engineering
environment ••Engineering practical ••Group design project ••Electrical engineering
••Engineering practical work ••Engineering
work mathematics
••Information engineering
••Mechanical engineering
••Production engineering
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available
on the course website (details above).

First University Final University Final University Final University
examinations: examinations, Part A: examinations, Part B: examinations, Part C:
Four written papers; Four written papers; Six written papers; Six written papers;
Assessment of Engineering Assessment of Engineering Assessment of Engineering Project report
practical work practical work practical work;
Project reports
(Engineering Computation
and Design Project)
71
English Language and Literature BA 3 years
UCAS code: Q300 The English Language and Literature and all colleges have computing facilities
Entrance requirements course is one of the broadest in the for undergraduates to use.
A-levels: AAA country, giving you the chance to study In your first year you will be
writing in English from its origins in introduced to the conceptual and
Anglo-Saxon England to the literature of technical tools used in the study of
666 at HL
the 20th and early 21st centuries. As language and literature, and to a wide
Candidates are expected to have English well as British literature, you can study range of different critical assumptions
Literature, or English Language and works written in English from other parts and approaches. At the same time, you
Literature to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Higher Level in the IB or any other of the world. The course also allows you will be doing tutorial work on early
equivalent. A language or History can be a considerable degree of choice about medieval literature, Victorian literature
helpful to students in completing this the topics you would like to concentrate and modern literature up to the present
course, although they are not required for
admission. on. Studying literature at Oxford involves day.
3-year average (2014–16) the development of sophisticated In your second and third years you will
Interviewed: 60% reading skills and of an ability to place extend your study of English literary
Successful: 22% literary texts in their wider intellectual history in four more period papers
Intake: 231 and historical contexts. It also requires ranging from late medieval literature to
How to apply you to consider the critical processes by the Romantic age. These papers are
Tests: ELAT. For test date and
which you analyse and judge, to learn assessed by three-hour written
about literary form and technique, and to examinations at the end of your third
ox.ac.uk/tests
study the development of the English year. You will also produce a portfolio of
Written work: One piece
See ox.ac.uk/writwork language. work on Shakespeare; an essay relating
Fees, living costs and funding The Oxford English Faculty is the to a Special options paper with topics
See pages 18–19 and largest English department in Britain. All based on faculty research expertise; and
ox.ac.uk/funding Oxford colleges have at least two tutors an 8,000-word dissertation on a subject
in English who are responsible for tutorial of your choice. Submitted work therefore
teaching in their own college. Many also constitutes almost half of your final
give lectures to all students in the English assessment.
Faculty. You therefore have the Alternatively, in the second and third
opportunity to learn from a wide range years, you can choose to follow our
of specialist teachers. specialist course in Medieval Literature
Library provision for English at Oxford and Language, whose papers cover
is exceptionally good. All students have literature in English from 650–1550
access to the Bodleian Library, the along with the history of the English
English Faculty Library, other faculty language up to 1800, with a further
libraries and their own college libraries. paper either on Shakespeare or on
The English Faculty has long pioneered manuscript and print culture. You will
the use of electronic resources in also take a Special options paper and
teaching, and has a wide range of submit a dissertation on a topic of your
resources and facilities. The faculty choice.
building has its own computer room
72
A typical weekly timetable ELL CAREERS
Although details of practice vary from A number of English graduates (about
college to college, most students will 7%) choose to undertake research, while
have one or two tutorials and classes many more use the communication and
each week. A tutorial usually involves analytical skills they develop at Oxford in
discussion of an essay, which you have a range of careers including advertising,
produced based on your own reading and acting, publishing, teaching, librarianship,
research that week. You will normally be public relations, journalism, the legal
expected to produce between eight and professions, management consultancy
twelve pieces of written work each term. and finance.
Most students also attend three or
four lectures each week.
Successful candidates will tend to be
those who can give evidence of wide,
MORE ABOUT
enthusiastic and thoughtful reading. Requirements and applying: Course details:
Tutors appreciate that you may be ox.ac.uk/ugenglish www.english.ox.ac.uk
nervous in interview. You should not be 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 271055
afraid to defend your views or to suggest 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
authors whose work you would ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
particularly like to discuss. Shortlisted course? See page 146
candidates may be asked to discuss a
piece of prose or verse supplied before or
in the interview.
For further information about the
selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.

Four papers are taken: Course I: Course I:
••Introduction to English Language ••Literature in English 1350–1550 ••Shakespeare (may also be studied
and Literature ••Literature in English 1550–1660 in the 2nd year)
••Early medieval literature 650–1350 ••Literature in English 1660–1760 Course II:
••Literature in English 1830–1910 ••Literature in English 1760–1830 ••The Material text or Shakespeare
••Literature in English 1910–present Course II: (choice of option)
day ••Literature in English 650–1100 Both courses:
••Medieval English and related ••Special options paper
literatures 1066–1550 ••Dissertation
••Literature in English 1350–1550
••The history of the English More information on current options
language to c1800 is available on the course website
(details above).
Assessment Assessment (3rd year)

Three written papers form the First All period papers will be examined by final written examinations at the end of
University Examination, together with a the third year.
submitted portfolio of two essays for One extended essay for Special options, due in at the end of the first term;
Introduction to English Language and dissertation and portfolio for Shakespeare/The Material text, due during the
Literature. second term.
All exams must be passed, but marks do
not count towards the final degree.
73
English and Modern Languages BA 4 years with a year abroad
English and either Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish
UCAS codes: see combinations Course combinations The English side of the course offers you
Entrance requirements You can either study English with a a choice from a list of papers covering all
A-levels: AAA Modern Language you already speak, literature written in the English language
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB or with a Modern Language you’d like
from its origins in Anglo-Saxon through
IB: 38 (including core points) with to learn from scratch.
to works produced in English-speaking
666 at HL For the following course
Or any other equivalent combinations you would usually be
countries across the world in the present
Candidates are expected to have English expected to have the Modern day. The Modern Language side of the
Literature, or English Language and
Language to A-level, or another course will give you practical linguistic
Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Higher Level in the IB or any other academic equivalent. training, encourage you to think
equivalent. English and: coherently about language as a subject
3-year average (2014–16) Czech QR37 of study and introduce you to an
Interviewed: 64% French QR31 extensive and fascinating field of
Successful: 17% German QR32 Western literature and thought.
Intake: 19 Modern Greek QQ37
The English Faculty is the largest in the
How to apply Italian QR33
UK, and the Modern Languages Faculty
Tests: ELAT and MLAT. For test Portuguese QR35
date and registration details please Russian QRH7
is one of the largest, with both faculties
see ox.ac.uk/tests Spanish QR34 including major scholars in all areas of the
Written work: Two/three pieces respective subjects. Students thus have
The following course combinations
See ox.ac.uk/writwork access to a range of expert tutors.
allow you to begin studying a
Fees, living costs and funding Modern Language from scratch. Library provision at Oxford is excellent:
See pages 18–19 and English and: all students have access to the English
ox.ac.uk/funding Beginners’ Czech QR3S Faculty Library, the Taylor Institution
The year abroad has lower fees and Beginners’ Modern Greek QR39 Library (for languages), the Bodleian
may have extra funding: see Beginners’ Italian RQ33 Library and their own college libraries.
ox.ac.uk/erasmus Beginners’ Portuguese QR3M The course is extremely flexible. In the
first year you will do practical work in
your chosen language and study a
selection of important texts from its
literature. On the English side, you will be
introduced to the conceptual and
technical tools used in the study of
language and literature, and to a wide
range of different critical assumptions
and approaches. You will also do tutorial
work on either early medieval, Victorian
or modern literature. In the second year,
a wide range of options opens up for
you. Language work in your modern
language will continue and you will study
literature from a wide range of periods in
English and in your language. The third
74
year of this four-year course is spent EML CAREERS Please see
abroad – see below. On your return, you Graduates in English and Modern ox.ac.uk/erasmus
will choose from a range of special Languages go on to careers in fields for details of current
option papers in both English and including broadcasting, publishing, Erasmus opportunities
Modern Languages, and in comparative teaching, journalism, the theatre, for this course.
literature. administration, management,
International opportunities advertising, translation, librarianship
Students spend a year abroad before and law. Knowledge of a modern
their final year. Please see Modern language opens up opportunities for
Languages (page 114) for more internationally focused careers and
information. working with international companies
or organisations.
Most students will have one or two
tutorials a week as well as compulsory
language classes. Typically, students also
attend three to four lecture courses per
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subject.
ox.ac.uk/ugeml www.english.ox.ac.uk
What are tutors looking for? 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 271055
Successful candidates will have an 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
aptitude for their modern language, will ox.ac.uk/opendays www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
read widely and will enjoy writing and
Modern Languages and joint +44 (0) 1865 270750
talking about literature and language.
courses Open Day: reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Candidates who are shortlisted may be 29 April 2017 – booking required
asked to talk about a piece of prose or Which colleges offer this
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/
verse supplied before or in their course? See page 146
open-days
interview.
1st year 2nd and 4th years (3rd year spent abroad)
Courses Courses
Six papers are taken: ••Three from papers 1–6 from single honours English Language and
••Introduction to English Language Literature (see page 72)
and Literature ••Dissertation
••One period paper from single ••Modern Language (four papers) including: practical language work (two
honours English Language and papers plus oral examination), a period of literature and options
Literature (see page 72) (prescribed authors and texts from the 12th to 20th centuries, a special
••Two practical languages papers subject or a linguistics paper)
••Two literature papers in modern
languages
on the course websites (details above).
Six written papers form the First Papers will be examined by extended essays over the course of the second
University Examination including a and fourth years, or by practical and written examinations at the end of
submitted portfolio of two essays for your fourth year.
Introduction to English Language and
Literature.
All exams must be passed, but marks
do not count towards the final degree.
75
4 years
European and Middle Eastern Languages BA with a year abroad
Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish, with either Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish
UCAS codes: see combinations Course combinations This course in European and Middle
Entrance requirements Arabic Hebrew Eastern Languages (EMEL) enables
A-levels: AAA Czech RT7Q RQ7K students to combine papers in one of
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB French RT16 RQ14
the languages taught in the Faculty of
IB: 38 (including core points) with German RT26 RQ24
Modern Languages with papers in
666 at HL Modern Greek QT76 QQ74
Or any other equivalent Italian RT36 RQ34
Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish,
You would usually be expected to have the Portuguese RT56 RQ54 providing opportunities to take
European language to A-level, or another
Russian RT76 RQ74 advantage of the cultural links which
academic equivalent. We would not
normally expect you to have any Spanish RT46 RQK4 exist between a number of European
knowledge of the Middle Eastern language Persian Turkish and Middle Eastern languages. For
before starting the course. example, appropriate combinations
Czech RTT6 RTRP
French RTC6 RT1P might well be French and Arabic,
Interviewed: 89%
German RT2P RT2Q German and Turkish, or Hebrew and
Successful: 26%
Intake: 10
Modern Greek QT7P QT7Q Russian, but even some of the less
Italian RTH6 RT3P obvious pairings would provide similar
How to apply
Portuguese RTM6 RT5P cultural and historical linkage. So,
Tests: MLAT and OLAT. For test
Russian RT7P RTR6
date and registration details please Spanish and Turkish would be an
Spanish RT4P RTK6
see ox.ac.uk/tests interesting combination for the history
Written work: Two pieces of Sephardi Judaism, while Persian and
See ox.ac.uk/writwork Portuguese are important for the study
Fees, living costs and funding of early imperialism.
Through its long-standing traditions
ox.ac.uk/funding
and more recent gifts, Oxford has
outstanding resources for the study of
Middle Eastern and modern European
languages. The Bodleian Library and
Taylor Institution Library (for
languages) have a magnificent
collection of books and manuscripts.
The Taylor Institution Library is one of
the biggest research and lending
libraries devoted to modern European
languages in the world. Associated with
the University is the Centre for Hebrew
and Jewish Studies, which houses the
Leopold Muller Library with more than
35,000 volumes in Hebrew and more
than 7,000 volumes in Western
languages.
76
International opportunities EMEL CAREERS ACCELERATED
LANGUAGE
You will normally spend your second Oxford graduates in these subjects
year on an approved course of study regularly go into highly competitive
in the Middle East. There are
arrangements in place with partner
areas such as law, finance, commerce, LEARNING
management consultancy, accountancy, Start a Middle Eastern
universities to help you make the most the media, advertising, the Foreign language from scratch
of your time abroad. You are strongly Office and the arts. and within a year
advised to spend the adjacent summers Recent European and Middle Eastern you’ll be studying full
in a country where the European Languages graduates include a foreign authentic texts.
language of your choice is spoken. office diplomat, a translator at the UN
A typical weekly timetable and a journalist at a foreign news channel.
Your work is divided between language
classes, lectures and tutorials (one or two
a week). In the first year, the emphasis is
MORE ABOUT
on intensive learning of the Middle
ox.ac.uk/ugemel www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Eastern language. Throughout your
course, you will prepare essays for your 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270750
weekly tutorials and classes. 28 and 29 June and 15 September reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.orinst.ox.ac.uk
Oriental Studies Open Day: +44 (0) 1865 278312
Tutors will be looking for a good
29 April 2017 – booking required undergraduate.admissions@
command of the grammar of any www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/ orinst.ox.ac.uk
language you have already studied at undergraduate/admissions.html
school or college and want to continue Which colleges offer this
studying at Oxford, in addition to an Modern Languages and joint course? See page 146
courses Open Day:
interest in literature and culture.
For information about the selection www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/
criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. open–days
1st year 2nd year 3rd and 4th years

Courses Year abroad Courses
European languages: two For the Middle Eastern ••Practical language work in the European language
language papers and one Language, students attend an ••Period of literature and further paper chosen from
literature paper approved course of language a wide range of options in the European language
Middle Eastern language: instruction. ••Practical language work in the Middle Eastern
intensive language learning For the European Language, language
students are encouraged to ••Three papers including literature and a range of
spend as much of their options in the Middle Eastern language
vacation time as possible in a ••Extended essay on a topic bridging the European
relevant country. and the Middle Eastern language
Refer to sections on Oriental
Studies (page 122) and The options listed above are illustrative and may
Modern Languages (page change. More information about current options is
114). available on the course websites (details above).

First University examinations: Qualifying examination at the Final University examinations: Nine written papers are
Five written papers; plus end of the 2nd year course taken including a bridging extended essay;
oral/aural examination (Middle Eastern language Oral exam (both languages, but not Hebrew on the
(Arabic only) only) Middle Eastern side)
77
Fine Art BFA 3 years
Artist: Evie Kitt, graduate

UCAS code: W100 Fine Art is the making and study of allows art history, theory and criticism
(no deferred applications accepted) visual art. It educates and prepares to be treated as integral to the
Entrance requirements students to become artists and to development of studio work. The
A-levels: AAA Ruskin also enjoys a strong and
follow other practices that are aligned
to the making of art. The curriculum is constructive relationship with Modern
centred on the individual student’s Art Oxford (an exciting and influential
666 at HL
Or any other equivalent potential and imagination. contemporary art space) and students
It is highly recommended for candidates to The Ruskin School of Art offers a have full access to the many
have studied Art at A-level, Advanced three-year studio-based BFA course in exceptional University libraries and
Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another
equivalent and to take an Art Foundation which students work alongside each museums, including the Ashmolean.
course. other in collaboratively organised
Applicants interested in applying for Fine A typical weekly timetable
studios. Whereas many fine art courses
Art who are studying for a BTEC National Most students’ weeks will typically
Extended Diploma (BTEC) will have to run in an environment devoted
consist of several, or all, of the following:
submit a portfolio of work, and any offer exclusively to art and design, Ruskin
will require candidates to achieve DDD a history and theory lecture and seminar,
grades. As the Fine Art degree also includes
students, as members of a collegiate
a group critique of student art work, a
a substantial history and theory university, have the advantage of
component, BTEC applicants will be one-to-one studio-based tutorial
contact with their contemporaries on
expected to have successfully completed a focusing on the individual student’s art
range of modules that include art history. all of Oxford’s other courses.
work, a skills-based workshop, and a talk
3-year average (2014–16) The Ruskin course aims to develop
by a visiting artist or lecturer. Students
Interviewed: 25% strong independent points of view and
spend much of their time working in their
Successful: 12% a mature grasp of the range of critical
Intake: 27 own studio spaces, where they are
debate surrounding contemporary art
How to apply supported by specialists in the art-
and its many international histories.
Tests: No pre-interview tests making tools, concepts, ideas and
Oxford’s short terms, coupled with the
Written work: None required associated techniques available at the
ambitious atmosphere at the Ruskin,
You must submit a portfolio and, Ruskin School.
suit highly motivated and resourceful
if shortlisted, sit a practical test.
For details visit: students with a good sense of how to What are tutors looking for?
www.rsa.ox.ac.uk organise their time both in and out of All applicants are required to submit a
Fees, living costs and funding Oxford. portfolio of their art work. Tutors look
See pages 18–19 and The first year of the course is for work that goes beyond the mere
ox.ac.uk/funding structured to introduce students to fulfilment of school curricula. The Ruskin
each other, to the resources of the School seeks evidence of a breadth of
school and to the staff involved in engagement, a sense of purpose and an
teaching and running the Ruskin. emerging artistic voice in the way the
Students will familiarise themselves portfolio is edited. Candidates who are
with their fellow students’ work, take shortlisted are asked to bring a small
part in group criticism and engage in number of additional recent pieces of
intensive dialogue with tutors and their work to discuss during interview.
visiting artists. For further information about
The intimate working environment of selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
the school, arranged in two buildings,
78
FINE ART CAREERS practical that this course offers, was TOP-RATED ART
After graduation, most students go on
to work in fine art as practising artists,
perfect for me.’
Many Ruskin students have won or SCHOOL IN THE UK
The Times and Sunday Times
teachers and art writers, or as curators been shortlisted for several prestigious
Good University Guide and
in public and private galleries and for awards and art prizes. Ruth Spencer
The Complete University
arts councils and organisations. Many Jolly (BFA 2016), Melanie Eckersley Guide have both placed the
also pursue careers in academia, (BFA 2015) and Emily Motto (BFA Ruskin as the leading art
architecture and the film industry. 2014) were amongst the Bloomberg school in the UK in 2015,
We maintain close ties with former New Contemporaries in their year of 2016 and 2017.
students and keenly follow their graduation. Elizabeth Price (BFA 1988)
developing careers. won the Turner Prize in 2012. Conrad
Holly Muir, BFA graduate 2016, says: Shawcross (BFA 1999) won the Jack
‘Unlike most other art courses in the UK, Goldhill Award for Sculpture in 2014.
the Ruskin does not require you to In 2016, Helen Marten (BFA 2008)
specialise in any particular medium. The won the Turner Prize and the Hepworth
freedom of this approach really Prize for Sculpture.
appealed to me as I wanted the chance
to determine how my work developed
without an academic structure. The
MORE ABOUT
anatomy lessons during first year were
ox.ac.uk/ugfineart www.rsa.ox.ac.uk
also a big factor in my decision. I love
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 276940
working with the figure and found it
28 and 29 June and 15 September info@rsa.ox.ac.uk
really exciting to spend so much time
traditionally drawing the body. As
someone who loves reading and writing, course? See page 146
the interesting blend of academic and

Courses Courses
Students develop their studio work in Years two and three are similar in structure and continue the tutorial
discussion with the school’s lecturers, system introduced in the first year. All students are required to
tutors and visiting staff. They are allocated continue the study of art history and theory and to submit three
a tutor at the outset, who monitors essays during the course of the second year. In the first term of the
progress, sets targets and directs them in third year they agree an extended essay title with their tutor. This
their studies. Work is regularly presented essay is submitted at the end of the second term of the third year as
and discussed at group crits involving staff part of the Final Examination. Students are expected to establish a
and students from across the school. strong bond between the interests of the essay and their studio
Alongside this, workshops and projects studies.
designed to introduce a range of techniques
and approaches are offered throughout the
year. In addition, students attend taught
practical classes in drawing and human
anatomy as well as lectures, seminars and
tutorials in art history. Experimentation is
highly encouraged.
Assessment Assessment (2nd year)

Practical studio-based work, human Satisfactory record in all areas of the course
anatomy Assessment (3rd year)
Three submitted essays A final exhibition and a supporting portfolio of work made during the
One written paper in the history and theory second and third years
of visual culture An extended essay
One written paper in the history and theory of visual culture since 1900
79
Geography BA 3 years
UCAS code: L700 Geography is a diverse discipline that Fieldwork and international
Entrance requirements bridges the arts and social and natural opportunities
A-levels: A*AA sciences, providing a broad education The School of Geography and the
and addressing pressing issues Environment emphasises the
IB: 39 points with 766 at higher level
including environmental change, importance of fieldwork since it
It is highly recommended for candidates to regional and global inequalities and the believes there is no substitute for
have Geography to A-level, Advanced transformation of global economy and teaching subjects at first hand. In the
Higher or Higher Level in the IB or another
equivalent.
culture. Students obtain a coherent first year, all students take part in an
3-year average (2014–16) view of the rapidly changing world and induction field trip at the start of term
Interviewed: 75% the ways in which society influences and local skills-related field days.
Successful: 23% and is influenced by it. Second-year students will undertake a
Intake: 76 The Oxford Geography degree week-long overseas residential field
How to apply focuses on the interrelationships course (currently to Copenhagen and
Tests: TSA. For test date and between society and the physical and Tenerife). Independent research in the
registration details please see human environment. Students are field or in archives is a key element of
ox.ac.uk/tests
introduced to the full range of the dissertation. Each year, around
geographical topics in the foundational 30% of our undergraduates choose to
Fees, living costs and funding
courses, which they can then follow up do their dissertation overseas.
ox.ac.uk/funding in more detail in the optional papers.
There is considerable emphasis on
interdisciplinary approaches in the • Lectures in the morning
course, with opportunities to explore • Seminars/practical classes in the
afternoon
the cross-fertilisation between
Geography and other disciplines such • Tutorials: at least one college tutorial
a week, and some college-based
as anthropology, sociology, history,
classes.
political science, economics, earth
sciences and biology. What are tutors looking for?
The facilities available are among the Tutors are looking for students who
best in the country, notably: match academic achievement with
• the Radcliffe Science Library (RSL), enthusiasm, commitment and an
which holds a geography collection awareness of the world around them.
of over 28,000 volumes on its open For further information see:
shelves with many more held in ox.ac.uk/criteria.
closed stack storage. There are over
100 print journals on the open
shelves of the RSL as well as
electronic access to over 600 core
journals;
• well-equipped Geolabs for practical
physical courses and individual
research projects.
80
NO . 1 IN The world Geography Podcasts
Geo CAREERS Oxford Geography is ranked
number one in the 2016 QS
The School of Geography and the
Environment’s recorded talks and
Geography graduates have a broad set
World University rankings, by lectures are available at
of transferable skills including literacy,
subject. www.geog.ox.ac.uk/news/
numeracy and graphicacy, along with podcasts.
their experience of research projects
and working in groups. Some graduates
are able to use their geographical
MORE ABOUT
Requirements and applying: Geography
knowledge directly in their work or in
ox.ac.uk/uggeo www.geog.ox.ac.uk/
higher degrees. In recent years
2017 Open Days: undergraduate/course/
Geography graduates have proceeded to
28 and 29 June and 15 September course.html
employment in management consultancy,
ox.ac.uk/opendays +44 (0) 1865 275887
local and central government,
undergraduate.enquiries@geog.ox.ac.uk
conservation and heritage management, Geography Open Day:
law, the media, teaching and research. 12 June 2017 – booking required Which colleges offer this
You can see alumni profiles at www.geog.ox.ac.uk/ course? See page 146
www.geog.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/ undergraduate/opendays.html
course/careers.html.

Courses Courses
Four compulsory courses: Geographical Research (core)
••Earth systems processes Foundational courses (two chosen)
••Human geography ••Space, place and society
••Geographical controversies ••Earth system dynamics
••Geographical techniques ••Environmental geography
Induction field trip Options (three chosen)
1-day field trips: Human and Physical Options currently offered include:
••African societies
••Biogeography, biodiversity and conservation
••Climate change impacts and adaptation
••Climate change and variability
••Complexity
••Cultural spaces
••Desert landscapes and dynamics
••European integration
••Geographies of finance
••Geographies of nature
••Geopolitics in the margins
••Heritage science and conservation
••Transport and mobilities
••Island life
••The Quarternary period
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. The
University may cap the number of students who are able to take a
particular one. A full list of current options is available on the course
website (details above).
Dissertation
Overseas field trip
Four written papers: Two fieldwork reports; Six written papers: Three extended essays; fieldwork report;
submitted essay on Geographical controversies dissertation
81
History BA 3 years
UCAS code: V100 The study of History at Oxford variety of lectures and their regular
Entrance requirements combines the examination of large tutorials are supplemented by faculty
A-levels: AAA regions over extended periods of time classes where they discuss work with a
with more focused work on smaller larger number of students. The thesis
groups, shorter periods and particular gives all students the opportunity to
666 at HL
problems. It provides a distinctive engage in a piece of independent
It is highly recommended for candidates to education by developing an awareness research. Throughout the course,
have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, of differing political, cultural, social and students are very much in charge of
Higher Level in the IB or another
equivalent. economic structures in past societies their own timetable.
3-year average (2014–16) and their interrelationship. It combines
Interviewed: 72% vigorous debate over questions of
If you are shortlisted, your submitted
Successful: 23% interpretation with rigorous attention
work and UCAS personal statement may
Intake: 232 to the source materials. Its constant
How to apply form starting points for discussion in your
enrichment by cross-fertilisation from
Tests: HAT. For test date and interview. Some colleges may require you
other disciplines leads to new questions
registration details please see to read a short passage of historical
about the past.
ox.ac.uk/tests writing which they will ask you to discuss
Oxford is celebrated for the broad
Written work: One piece as part of the interview process. The
See ox.ac.uk/writwork
chronological sweep of its courses and
tutors are not so much interested in the
Fees, living costs and funding the enormous amount of choice offered
level of your knowledge as in your ability
See pages 18–19 and to students. Students can study options
to think historically.
ox.ac.uk/funding on any part of British and European
history from the declining years of the
selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/
Roman Empire to the present day. The
criteria.
geographical range is also broad: there
are options on North American, Latin
American, Asian and African history (see
website for further details). Students are
History CAREERS
History graduates go on to follow
encouraged to adopt a variety of
careers in fields such as law,
interdisciplinary approaches to their
investment banking and consultancies,
work, and the faculty is strong on
advertising, accountancy, the Civil
intellectual and cultural history options.
Service, publishing, journalism and the
The Oxford History Faculty is at the
media, global charity work, museums,
forefront of research.
librarianship and archive work, and
A typical weekly timetable teaching. Recent graduates include a
Students are expected to attend about civil servant at the Department of
five lectures a week during the first Health, an investment management
year, participate in regular meetings associate and a barrister.
with tutors to discuss work, research in Edward is now a curator. He says: ‘My
libraries and write at least one essay a degree helped me acquire a position with
week. In the second and third years the Pendle Heritage Centre and then at
students choose from an enormous Historic Scotland. Afterwards I became a
82
curator for the National Museum of the companies (it’s just like a tutorial really).’ TOP-ranked
History
US Navy.’ Sian says: ‘Since graduating I have
David is a history teacher at Taunton worked as assistant brand manager on
School. He says: ‘A History degree was a
prerequisite to teaching history to
Pringles and Braun at Procter & Gamble.
My degree taught me analytical skills,
Department
A-level and IB, but the Oxford degree time management and the ability to IN THE UK
accelerated my career path, allowing me think critically, all of which are crucial in for largest volume of
to step straight into a position at an my role.’ world-leading research
academic school. I use my degree on a in the most recent
daily basis, in teaching a wide range of (2014) Research
historical topics as well as advising Excellence Framework
students about Oxford.’
Robin is the Managing Director of
Schneider-Ross. He says: ‘On graduating,
I joined Esso UK. Having met my wife
there, in 1989 we decided to set up our MORE ABOUT
own consultancy, Schneider-Ross, Requirements and applying: Course details:
specialising in global diversity and ox.ac.uk/ughistory www.history.ox.ac.uk
inclusion. I feel History gave me all the 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615020
skills I’ve called on to analyse data, make 28 and 29 June and 15 September schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
arguments and convince people of the ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
need to change… and the confidence to course? See page 146
work at board level with FTSE 100

Courses Courses
Four courses are taken: Six courses are taken:
••History of the British Isles ••History of the British Isles
••European and World history ••European and World history
••Historical methods (choice of ••Further subject (choice of about 35, including: China since 1900; The Near East
Approaches to history; in the age of Justinian and Muhammad, c527–700; The Middle East in the age
Historiography: Tacitus to of empire, 1830–71; The authority of nature: Race, heredity and crime, 1800–
Weber; Quantification; one 1940; Culture, politics and identity in Cold War Europe 1945–68; Britain at the
of several foreign text papers) movies: Film and national identity since 1914)
••Optional subject (choice of ••Special subject: a paper and an extended essay (choice of about 30, including:
around 20 including: Theories The Norman conquest of England; Politics, art and culture in the Italian
of the state; Making England Renaissance, Venice and Florence c1475–1525; The Scientific Movement in the
protestant, 1558–1642; 17th century; English architecture, 1660–1720; Race, religion and resistance in
The rise and crises of the US, from Jim Crow to Civil Rights; Britain in the seventies; Terror and forced
European socialisms, 1881– labour in Stalin’s Russia; India, 1919–39: Contesting the nation; Nazi Germany, a
1921; Radicalism in Britain, racial order, 1933–45; The Northern Ireland troubles, 1965–85)
1965–75) ••Disciplines of history
••Thesis
The curriculum for this course is currently under review and is likely to change. For the latest information on
all course details and options see the course website (details above).
First University examinations: Final University examinations: Four written papers; one portfolio of submitted
Four written papers essays; one extended essay; one thesis; an additional thesis may be offered
Some essays are submitted in year 2.
83
History (Ancient and Modern) BA 3 years
UCAS code: V118 This course enables students to study What are tutors looking for?
Entrance requirements history from the Bronze Age Tutors are keen to find out whether you
A-levels: AAA Mediterranean and Near East, through can demonstrate the skills needed by
the Roman Empire, middle ages and History undergraduates. Even if you have
early modern period, right up to British, not previously studied ancient history or
666 at HL
European and world history in the classics, it is important to show some
It is highly recommended for candidates to present day. Fruitful comparisons awareness of and interest in the ancient
have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, between societies abound, and the world, including its material remains.
equivalent. A classical language, Classical methods by which we study them are Some colleges may require you to read
Civilisation and Ancient History can be mutually illuminating. a short passage of historical writing
helpful to students in completing this This Oxford course offers an which they will ask you to discuss during
course, although they are not required for
admission. extraordinary range of choices (more your interview.
3-year average (2014–16) than 90 options) reflecting the breadth For further information about the
Interviewed: 62% of interests of those who teach here. selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Successful: 24% The Oxford Classics and History Faculties
Intake: 19 are world famous for teaching and
How to apply
Tests: HAT. For test date and
research. Most of the people who will History (A&M) CAREERS
teach you here will be leading Oxford historians typically move on to
researchers in their field, and lecturers careers in fields as varied as law,
ox.ac.uk/tests
are encouraged to put on new courses investment banking and consultancies,
See ox.ac.uk/writwork which reflect their own interests. advertising, accountancy, the Civil
Fees, living costs and funding Service, publishing, journalism and the
See pages 18–19 and media, global charity work, museums,
Your work is divided between lectures
ox.ac.uk/funding librarianship and archive work, and
and classes, tutorials (one or two a
teaching.
week) and private study (including
Recent Ancient and Modern History
preparing essays for your weekly
graduates include a civil servant, a
tutorials).
librarian and a charity campaign manager.
Mary-Kate says: ‘Through my joint
course I developed skills in working
flexibly and under pressure, enhanced
my analytical skills and learnt to be
independently minded. These have all
proven to be invaluable assets in my
career as a Fast Streamer for the Home
Office. Being a Fast Streamer means that
you follow an accelerated training and
development graduate programme.’
84
TOP-ranked
History
Heather now works as a Lecturer in
Department
British History at the Humboldt IN THE UK
University in Berlin. She says: ‘Learning for largest volume of
to work independently and under time world-leading research
pressure as an undergraduate was the in the most recent
perfect preparation for an academic (2014) Research
MORE ABOUT
career. It gave me the skills I needed Excellence Framework
to teach successfully at a university
level and the self-confidence Requirements and applying: Course details:
necessary to publish and present my ox.ac.uk/ugham www.history.ox.ac.uk
research before my peers.’ 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615020
28 and 29 June and 15 September schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.classics.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 288372
undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk

Courses Courses
Four courses are taken: Six courses are taken:
••One period of either ••A period of Greek or Roman history
Greek or Roman history ••A period of European/World history or one of the periods of the history of the
••One of the periods of British Isles
European/World history ••Further subjects including work on primary sources, textual or archaeological
offered ••A choice of further subjects (at least one of the further or the special subjects
••The world of Homer and must be ancient) from the History syllabus; or an ancient further subject, including:
Hesiod; or Augustan – Athenian democracy in the classical age
Rome; or one of the – Politics, society and culture from Nero to Hadrian
History optional subjects – Religions in the Greek and Roman world c31 BC–AD 312
••A text-based paper on – The Greeks and the Mediterranean world 950–500 BC
Herodotus; or Sallust; or – Art under the Roman Empire AD 14–337
Approaches to history; or – The Hellenistic World: societies and cultures, c300 BC–100 BC
Historiography: Tacitus to ••Special subjects (at least one of the further or the special subjects must be ancient)
Weber from the History (including work on primary sources, textual or archaeological). A choice of about 30
syllabus or Greek/Latin special subjects from the History syllabus or an ancient special subject, including:
language paper – Alexander the Great and his early successors
– Cicero: politics and thought in the late Republic
– The Greek city in the Roman world from Dio Chrysostom to John Chrysostom
••Disciplines of history
••Thesis
••Optional Greek/Latin language paper
all course details and options see the course websites (details above).
Four written papers Six written papers and one thesis; (or five written papers, one extended essay and
one thesis); (or four written papers, one portfolio of submitted essays, one extended
essay and one thesis); (optional additional language paper)
85
History and Economics BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV11 The History and Economics course A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements integrates these two subjects to form You will be expected to attend about
A-levels: AAA a coherent and intellectually five lectures a week during the first
stimulating programme. The year, participate in regular meetings
combination allows insights that with tutors to discuss work, research in
666 at HL
neither subject can realise alone. libraries and write at least one essay a
It is highly recommended for candidates to However, it is possible to specialise week. In the second and third years
have both History and Mathematics to primarily in either History or you will have the opportunity to write
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in
the IB or any other equivalent. Economics while still preserving the a thesis on economic history, which will
3-year average (2014–16) benefits of an integrated approach. enable you to do a piece of
Interviewed: 56% The combination of economics, independent research.
Successful: 13% economic history and history (political
Intake: 14 as well as social) means that you will
Applicants for this course may instead be If you are shortlisted, your submitted
be equipped to view issues in the real
offered a place for History. Such offers are work and UCAS personal statement are
not included in these statistics. world from a variety of contrasting
likely to form starting points for
How to apply perspectives. You will learn both the
discussion in your interview.
Tests: HAT and TSA. For test date historian’s careful approaches to
and registration details please see Some colleges may require you to
evidence and argumentation and the
ox.ac.uk/tests read a short passage of historical
economist’s analytical and quantitative
Written work: One piece (History) writing which they will ask you to
methods, providing an excellent
See ox.ac.uk/writwork discuss as part of the interview
preparation for a range of professional,
Fees, living costs and funding process. The tutors are not so much
financial and academic careers.
interested in the level of your
ox.ac.uk/funding The course is designed to equip you
knowledge as in your ability to think
with the basic tools of both history
historically. We do not require any
and economics, while introducing you
previous formal qualification in
to some of the areas which you can
economics, but we do expect you to
study later in more depth. You will be
demonstrate a real interest in the
given a wide choice of subjects.
subject.
Everyone studies introductory
economics, which is designed to give a
selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/
solid understanding of the foundations
criteria.
of both microeconomics and
macroeconomics. The Economics
course is identical to that for
Philosophy, Politics and Economics
(PPE) and students for both courses
are generally taught together.
86
HEco CAREERS Michael is currently the Managing TOP-ranked
History
Some of the most popular careers for Director for Thomson Reuters’
History and Economics graduates Treasury business across Asia Pacific.
include working in industry, He says: ‘Running a broad region as
diverse as Asia Pacific requires me to
Department
IN THE UK
management consulting, law,
teaching and many branches of think laterally across cultures coupled
public service, including the Civil and with a concise and engaging focus – for largest volume of
Diplomatic Services, and the Bank of traits that one hones quickly from the world-leading research
tutorial approach at Oxford.’ in the most recent
England. Recent History and
(2014) Research
Economics graduates include a
Excellence Framework
management consultant, a charity
officer and an economist. MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugheco www.history.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615020
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.economics.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 271098
econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk

Courses Courses
Four courses are taken: Core courses in Economics and Economic History
••Introductory economics Economics Core papers:
••European and World history: ••Microeconomics
four options available ••Macroeconomics
••Quantification in History ••Quantitative economics
(available options: History Core papers:
Approaches to history; ••A period of British history or European/World history
Historiography: Tacitus to ••Development of the world economy since 1800
Weber; Foreign texts) Optional papers:
••Optional subject (involving ••two further subjects in History
the use of primary sources): ••two further subjects in Economics
21 options available ••one further subject in History and one in British history/General history
••one further subject in History and one further subject in Economics
Compulsory thesis
A thesis from original research, usually in Economic history
Four written papers Seven written papers, and one compulsory undergraduate thesis
or six written papers, one portfolio of submitted essays, one compulsory
undergraduate thesis
87
History and English BA 3 years
UCAS code: VQ13 A joint degree in History and English in the second year and examined by
Entrance requirements requires students to think critically extended essay, and an interdisciplinary
A-levels: AAA about how we define ‘history’ and dissertation in the final year. All
‘literature’, and about how the two interdisciplinary elements of this course
disciplines interrelate and, in large are co-taught or co-supervised by a
666 at HL
measure, overlap. Close attention is historian and a literary scholar.
Candidates are expected to have English given to changing methodologies, to Oxford possesses exceptional library
Literature, or English Language and the nature of evidence and to styles of provision for both subjects in the
Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Higher Level in the IB or any other argument. It is assumed that historical Bodleian Library, the History Faculty and
equivalent. It is also highly recommended documents are just as much ‘texts’ as English Faculty libraries, other faculty
for candidates to have History to A-level, are poems, plays or novels, and are libraries and the college libraries.
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or
another equivalent. therefore subject to interpretation as
3-year average (2014–16) works of narrative, rhetoric and,
Most students have up to two tutorials
Interviewed: 63% fundamentally, language. Equally, it is
a week and are often, but not always,
Successful: 11% assumed that poems, plays and novels
Intake: 9 working on two papers simultaneously.
represent historically grounded ways
Applicants for this course may instead be Most students attend three to four
offered a place for History or for English. of interpreting a culture.
lectures a week. In the first and second
Such offers are not included in these The History and English Faculties are
statistics. years, students will also attend
among the largest in Britain, with long
How to apply interdisciplinary classes with both
and distinguished traditions of teaching
Tests: HAT. For test date and English and History tutors present, in
and research. Students are offered a
registration details please see preparation for the interdisciplinary
great deal of choice in the course over
ox.ac.uk/tests bridge paper. For the final-year
Written work: Three pieces their three years, and whether their
dissertation they will have an adviser
See ox.ac.uk/writwork interests are in the medieval period, the
from each discipline.
Fees, living costs and funding Renaissance or the later periods,
See pages 18–19 and intellectually fruitful combinations are What are tutors looking for?
ox.ac.uk/funding always possible. Shortlisted candidates will usually be
The course structure at Oxford is given at least two interviews, one with
intended to enable students to relate the History tutor or tutors in the college,
literary and historical ideas as effectively and one with the English tutor or tutors.
as possible in the investigation of their In the English interview, the candidate
chosen historical periods, topics or may be asked to discuss a piece of prose
authors, while recognising that some or verse, provided before or at the
students will wish to opt for variety interview. Successful candidates will read
rather than close congruity between widely, will enjoy writing and talking
their historical and literary papers. about history, literature and language and
Interdisciplinarity is embedded in each will be interested in pursuing a
year of the course with dedicated classes comparative approach to historical and
in the first year as part of the literary texts.
Introduction to English Language and For further information on selection
Literature paper, a bridge paper taken criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
88
FROM An H&E STUDENT H&E CAREERS TOP-ranked
I cannot imagine studying two
subjects that more perfectly
By studying this degree you will
acquire a range of skills valued by
History
complement and enhance one recruiters, including the ability to Department
IN THE UK
another. I love the constant work independently, to evaluate
the significance of evidence and
opportunity to explore the crossover to present arguments clearly and for largest volume of
between History and English, be it in persuasively. Graduates from world-leading research
the unique interdisciplinary module, in the most recent
this course have worked in the
or throughout my tutorial essays. (2014) Research
media, legal professions, public
Excellence Framework
The variety of papers is also administration, teaching and finance.
MORE ABOUT
beyond compare, allowing you to
mix and match topics, or specialise
completely in one period. My first Requirements and applying: Course details:
year papers were as diverse as ox.ac.uk/ughe www.history.ox.ac.uk
20th century literature and Early 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615020
Modern European witch hunts - the 28 and 29 June and 15 September schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
degree is as extensive as you want ox.ac.uk/opendays www.english.ox.ac.uk
to make it! +44 (0) 1865 271055
Holly undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk

Courses Courses
Four courses are taken: Seven courses are taken:
••Introduction to English Language and ••One interdisciplinary bridge essay (6,000 words)
Literature ••Two of papers 1–6 from single honours English Language and Literature
••One period paper from single (see page 72)
honours English Language and ••One British period paper from single honours History (see page 82)
Literature ••Either:
••One British history paper from single One History Special subject (counts as two papers)
honours History Or two from:
••One of: Approaches to history; 1. European/World history paper from single honours History
Historiography; optional subject 2. Further subject from single honours History
(from single honours History) 3. British history period paper from single honours History
4. One of papers 1–6 from single honours English Language
and Literature
••Interdisciplinary dissertation (10,000 words)
Three written papers form the First Final University examinations: between two and four written papers will be
University Examination, together with a examined at the end of the third year; plus a combination of one portfolio
submitted portfolio of two exam essays of submitted essays; one or two extended essays; one bridge essay; one
of 2,000 words for Introduction to interdisciplinary dissertation.
English Language and Literature. Some essays are submitted in year 2.
All exams must be passed, but marks
do not count towards the final degree.
89
History and Modern Languages BA 4 years with a year abroad
History and either Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish
UCAS codes: see combinations Course combinations In recent years history has experienced
Entrance requirements You can either study History with a a ‘linguistic turn’ while literary studies
A-levels: AAA Modern Language you already speak, have undergone a ‘historical turn’,
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB or with a Modern Language you’d like
making this combination of subjects
IB: 38 (including core points) with to learn from scratch.
stronger than ever. Knowledge of the
Or any other equivalent combinations you would usually be
past contextualises literary artefacts,
It is highly recommended for candidates to expected to have the Modern while the forensic literary skills of the
have History to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Language to A-level, or another linguist are vital for interrogating
equivalent. academic equivalent. historical documents. Historians have to
3-year average (2014–16) History and: be aware of genre, plot and rhetorical
Interviewed: 76% Czech VR17 techniques in the creation both of their
Successful: 21% French VR11 sources and their own arguments, while
Intake: 21 German VR12 linguists need to appreciate the social
Applicants for this course may instead be Modern Greek VQ17
offered a place for History or for Modern
and political concerns that are woven
Italian VR13
Languages. Such offers are not included in into literary works. This degree brings
Portuguese VR15
these statistics.
Russian VRC7
these two skill sets together.
How to apply Oxford has a long and enduring
Spanish VR14
Tests: HAT and MLAT. For test date
commitment to the teaching of
and registration details please see The following course combinations
European history and European
ox.ac.uk/tests
Modern Language from scratch. languages, leading to a particularly rich
Written work: Three pieces
See ox.ac.uk/writwork History and: environment in terms of staff expertise,
Fees, living costs and funding Beginners’ Czech VR1R library resources, language training and
See pages 18–19 and Beginners’ Modern Greek VR1X overseas contacts. The fullness and
ox.ac.uk/funding Beginners’ Italian RV31 variety of the curriculum means that
The year abroad has lower fees and Beginners’ Portuguese VR1N students can combine papers from the
may have extra funding: see two faculties in stimulating ways. The
ox.ac.uk/erasmus two parts come together most directly
in a bridge essay, where students can
make their own innovative
contributions.
International opportunities
History and Modern Languages is a
four-year course with a compulsory
year abroad in your third year. Please
see Modern Languages (page 114) for
further information. Students are
encouraged to travel and speak their
specialist language in the vacations, and
travel grants and scholarships may be
available to assist.
90
A typical weekly timetable such as the UN and the EU, by NGOs as Please see
Your week’s work will include: well as by national governments. They ox.ac.uk/erasmus
• tutorials in history and in the literature work in the media, publishing, law, banking, for details of current
and culture of the language you study consultancy, teaching, research, commercial Erasmus opportunities
• language
classes involving different industry and many other sectors. for this course.
skills, eg translation, oral and grammar Matthew, now an investment manager,
• about three or four lectures for each says: ‘I enjoyed the sheer variety and choice
subject of a History and Modern Languages degree.
• preparing essays for your weekly tutorials. I benefit hugely in my professional life from
the skills I learned from historical argument
and literary criticism, not to mention the
During the interview, your submitted work
ability to speak French. Every time I tell my
may be a starting point for discussion.
clients how politics and financial markets
Some colleges may also ask you to read and
might affect their investments, I draw on
discuss a short text in English and/or the
the analytical and presentational skills I
modern language. Tutors wish to test your
acquired at Oxford.’
capacity for independent thought, your
flexibility, your skills in conceptualising and
relating ideas, the precision of your thinking MORE ABOUT
and your oral competence in the language. Requirements and applying: Course details:
For further information on selection ox.ac.uk/ughml www.history.ox.ac.uk
criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615020
HML CAREERS ox.ac.uk/opendays www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk

Employers value language skills combined Modern Languages and joint +44 (0) 1865 270750
with the many transferable skills of a courses Open Day: reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
History and Modern Languages degree. 29 April 2017 – booking required
Recent graduates from this course course? See page 146
open-days
are employed in international institutions
Courses Courses
Six courses are taken: ••A period of European/World history
History ••Either a special subject in History (two papers, see History (page 82)),
••European/World history (four options: with one additional history or literature option; or three papers
370–900; 1000–1300; 1400–1650; selected from history (British history, further subject, thesis) or
1815–1914) literature (special subjects, prescribed authors, extended essay)
••Either a British history period, or a ••An optional additional thesis in History
historical methods paper, or a foreign ••Practical language work (two papers)
text or an optional subject ••A period of literature
Modern Language ••A paper on one of a wide range of options
••Practical language work (two papers) ••A bridge essay
••Two literature papers
• • curriculum for this course is currently under review and is likely to change. For the latest information on
The
Six written papers Between six and nine written papers; between one and four submitted
essays, including the compulsory bridge essay; oral examination in the
modern language
91
History and Politics BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV21 The History and Politics course aims to What are tutors looking for?
Entrance requirements bring together complementary but If your application is shortlisted,
A-levels: AAA separate disciplines to form a coherent submitted work and your UCAS personal
and stimulating programme. The statement are likely to form starting
degree not only enables students to points for discussion in your interview.
666 at HL
set contemporary political problems in Some colleges may require you to read
It is highly recommended for candidates to their historical perspective, but also a short piece of prose or other material,
have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, equips them to approach the study of which they will ask you to discuss as
Higher Level in the IB or any other
equivalent. Sociology, Politics or the past with the conceptual rigour part of the interview process. The tutors
Government and Politics can be helpful to derived from political science. are not so much interested in the level
students in completing this course, The special feature of the Oxford of your knowledge as in your ability to
although they are not required for
admission. course is the chance to choose think analytically.
3-year average (2014–16) subjects very broadly across the two For further information on selection
Interviewed: 57% disciplines, so that it is possible to criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Successful: 12% combine medieval historical options
Intake: 39
FROM An H&P STUDENT
with the analysis of contemporary
Applicants for this course may instead be
offered a place for History. Such offers are political systems. The expertise of a
not included in these statistics. number of Oxford’s political theorists I specialised more in Politics than in
How to apply and historians in the history of political History. The ‘Introduction to Politics:
Tests: HAT. For test date and thought, the thematic approach taken Analysis of Democratic Institutions’
registration details please see to the teaching of general history in
ox.ac.uk/tests
paper at Prelims provided me with
the first year, and the emphasis placed an excellent foundation for studying
Written work: One piece (History)
on interdisciplinarity in a number of specific countries at Finals level. I was
both politics and history papers
Fees, living costs and funding able to use the knowledge I obtained
See pages 18–19 and strengthen the intellectual rigour of
ox.ac.uk/funding this course.
here, and apply it within several
political contexts - from Japan
A typical weekly timetable to South Africa! I especially loved
You will be expected to attend about writing my thesis, where I was able
five lectures a week during the first
year, participate in regular meetings
to analyse the political challenges of
with tutors to discuss work, research in
the past with reference to the leading
libraries, and write at least one essay a
political models of the present.
week. You will be required to submit a Stefan
thesis which will enable you to do a
piece of independent research during
your second and third years.
92
TOP-ranked
History
H&P CAREERS Department
While some History and Politics
graduates go on to further study
and research to become professional
IN THE UK
for largest volume of
historians, others move into different world-leading research
areas. Recent graduates have started in the most recent
their careers in accountancy, advertising, (2014) Research
archive work, finance, the Civil Service, Excellence Framework
consultancy, international charity MORE ABOUT
work, the media, law, librarianship, Requirements and applying: Course details:
management consultancy, museums, ox.ac.uk/ughp www.history.ox.ac.uk
politics, publishing, research, social work, +44 (0) 1865 615020
2017 Open Days:
teaching and the theatre. Graduates schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
include a PhD researcher in political ox.ac.uk/opendays www.politics.ox.ac.uk
science, a senior account executive in
+44 (0) 1865 278706
public relations and a civil servant.
ug.studies@politics.ox.ac.uk

Courses Courses
Four examination papers and a short piece The course has seven components:
of assessed coursework: ••A period of the history of the British Isles
••Either any one of the seven periods in the ••A period of European/World history
history of the British Isles or any one of ••Any two of the five core subjects in Politics:
the four periods of European/World Comparative government
history British politics and government since 1900
••Introduction to the theory of politics or Theory of politics
Theories of the state International relations
••One optional subject: choice of Political sociology
Quantification in history ••One of the following combinations:
Approaches to history 1. A special subject in History (two papers) and an optional
Historiography: Tacitus to Weber subject in Politics (either a core paper not yet taken or a further
or any of the optional subjects (see subject)
History (page 82) except Theories of 2. A further subject in History and two optional subjects in
the state) or any one of six foreign Politics
texts 3. A further subject in History, one optional subject in Politics and
••The practice of politics one special subject in Politics
••Quantitative methods: political analysis ••A thesis in either History or Politics
(not examined)
Four written papers Five written papers; one portfolio of submitted essays; one thesis in
History or Politics
or four written papers; one portfolio of submitted essays; one
extended essay; one thesis in History or Politics
93
History of Art BA 3 years
UCAS code: V350 Anything designed by human beings and places can be analysed in different
(no deferred applications accepted) exhibits visual qualities that are specific ways, as well as encouraging students to
Entrance requirements to the place and period in which it enquire about the nature of reactions to
A-levels: AAA what we call ‘art’.
originates. History of Art concentrates
on objects generally described as ‘art’,
IB: 38 (including core points) with What are tutors looking for?
666 at HL
though in Oxford this definition is
Candidates should show evidence of
Or any other equivalent framed broadly to embrace items
lively engagement with visual culture,
Candidates are required to have taken an beyond ‘Fine art’ or ‘Western art’.
essay-based subject to A-level, Advanced both contemporary and historical.
History of Art aims to arrive at an
Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other Prior knowledge of the History of Art
equivalent. History of Art, Fine Art, History, historical understanding of the origins
is absolutely not a requirement: many
English or a language can be helpful to of artefacts within specific world
students in completing this course, successful applicants have never
cultures, asking about the
although they are not required for studied the subject before university.
admission. circumstances of their making, their
What is looked for in applicants is a
3-year average (2014–16) makers, the media used, the functions
keen and critical observation of art
Interviewed: 34% of the images and objects, their critical
Successful: 10% and of the material environment in
reception and – not least – their
Intake: 13 general. At interview, candidates are
subsequent history. As well as
How to apply invited to demonstrate willingness to
educating students in the historical
Tests: None required engage in focused discussion and
interpretation of artefacts in their
Written work: one marked piece, debate about visual issues, and in
cultural contexts, a degree in History of
one response addition to respond to one or more
See ox.ac.uk/writwork Art provides skills in the critical analysis
photographs of unfamiliar images,
Fees, living costs and funding of objects through the cultivation of
which applicants will not be expected
See pages 18–19 and visual literacy. The acquired skills have
to recognise.
ox.ac.uk/funding broad applicability in a wide range of
professional settings, as well as serving
the needs of enduring personal
enlightenment.
HOA CAREERS
The cultural industries are one of the
The University collections, including
biggest employers in the world. In
the world-famous Ashmolean Museum,
addition to museums and galleries, there
provide subjects for first-hand study
are many governmental and non-
under the supervision of those entrusted
governmental agencies that work to
with their care. The historic architecture
conserve, research and promote cultural
of the city and its environs supplies a rich
heritage and to further the production of
source of study in its own right. The
art. Furthermore, History of Art
Oxford degree is designed to provide
graduates will be especially competitive
innovative insights into a wide range of
for posts in any area that requires
world art, drawing its expertise from
combinations of visual and verbal skills,
various faculties and the staff of
such as publishing, advertising, marketing
University collections, as well as from the
and web-based media, as well as
department itself. There is a strong
entering the wide range of professions
emphasis upon how the primary visual
available to all humanities graduates.
and written sources from various periods
94
History of Art
Podcasts
MORE ABOUT
A number of core lectures
and some public lectures
Requirements and applying: Course details: and seminars are available at
ox.ac.uk/ughoa podcasts.ox.ac.uk/units/
www.hoa.ox.ac.uk
department-history-art.
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 286830
28 June and 15 September admin@hoa.ox.ac.uk

Courses Courses
Four elements are taken: Seven elements are taken: a full list of current options is at www.hoa.ox.ac.uk
••Core course: Introduction Core Course: Approaches to the History of Art
to the History of Art Further subject in Art History – choices currently include:
••Core course: European Art ••Anglo-Saxon archaeology
1400–1900: Meaning ••The Carolingian Renaissance
and interpretation ••Culture and society in Early Renaissance Italy
••Core course: Antiquity ••Northern European portraiture 1400–1800
after Antiquity ••Flanders and Italy in the Quattrocento
••Supervised extended ••Court culture and art in Early Modern Europe
essay on a building, object ••Intellect and culture in Victorian Britain
or image in Oxford. Two 2nd-year options – choices currently include:
Students also have the ••Egyptian art and architecture
opportunity to undertake ••Greek art and archaeology
a French or Italian for Art ••Byzantine art: The transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages
Historians course through ••Art under the Roman Empire
the University’s Language ••Hellenistic art and archaeology
Centre. No previous ••Encountering South Asian sculpture
experience or ••Gothic art through medieval eyes
qualifications are required ••Art in China since 1911
for these courses and ••Understanding museums and collections
they do not form part of ••Literature and the visual arts in France
the assessment. ••German Expressionism in literature and visual arts
••European cinema
••Modernism and after
••The experience of modernity: visual culture, 1880–1925
••American Art, 1560s–1960s
Special subject and extended essay in Art History – choices currently include:
••Art and culture in Renaissance Florence and Venice
••The Dutch Golden Age: 1618–72
••Painting and culture in Ming China
••English architecture
••Art and its public in France, 1815–67
Undergraduate thesis
Students also have the opportunity to undertake a Collections Placement in one of
the University museums, libraries or colleges in their second year.
Three written papers and Four or five written papers, one or two extended essay(s) and one thesis
one extended essay
95
Human Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: BCL0 Human Sciences studies the biological, A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements social and cultural aspects of human life, During years 1 and 2 your work is
A-levels: AAA and provides a challenging alternative to divided between lectures (about ten a
some of the more traditional courses week) and tutorials (one or two a week).
IB: 38 (666 in HL)
offered at Oxford. The school was In addition, some practical experience in
Biology or Mathematics to A-level, founded in 1969 in recognition of the genetics, physiology, demography and
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or need for interdisciplinary understanding statistics is offered in certain terms.
any other equivalent can be helpful to
students in completing this course, although
of fundamental issues and problems Computers are used in the teaching of
they are not required for admission. confronting contemporary societies. quantitative methods. In the third year
3-year average (2014–16) Central topics include the evolution of the tutorial and class requirement is
Interviewed: 66% humans and their behaviour, molecular reduced to allow more time for option
Successful: 13% and population genetics, population papers and students’ research for their
Intake: 26 growth and ageing, ethnic and cultural dissertations.
How to apply
diversity and the human interaction with
Tests: TSA. For test date and What are tutors looking for?
the environment, including conservation,
registration details please see The attributes tutors are looking for in
ox.ac.uk/tests
disease and nutrition. The study of both
applicants include:
biological and social disciplines,
integrated within a framework of human • keenness
See pages 18–19 and diversity and sustainability, should enable • an ability to see things in context and
make connections
ox.ac.uk/funding the human scientist to develop
professional competencies suited to • readiness to modify ideas in the light
of evidence
address such multidimensional human
problems. • the capacity to form and express a
personal point of view.
The course draws on specialists from
a number of different faculties in the
University. Lectures introduce most of
the material you will need and provide
the core concepts and theories for each
paper. Tutorials, given by specialists in
HumSci CAREERS
Recent graduates have found
different fields, allow you to consider
opportunities in fields including the Civil
particular topics in greater depth. They
Service, government, health services,
also allow students from different
teaching, the media, law, industry,
academic backgrounds to gain the
commerce, computing, management
necessary grounding across a range of
consultancy and accountancy.
subjects.
Alison currently works as the Principal
Scientist in HIV epidemiology within
Public Health England. She says: ‘My
undergraduate degree in Human
Sciences was excellent preparation for
my career. The field of HIV is
96
multifaceted which means we not only has contributed to a number of CUTTING EDGE
HUMAN SCIENCES
measure the prevalence and incidence academic books including The Biology of
of HIV but also seek to understand the Religion, as well as magazines on various
complexities of sexual behaviour and the wildlife and conservation subjects. From the nature of evil to apes
political and social context of HIV. Several scientific papers have also been with a GSOH, find out what
Oxford’s Human Scientists are
Human Sciences gave me a solid published on the basis of exceptional
up to by following us on Twitter
grounding in statistical methods, behavioural footage taken on films she
@Oxford_HumSci.
biological and social sciences. has produced.
Specifically, the cross-disciplinary ethos
of the course taught me the importance
of collaboration with academics and
advocates with a wide range of
expertise and the need to interpret data
within a social, human context.’ MORE ABOUT
Graduate Vanessa produced the Requirements and applying: Course details:
series Frozen Planet. She has worked as ox.ac.uk/ughumsci www.ihs.ox.ac.uk
a producer/director on a variety of 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 274702
wildlife series including Wildlife on One, 28 and 29 June and 15 September admissions@ihs.ox.ac.uk
The Natural World, Life of Mammals and ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
Planet Earth. She also co-wrote the course? See page 146
book accompanying Frozen Planet and

Five compulsory Five courses are taken: ••Dissertation to be completed by the beginning of the
courses are taken: ••Behaviour and its evolution, final term
••The biology of animal and human ••Option courses (two chosen) from a list which may
organisms including ••Human genetics and vary slightly depending on teaching availability:
humans evolution Anthropology of a selected region (for example Japan,
••Genetics and ••Human ecology Lowland South America, South Asia or West Africa);
evolution ••Demography and population Biological conservation; Cognitive and evolutionary
••Society, culture and ••Either Anthropological anthropology; Evolution and medicine; Gender theories
environment analysis and interpretation or and realities: Cross-cultural perspectives; General
••Sociology and Sociological theory linguistics; Health and disease; Physical and forensic
demography anthropology: An introduction to human skeletal
••Quantitative remains; Quantitative methods; Social policy; Sociology
methods for the of post-industrial societies; South and southern Africa;
human sciences plus a range of psychology options
The options listed above are illustrative and may change.

More information about current options is available on the
course website (details above).
First University The Human Ecology course is Final University examinations:
examinations: assessed by an extended essay Currently six written papers and a dissertation plus the
Five written papers; written in the final term of the extended essay and presentation (see under second year)
satisfactory practical second year and a presentation
record given in the first term of the
third year.
97
Law (Jurisprudence) BA 3 years (equivalent to LLB);
4-year course option includes a year studying abroad
UCAS codes: see table Course options thinking and presentation developed by
Entrance requirements Law (Jurisprudence) M100 the Oxford Law courses are eminently
A-levels: AAA Law with Law Studies in Europe: suited to practical application, and
Advanced Highers: AAB, or AA plus Law with European Law M190 employers recognise this. Oxford is one
an additional Higher at grade A
Law with French Law M191 of the very few leading law schools in
IB: 38 (including core points) with at
least 666 at HL
Law with German Law M192 the world where the teaching mainly
Law with Italian Law M193 consists of small group discussion
Candidates are also expected to have at Law with Spanish Law M194 (tutorials) between one, two or three
least a C/4 grade in GCSE Mathematics, or
other evidence to demonstrate that they Please note the arrangements for and content of the students and a tutor.
are appropriately numerate. We accept any courses may be subject to change as a consequence The modern, purpose-built Bodleian
subjects at A-level except General Studies. of developments regarding the UK’s EU membership.
Law Library holds more books than
To study in France, Germany or Spain
candidates would be expected to have the Applicants for Law with Law studies in Europe may instead almost any other comparable library in
relevant modern language to A-level, be offered a place on the three-year Law programme. the UK. Colleges also have collections of
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or
any other equivalent. To study in Italy, There are two Law courses at Oxford: law books for student use.
candidates may be admitted without
A-level Italian, though they would be Course I is a three-year course and European opportunities
expected to demonstrate sufficient Course II is a four-year course which
language aptitude to be able to achieve the
Course II students spend their third year
standard required to study successfully in follows the same syllabus, with the extra of study at a university in France,
Italy during the year abroad. Intensive year being spent abroad following a Germany, Italy or Spain (studying French,
language training will be offered during the
first two years of the course. prescribed course at another university German, Italian or Spanish law) or the
3-year average (2014–16) within the European Union. Netherlands (studying European and
Law: The Oxford Law degrees aim to International law). See the faculty
Interviewed: 47% develop in their students a high level of website for further details about Course
Successful: 15% skill in comprehension, analysis and II and the admissions arrangements.
Intake: 197 presentation. Students are expected to
Law with Law Studies in Europe: read a good deal, mostly from primary What are tutors looking for?
Interviewed: 41%
sources (such as cases and statutes), The selection criteria are based on the
Successful: 11% qualities required of a successful law
rather than to take other people’s word
Intake: 30 student. Throughout the admissions
How to apply for things. They are expected to think
hard about what they have read, so as to process, tutors look for evidence of a
Tests: LNAT. For test date and
develop views not simply about what the candidate’s motivation, capacity for
law is, but also about why it is so, sustained academic work, reasoning
ox.ac.uk/tests
Written work: None required whether it should be so, and how it ability and communication skills. Relevant
Fees, living costs and funding might be different. Students are asked to evidence is provided by a candidate’s
See pages 18–19 and process what they read, together with academic record, reference, personal
ox.ac.uk/funding their own thoughts, and to prepare statement and performance in the LNAT.
The year abroad has lower fees and
essays and presentations for discussion Interviews provide further relevant
may have extra funding: see information. A candidate’s pre-existing
in tutorials.
ox.ac.uk/erasmus knowledge of the law is not assessed
The Oxford syllabus comprises topics
chosen primarily for their intellectual at any stage. For more on the admissions
interest, rather than for the frequency process, including a video of a
with which they arise in practice. demonstration interview, please see:
Nevertheless, the skills of researching, www.law.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate.
98
LAW CAREERS Amal is a barrister at Doughty Street
Please see
ox.ac.uk/erasmus
There is no assumption that our Law Chambers in London specialising in for up-to-date details
graduates pursue a legal career: around international law, human rights, of Erasmus opportunities
75% of Oxford Law graduates go on to extradition and criminal law. She was for this course.
the legal profession. Although Oxford previously a lawyer for the United
Law graduates gain a BA in Jurisprudence Nations in the Middle East and at various
rather than an LLB, each of the Oxford international courts in The Hague. She
Law courses counts as a qualifying law says: ‘Studying law at Oxford taught me
degree so Oxford Law graduates can to identify what is important, challenge
immediately go on to the Legal Practice accepted wisdom and not be intimidated.
Course (for solicitors) or the Bar These skills helped me follow an unusual
Professional Training Course (for career path that I have found fascinating
barristers). and meaningful.’
Many Oxford Law graduates go on to
successful careers practising law outside
England and Wales. The Oxford Law
courses naturally focus on English law,
MORE ABOUT
but the fundamental principles of English
ox.ac.uk/uglaw www.law.ox.ac.uk/
common law play a key role in other
2017 Open Days: undergraduate
jurisdictions. Graduates of the four-year
28 and 29 June and 15 September +44 (0) 1865 271491
course also gain important international
ox.ac.uk/opendays lawfac@law.ox.ac.uk
knowledge during their year abroad. If
you want to know the status of an Law Open Days: Which colleges offer this
English law degree in another 13, 14 and 15 March 2017 course? See page 146
jurisdiction, please contact the relevant – booking required
local regulatory body. www.law.ox.ac.uk
1st year (terms 1 and 2) 1st year (term 3), 2nd and 3rd (4th) years
Courses Courses
••Criminal law ••Tort law
••Constitutional law ••Contract law
••A Roman introduction to private law ••Trusts
••Research skills and mooting ••Land law
programme ••Administrative law
For those on Course II, there are also ••European Union law
French/German/Italian/Spanish law ••Jurisprudence
and language classes during the first ••Two optional subjects, chosen from a very wide range of options
six terms, or, for those going to the ••Course II: year 3 is spent abroad
Netherlands, introductory Dutch
language courses in the second year A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Three written papers: one each in ••Tort law, Contract law, Trusts, Land law, Administrative law, European law:
Criminal law, Constitutional law and a one written paper each at the end of the final year
Roman introduction to private law ••Jurisprudence: one shorter written paper at the end of the final year, plus
an essay written in the summer vacation at the end of the second year
••Two optional subjects: normally written papers but methods of
assessment may vary
Course II students will also be assessed during their year abroad by the
university they attend.
99
Materials Science MEng 4 years
© EUROfusion
UCAS code: FJ22 Materials Science is an interdisciplinary Oxford in one of the strongest
Entrance requirements subject, spanning the physics and Departments of Materials in the UK or,
A-levels: A*AA (including chemistry of matter, engineering occasionally, at an overseas university or
Mathematics and Physics, with an A*
applications and industrial manufacturing in an industrial laboratory (additional
in either Mathematics, Physics or
Chemistry) processes. costs may be associated with a project
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with Modern society is heavily dependent outside Oxford). You will learn how to
AA in Mathematics and Physics) on advanced materials: lightweight break down a complex problem, design
IB: 40 (including core points) with composites for faster vehicles, optical an experiment or model, manage a
766 at HL (including Mathematics fibres for telecommunications and silicon project and communicate your results.
and Physics, with 7 at HL in either
microchips for the information revolution. These research skills are transferable to
Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry)
Materials scientists study the many career paths and are valued highly
GCSE level Chemistry, or an equivalent, is relationships between the structure and by employers.
also required. It is highly desirable to have The current MEng degree is accredited
Chemistry to A-level or equivalent, and if it
properties of a material and how it is
is not studied to this level it is strongly made. They also develop new materials by the Institute of Materials, Minerals
recommended that it is studied to AS-level and devise processes for manufacturing and Mining (IOM3) on behalf of the UK
or equivalent. Further Mathematics (FM)
can be helpful to students completing this them. Materials Science is vital for Engineering Council, towards the
degree programme but is not required for developments in nanotechnology, achievement of Chartered Engineer
admission. For candidates studying Maths,
Physics, Chemistry and FM to A-level, quantum computing and nuclear fusion, status.
normally our conditional offer will require as well as medical technologies such as
A*AA in the first three (the A* in any of Work placements/international
these) and an expectation that you bone replacement materials.
opportunities
continue to study FM. This diverse programme spans the
3-year average (2014–16) Students are encouraged to undertake a
subject from its foundations in physics
Interviewed: 73% voluntary summer project in industry or a
and chemistry to the mechanical,
Successful: 24% research laboratory. Recent locations for
electrical, magnetic and optical
Intake: 33 overseas summer projects have included
properties of materials, and the design,
How to apply Beijing, Tokyo, Bochum, Krakow, Santa
manufacture and applications of metals,
Tests: PAT. For test date and Barbara and Boston.
registration details please see alloys, ceramics, polymers, composites
A voluntary industrial tour to an
ox.ac.uk/tests and biomaterials. This work is supported
overseas destination is organised in most
Written work: None required by excellent laboratory and teaching
Easter holidays. Recent destinations include
Fees, living costs and funding facilities.
China, Sweden, Italy, Poland and Ontario.
In a course taught partly by the Saïd
ox.ac.uk/funding Business School, the programme also A typical weekly timetable
Additional costs offers an opportunity to develop an During years 1 and 2, the work is divided
Students in their fourth year
introductory understanding of between lectures (about ten a week),
undertake full-time research over
three extended terms of 11–13 entrepreneurship (learning how to write a tutorials/classes (about two a week) and
weeks each (37 weeks in total). This business plan, raise capital and start a practicals (two or three afternoons a
means that your living costs will be company). There are also voluntary options week). Typically the work in preparation
higher in your final year. to learn a language (see page 24). for each tutorial or class is expected to
The Oxford Materials degree includes take six to eight hours. Year 3 starts with
in its fourth year the special feature of an a two-week team design project, and
eight-month full-time research project, about eight lectures and two classes/
when you join a research team here at tutorials a week for the first two terms.
100
MATERIALS
Most of term 3 is set aside for revision. A significant proportion of graduates RESEARCH
Year 4 consists of a supervised research undertake research degrees in universities The final year of this
course is a full-time
project spanning three extended terms. in the UK and abroad.
eight-month research
Katherine says: ‘After leaving University
What are tutors looking for? project.
I started work for Rolls–Royce (on
At interview, tutors are aware that
aeroplanes, boats and power stations) as a
students may not have encountered
graduate engineer, moving engineering roles
Materials Science at school or college.
within the company and around the globe
Tutors look for an ability to apply logical
every three months.’
reasoning to problems in physical science,
MORE ABOUT
and an enthusiasm for thinking about new
concepts in science and engineering.
For further information on selection Requirements and applying: Course details:
criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. ox.ac.uk/ugmatsci www.materials.ox.ac.uk/
2017 Open Days: admissions/undergraduate
MatSci CAREERS 28 and 29 June and 15 September
ox.ac.uk/opendays
+44 (0) 1865 273651
schools.liaison@materials.ox.ac.uk
Many of our graduates apply their technical
knowledge in the manufacturing industry, Materials Science Open Days Which colleges offer this
both in management and in research and 28, 29 March and 5 April 2017 course? See page 146
development positions. Others enter the – booking required:
financial, consultancy and IT sectors. schoolsliaison@materials.ox.ac.uk

••Structure of ••Structure and ••Materials options courses 1 Research project
materials transformation of materials ••Materials options courses 2 (full-time)
••Properties of ••Electronic properties of ••Team design project (Students are required to
materials materials ••Characterisation of materials achieve 50% minimum in
••Transforming ••Mechanical properties or Materials modelling module the Part I assessment in
materials ••Engineering applications Examples of current options order to progress to Part II.)
••Mathematics for of materials courses are available on the Additional elements include
materials science ••Foreign language course website (details above). Project management,
••Crystallography (optional) (At the start of Year 3 it is Presentation skills and an
••Practical work ••Supplementary subject possible to transfer to a 3-year optional Foreign language
••Foreign language (optional) BA degree in Materials Science, course
(optional) ••Mathematics graduating at the end of Year 3.
••Practical work See essential further information Examples of project titles
••Industrial visits about this on the course website are available on the
••Entrepreneurship module (details above). The BA is not course website (details
••Industrial talks accredited.) above).
••Communication skills

First University Final University examinations, Final University
examinations: Four Part I: Six written papers; examinations, Part II
written papers; continual assessment (equivalent to 4 papers):
continual assessment components equivalent to a Project dissertation
components further two papers submitted and assessed;
equivalent to a fifth oral examination of
paper project dissertation
For important additional detail on course content, progression and assessment, please see www.materials.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate.
This programme outline is for illustrative purposes and details may change from time to time.
101
Mathematics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
UCAS code: G100 Mathematicians have always been in pure and applied mathematics
Entrance requirements fascinated by numbers. One of the most (including statistics). Options start in the
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in famous problems is Fermat’s Last second year, with the third and fourth
Mathematics and Further
Theorem: if n≥3, the equation xn+yn=zn years offering a large variety of courses,
Mathematics (if taken). Otherwise
has no solutions with x, y, z all nonzero including options from outside
A*AAa with A* in Mathematics and a
in AS-level Further Mathematics. For
integers. An older problem is to show mathematics.
those for whom A-level Further that one cannot construct a line of
length 3√2 with ruler and compass,
Mathematics is not available: A*AA
with A* in Mathematics. starting with a unit length.
• Years 1 and 2: around ten lectures a
week, two–three tutorials or classes
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB Often the solution to a problem will
a week
IB: 39 (including core points) with require you to think outside its original
766 at HL framing. This is true here, and you will
• Additional practicals in computing
Or any other equivalent (first year) and numerical analysis (if
see the second problem solved in your
Candidates are expected to have taken)
course; the first is far too deep and was
Mathematics to A-level (A* grade),
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in famously solved by Andrew Wiles.
• Years 3 and 4: eight lectures a week,
the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. with two–four classes a week,
In applied mathematics we use
Further Mathematics is highly depending on options taken
recommended. Please see the mathematics to explain phenomena that
Requirements tab for Mathematics at occur in the real world. You can learn What are tutors looking for?
ox.ac.uk/courses for further information.
how a leopard gets its spots, explore We will be looking for the potential to
Interviewed: 48%
quantum theory and relativity, or study succeed on the course. A good
Successful: 16% the mathematics of stock markets. mathematician is naturally inquisitive
Intake: 181 We will encourage you to ask and will generally take advantage of any
How to apply questions and find solutions for yourself. opportunity to further their
Tests: MAT. For test date and You will need to think mathematically mathematical knowledge. While AEA
registration details please see and we begin by teaching you careful and STEP papers are not part of our
ox.ac.uk/tests definitions so that you can construct entry requirements, we encourage
Written work: None required theorems and proofs. Above all, applicants to take these or similar
Fees, living costs and funding mathematics is a logical subject, so you extension material, if they are available.
will need to argue clearly and concisely Ultimately, we are most interested in a
ox.ac.uk/funding
as you solve problems. For some of you, candidate’s potential to think
this way of thinking or solving problems imaginatively, deeply and in a structured
will be your goal. Others will want to see manner about the patterns of
what further can be discovered. Either mathematics.
way, it is a subject we want you to enjoy.
The course
There are two Mathematics degrees, the
Maths CAREERS
Quantitative skills are highly valued, and
three-year BA and the four-year MMath.
this degree prepares students for
Decisions regarding continuation to the
employment in a wide variety of
fourth year do not have to be made until
occupations in the public and private
the third year.
sectors. Around 30% of our graduates
The first year consists of core courses
go on to further study, but for those
102
Andrew Wiles
who go into work typical careers include application of mathematics in
building
The home of Mathematics
finance, consultancy and IT. engineering and manufacturing is
in Oxford since 2013;
Nathan, an engineer, says: ‘During my ever increasing, meaning there will be see more at:
degree I developed my ability to solve more and more opportunities to find www.maths.ox.ac.uk
complex problems – a fundamental skill interesting roles in which I can apply
set to tackle challenges I encounter on a my skills.’
day-to-day basis as an engineer. The MAThematical
sciences ranked
MORE ABOUT
Requirements and applying: Course details: best overall
ox.ac.uk/ugmaths www.maths.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 615205
in the uk
2017 Open Days: in the most recent (2014)
28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk Research Excellence Framework.
ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this course? Find out more about our
See page 146 research at the Oxford
Mathematics Open Days:
Mathematics Alphabet:
22 and 29 April 2017 – booking required
www.maths.ox.ac.uk/
www.maths.ox.ac.uk/open-days
r/alphabet.

Compulsory 1st year ••Compulsory core of Large variety, ranging across: Algebra; Analysis; Applied
includes: Algebra, Complex analysis, analysis; Geometry; Topology; Logic; Number theory;
••Algebra Metric spaces, Differential Applied probability; Statistics; Theoretical mechanics;
••Analysis equations Mathematical physics; Mathematical biology; Information
••Probability and ••Selection from topics theory; Actuarial mathematics; Undergraduate
statistics including Algebra; Number Ambassadors Scheme; Dissertation; Mathematical
••Geometry and theory; Analysis; Applied philosophy; Computer Science options; History of
dynamics analysis; Geometry; Mathematics
••Multivariate calculus Topology; Fluid dynamics;
and mathematical Probability; Statistics;
models Numerical analysis; Graph
theory; Special relativity;
Quantum theory
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options
First University Final University examinations, 3rd year: Final University Examinations, Part B:
examinations: Part A: Eight papers or equivalent
Five compulsory papers Three core papers and six or 4th year: Final University Examinations, Part C:
Computational seven optional papers Eight papers or equivalent
mathematics projects Classification on Parts A and B. Currently upper second
required to progress to Part C. Separate classification on
Part C
MMathPhys 4th year

From 2015–16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments have jointly offered an integrated master’s level course
in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics. Mathematics students will be able to apply for transfer to a fourth year
studying entirely mathematical and theoretical physics, completing the degree with an MMathPhys. The course offers
research-level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and Continuous
media. For full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
103
Mathematics and Computer Science BA 3 years
or MMathCompSci 4 years
UCAS code: GG14 This joint degree offers the opportunity Course structure
Entrance requirements to combine an appreciation of Mathematics and Computer Science can
A-levels: A*AA. If Further mathematical reasoning with an be studied for three years, leading to the
Mathematics is taken, then including
understanding of computing. award of a BA degree, or for four years,
A*A between Mathematics and
Mathematics is a fundamental intellectual leading to the award of Master of
Further Mathematics; otherwise
including A* in Mathematics
tool in computing, but computing is Mathematics and Computer Science. The
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB increasingly used as a key component in fourth year of the Mathematics and
IB: 39 (including core points) with mathematical problem-solving. Computer Science degree provides the
766 at HL The course concentrates on areas opportunity to study advanced topics and
Or any other equivalent where mathematics and computing are undertake a more in-depth research
Candidates are expected to have most relevant to each other, emphasising project. Exit points are not decided until
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level the bridges between theory and practice. the third year.
in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. It offers opportunities for potential
Further Mathematics is highly A typical weekly timetable
computer scientists both to develop a
recommended. A science is also The typical week for a student in
recommended. deeper understanding of the
Mathematics and Computer Science is
3-year average (2014–16) mathematical foundations of their
similar to that for Computer Science
Interviewed: 51% subject, and to acquire a familiarity with
Successful: 15% (see page 62) or Mathematics (see
the mathematics of application areas
Intake: 28 page 102).
where computers can solve otherwise
How to apply
intractable problems. It also gives What are tutors looking for?
mathematicians access to both a practical The most important qualities we are
understanding of the use of computers looking for are strong mathematical
ox.ac.uk/tests
Written work: None required and a deeper understanding of the limits ability, the ability to think and work
Fees, living costs and funding on the use of computers in their own independently, the capacity to absorb
See pages 18–19 and subject. and use new ideas, and a great deal of
ox.ac.uk/funding The first year and part of the second enthusiasm. We use this set of criteria
year of the course are spent acquiring a and the result of the Admissions Test to
firm grounding in the core topics from decide whom to shortlist for interview.
both subjects; students are then free to At the interview we will explore
choose options from a wide range of how you tackle unfamiliar problems
Mathematics and Computer Science and new ideas. We are more interested
subjects. In the second year students in how you approach problem-solving
take part in an industry-sponsored than whether you can get straight to
group design practical. a solution.
We do not require any previous formal
qualification in computing, but we do
expect you to demonstrate a real
interest in the subject.
104

MATHEMATICAL
SCIENCES RANKED
MCS CAREERS
This course gives training in logical BEST OVERALL
thought and expression, and is a good
preparation for many careers. About
IN THE UK
in the most recent (2014)
20% of Mathematics and Computer
MORE ABOUT
Research Excellence Framework
Science graduates tend to go on to
further study. Recent graduates secured
positions as software and hardware ox.ac.uk/ugmcs www.maths.ox.ac.uk
professionals in research, finance and
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615205
investment analysis, and include a
28 and 29 June and undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
product controller for an international
15 September www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions
bank, an actuarial consultant and an
ox.ac.uk/opendays
accountant. +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863
Computer Science Open Day: undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.ac.uk
22 April 2017
– booking required
See page 146
www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays

Core Mathematics Computer Science Mathematics Mathematics
(50%) (25%) Options including: Advanced options including:
••Analysis ••Algorithms ••Number theory ••Model theory
••Continuous maths ••Models of computation ••Communication theory ••Category theory
••Groups and group Core Mathematics Computer Science ••Lie groups
actions (30%) Options including: ••Probabilistic
••Introduction to complex ••Linear algebra ••Computer security combinatorics
numbers ••Complex analysis ••Machine learning Computer Science
••Introduction to ••Metric spaces ••Computational Advanced options including:
university maths Options in Mathematics complexity ••Computer animation
••Linear algebra (20%) ••Lambda calculus and ••Advanced machine
••Probability Options in Computer types learning
Core Computer Science Science (25%) ••Computational game
(50%) theory
••Design and analysis of ••Automata, logic and
algorithms games
••Functional programming ••Quantum computer
••Imperative programming science
••Concurrent algorithms
and data structures
••Advanced security
is available on the course websites (details above).

Five exam papers Six exam papers (two Up to ten exam papers Written or take-home
Computer Science and exams plus a dissertation
four Mathematics) or project report
Currently upper second
required to continue to the
fourth year
105
Mathematics and Philosophy BA 3 years or MMathPhil 4 years
UCAS code: GV15 This course brings together two of the Building, is also one of the largest and
Entrance requirements most fundamental and widely applicable best in the UK and contains within it
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in intellectual skills. Mathematical many world-class research groups. This is
Mathematics and Further reflected in the wide choice of
knowledge and the ability to use it is the
most important means of tackling mathematics topics available to you,
quantifiable problems, while philosophical especially in the fourth year.
those for whom A-level Further training enhances the ability to analyse
The course
Mathematics is not available: A*AA issues, question received assumptions
There are two Mathematics and Philosophy
with A* in Mathematics and clearly articulate understanding. The
degrees, the three-year BA and the four-
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB combination provides a powerful
year MMathPhil. Decisions regarding
IB: 39 (including core points) with background from which to proceed to
766 at HL continuation to the fourth year do not
graduate study in either Mathematics or
Or any other equivalent have to be made until the third year.
Philosophy or to pursue diverse careers.
Candidates are expected to have The mathematics units in this joint
Mathematics to A-level (A* grade), Historically, there have been strong links
course are all from the single-subject
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level between Mathematics and Philosophy;
in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Mathematics course. Accordingly the
logic, an important branch of both
Further Mathematics is highly standard in mathematics for admission
recommended. subjects, provides a natural bridge
to the joint course is the same as for
3-year average (2014–16) between the two, as does the philosophy
admission to the single-subject
Interviewed: 45% of mathematics.
Successful: 15% Mathematics course.
The degree is constructed in the belief
Intake: 15 The compulsory core mathematics for
that the parallel study of these related
How to apply the joint course consists mainly of the
disciplines can significantly enhance your
Tests: MAT. For test date and pure (as opposed to applied) mathematics
understanding of each.
registration details please see from the compulsory core for the single-
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest in
ox.ac.uk/tests subject Mathematics course. The
Written work: None required the UK, and one of the largest in the
philosophy units for the Mathematics and
Fees, living costs and funding world, with more than 70 full-time
Philosophy course are mostly shared with
See pages 18–19 and members and admitting around 450
the other joint courses with Philosophy.
ox.ac.uk/funding undergraduates annually to read the
In the first year all parts of the course
various degrees involving Philosophy.
are compulsory. In the second and third
Many faculty members have a worldwide
years some subjects are compulsory,
reputation, and the faculty has the
consisting of core mathematics and
highest research ratings of any
philosophy and bridge papers on
philosophy department in the UK. The
philosophy of mathematics and on
Philosophy Library is among the best in
foundations (logic and set theory), but
the country. The large number of
you also choose options. In the fourth
undergraduates and graduates reading
year there are no compulsory subjects,
Philosophy with a variety of other
and you can do all Mathematics, all
disciplines affords the opportunity to
Philosophy, or a combination of the two.
participate in a diverse and lively
philosophical community. A typical weekly timetable
The Mathematics Department, since • Years 1 and 2: up to ten lectures a
2013 housed in the Andrew Wiles week, two–three tutorials a week
106
MAThematical
sciences and
• Years 3 and 4: up to eight lectures a Katherine currently works for the
week. Equivalent of eight units taken Bodleian Libraries. She found that the logical
each year. Weekly tutorials per
Philosophy subject. Fortnightly classes
problem-solving skills and attention to detail
she gained from studying mathematics
Philosophy
per Mathematics unit came in useful when tackling new technical ranked best
overall in the uk
challenges in her work and whilst she
completed a second master’s. The
During the interview for Philosophy you will in the most recent (2014)
experience of studying both subjects so
be given the opportunity to show a critical Research Excellence
intensely, and having to pick up and apply
and analytical approach to abstract questions Framework
new knowledge quickly, gave her the
and the ability to defend a viewpoint by
confidence to work with new subject areas,
reasoned argument. In Mathematics you
including legal and medical research libraries.
may find yourself asked to look at problems
MORE ABOUT
of a type that you have never seen before.
Don’t worry; we will help you! We want to
see if you can respond to suggestions as to Requirements and applying: Course details:
how to tackle new things, rather than find ox.ac.uk/ugmp www.maths.ox.ac.uk
out simply what you have been taught. 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 615205
28 and 29 June and undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
M&P CAREERS 15 September

ox.ac.uk/opendays
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Graduates secure positions in diverse areas +44 (0) 1865 276926
such as software development, teaching, Mathematics Open Days: enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
research, the public sector, including the civil 22 and 29 April 2017 –
booking required
and diplomatic services, and journalism, See page 146
www.maths.ox.ac.uk/
both in the UK and abroad. Around 30% of
open-days
graduates go on to further academic study.
1st year 2nd and 3rd years 4th year

Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics
••Algebra ••Core pure mathematics (Algebra, Metric spaces, Advanced options including:
••Analysis Complex analysis) ••Axiomatic set theory
••Calculus and ••Foundations (Set theory, Logic) ••Elliptic Curves
probability ••Intermediate mathematics options ••Gödel’s incompleteness theorems
Philosophy Philosophy ••Infinite groups
••Elements of ••Knowledge and reality or Early Modern philosophy ••Model theory
deductive logic ••Philosophy of mathematics ••Stochastic differential equations
••General ••Further philosophy papers ••Optional mathematics dissertation
philosophy Philosophy
••Frege, Foundations Advanced options in Philosophy
of Arithmetic Optional Philosophy thesis
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website
(details above).

First University Final University examinations, Part A (2nd year): Final University Examinations,
examinations: Two written papers on pure mathematics core and Part C: Philosophy subjects include a
Five compulsory two written papers on mathematics options 5000-word essay. Students study
written papers Final University examinations, Part B (3rd year): three Philosophy subjects or eight
Four 90-minute exams in Mathematics and three Mathematics units, or a mixture of
three-hour papers in Philosophy and either two the two disciplines. Upper second
further 90-minute Mathematics exams or one further currently required to progress to
three-hour Philosophy paper (or the equivalent) Part C.
107
Mathematics and Statistics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
UCAS code: GG13 All over the world, human beings create Course structure
Entrance requirements an immense and ever-increasing volume The first year of this course is identical to
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in of data, with new kinds of data regularly Mathematics, and the core mathematics
Mathematics and Further
emerging from science and industry. A part of the degree is completed in the
new understanding of the value of these first term of the second year.
data to society has emerged, and, with it, Mathematics and Statistics students also
those for whom A-level Further a new and leading role for Statistics. In follow second-year courses in probability
Mathematics is not available: A*AA order to produce sensible theories and and statistics, and the remainder of the
with A* in Mathematics. draw accurate conclusions from data, second year allows for some choice of
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB cutting-edge statistical methods are topics in preparation for the greater
IB: 39 (including core points) with needed. These methods use advanced selectivity of the third and fourth years.
766 at HL mathematical ideas combined with In the first two years it is usually
Or any other equivalent modern computational techniques, which straightforward to move between the
Candidates are expected to have
Mathematics to A-level (A* grade), require expert knowledge and experience Mathematics course and the
Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level to apply. A degree in Mathematics and Mathematics and Statistics course,
in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent.
Further Mathematics is highly
Statistics equips you with the skills subject to the availability of space on the
recommended. required for developing and implementing course and to the consent of your college.
3-year average (2014–16) these methods, and provides a fascinating There are two Mathematics and
Interviewed: 44% combination of deep and mathematically Statistics degrees, the three-year BA and
Successful: 8% well-grounded method-building and the four-year MMath. Decisions
Intake: 15 wide-ranging applied work with data. regarding continuation to the fourth year
How to apply
The Department of Statistics at Oxford do not have to be made until the third
is an exciting and dynamic place to study, year. All third- and fourth-year
with teaching and research strengths in a mathematical topics available in the
ox.ac.uk/tests
Written work: None required wide range of modern areas of statistical Mathematics course are also available to
Fees, living costs and funding science. Many of its academic staff work Mathematics and Statistics students. The
See pages 18–19 and in the development of fundamental fourth year is, naturally, more challenging
ox.ac.uk/funding statistical methodology and probability. and it provides an opportunity for more
There is a strong new research group in-depth study, including a substantial
working on statistical machine learning Statistics project.
and scalable methods for Big Data. The
department’s world-leading team
The typical week of a student in
working on population genetics and
Mathematics and Statistics is similar to
evolution applied new statistical methods
that for Mathematics:
to huge genetic data sets to unlock the
secrets of human genetic variation and • Years 1 and 2: around ten lectures and
two–three tutorials or classes a week
disease. Other groups work on applied
probability, network analysis, and medical, • Years 3 and 4: eight–twelve lectures
and two–four classes a week,
actuarial and financial applications. These
depending on options taken
interests are reflected in the lecture
courses available to undergraduates in • Courses involving statistical software
packages have some lecture hours
their third and fourth years.
108 replaced by teaching sessions in labs.
MATHEMATICAL
What are tutors looking for? in the relatively new area of data
SCIENCES
In order to succeed in the Mathematics science, whilst careers in fields as RANKED BEST
OVERALL
and Statistics degree, students need to diverse as health, technology,
have a strong aptitude for mathematics. education and industry are all
The criteria applied at admissions are
entirely comparable to those applied
possible.

IN THE UK
in the most recent
to the Mathematics degree, and we (2014) Research
refer you to the Mathematics entry Excellence Framework
(page 102).
MORE ABOUT
M&S CAREERS ox.ac.uk/ugms www.maths.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 615205
In recent years, 96% of Mathematics 2017 Open Days:
and Statistics graduates were in work 28 and 29 June and undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
or study six months after graduation. 15 September www.stats.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays
The majority have joined the insurance +44 (0) 1865 282926
and financial services professions, but Mathematics Open Days: undergraduate.admissions@stats.ox.ac.uk
there are a wide range of options for 22 and 29 April 2017
graduates whose studies have included – booking required
See page 146
a substantial amount of statistics and www.maths.ox.ac.uk/
open-days
applied probability. There is great
demand for those wishing to work

(extended terms)
Compulsory 1st year Current core courses: Current options include: ••Statistics project
includes: ••Probability ••Applied and Current options include:
••Algebra ••Statistics computational ••Stochastic models in
••Analysis ••Algebra and differential statistics mathematical genetics
••Probability and statistics equations ••Statistical inference ••Probability and statistics for
••Geometry and dynamics ••Metric spaces and ••Applied probability network analysis
••Multivariate calculus and complex analysis ••Statistical lifetime ••Statistical data dining and
mathematical models Current options: models machine learning
••Statistical programming ••Actuarial science ••Advanced simulation
and simulation ••Wide range of other models
••Selection from a menu options in ••Bayes methods
of other options in Mathematics ••Probabilistic combinatorics
Mathematics ••Wide range of other options
in Mathematics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full
•• list of current options
is available on the course websites (details above).

First University Final University Final University Final University examinations,
examinations: examinations, Part A: examinations, Part B: Part C: The equivalent of eight
Five compulsory papers Five core papers and four The equivalent of eight written papers
Computational mathematics or five optional papers written papers including Currently upper second
projects assessed practicals required to progress to Part C
109
Medicine BA 3 years or BM BCh 6 years
UCAS code: A100 3-year average (2014–16) The practice of Medicine offers a
Entrance requirements Interviewed: 29% breadth of experiences that it is
A-levels: A*AA in three A-levels Successful: 10% impossible to find in any other subject.
(excluding Critical Thinking and General Intake: 150
Every day brings different patients with
Studies) taken in one academic year. How to apply
Candidates are required to achieve at least a different needs. It’s a great choice for
Tests: BMAT. For test date and
grade A in both Chemistry and at least one of
scientists who strive to understand and
Biology, Physics or Mathematics. apply research findings to improve the
ox.ac.uk/tests
(taken in one academic year and to include Written work: None required lives of the patients in their care. It
Chemistry, plus Biology or Mathematics or Fees, living costs and funding offers a meaningful career that is
Physics) See pages 18–19 and prestigious, secure and relatively well
Highers: AAAAA ox.ac.uk/funding paid. However, practising Medicine can
(taken in one academic year) Medicine is a single six-year course for fees
be arduous, stressful, frustrating and
purposes. You will be charged fees related to
at HL your year of entry to the pre-clinical course. bureaucratic and it’s not suited to
Candidates are required to take Chemistry and Note: the number of international fee status everyone. You need to be sure that
a second science (Biology or Physics) and/or medical students at each medical school in Medicine is the right choice for you.
Mathematics to Higher Level. Please note that the UK is subject to a government quota:
we have no preference for whether the third for Oxford this is currently 14.
These pages will help you work that out,
or fourth A-level subject (or further subject in Additional costs but there’s no better way to find out for
equivalent qualifications) is a science or not.
There are no mandatory additional sure than by gaining insight of medical
Other qualifications
Other national and international qualifications costs for the pre-clinical years. practice by seeing it in action and
are also acceptable. Please see our website for Students in the Clinical School study talking to those who provide healthcare.
further guidance: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/ for extended terms. You will need to Studying Medicine because that is what
study/medicine. Any candidate in doubt as to budget for higher living costs in these
their academic eligibility for this course is is expected of you is never a good idea:
three years, as you will be required to
strongly encouraged to seek advice by make sure that your motives for
emailing admissions@medschool.ox.ac.uk. be in Oxford for longer than the
choosing to do so are well reasoned.
Level of attainment in Science and standard terms. Please see ox.ac.uk/
Mathematics ugmedicine (Fees and Funding tab) for
There are no formal GCSE requirements for more information.
Medicine. However, in order to be adequately
equipped for the BMAT (see www.bmat.org.
uk) and for the academic demands of the
course, and if Biology, Physics or Mathematics
have not been taken to A-level (or equivalent),
applicants will need to have received a basic
education in those subjects (for example at
least a grade C/4 at GCSE, Intermediate 2 or The accelerated course (graduate entry)
Standard grade (Credit) or equivalent; the Graduates in experimental science subjects may be eligible to apply for the four-year
GCSE Dual Award Combined Sciences is also
appropriate).
accelerated course (UCAS code A101 BMBCh4). After a two-year transition phase covering
Graduates basic science and clinical skills, the accelerated programme leads into the final two years of
Students with degrees may apply for the the standard course and to the same Oxford medical qualification as the standard (six-year)
standard course. There are no places course. The four-year course is designed specifically for science graduates, and places a
specifically reserved for graduates, and there is strong emphasis on the scientific basis of medical practice.
no separate application process. Graduates are
in open competition with school-leavers, and
Applicants to the four-year accelerated course must follow the application procedure
need to fulfil the same entrance requirements. (described on page 12) (including the BMAT), and also complete an additional Oxford
application form. See www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/medicine for further information
and details of eligibility.
110
The Medicine course at Oxford clinically relevant aspects of anatomy Best in the world
provides a well-rounded intellectual
training with particular emphasis on the
that will be of immediate use in their
clinical years.
for medicine
Oxford Medical Sciences
basic science research that underpins have been ranked number one
Teaching methods and study
medicine. We have retained a distinct for the last six years in the
support
three-year pre-clinical stage that Times Higher Education World
During the pre-clinical stage of the University Rankings for clinical,
includes studying towards a BA Honours
course, the college tutorial system is a pre-clinical and health sciences
degree in Medical Sciences, followed by
central feature: students see their – the only non-North American
a three-year clinical stage.
tutors and are taught weekly in groups institution to be top-ranked by
The Medical School at Oxford is
often as small as two. This teaching can THE in any subject discipline.
relatively small, allowing students and
be tailored to individuals’ needs and
staff to get to know one another and
interests. Most University lectures,
benefit from a relaxed and friendly
atmosphere.
seminars and practical classes take No.1 in National
Student Survey
place in the Medical Sciences Teaching
The pre-clinical stage Centre in the Science Area. Lecturers
Applicants are initially admitted to the are drawn from Oxford’s extensive pre- Oxford’s Medical School
has been the highest rated
pre-clinical stage of the course. clinical and clinical departments, all of
for student satisfaction
The first five terms of this course are which have international reputations for
for the past nine years.
devoted to the First BM. This addresses excellence in research, and the courses
not only much of the science that are organised on an interdisciplinary
underpins Medicine, but also the clinical basis so as to emphasise the
problems that arise when systems fail. interrelatedness of all aspects of the
Students are introduced to the major curriculum.
systems of the body and study all
Research work
aspects of their structure and function
In addition to taking written and
in health and also the principles of
computer-based examinations, and
disease processes. Students are
submitting practical reports and an
encouraged to develop an enquiring
extended essay, students undertake a
approach and to consider the
research project as part of their BA
experimental basis of the science in the
course. This will be in a field of interest
course. Matters of clinical relevance are
to the student, and will offer valuable
illustrated from the outset with
first-hand experience of scientific
students making regular visits to GP
research. Students have the opportunity
tutors.
to undertake research in a laboratory
The First BM is followed by a four-
from a wide range of departments
term BA Honours course (the Final
within the Medical Sciences Division.
Honour School) in Medical Sciences.
Students specialise in an area of A typical weekly timetable
biomedical science selected from a During the First BM, lectures and
range of options. They will become practicals occupy about half of the time,
adept at working from primary research and the remainder is free for tutorial
literature, and will be encouraged to work, self-directed study and extra-
think both critically and creatively. curricular activities. During the BA
Students will gain in-depth knowledge course, formal lecturing is kept to a
of their chosen option, as well as minimum, and students are mostly free
advanced technical skills at the to pursue their research and to prepare
laboratory bench and in scientific data for tutorials and seminars. Strong
handling and presentation. academic support ensures that students
The Principles of Clinical Anatomy manage their time effectively.
course, delivered at the end of the third
year, is designed to teach students
111
Medicine continued
Progress to clinical training Practise, and a satisfactory Disclosure
At the start of the third year students and Barring Service check. Students
can apply to the Oxford Clinical School may be refused entry to, or be
or one of the London Medical Schools removed from, the University’s Register
to undertake their Clinical Training. of Medical Students on grounds that
may be either academic or non-
academic (for instance health or
Please note that competition to study
conduct). Applicants should be aware
Medicine at Oxford is particularly
that some practical studies involving
strong and only around 425 applicants
living animal tissue are an obligatory
are shortlisted for interview each year.
component of the course. Note that
Applicants are shortlisted for interview
students must have reached their 18th
on the basis of BMAT performance,
birthday on or before the first day of
GCSE performance (if applicable) and
full term in the first year of the course.
other information on their application.
No student is admitted without
interview. Any shortlisted candidate,
including those from overseas, will be
medicine CAREERS
A vast array of speciality training
expected to come to Oxford for
pathways is available after obtaining a
interview in December.
medical qualification: ranging from
Students are selected for their
General Practice or emergency
scientific ability and for their aptitude for
medicine through obstetrics or
Medicine. Applicants are expected to
ophthalmology to paediatrics or
show that they have a realistic under-
psychiatry.
standing of what a medical career will
Of course, you need not remain
involve, and that they have the potential
confined to the clinic, ward or the
to become effective and caring doctors.
operating theatre: the lecture theatre
All colleges use a common set of
or the laboratory could also beckon.
selection criteria that relate to academic
Some of our graduates end up leading
potential and suitability for Medicine. For
the education of the next generation of
further information about selection
doctors or directing biomedical
criteria, please see: www.ox.ac.uk/
research. You don’t need to know right
criteria.
now what you want to do when you
Applicants are free to make
qualify: the Medical School organises
reference to skills or experience
careers sessions for final-year clinical
acquired in any context to illustrate
students and helps students learn
how they might fulfil the selection
about and apply for foundation house
criteria; sometimes candidates refer to
officer posts.
voluntary work and other extra-
BM BCh graduates are entitled to
curricular activities, but many forms of
provisional registration with the
evidence can help demonstrate to
General Medical Council (GMC) with
tutors that a candidate has made an
a licence to practise, subject to
informed decision regarding their own
demonstrating to the GMC that their
suitability to study Medicine.
fitness to practise is not impaired.
Application conditions Tzveta is currently training to be an
Oxford conforms to the UK oncologist. She says: ‘Many universities
Department of Health’s requirements can teach you how to be a foundation
regarding immunisation status doctor. Oxford taught me how to work
(hepatitis, BCG and rubella) and the through problems carefully and logically
GMC’s conditions on Fitness to from first principles, and gave me the
112
theoretical grounding to be able to do colleges were an invaluable experience.
so. I had the opportunity to read key In those intimate ‘mind sparring’
papers in my subject, then discuss exercises, you go beyond the standard
them with the academics who had curriculum and probe the boundaries of
published them. Most importantly, the fundamental science behind
Oxford taught me that I was capable of modern medicine. In this way, Oxford
much more than I imagined or believed. nurtures not only sound medical
Though I have gone from essay crises practitioners but also future explorers
to night shifts, from finals to Royal and leaders in medicine… Of course,
College exams, the focused studying medicine at Oxford involves a
determination it instilled within me lot of hard work. But the opportunities
remains, driving me through any are also there to take part in the most
challenges faced along the way.’ vibrant student society/club life,
Kanmin graduated from pre-clinical whatever your hobby or background.’
medicine in 2003. He is now a National
Institute of Health Research (NIHR)
Academic Clinical Lecturer in
MORE ABOUT
ophthalmology at the University of Requirements and applying: Course details:
ox.ac.uk/ugmedicine www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/
Oxford, undergoing 50:50 surgical
retina fellowship training and 2017 Open Days: medicine
translational research into gene therapy 28 and 29 June and 15 September admissions@medschool.ox.ac.uk
for inherited retinal diseases. Kanmin ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
says: ‘The weekly essays and tutorials course? See page 146
with world-leading academics in the
First BM Part 1: First BM Part 2: Final Honour School

Terms 1–3 Terms 4–5 in Medical Sciences: Terms 6–9
••Organisation of the body ••Applied physiology and ••Option (currently one from:
••Physiology and pharmacology pharmacology Neuroscience; Molecular medicine;
••Biochemistry and medical genetics ••The nervous system Infection and immunity;
••Population health: Medical ••Principles of pathology Cardiovascular, renal and
sociology ••Psychology for medicine respiratory biology; Cellular
••Patient and doctor course ••Patient and doctor course physiology and pharmacology)
••Research project
••Extended essay
••Principles of clinical anatomy
A full list of course options is available
at: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/
medicine/pre-clinical/structure
••Three core computer-based ••Three core computer-based ••Written papers
assessments assessments ••Submission of extended essay and
••Four written papers ••Four written papers research project write-up
••Satisfactory practical record ••Satisfactory practical record ••Oral presentation of research
project
••Qualifying exam in Principles of
clinical anatomy: computer-based
assessment
113
Modern Languages BA 4 years with a year abroad
Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish
UCAS codes: see table and Course options Studying Modern Languages provides
ox.ac.uk/courses Some Modern Languages may be both practical training in written and
Entrance requirements studied on their own (not from spoken language and also an extensive
A-levels: AAA scratch): introduction to European literature and
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB French R110 thought. As well as learning to write
IB: 38 (including core points) with German R200
666 at HL
and speak the language(s) fluently, you
Russian R711 can study a broad range of literature,
There are several combinations available Spanish R400 or focus your studies on any period
that allow students to begin studying a Two modern languages may be from the medieval to the present day.
language from scratch. However, please studied in combination:
note that it is not usually possible for A wide range of other options allow
students to study two languages from see ox.ac.uk/courses you to explore subjects including
scratch or a language on its own from for course codes.
scratch. Candidates would be expected to
linguistics, philology, film studies or
have competence in at least one of the (in French and German) advanced
languages chosen.
Interviewed: 87%
translation.
For French or Spanish Modern Languages have been
Successful: 34%
Candidates would usually be
Intake: 168 taught in Oxford since 1724. The
expected to have the language to
How to apply faculty is one of the largest in the
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher
Level in the IB or another academic
Tests: MLAT. For test date and country, with a total intake of more
equivalent.
registration details please see than 250 students a year (including
ox.ac.uk/tests joint courses). Undergraduate students
For Czech, German, Modern
Written work: Two to four pieces can use the Taylor Institution Library,
Greek, Italian, Portuguese
and Russian the biggest research library in Britain
Please note there are different course devoted to modern languages.
codes for these languages, depending Language is at the centre of the
ox.ac.uk/funding
on whether or not you have studied Oxford course, making up around
The year abroad has lower fees and
them before. Beginners’ courses
may have extra funding: see 50% of both first-year and final
allow students to start studying one
ox.ac.uk/erasmus examinations. The course aims to teach
of these languages from scratch –
otherwise they would be expected to
spoken fluency in colloquial and more
have an A-level or equivalent (or, for formal situations, the ability to write
German, an A-level or equivalent essays in the foreign language, and the
proven competence). The Beginners’ ability to translate into and out of the
German course also includes an foreign language with accuracy and
intermediate option for those who sensitivity to a range of vocabulary,
have studied some German. Find out styles and registers. You will also
more at www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk. develop your reading skills to a high
For Polish
level. The University’s excellently
We generally expect all students
equipped Language Centre (see page
applying for this course to be
beginners, though those with
24) has resources specifically tailored
experience are also very welcome to the needs of Modern Language
to apply. students.
114
The study of literature gives you an eight-month language course in the Please see
understanding of other cultures that city of Yaroslavl.) Students are ox.ac.uk/erasmus
cannot be acquired solely through encouraged to spend as much as for details of current
learning the language. It leads you into possible of their vacations in the Erasmus opportunities
areas such as gender issues, popular countries whose languages they are for this course.
culture, theatre studies, aesthetics, studying. In addition to the possibility
anthropology, art history, ethics, of Erasmus funding, extra financial
history, philosophy, politics, psychology support, including travel scholarships,
and theology developing your skills as a may be available from your college
critical reader, writer and thinker. and/or the faculty.
Course structure A typical weekly timetable
Your first year is closely structured. Your week’s work will include a tutorial
You will attend oral classes and courses in, or organised by, your college,
on the grammatical structure of your language classes in each of the
language(s), translation into and out of language(s) you study, and typically
the language(s) and, in some of the three to four hours of lectures for
languages, comprehension. You will also each subject.
attend introductory lecture courses
Deferred entry
and participate in seminars and/or
Students are welcome to apply for
tutorials on literature. From 2018, if
deferred entry for any language
you study French, German, Spanish or
courses except those including
Russian as a single language you will
Beginners’ Russian.
take a range of additional options in
that language in the first year (see What are tutors looking for?
below). All other languages must be Tutors will be looking for a good
studied in combination with another command of the grammar of any
language or another subject. language you have already studied at
Your other years of study give you school and want to continue studying
more freedom to choose the areas on at Oxford, as well as an interest in
which you wish to focus, from a very literature and culture.
wide range of options. Students studying Tutors want to find out as much as
courses with Polish take this as a possible about your intellectual
subsidiary language, beginning in the interests and academic potential, so
second year. Catalan, Galician, Provençal, you may be asked about your reading,
Yiddish and most of the Slavonic your interest in the culture of the
languages may also be taken as relevant country, or the work you have
additional options. submitted. You may be asked questions
about a short passage in English or the
relevant foreign language(s). You will be
Modern Languages students spend a
given the opportunity to speak in the
compulsory year abroad, usually in the
relevant foreign language(s) which you
third year. They may work as paid
have studied to an advanced level. As
language assistants in a foreign school
far as possible, interviewers will try to
or do internships abroad, both of which
let you show your strengths, interest in
provide valuable opportunities to
the subject(s) you intend to study, and
develop career experience while
reasons for applying to Oxford.
improving language competence. The
For more information about the
year may also be spent studying at a
selection criteria please see:
foreign university. (Students taking
ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Beginners’ Russian spend the second
year – as opposed to the third year –
of their studies on a specially designed
115
Modern Languages continued
language CAREERS The skills I gained at Oxford have The Taylor
Employers value Modern Languages helped me to analyse situations
thoughtfully and critically, and gave me
Institution
graduates because they are competent
in one or two languages, have acquired the confidence to establish the Library
Refugee Support Network in 2009. I Part of the world-famous
a range of transferable skills and have
never thought I would use my language Bodleian Libraries, the Taylor
first-hand experience of other cultures.
skills in situations as diverse as Institution Library is the
Modern Languages graduates from biggest research library in
Oxford regularly enter careers focused Sudanese refugee camps, with Haitian
Britain devoted to modern
on languages such as translation and earthquake survivors and with young
languages.
teaching, or go into areas such as law, victims of trafficking in London.’
MORE ABOUT
management consultancy,
accountancy, international press
agencies, the media, advertising, the Requirements and applying: Course details:
Foreign Office and the performing arts. ox.ac.uk/ugml www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Catherine is Director of the Refugee 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270750
Support Network. She says: ‘Since 28 and 29 June and 15 September reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
graduating from Oxford, I have worked ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
in the field of refugee education and course? See page 146
Modern Languages Open Day:
education in emergencies for various
charities, including Save the Children www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/
and various United Nations agencies. open-days

Two-language course Two-language course Year 3
••practical language work ••practical language Typically spent abroad
••study of important works and/or topics in the work Beginners’ Russian: Students spend
literature of each language ••a period of literature in the second year in Russia, and the
One-language course: as above, plus each language third year in Oxford
••from 2018, for French, German, Russian and ••optional subjects,
Spanish, additional options: film studies; including linguistics; Year 4
literary theory (French); medieval studies medieval literature; Continues the course from year 2,
(German/ Spanish); key texts in French or detailed study of plus special subjects across a wide
German thought; short fiction (Spanish); individual authors range of options including film
Polish and Church Slavonic (Russian) One-language course studies
Other languages must be studied in ••as above, but including
combination with another language or joint a greater range of
school. optional subjects
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the
course website (details above).
Seven or eight written papers, including Nine or ten written papers and an
translation and literature (language only for oral examination are taken, including
Beginners’ Russian). unprepared translations, literature
subjects, special subjects and
linguistics. Some special subjects are
examined by submitting a portfolio
of essays.
116
LOVE LANGUAGES?
Language-based courses at Oxford are offered by several different
departments, and there are lots of opportunities to mix and match,
or to study a language alongside another subject.
Almost all of these languages can be learnt from scratch.
History
and Modern Modern Oriental Studies
Languages Languages page 122
page 90 page 114 Arabic Akkadian
Czech Italian Hebrew Chinese
(with Slovak) Polish Persian Egyptian
English French Portuguese Turkish Japanese
and Modern German Russian
Languages European and Sanskrit
Greek Spanish Middle Eastern plus subsidiary options in:
page 74 (modern) Aramaic, Coptic, Hindi, Hittite,
Languages Korean, Old Iranian, Pali,
plus subsidiary options in:
Catalan, Galician, page 76 Prakrit, Sumerian, Syriac,
Tibetan
Philosophy Provençal, Yiddish,
most Slavonic
and Modern languages
Languages Classics Religion
page 126 and Modern Classics and Oriental
Languages with Oriental Studies
Modern page 58 Studies page 140
Languages page 60
& Linguistics
page 118 Classics
page 54
Latin
Greek (ancient)
Classics
and English
page 56
Law with Law Studies extra-curricular

in Europe (page 98) gives
you the chance to study LANGUAGE learning
French, German, Italian or
Spanish law – in the relevant Any Oxford student can
language and country. (You learn a language at the
can also study European Law University’s Language
in the Netherlands, which is Centre – see page 24.
taught in English.)
117
Modern Languages and Linguistics BA 4 years
with a year abroad
UCAS codes: see combinations Course combinations This course allows students to study one
Entrance requirements You can either study Linguistics with modern language in depth together with
A-levels: AAA a Modern Language you already Linguistics, the study of language itself.
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB speak, or with a Modern Language
Part of your course will consist of
IB: 38 (including core points) with you’d like to learn from scratch. For
developing your practical language skills
666 at HL the following course combinations
Or any other equivalent you would usually be expected to
to a high level, and you will engage with
No experience of studying Linguistics is have the Modern Language to the literature and culture associated with
required, though knowledge of the relevant
A-level (or another academic the language (see Modern Languages,
modern language may be expected, as
detailed under course combinations. English equivalent). page 114).
Language, Mathematics, a science or any Linguistics and: In your study of Linguistics, you will be
other language may be useful for some French RQ11 introduced to the analysis of the nature
elements of the course, although they are
German RQ21 and structure of human language
not required for admission.
Modern Greek QQ71 (including topics such as how words and
Italian RQ31
Interviewed: 86% sentences are formed, how we make and
Portuguese RQ51
Successful: 35% hear sounds, how languages change and
Russian RQ71
Intake: 26 vary and how language is organised in
Spanish RQ41
How to apply the brain) and you will apply these ideas
Tests: MLAT. For test date and The following course combinations
to the study of your chosen language.
registration details please see allow you to begin studying a
Modern Language from scratch.
The University has particular expertise
ox.ac.uk/tests
Linguistics and: in general linguistics, phonetics,
Written work: Three pieces
See ox.ac.uk/writwork Beginners’ Modern Greek QQ72 phonology, syntax and semantics,
Fees, living costs and funding Beginners’ Italian QR13 psycholinguistics and in the history and
See pages 18–19 and Beginners’ Portuguese RQ5D structure of many individual European
ox.ac.uk/funding languages and language families. All
The year abroad has lower fees and these combine to offer a mutually
may have extra funding: see reinforcing package: on the one hand the
ox.ac.uk/erasmus theoretical study of what human
language is and how it works; on the
other, the detailed study of issues of
language structure and change applied to
the specific language you are studying.
You will find a wide range of options
available, allowing you to concentrate on
those areas you find most exiting.
Students spend a year abroad before
their final year. Please see Modern
Languages (page 114) for more
information.
118
A typical weekly timetable MLL CAREERS Please see
ox.ac.uk/erasmus
Your week’s work will include a tutorial The training in rigorous analysis for details of current
on linguistics or literature, in or provided by Linguistics, coupled with Erasmus opportunities
arranged by your college, a linguistics highly developed practical competence for this course.
class and language classes on different in a language, gives graduates an
skills relating to the language or excellent basis for a wide range of
languages you study, and five or six careers in language-related
lectures. employment and other areas.
Recent Modern Languages and
Linguistics graduates include a
Language tutors look for a good
management consultant, a brand
command of any language you have
marketing manager, a market researcher
already studied and want to continue
for a company in the chemical industry,
studying at Oxford, and a strong interest
a psychology lecturer and a teacher.
in literature and culture.
Linguistics is a subject that most
students start from scratch at University.
Therefore admission tutors look for
potential, in the form of an interest in MORE ABOUT
exploring the nature of human language Requirements and applying: Course details:
together with an aptitude for describing ox.ac.uk/ugmll www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
and analysing it. Furthermore, tutors look 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270750
for a willingness to learn the formal tools 28 and 29 June and 15 September reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
required for rigorous and detailed ox.ac.uk/opendays www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
investigation and leading to a deep +44 (0) 1865 280400
Modern Languages and joint
understanding of the use, history and courses Open Day: enquiries@ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
structure of the language you are 29 April 2017 – booking required
studying. Which colleges offer this
For further information about the open-days
selection criteria please see:
ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Courses Courses
Modern Language Modern Language
••Practical language work (two ••Practical language work
papers) ••A period of literature
••Study of important works and/or ••Optional further subject chosen from a wide range
topics in the literature of the Linguistics
language (two papers) ••General linguistics
Linguistics ••History of the language you will be studying
••General linguistics ••Structure and use of that language in its modern form
••Phonetics and phonology ••One or two specialist options, for example:
••Grammatical analysis Syntax; semantics and pragmatics; phonetics and phonology
sociolinguistics; psycholinguistics; linguistic project
about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Seven written papers, including Eight or nine papers and an oral examination
translation and literature
119
Music BA 3 years
UCAS code: W300 Why study Music? you can concentrate on other areas
Entrance requirements such as history or analysis.
• We ‘study’ music by reading, listening,
A-levels: AAA
performing and composing. • Students graduate as mature and
• We investigate, through analysis, the well-rounded musicians with an
relationships between the various informed and lively sense of the
666 at HL
Or any other equivalent parts of the composition. contemporary study and practice of
Candidates are expected to have Music to • We use documentary evidence to the subject.
the IB or another equivalent. Keyboard
explore how reliable and authoritative A typical weekly timetable
ability of ABRSM Grade V or above is also a score is and how to perform it. • Four to six lectures a week
highly recommended.
• We investigate the various uses of • One or two tutorials in college
3-year average (2014–16) music to see how a musical work (or
Interviewed: 86% • Practice, workshops and rehearsals
repertory or style) has been shaped • More time for independent study in
Successful: 35%
over time, and how it might differ the summer terms.
Intake: 69
How to apply from that of earlier ages or of
different cultures. What are tutors looking for?
Tests: None required
Written work: Two pieces
Potential to engage with the
Music at Oxford undergraduate course through a genuine
• Music has been part of the life of spirit of enquiry and keenness to think
Oxford for more than 800 years. critically about music. For further
ox.ac.uk/funding • 30 academic staff – scholars with information about the selection criteria
distinguished reputations as please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
musicologists, performers or
composers.
• Numerous visiting speakers and FROM A MUSIC STUDENT
professional performing ensembles. The Oxford music course suits me because
• Students enjoy performance and it is broad and varied, but also has lots of
composition workshops, and play an space to make it my own. For my final exams
active part in the life of their colleges
I am sitting papers in broad aspects of music
– in chapels, orchestras, ensembles,
history (from English renaissance polyphony to
electronic music), analysis, and issues to do
bands and stage performances. with how we study music but I am also writing
• The faculty building incorporates a dissertation about the music in a primary
practice rooms, electronic music and school near Oxford, essays on Brazilian music,
recording studios, and probably one of and a report from the term I spent working
the best music libraries in a British on a music project with children with autism. I
university. The world-famous Bate
have friends who are playing the Rite of Spring
Collection of Musical Instruments,
for piano duet for a chamber music exam, who
are singing Schubert Lieder for a solo recital,
housed in the faculty, lends historical and who are analysing Bach organ fugues for
instruments to students. an analysis portfolio - and those are just the
• The course is broadly based but people in my year in my college! If you are
allows increasing specialisation and passionate about music, and keen to explore the
choice as you proceed. Performance subject from many different angles, there will
and composition are prominent, but be something in the Oxford course for you.
120 Sarah
MUSIC CAREERS Gardiner, Daniil Trifonov, Sir Willard White,
Teaching, performance and arts James MacMillan, Leonidas Kavakos and
administration are among the more popular many others. Naturally my music degree
destinations for Music graduates, but has proved an extremely helpful foundation
others include broadcasting, publishing, for a career in classical music management
law, politics and the Civil Service. Many but, I would say that the most important
students undertake further study in thing I gained from Oxford was confidence
performance, often at conservatoires in and resilience and being able to meet
the UK and abroad. people from all walks of life.’
After graduating, Fabienne secured a
marketing and public relations internship
with the Philharmonia Orchestra. She then MORE ABOUT
worked for the Royal Philharmonic
Orchestra and London Symphony ox.ac.uk/ugmusic www.music.ox.ac.uk
Orchestra before being headhunted for her
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 286264
current role as Head of Communications
28 and 29 June and 15 September academic.admin@music.ox.ac.uk
and Marketing at Intermusica, an industry-
leading international classical music
management agency. She says; ‘Our roster course? See page 146
includes Marin Alsop, Sir John Eliot

Courses Courses
Six subjects are taken (one chosen from a list of Eight subjects are taken (six chosen from a list of options)
options) Compulsory
Compulsory ••Topics in music history before 1750
••Special topics, for example: ••Topics in music history after 1700
Machaut’s songs Optional topics studied
Historically informed performance ••Musical analysis and criticism
Schubert’s last decade ••Musical thought and scholarship
Psychology of everyday musical experience ••Techniques of composition
Global hip hop ••Solo performance
••Musical analysis ••Orchestration
••Techniques of composition and keyboard skills ••Dissertation
Options ••Composition portfolio
••Issues in the study of music ••Edition with commentary
••Composition ••Analysis portfolio
••Performance ••Music ethnography
••Extended essay ••Chamber music performance
••Choral conducting
••Choral performance
••Special topic papers. Some recent examples: Music perception;
Music in Scandinavia; Women composers; Dance music; Lieder;
Music & society in England, 1851–1914; Music in the community
Please note that the courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available
on the course website (details above).
Three written papers and one ‘take-away’ paper, Final University examinations: Three or more written papers and
a practical examination and a recital/portfolio of a combination of take-away papers, portfolio submissions,
compositions/essay recitals and practical tests, depending on the options chosen
121
Oriental Studies BA 3 or 4 years (see individual subjects)
Arabic, Chinese, Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Hebrew Studies, Japanese, Jewish Studies, Persian, Sanskrit, Turkish
UCAS codes: see tables Among subjects in the humanities, Work placements/international
Entrance requirements Oriental Studies is unique in opportunities
A-levels: AAA introducing students to civilisations Most courses offer the opportunity
that are different from the Western to spend time in the region being
ones that form the basis of the studied. The Arabic course includes a
666 at HL
curriculum in most British schools and year in the Middle East, the Persian
Students are not expected to have studied colleges. The courses present both and Turkish courses a year in Iran
an Oriental language before. A language to the major traditions of the regions (due to visa restrictions some
the IB or another equivalent can be helpful studied and, in most cases, their students are unable to travel to Iran,
to students in completing this course, modern developments. All courses in which case separate individual
although this is not required for admission. include language, literature, history arrangements are made) or Turkey
and culture and there is a wide range respectively, and the Hebrew course
Interviewed: 87%
of options in such fields as art and an optional year in Israel. The Chinese
Successful: 27%
Intake: 43
archaeology, history, literature, and Japanese courses also include a
How to apply philosophy, religion and modern social year in China and Japan respectively.
Tests: OLAT (for Arabic/Hebrew/ studies.
Jewish Studies/Persian/Turkish Oriental Studies has a long history
Successful candidates are expected
options only). For test date and in Oxford. The Bodleian and other
to demonstrate the following: high
registration details please see libraries have acquired magnificent
ox.ac.uk/tests academic achievement, potential for
collections. The Oriental Institute,
Written work: Two pieces the intended course of study and
Institute for Chinese Studies, Bodleian
See ox.ac.uk/writwork strong motivation. Oriental Studies
Japanese and Indian Institute Libraries
Fees, living costs and funding requires a capacity for hard work and
are all specialists in their respective
See pages 18–19 and the ability to tackle foreign languages
ox.ac.uk/funding
fields. Around the corner from the
as well as skills of analysis, argument
Additional costs Oriental Institute is the Ashmolean
and essay writing. For further
During the year abroad, the Oriental Museum, which houses superb
information about the selection
Institute covers the cost of language collections. The Sackler Library
tuition, but not living costs and flights. criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
contains the renowned Griffith
For more information, see Library, one of the finest libraries in
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/
the world for the study of ancient
courses/year_abroad_faq.html.
Egypt and the Ancient Near East.
122
OS CAREERS Iason, who graduated with a BA Beijing, Kobe
& Oxford
The skills developed whilst studying (OS) in Arabic, is a photojournalist,
for a degree in Oriental Studies are film-maker and lecturer currently
working for the UN in Libya. He says: Peking University hosts the year
greatly appreciated by a wide range abroad for students of Chinese.
of employers. Career options include ‘I have lived in Cairo, Damascus,
The University of Kobe is our
finance, the media, commerce, the Sanaa and Tehran, and covered
partner in the Kobe–Oxford
Civil Service, law, accountancy and events like the 2011 Arab revolts and Japanese Studies Programme.
the arts. Around 30% of Oriental the Greek economic crisis. After
Studies graduates go on to further studying for a master’s in Persian and
study. Contemporary Iranian Studies, I was a
Andi, who graduated with a BA Nieman fellow at Harvard.’
(OS) in Japanese, is Director of
International Business Development
at Ping Identity. He says: ‘My time at
Oxford gave me a good foundation
for the varied demands of both small
and large companies, and the skills
MORE ABOUT
required to handle the constant Requirements and applying: Course details:
change and learning required in the ox.ac.uk/ugos www.orinst.ox.ac.uk
software industry. I’ve had the 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 278312
opportunity to do business in Japan 28 and 29 June and 15 September undergraduate.admissions@
on several occasions through my ox.ac.uk/opendays orinst.ox.ac.uk
career.’ Oriental Studies Open Day: Which colleges offer this
29 April 2017 – booking required course? See page 146
Arabic and Islamic Studies T601 Persian with subsidiary language T6TX
Arabic with subsidiary language T6T9 Turkish T600
Persian T613 Turkish with subsidiary language T6TY

••Elementary language Year abroad: approved course of ••Core work on language and
••Islamic history and culture language instruction literature
••History
••Specialisation or subsidiary
language

First University examinations after Qualifying examination at the end Final University examinations:
term 3: of the course Oral exam and eight or nine written
Three written papers; papers (one of which may be a
an oral exam (Arabic only) dissertation)
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website
(details above).
123
Oriental Studies continued
Chinese T101

••Elementary language in classical ••Year abroad at Peking ••Extended language classes and historical study
and modern Chinese University ••Options: Ancient history; Literature; Modern
••History and culture society and politics; or subsidiary languages:
Tibetan, Japanese or Korean
First University examinations: Three Final University examinations: Oral examination;
written papers; an oral exam eight written papers; dissertation
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123).
Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies Q401

Egyptology Q400
Ancient Near Eastern Studies Q402
1st year 2nd year 3rd year and 4th years
••Broad survey of ••Addition of second language, or Archaeology and ••Essay writing and
civilisations of Egypt and Anthropology dissertation work
the Ancient Near East ••Language options: Akkadian, Egyptian, Arabic, Aramaic ••Intensive classes in the
••Language teaching in and Syriac, Coptic, Hebrew (Biblical and Mishnaic), Old first and second terms
Egyptian or Akkadian Iranian, Sumerian or Hittite (if available) ••Artefact classes
••Literary and historical topics through study of texts ••Field of concentration
and essay writing
••Intensive class work
••Artefact classes
Subject to acceptance, students may also have the
option of Classical Greek or Latin within the Classics with
Oriental Studies degree. See page 60.
First University examinations: Final University
Four written papers examinations: Ten units
Hebrew Studies Q480 (primarily languages, literature, culture and history)

Courses Courses 3rd year can optionally be spent abroad
••Intensive study in Hebrew ••Handling Hebrew texts and developing Courses
language in all periods knowledge of historical and cultural ••Texts
••Introduction to Jewish background ••Historical and cultural background
history and culture ••Choice of options from Jewish Studies
First University Final University examinations:
examinations: Four written Seven written papers; dissertation
papers 4-year course only: oral examination
124
Japanese T201

••Elementary Japanese language ••Year abroad at Kobe University ••Extended language classes
••History and culture ••Options (five subjects to be
chosen): Classical literature;
Modern literature; Linguistics;
History; Politics; Economics;
Subsidiary language (counts as
three subjects): either Chinese,
Korean or Tibetan

First University examinations: Three Test at end of course Final University examinations:
written papers Oral examination; eight written
papers; dissertation
Jewish Studies QV91

(primarily focused on the history, religion and culture of the Jews from biblical to modern times)

••Intensive study in Hebrew ••Options (three subjects to be ••Options (two subjects to be
language in all periods chosen) chosen)
••Introduction to Jewish history and
culture
Four written papers Seven written papers; dissertation
A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123).
Sanskrit Q450

••Intensive language teaching ••Preparation for Final University ••Sanskrit literature
examinations in final year ••Special subject
••Study of Sanskrit grammar
••Subsidiary language options: Hindi,
Old Iranian, Pali, Prakrit and Tibetan
Three written papers Nine papers: seven in Sanskrit and
two in subsidiary languages
125
Philosophy and Modern Languages BA 4 years with a year abroad
Philosophy and either Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish
UCAS codes: see combinations Course combinations intellectual background.

Entrance requirements You can either study Philosophy with The study of a modern European
A-levels: AAA a Modern Language you already language develops analytical and
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB speak, or with a Modern Language critical abilities as well as linguistic
IB: 39 (including core points) with you’d like to learn from scratch. skills to a high level; the study of the
literature written in that language
combinations you would usually be
Candidates are not required to have any contributes to an understanding of
expected to have the Modern
experience of studying Philosophy though many aspects of European culture. It
some background reading is highly Language to A-level, or another
recommended. academic equivalent. develops attention to stylistic and
3-year average (2014–16) Philosophy and: terminological detail and rhetorical
Interviewed: 82% Czech VR57 strategies, and sensitivity to cultural
Successful: 26% French VR51 and historical context, which are also
Intake: 16 German VR52 of great value to the study of
How to apply Modern Greek VQ57 philosophy.
Tests: MLAT (including a Philosophy Italian VR53 Studying these two disciplines in
test). For test date and registration Portuguese VR55 parallel has numerous advantages and
details please see ox.ac.uk/tests Russian VRM7
affords students greater insights into
Written work: Two pieces Spanish VR54
each.
See ox.ac.uk/writwork The following course combinations
Fees, living costs and funding The Philosophy Faculty is the
See pages 18–19 and largest philosophy department in the
Modern Language from scratch.
ox.ac.uk/funding UK, and one of the largest in the
Philosophy and:
The year abroad has lower fees and Beginners’ Czech VR5R world, admitting around 450
may have extra funding: see Beginners’ Modern Greek VR59 undergraduates annually to read the
ox.ac.uk/erasmus Beginners’ Italian RV35 various degrees involving Philosophy.
Beginners’ Portuguese VR5M Many faculty members have a
worldwide reputation, and our library
Philosophy and Modern Languages and other facilities are acknowledged
brings together some of the most as among the best in the country.
important approaches to understanding Oxford’s Modern Languages Faculty
language, literature and ideas. is one of the largest in the country,
The study of philosophy develops with a total intake of more than 250
analytical rigour and the ability to students a year, including those
criticise and reason logically. It allows reading joint degrees. The Taylor
you to apply these skills to questions Institution is the biggest modern
ranging from how we acquire languages research library in the UK.
knowledge and form moral judgements The Modern Languages Faculty also
to the nature of language, art and has an undergraduate lending library,
literature. Since many works of and students are able to take
literature are shaped by the dominant advantage of the excellently equipped
philosophical ideas of their epoch, Language Centre (see page 24).
study of philosophy can illuminate that
126
International opportunities PML CAREERS Please see
ox.ac.uk/erasmus
Students spend a year abroad before Philosophy and Modern Languages for details of Erasmus
their final year. Please see Modern graduates enter careers including academic opportunities for this
Languages (page 114) for more teaching and research, teaching, course.
information. commerce, banking and financial services,
A typical weekly timetable journalism and communications. An Oxford
Your work is divided between tutorials degree in a modern language opens up
(one or two weekly), lectures (about six opportunities for international careers or
hours weekly) and classes (first-year working with global companies or
logic, language classes throughout the organisations.
course: about two to three hours Recent Philosophy and Modern
weekly). The rest of your week will be Languages graduates include an economic
spent in private study to prepare essays consultant, a management consultant and
for tutorials and improve your command a bilingual editor for a publishing company.
of your language.
What are tutors looking for? MORE ABOUT
For information about the selection Requirements and applying: Course details:
criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria. ox.ac.uk/ugpml www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
At interview, tutors will be looking 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270750
for interest in the proposed fields of 28 and 29 June and 15 September reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
study, relevant linguistic ability, a critical ox.ac.uk/opendays www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
and analytical response to questions
Modern Languages and joint +44 (0) 1865 276926
and/or texts and the ability to defend
courses Open Day: enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
a viewpoint by reasoned argument. 29 April 2017 – booking required
open-days
1st year 2nd and 4th years (3rd year typically spent abroad)
Courses Courses
Philosophy Philosophy
••General philosophy ••Either Early modern philosophy
••Moral philosophy ••or Plato’s Republic
••Logic ••or Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics
Modern Languages Modern Languages
••Practical language work (two ••Three language papers
papers) ••Practical language work (two papers)
••Study of important literary works ••One further paper from a list of options
and/or topics (two papers) Further options
••Either four further papers in Philosophy (many options, including a thesis)
••or three further papers in Philosophy and one in Modern Languages
(which may be an extended essay)
••or two further papers in Philosophy and two in Modern Languages
about current options is available on both course websites (details above).
First University examinations: Six Final University examinations: Nine written papers (with a minimum of three
written papers: two in Philosophy, four in Philosophy and four in Modern Languages; one Philosophy paper may be
in Modern Languages replaced by a thesis; some Modern Languages papers may be replaced by a
thesis or a portfolio of essays); Modern Languages oral examination
127
Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) BA 3 years
UCAS code: L0V0 PPE brings together some of the most private study mainly spent preparing
Entrance requirements important approaches to understanding essays or problem sets for tutorials and
A-levels: AAA the world around us, developing skills classes.
useful for a whole range of careers and
IB: 39 (including core points) with What are tutors looking for?
activities.
766 at HL Admissions tutors will want to find out if
Studying Philosophy, you will develop
you can think clearly and analytically.
You may apply for PPE having done any analytical rigour and the ability to
They are less concerned with what you
combination of subjects at school; it is not criticise and reason logically, and be able
necessary to have studied Politics, know than with how you think and use
Philosophy or Economics. History and to apply these skills to questions
your knowledge. They will seek evidence
Mathematics are useful backgrounds, but concerning how we acquire knowledge
are not essential. of interest in social and political concerns.
or make ethical judgements.
3-year average (2014–16) Applicants may enjoy reading some of
The study of Politics provides a
Interviewed: 41% the following sources:
thorough understanding of the impact of
Successful: 14% Thomas Nagel’s What Does It All
Intake: 242
political institutions on modern societies.
Mean?, Martin Hollis’s An Invitation to
How to apply It helps you to evaluate the choices that
Philosophy and Simon Blackburn’s Think
Tests: TSA. For test date and political systems must regularly make, to
are useful introductions to Philosophy.
registration details please see explain the processes that maintain or
Jonathan Wolff’s An Introduction to
ox.ac.uk/tests change those systems, and to examine
Political Philosophy, Gillian Peele’s
Written work: None required the concepts and values used in political
Fees, living costs and funding Developments in British Politics and
analysis.
See pages 18–19 and Adrian Leftwich’s What Is Politics? are
Economics is the study of how
ox.ac.uk/funding good introductory texts for Politics.
consumers, firms and government make
The best introduction to Economics is
decisions that together determine how
to read the economics and business
resources are allocated. An appreciation
pages of newspapers. Tim Harford’s
of economics has become increasingly
Undercover Economist and Paul
necessary to make sense of
Krugman’s The Accidental Theorist are
governmental policy-making, the
also recommended.
conduct of businesses and the enormous
economic transformations throughout
the world.
All three branches of PPE at Oxford
PPE CAREERS
The careers most commonly chosen by
have an international reputation,
PPE graduates are in banking and
supported by more than 200 renowned
finance, politics, journalism and
scholars. PPE at Oxford is a very flexible
broadcasting, law, industry, teaching,
course which allows you to study all
social work, accountancy, business
three branches, or to specialise in two
management, management consultancy,
after the first year.
advertising and the many branches of
A typical weekly timetable the public services, including the Civil
Your work is divided between lectures and Diplomatic Services and local
(typically six to eight a week), tutorials government.
and classes (typically two tutorials or one Recent PPE graduates include a
128 tutorial and one class a week), and financial journalist, a strategy consultant
and a fundraising officer. away with woolly arguments. While this
Amit was Head of Corporate can initially be difficult to get to grips
Partnerships at the British Heart with, it has been incredibly useful in my
Foundation. He says: ‘PPE encouraged me career.’
to be inquisitive, open-minded and
analytical, preparing me for a career that MORE ABOUT
has spanned the private, public and Requirements and applying: Course details:
charity sectors.’ ox.ac.uk/ugppe www.ppe.ox.ac.uk
Jan worked for OC&C Strategy +44 (0) 1865 288564
2017 Open Days:
Consultants in London. He says: ‘As a ppeadmissions@socsci.ox.ac.uk
strategy consultant, I have to break down ox.ac.uk/opendays www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
and analyse companies’ complex
+44 (0) 1865 276926
problems and communicate the solution
enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
clearly to the client. Preparing and
discussing essays in weekly tutorials in www.politics.ox.ac.uk
Oxford helped develop these skills, as well +44 (0) 1865 278706
as the ability to think outside the box.’ ug.studies@politics.ox.ac.uk
Maša was a reporter at the Financial www.economics.ox.ac.uk
Times. She says: ‘I found the skills I learnt +44 (0) 1865 271098
reading PPE invaluable. Most importantly, econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk
the course teaches you to think in a very
rigorous way. Your tutors are constantly
challenging you and won’t let you get

Courses Courses
All three branches of PPE are Students choose to continue with all three branches (be tripartite) or
studied equally: concentrate on any two (be bipartite), taking compulsory courses in the
Philosophy chosen branches along with optional courses:
••General philosophy Compulsory courses
••Moral philosophy Philosophy
••Elementary logic ••Ethics, and
Politics ••either Early modern philosophy or Knowledge and reality or Plato’s Republic
••The theory of politics or Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics
(introductory political theory) Politics (any two of these)
••The practice of politics ••Comparative government
(introductory comparative ••British politics and government since 1900
government and politics) ••Theory of politics
••Political analysis (introductory ••International relations
empirical and quantitative ••Political sociology
methods) Economics (all three if bipartite, two if tripartite)
Economics ••Microeconomics
••Microeconomics: the functioning ••Macroeconomics
of the market economy ••Quantitative economics
••Macroeconomics: dealing with Optional courses
national output and employment, ••More than 50 choices, currently including: Post-Kantian philosophy, Politics
exchange rates and policy issues in sub-Saharan Africa and International economics
••Mathematical techniques used in Please note that the options offered may change. A full list of current options is
economics available on the course website: www.ppe.ox.ac.uk/index.php/course-structure.
Three written papers Eight papers, one of which can be replaced by a thesis/supervised dissertation
129
Philosophy and Theology BA 3 years
UCAS code: VV56 Philosophy and Theology brings together systematic theologians. Its reputation
Entrance requirements some of the most important approaches and excellent library facilities attract
A-levels: AAA to understanding and assessing the scholars from all over the world.
intellectual claims of religion.
IB: 39 (including core points) with A typical weekly timetable
The study of Philosophy develops
666 at HL Work is divided between tutorials
analytical rigour and the ability to
(usually one or two weekly), lectures
A subject involving essay writing to A-level, criticise and reason logically. It allows
(typically six to eight weekly), and
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or you to apply these skills to many
another equivalent can be helpful to (when studying certain topics) some
students in completing this course, contemporary and historical schools
classes. A large part of your week will
although this is not required for admission. of thought and individual thinkers, and
be spent in private study to prepare
3-year average (2014–16) to questions ranging from how we
Interviewed: 60% essays for tutorials.
acquire knowledge and form moral
Successful: 21% judgements to central questions in the What are tutors looking for?
Intake: 25
philosophy of religion, including the In interviews, tutors look for interest in
How to apply
existence and nature of God and the the proposed fields of study, a critical
Tests: Philosophy Test. For test
date and registration details please
relevance of religion to human life. and analytical approach to abstract
see ox.ac.uk/tests The study of Theology provides an questions and the ability to defend a
Written work: One piece understanding of the intellectual viewpoint by reasoned argument.
See ox.ac.uk/writwork underpinning of religious traditions, For further information on selection
Fees, living costs and funding and of the social and cultural contexts criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
See pages 18–19 and for religious belief and practice. It
ox.ac.uk/funding brings together a wide range of skills
and disciplines, historical, textual,
linguistic, sociological, literary-critical
and philosophical.
The degree is constructed in the
belief that the parallel study of these
related disciplines leads to a deeper
understanding of each.
The Philosophy Faculty is the
largest in the UK, and one of the
largest in the world. Many faculty
members have a worldwide
reputation, and library and other
facilities are acknowledged as among
the best in the country.
The Faculty of Theology and
Religion has more than 100 members
ranging from experts in the ancient
languages and literature of the world’s
religions to church historians and
130
P&T CAREERS
Philosophy and Theology graduates
have secured wide-ranging positions
as authors, writers, newspaper and
periodical editors, academics and
teachers. Recent graduates include a
barrister, a member of a political think
tank, a student at the Royal Academy
of Music and a marketing executive
for a philanthropy adviser. Others have
entered careers such as commerce,
banking, financial services and
communications. MORE ABOUT
See www.theology.ox.ac.uk for Requirements and applying: Course details:
further information about careers ox.ac.uk/ugpt www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
for theologians. +44 (0) 1865 276926
2017 Open Days:
28 and 29 June and 15 September enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.theology.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 270790
general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk
See page 146

Courses Courses
Four papers are taken: Students take eight papers, either five in Philosophy and three in
••The figure of Jesus through the centuries Theology, or five in Theology and three in Philosophy, or four in each.
••General philosophy A thesis may replace one of the eight papers.
••Logic and moral philosophy All students study:
and one of the following: ••Ethics or Knowledge and reality
••Introduction to the study of the Bible ••Early modern philosophy or Plato’s Republic or Aristotle’s
••Religion and religions Nicomachean Ethics
••New Testament Greek ••Philosophy of religion
••Biblical Hebrew Remaining papers are chosen from a wide range of options
••Qur’anic Arabic
••Vulgate Latin
••Pali
••Sanskrit
on the course websites (details above).
First University examinations: One written Final University examinations: Eight papers (assessed either by written
paper in each of four subjects examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon the option),
or seven papers plus a thesis
131
Physics MPhys 4 years
UCAS code: F303 Physics is concerned with the study of direct and regular access to physicists
Entrance requirements the universe from the smallest to the actively involved in research and provide
A-levels: A*AA – this should either largest scale: why it is the way it is and an opportunity to explore scientific ideas
be A*A in Physics and Mathematics
how it works. Such knowledge is basic with experts in the field.
(with the A* in either Physics or
to scientific progress. The language of
Mathematics) plus any other A, or A* Project work/international
physics is mathematics: formulating
in Further Mathematics with AA in opportunities
Mathematics and Physics physical theories sometimes requires
A wide choice of fourth-year MPhys
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB new mathematical structures. Physics is
projects is available across all six physics
IB: 39 (including core points) with a fundamental science and a practical
sub-departments. Third-year MPhys
766 at HL (the 7 should be in either subject. Many techniques used in
students carry out a short project in the
Physics or Mathematics) medical imaging, nanotechnology and
Or any other equivalent teaching laboratories. Those taking the
quantum computing are derived from
Candidates are expected to have Physics three-year BA course do a group
and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced physics instrumentation. Even the World
project investigating a real industrial
Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another Wide Web was a spin-off from the
equivalent. The inclusion of a Maths physics problem.
information processing and
Mechanics module would also be highly
recommended. Further Mathematics can communications requirements of high- A typical weekly timetable
be helpful to candidates in completing this energy particle physics. In the first year, time is equally divided
course, although this is not required for
Oxford has one of the largest between mathematics and physics, with
admission.
3-year average (2014–16) university physics departments in the about ten lectures and two tutorials
Interviewed: 42% UK, with an outstanding and very plus one day in the practical laboratories
Successful: 17% diverse research programme in six sub- a week. In the second and third years
Intake: 182 departments: the core and mainstream physics topics
How to apply • Astrophysics are covered in tutorials and small group
Tests: PAT. For test date and • Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary classes. Practical work is also done
registration details please see Physics during the year. In the fourth year you
ox.ac.uk/tests
• Atomic and Laser Physics take two major options and the MPhys
• Condensed Matter Physics (including project.
Biophysics)
ox.ac.uk/funding • Particle Physics Tutors are looking for enthusiastic and
• Theoretical Physics. highly motivated students with the
Physics at Oxford is challenging and
ability to apply basic principles to
mathematical with a strong emphasis on
unfamiliar situations. The course
fundamental concepts such as optics and
requires a good level of mathematical
relativity. The fourth-year MPhys option
competence: the ability to formulate a
courses bring you to the threshold of
problem in mathematical terms and
current research, and can lead to subject
then extract the physical consequences
specialism. An accepted student can also
from the solution.
complete in three years with a BA. The
department is equipped with state-of-
the-art lecture facilities and teaching
laboratories. Tutorials give students
132
All about
Oxford physics
Physics CAREERS Visit www.physics.
ox.ac.uk/study-here
More than 40% of Physics graduates go
to get the inside view from
on to study for a higher degree, leading
current Physics students.
MORE ABOUT
to careers in universities or in industry or
in research and development, technical
consultancy, manufacturing and science Requirements and applying: Course details:
education. Many others enter professions ox.ac.uk/ugphysics www.physics.ox.ac.uk
unrelated to Physics, such as finance and 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 272200
business, where the analytical and 28 and 29 June and 15 September enquiries@physics.ox.ac.uk
problem-solving skills they have ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this
developed are highly sought after. course? See page 146

Current courses Current courses Current courses Research
••Classical mechanics ••Thermal physics ••Flows, fluctuations and Project and two option
and special relativity ••Electromagnetism and complexity courses:
••Electromagnetism, optics ••Symmetry and relativity ••MPhys project
circuit theory and ••Quantum physics ••Quantum, atomic and Current major options
optics ••Mathematical methods II molecular physics ••Astrophysics
••Mathematical Short options, eg: ••Sub-atomic physics ••Laser science and
methods I ••Classical mechanics ••General relativity and quantum information
••Differential ••Climate physics cosmology processing
equations and ••Introduction to biological ••Condensed-matter physics ••Condensed matter
waves physics Short options, eg: ••Particle physics
Short options, eg: ••Advanced quantum ••Atmospheres and
••Astronomy mechanics oceans
••Complex analysis ••Classical mechanics ••Theoretical physics
••Quantum ideas ••Plasma physics ••Biological physics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on
the course website (details above).

First University Final University examinations, Final University examinations, Final University
examinations: Four Part A (BA and MPhys): Part B (MPhys): Six written examinations, Part C
written papers; short Three written papers; short papers; short option paper; (MPhys): Project report;
option paper; option paper; laboratory work; mini-project; laboratory work two major option papers
satisfactory laboratory individual presentation Final University examinations,
work Part B (BA): Four written
papers; short option paper;
mini project; group
presentation; laboratory
work; project report
MMathPhys 4th year

From 2015–16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments have jointly offered an integrated master’s level course in
Mathematical and Theoretical Physics. Physics students will be able to apply for transfer to a fourth year studying
entirely mathematical and theoretical physics, completing the degree with an MMathPhys. The course offers research-
level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and Continuous media. For
full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
133
Physics and Philosophy MPhysPhil 4 years
UCAS code: VF53 Physics and Philosophy is a demanding writing essays, completing problem
Entrance requirements and rewarding course, combining the sets) will take up the majority of your
A-levels: A*AA – this should either most rigorous and fundamental working time.
be A*A in Physics and Mathematics
subjects in the arts and the sciences. It
(with the A* in either Physics or What are tutors looking for?
seeks understanding of the nature of
Mathematics) plus any other A, or A* Philosophy is rarely taught in schools,
in Further Mathematics with AA in
reality and of our knowledge of it.
but anyone who has an interest in
Mathematics and Physics There are strong links between physics
general questions about the nature of
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB and philosophy, and the stimulus for
science, mathematics, mind,
IB: 39 (including core points) with each discipline lies in part in the other.
knowledge or truth has an interest in
766 at HL (the 7 should be in either Oxford has one of the largest
philosophy. No more than that is
Physics or Mathematics) physics departments in the UK, with an
Or any other equivalent needed – you are not disadvantaged if
outstanding and broad research
Candidates are expected to have Physics you have not studied Philosophy
and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced programme. The expertise in the
before. Philosophy tutors will be
Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another department ensures the curriculum is
equivalent. The inclusion of a Maths looking for a critical and analytical
updated in the light of developments in
Mechanics module would also be highly approach to abstract questions and an
recommended. Further Mathematics and research.
ability to defend a point of view by
an arts subject can be helpful to candidates The Philosophy Faculty is the largest
in completing this course, although they reasoned argument.
in the UK, and one of the most
are not required for admission. The Physics tutors will ask you the
3-year average (2014–16) prestigious in the world. The large
same style of questions about
Interviewed: 33% number of students reading Philosophy
mathematics and physics as they ask
Successful: 12% leads to a diverse and lively
Physics applicants, to determine your
Intake: 14 philosophical community.
mathematical and problem-solving
How to apply The Oxford research group in
Tests: PAT. For test date and ability and potential for further study
Philosophy of Physics is extremely
registration details please see (see Physics, page 132).
active, with interests in classical
ox.ac.uk/tests space–time theories, foundations of
classical statistical mechanics,
quantum mechanics, quantum field
P&P CAREERS
See pages 18–19 and Graduates in Physics and Philosophy
ox.ac.uk/funding theory and quantum gravity.
offer an unusual and valuable
The fourth-year MPhysPhil option
combination of skills to employers in
courses bring you to the threshold of
commerce and industry. Almost 40%
Application information: If your current research, and can lead to
application for Physics and Philosophy go on to study for a higher degree.
is unsuccessful you will be considered
subject specialism. An accepted
Some will enter science professions
for Physics. If you do not want to be student can also complete in three
considered for Physics please make such as research and development or
years with a BA.
this clear at interview. technical roles in industry. Many others
A typical weekly timetable enter professions unrelated to their
Your work is divided between private subject.
study, tutorials, classes (two or three
weekly) and lectures (about eight
weekly). Private study (reading for and
134
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugpp www.philosophy-of-physics.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: www.physics.ox.ac.uk
28 and 29 June and 15 September +44 (0) 1865 272200
ox.ac.uk/opendays enquires@physics.ox.ac.uk
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
+44 (0) 1865 276926
enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
See page 146

Current courses Current courses Current courses Research
Physics Physics One elective paper in either Physics Three units chosen in
••Mechanics and ••Thermal physics or Philosophy any combination from
special relativity ••Electromagnetism Physics the lists for Physics
••Differential ••Quantum physics A choice of three (or five if the elective and Philosophy
equations and ••Mathematical paper is in Physics) of the following Advanced philosophy
matrix algebra methods subjects: of physics is an option
••Calculus and ••Physics practicals ••Classical mechanics
waves Philosophy ••Flows, fluctuations and complexity
Philosophy ••Early modern ••Symmetry and relativity
••Elements of philosophy or ••Quantum, atomic and molecular physics
deductive logic Knowledge and ••Sub-atomic physics
••General reality ••General relativity and cosmology
philosophy ••Philosophy of ••Condensed-matter physics
••Introductory special relativity Philosophy
philosophy of ••Philosophy of science option
physics ••Philosophy of quantum mechanics
••Choice of Philosophy option (if the
elective paper is in philosophy)

First University Final University Final University examinations, Part B: Final University
examinations: Three examinations, Part A: Three or four written papers in examinations, Part C: A
written papers in Three papers in Philosophy; one or two written papers mix (three in all) of
Physics; two written Physics; satisfactory and one short paper in Physics written papers and
papers in Philosophy lab work essays, or thesis (in
Philosophy), or project
(in Physics)
MMathPhys 4th year

From 2015–16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments have jointly offered an integrated master’s level course in
Mathematical and Theoretical Physics. Physics and Philosophy students will be able to apply for transfer to a fourth
year studying entirely mathematical and theoretical physics, completing the degree with an MMathPhys. The course
offers research-level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and
Continuous media. For full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
135
Psychology (Experimental) BA 3 years
UCAS code: C830 Psychology has been defined as the Fieldwork and international
Entrance requirements science of mental life and its scope opportunities
A-levels: A*AA includes a wide variety of issues. It A wide choice of research projects is
addresses such questions as: How do available to students in their final year,
we perceive colours? How do children including projects based in other
766 at HL
acquire language? What predisposes departments and outside the
It is highly recommended for candidates to two people to get on with each other? University.
have studied one or more science subjects What causes schizophrenia?
(which can include Psychology) or A typical weekly timetable
Psychology at Oxford is a scientific
Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher,
Higher Level in the IB or another discipline, involving the rigorous • Terms 1 and 2: About six lectures
equivalent. and two–three tutorials
formulation and testing of ideas. It
works through experiments and • Terms 3–8: About six lectures,
Interviewed: 53% one–two tutorials and one practical
systematic observation rather than
Successful: 19% class. You will also carry out your
Intake: 48
introspection.
own research project and be given
How to apply The Oxford Experimental
the opportunity to write a library
Tests: TSA. For test date and Psychology Department is widely
dissertation and undertake
registration details please see regarded as one of the leading
independent research
ox.ac.uk/tests psychology departments in the UK.
Written work: None required The department’s size and its • Term 9: About two revision lectures
Fees, living costs and funding or tutorials and final examinations
commitment to excellence in teaching
See pages 18–19 and and research means there are typically What are tutors looking for?
ox.ac.uk/funding
four or five research seminars each In addition to a very good track record
week, in addition to undergraduate of academic achievement, tutors are
lectures and classes. At present, there keen to see whether you appreciate
are particularly strong research groups the scope of scientific psychology, can
in the fields of human cognitive evaluate evidence, are able to consider
processes, neuroscience, language, issues from different perspectives,
developmental psychology, social have a capacity for logical and creative
psychology and psychological thinking, appreciate the importance of
disorders. empirical evidence in supporting
arguments, and could cope with the
quantitative demands of the course.
136
Psychology CAREERS develop my analytical skills as well as
Experimental Psychology graduates can gaining project management
enter careers including professional experience which have been invaluable
psychology, education, research, in my chosen career path.’
medicine, the health services, finance, Lauren now works as a Graduate
commerce, industry, the media and Research Assistant at Oxford’s
information technology. Some careers Department of Experimental
will require additional study and/or Psychology. She says: ‘Studying EP gave
training. This degree is accredited by me the opportunity to conduct my own
the British Psychological Society for research project from its inception, to
the Graduate Basis for Chartered recruiting participants, collecting and
Membership. analysing data, and writing it up in a World-Leading
Research
During her time as a client report. These skills have been
consultant at Nunwood, Rachel said: invaluable to me in my job as a research
assistant, as it involves co-ordinating a Oxford Psychology achieved
‘Since graduating I have worked for
large number of participants taking outstanding results in the
two large market research companies most recent (2014) Research
specialising in brands and advertising part in a randomised control trial, and
Excellence Framework:
research. My degree helped me to handling large amounts of data.’
• ranked first place across UK
Institutions in the overall
MORE ABOUT quality of our submission, and
had the highest proportion of
Requirements and applying: Course details: world-leading research;
ox.ac.uk/ugpsych www.psy.ox.ac.uk • scored 100% for the quality
+44 (0) 1865 271353 of our research and training
2017 Open Days:
admissions@psy.ox.ac.uk environment.
For more details see:
ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this www.psy.ox.ac.uk/about-us.
Terms 1 and 2 Terms 3–5 Terms 6–9

Three introductory Students will study core subjects in Psychology Students will choose either:
courses are taken out of: covering: ••Three advanced options or
••Psychology ••Cognitive psychology ••Two advanced options and a library
••Philosophy ••Biological psychology dissertation
••Linguistics ••Developmental psychology
••Neurophysiology ••Social psychology A full list of current options is available
••Probability theory ••Individual differences on the course website (details above).
and statistics
Students must sit the Students can carry out practical work in
examination in Probability Psychology:
theory and statistics ••Lab-based ‘block’ practicals
either at Prelims (first year ••Research project
examinations) or as a
qualifying examination.

First University Final University examinations, Part I: Final University examinations, Part II:
examinations: Five written papers, covering all core subjects Research project, practical portfolio
Three written papers Practical portfolio Three written papers (or two written
papers and a library dissertation)
137
Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics (PPL) BA 3 years
UCAS codes: Course combinations The Oxford Philosophy Faculty is

see combinations Although it is possible to study papers from the largest philosophy department in
Entrance requirements all three PPL subject areas as part of this the UK, and one of the largest in the
A-levels: A*AA course (subject to college approval), you
world. Philosophy at Oxford has active
must apply to specialise in two of the three:
IB: 39 (including core points) with interests in the philosophy of mind
Psychology and Philosophy CV85
766 at HL and the philosophy of science, and has
Psychology and Linguistics CQ81
Or any other equivalent Philosophy and Linguistics VQ51 very close links with those working in
For Psychology, it is highly recommended neuroscience and psychology.
for candidates to have studied one or more
A list of colleges that accept each
science subjects (which can include combination of the PPL degree can be The Faculty of Linguistics, Philology
Psychology) or Mathematics to A-level, found at: www.psy.ox.ac.uk/study/ and Phonetics brings together
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or scholars working in theoretical and
undergrad/collegeinformation.
any other equivalent. For Linguistics, it is
helpful for candidates to have studied descriptive linguistics (especially
English Language, Mathematics, a science There are close connections between syntax, semantics and phonology),
or any other language.
these three subjects, so studying a experimental phonetics,
combination of them makes a lot of psycholinguistics, linguistics of the
Interviewed: 54%
Successful: 16% sense. Psychology includes subjects as Romance languages, historical
Intake: 29 diverse as social interaction, learning, linguistics and comparative philology.
How to apply child development, schizophrenia and Unlike other subjects in the
Tests: TSA and MLAT (for course information processing. Philosophy is humanities, it includes two scientific
combinations with Linguistics concerned with a wide range of research laboratories – the Language
only). For test date and registration questions including ethics, knowledge and Brain Laboratory and the
details please see ox.ac.uk/tests and the nature of mind. Linguistics is Phonetics Laboratory.
Written work: None required the study of language in all its
Fees, living costs and funding A typical weekly timetable
aspects, including the structure of
languages, meaning (semantics), how
• Terms 1 and 2: About six lectures
ox.ac.uk/funding and two–three tutorials
children learn language, pronunciation,
and how people understand, mentally
• Terms 3–9: About six lectures, one-
two tutorials and one practical class.
represent and generate language.
You may also do independent
Psychology at Oxford is a scientific
research by carrying out your own
discipline, involving the rigorous
research project, library dissertation
formulation and testing of ideas. It
or thesis
works through experiments and
systematic observation rather than What are tutors looking for?
introspection. The Oxford In addition to a very good track record
Experimental Psychology Department of academic achievement, tutors are
is widely regarded as one of the keen to see whether you appreciate the
leading psychology departments in scope of those branches of Psychology,
the UK. At present, there are Philosophy and Linguistics you are
particularly strong groups in the fields applying for. They will also want to
of human cognitive processes, check whether you can evaluate
neuroscience, language, evidence, are able to consider issues
developmental and social psychology. from different perspectives, have a
138
capacity for logical and creative thinking,
appreciate the importance of empirical
evidence in supporting arguments, and
could cope with the quantitative demands
of the course.
PPL CAREERS MORE ABOUT

Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics Requirements and applying: Course details:
graduates can enter careers including ox.ac.uk/ugppl www.psy.ox.ac.uk
professional psychology, education, 2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 271353
research, medicine, the health services, 28 and 29 June and 15 September admissions@psy.ox.ac.uk
finance, commerce, industry, the media ox.ac.uk/opendays www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk
and information technology. Some +44 (0) 1865 276926
careers will require additional study enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
and/or training.
If Psychology constitutes at least www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
50% of your course, and covers the BPS +44 (0) 1865 280400
curriculum, and provided you achieve enquiries@ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
the minimum standard of a Second Class Which colleges offer this
Honours, your degree is accredited as course? See page 146
conferring eligibility for the Graduate Basis
for Chartered Membership of the British
Psychological Society. This is normally the
first step towards becoming a Chartered
Psychologist.
Terms 1 and 2 Terms 3–9

Courses Courses
Three introductory After the second term, students can continue to follow a bipartite degree (Psychology
courses are taken from: and Philosophy, Psychology and Linguistics, or Philosophy and Linguistics) or, exceptionally
••Psychology and subject to their college’s approval, a tripartite degree (Psychology, Philosophy and
••Philosophy Linguistics).
••Linguistics Students choosing Psychology will study a choice of core subjects in terms 3–5, plus a
••Neurophysiology course in Experimental design and statistics, followed by one, two or three advanced
••Probability theory and Psychology options in terms 6–8.
statistics A full list of current options is available on the course website (see above).
Students studying Students choosing Philosophy take from three to five courses in Philosophy, from a wide
Psychology must sit range including Philosophy of mind and Philosophy of cognitive science. For details see
the examination in
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate.
Probability theory and
statistics either at Students choosing Linguistics take from three to five courses in Linguistics. For further
Prelims (first year details, see the Paper A and Paper B options at www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk/undergrads#fhs.
examinations) or as a
Students opting for a bipartite degree may take a single paper in the third subject.
qualifying examination.
Students who are exceptionally permitted to take the tripartite degree must take at least
two courses in each of the three subjects of Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics.
First University Final University examinations: Eight papers; two practical portfolios (for Psychology); a
examinations: Three research project or thesis may also be taken (depending upon the combination of courses)
written papers Students choosing Psychology take the equivalent of two written papers in Psychology in
the second year based on the core subject areas (see Experimental Psychology, page 136).
139
Religion and Oriental Studies BA 3 years
UCAS code: VT69 The course in Religion and Oriental A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements Studies enables you to learn in depth Work is divided between tutorials (at
A-levels: AAA about a number of the world’s great least one a week), lectures (up to six a
religious traditions, including week) and language classes (at least
Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, three a week in the first year). A large
666 at HL
Islam and Judaism. To engage with all part of your week will be spent in
Experience of studying a language, and a the different aspects of the course, private study to prepare for tutorials.
subject involving essay writing, to either you have to be something of a
A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in What are tutors looking for?
the IB or another equivalent can be helpful historian and a philosopher, a textual
Admissions tutors will be keen to find
to students in completing this course, and literary critic, and a linguist. These
although they are not required for out about your linguistic aptitude and
disciplines together, not only enable
admission. Students are not expected to your commitment to a wide-ranging
have studied any Oriental Language before. students to appreciate the qualities of
course. They will be looking for an
How to apply religions that can be radically different
ability to think clearly, form sound
Tests: Judaism/Islam only: OLAT. from those in Western societies, but
arguments and to listen and respond
For test date and registration also equip graduates to embark on a
details please see ox.ac.uk/tests to counterarguments.
wide range of careers.
Written work: Two pieces For information about the selection
This degree offers the opportunity
See ox.ac.uk/writwork criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
to study the major world religions and
their primary languages. Students can
FROM A RELOS STUDENT
ox.ac.uk/funding
also explore the relationship between
religions and science, and the place of
religious ethics in public life. Religion
Religion and Oriental Studies is a
and Oriental Studies provides an
rewarding subject if you like the
understanding of the intellectual combination of essay writing and
underpinning of religious traditions, language learning. You have the
and of the social and cultural contexts option to choose a broad range of
for religious belief and practice. topics offered by the Theology
The Theology and Religion and and Religion Faculty from history
Oriental Studies Faculties have of early Christianity to mysticism
between them more than 270 to psychology of religion while the
members, ranging from experts in the Oriental Studies Department provides
ancient languages and literature of the you with a thorough learning of the
world’s religions to church historians
and systematic theologians. Their
religious language of your choice. For
reputations, together with excellent
me, this is Sanskrit, for which I have
library facilities, attract scholars from five hours of tuition every week.
all over the world. I balance this with modules from
Religion: Nature of religion and the
Gospels and Jesus to name a few.
The tutors also offer the chance to
let you specialise in a topic of your
140
own interest by offering tailored publishing, banking, management
supervision for your dissertation. consultancy, accountancy, personnel
This can also be multi-disciplinary management, teaching, the police
as you have two faculties to force and the arts. Employers look
explore your interests. very favourably on applicants who
Puja-Arti have learned oriental languages, and
Oxford graduates with such skills are
among the most successful each
RELOS CAREERS year in finding employment.
Oxford graduates in Religion and See www.theology.ox.ac.uk for
Oriental Studies can expect to go on further information about careers
to careers as diverse as law, social for theologians.
work, the media, journalism,
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugrelos www.theology.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270790
28 and 29 June and 15 September general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays www.orinst.ox.ac.uk
Oriental Studies Open Day: +44 (0) 1865 278312
29 April 2017 – booking required undergraduate.admissions@orinst.ox.ac.uk
See page 146
Terms 1–3 Terms 4–9

Courses Courses
••Religion and religions Students take seven papers, three in Oriental Studies and three in Religion; the
••One of the following seventh may be chosen from either Oriental Studies or Religion. In addition, all
languages: students must prepare a 12,000-word thesis on a topic of their choice, which
••Greek may be chosen from either Oriental Studies or Religion.
••Hebrew
••Arabic
••Tibetan
••Pali (not always available)
••Sanskrit
which have three assessment
components each
First University examinations: Final University examinations: Seven papers (assessed either by written
Four written papers and possibly examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon the option), plus a
an oral examination, depending thesis
on the option
141
Theology and Religion BA 3 years
UCAS code: V600 While Theology is an ancient intellectual A typical weekly timetable
Entrance requirements discipline, no one can doubt the Work is divided between tutorials (at
A-levels: AAA continuing and momentous social least one a week), lectures (up to six a
significance of theology and religion week), and language classes (at least
around the world today. Study of the three a week in the first year). A large
666 at HL
subject provides both an understanding part of your week will be spent in
A subject involving essay writing to A-level, of the intellectual underpinning of private study to prepare for tutorials.
Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or religious traditions, and of the social and
another equivalent can be helpful to What are tutors looking for?
students in completing this course, cultural contexts for religious belief and
Tutors are primarily interested in previous
although this is not required for admission. practice. In order to engage fully with
academic achievements as
3-year average (2014–16) the questions raised by the critical
Interviewed: 72% demonstrated, for example, by GCSE or
study of Theology and Religion you will
Successful: 32% other examination results, and in the
be required to become something of a
Intake: 35 quality of submitted written work. They
historian and a philosopher, a textual
How to apply may also take other information on your
and literary critic, and a linguist. To be
Tests: None required UCAS application into account (such as
able to employ these disciplines
your personal statement and reference).
See ox.ac.uk/writwork effectively will not only make you a
Personal statements should focus on
Fees, living costs and funding scholar of religion but equip you to
your academic reasons for wishing to
See pages 18–19 and embark on a wide range of careers.
study Theology and Religion; references
ox.ac.uk/funding Oxford has been at the very heart of
should comment primarily on academic
religious debate, reform and turmoil in
performance.
the British Isles for eight centuries so
In interviews, tutors will look for your
that the faculty here wears a mantle of
ability to think clearly, form sound
history not available in most other
arguments and to listen and respond to
universities. At the same time Theology
counterarguments; your openness to
and Religion at Oxford is embracing
learning; evidence of your enthusiasm
wholeheartedly the challenges of the
and motivation for the course; and your
21st century with the opportunity to
oral communication skills.
study all the major world religions and
their primary languages. Students can
also explore the relationship between
religion and science, and the place of
religious ethics in public life.
The Faculty of Theology and Religion
has more than 100 members ranging
from experts in the ancient languages
and literature of the world’s religions to
church historians and systematic
theologians. Its reputation and excellent
library facilities attract scholars from all
over the world as visiting lecturers.
142
theology CAREERS Rob says of his work as a manager in
While some Theology and Religion Accenture: ‘People are always surprised
graduates go on to further academic when I tell them what my degree was!
study, other recent graduates have However, it really helped shape my
pursued careers in law, the Civil Service, analytical skills through the tutorial
social work, education, the media, system. The breadth of subject matter in
publishing, banking, management Theology prepared me for the different
consultancy, accountancy, personnel subjects I encounter each day as a
management, teaching, the police management consultant.’
force and the churches. See
www.theology.ox.ac.uk for more
information about careers after
a Theology and Religion degree.
MORE ABOUT
ox.ac.uk/ugtheology www.theology.ox.ac.uk
2017 Open Days: +44 (0) 1865 270790
28 and 29 June and 15 September general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk
ox.ac.uk/opendays Which colleges offer this course?
See page 146
Terms 1–3 Terms 4–9

Courses Courses
Four papers are taken: Choice of seven papers across four subject areas, from
••Religion and religions which students select freely
••Introduction to the study of the Bible ••Biblical studies
••The figure of Jesus through the centuries ••Systematic theology and ethics
••One of the following languages: ••History of religions
New Testament Greek ••Religion and religions (Contemporary Judaism, Islam, Buddhism
Biblical Hebrew and Hinduism)
Qur’anic Arabic All students must prepare a 12,000-word thesis on a topic of their
Vulgate Latin choice
Pali
Sanskrit
the course website (details above).
First University examinations: One written Final University examinations: Seven papers (assessed either by
paper in each of four subjects written examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon
the option), plus a compulsory thesis
143

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