UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · UNITED KINGDOM
DPhil in Materials
PhD · Taught in en · UCAS RD_MR1_NAL
At a glance
42 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
€37k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3.5-4 yearsExpected Duration
- Full-timeAttendance Mode
- October 2026Expected Start Date
- c. 57Places Available Annually
- World-class facilitiesResearch Resources
- Industry collaborationResearch Focus
The DPhil in Materials at the University of Oxford is a research-intensive postgraduate program, typically completed in 3.5 to 4 years of full-time study. Students will conduct in-depth research under expert supervision, exploring a wide array of topics within materials science, solid-state physics, and chemistry. This program is ideal for students keen to contribute to cutting-edge research in areas such as energy storage, quantum devices, biomaterials, nanomaterials, and computational modelling. The course emphasizes practical, world-leading research, often conducted in collaboration with industry partners. Students will benefit from extensive resources, including state-of-the-art electron microscopy facilities and specialist laboratories. Graduates are highly sought after in diverse sectors, including academia, high-tech industries, engineering, and finance, due to the comprehensive skills and expertise gained during the program.
Curriculum
The DPhil in Materials is a research-focused degree. Students are initially admitted as Probationer Research Students (PRS) and typically transfer to DPhil status by their fourth term. The program culminates in the submission and oral defence of a substantial thesis.
- Year 1-4
- Supervised Research Project
- Transfer of Status (PRS to DPhil)
- Confirmation of DPhil Status
- Thesis Submission and Viva Voce Examination
Careers
Graduates of the DPhil in Materials are highly sought after across a wide range of sectors due to their advanced research skills and specialised knowledge. Career paths include roles in academia, high-tech start-ups, engineering consultancies, and various industries.
- University Researcher/Lecturer
- Materials Scientist
- Research and Development Engineer
- Consultant (Engineering/Technology)
- Aerospace Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Medical Devices Specialist
- Data Scientist
- Financial Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the DPhil in Materials?
- You need a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, or a master's degree with distinction. Proven academic excellence is essential.
- How can I prove my English language proficiency for this programme?
- We accept IELTS Academic with an overall score of 7.0 (with at least 6.5 in each component), TOEFL iBT with an overall score of 100 (with specific section minimums), or Cambridge English: Advanced/Proficiency with an overall score of 185 (with at least 176 in each component).
- What is the estimated tuition fee and living cost for international students?
- Tuition fees are estimated at £32,210 per year for 2025-26. Living costs are estimated between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months, excluding visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs.
- What is the typical duration of the DPhil in Materials programme?
- The programme is typically completed in 3.5 to 4 years of full-time study, involving supervised research and culminating in a thesis submission and oral defence.
- When is the application deadline for the DPhil in Materials?
- The application deadline for 2026-27 entry is in January 2026, which is also the deadline for most scholarship applications.
- What are the career prospects after completing the DPhil in Materials?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles as University Researchers/Lecturers, Materials Scientists, R&D Engineers, and consultants in sectors like academia, high-tech industries, engineering, and finance.
Entry requirements
Master's degree or equivalentA first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a relevant subject, or a master's degree with distinction. Proven and potential academic excellence is required.
IELTS AcademicOverall 7.0 (with at least 6.5 in each component)
TOEFL iBTOverall 100 (with at least 22 in Listening, 24 in Reading, 25 in Speaking, and 24 in Writing)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)Overall 185 (with at least 176 in each component)
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)Overall 185 (with at least 176 in each component)
Applicants from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar, and Sudan may face an 18-month suspension on student visa applications due to UK Government policy. Please consult the University's update for further details.
Fees
Tuition (international)£32,210 per year (estimated for 2025-26)
Tuition (home)£32,210 per year (estimated for 2025-26)
LivingEstimated between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months (2025-26). This includes food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, study costs, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Tuition fees for 2026-27 are subject to confirmation. Living costs are estimates and can vary based on individual lifestyle. International students should also budget for visa application costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge, paid upfront for the entire duration of the course (e.g., 5 years for a DPhil).
How to apply
1. 1. Find Your CourseBrowse the University's graduate courses and identify the DPhil in Materials. Note the application deadline for 2026-27 entry.
2. 2. Check Entry RequirementsReview the specific academic and English language proficiency requirements for the DPhil in Materials. Ensure you meet the 'Standard level' English requirement.
3. 3. Prepare Your Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, references, a CV/resume, and a research proposal or statement of purpose (check course-specific requirements).
4. 4. Complete the Online Application FormAccess the University's online application portal. Fill in all sections accurately and upload your supporting documents. You will need to specify your college preference, which is important for scholarship consideration.
5. 5. Pay the Application FeeSubmit the non-refundable application fee as part of the online application process.
6. 6. Submit Your ApplicationEnsure your application, including references, is submitted by the relevant deadline. Some scholarships have specific application deadlines, often coinciding with the January university deadline.
7. 7. Await DecisionAfter submission, your application will be reviewed. Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission.
8. 8. Apply for Student Visa (International Students)If you require a student visa, begin this process upon receiving your offer. Be aware of the Immigration Health Surcharge and other associated costs.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsVaries (generous college awards)
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the DPhil in Materials?
+
You need a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, or a master's degree with distinction. Proven academic excellence is essential.
How can I prove my English language proficiency for this programme?
+
We accept IELTS Academic with an overall score of 7.0 (with at least 6.5 in each component), TOEFL iBT with an overall score of 100 (with specific section minimums), or Cambridge English: Advanced/Proficiency with an overall score of 185 (with at least 176 in each component).
What is the estimated tuition fee and living cost for international students?
+
Tuition fees are estimated at £32,210 per year for 2025-26. Living costs are estimated between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months, excluding visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs.
What is the typical duration of the DPhil in Materials programme?
+
The programme is typically completed in 3.5 to 4 years of full-time study, involving supervised research and culminating in a thesis submission and oral defence.
When is the application deadline for the DPhil in Materials?
+
The application deadline for 2026-27 entry is in January 2026, which is also the deadline for most scholarship applications.
What are the career prospects after completing the DPhil in Materials?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles as University Researchers/Lecturers, Materials Scientists, R&D Engineers, and consultants in sectors like academia, high-tech industries, engineering, and finance.