OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
English (PhD or MA by Research)
PhD · Taught in en · UCAS N/A
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€18k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- OxfordLiterary City Location
- £700Research Activities Funding
- Expert SupervisionClose Guidance
- RegularPresentation Opportunities
- Teaching SkillsDevelopment Opportunities
- VibrantResearch Community
Embark on a postgraduate research degree in English at Oxford Brookes University, situated in a city renowned for its rich literary heritage. The School of Education, Humanities and Languages fosters a vibrant and inclusive research environment, offering supervision across a wide range of English Literature, Language, and Linguistics specialisms. You will benefit from strong disciplinary foundations while also having opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the university and beyond. This program offers both MA by Research and PhD routes, allowing you to pursue your research interests with the support of experienced supervisors. The faculty has an excellent track record of supervising postgraduate students and is committed to supporting the quality of their research. Our research activities are backed by various councils and trusts, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the Leverhulme Trust.
Curriculum
All students initially enrol as probationer research students. Your degree route, MA by Research or PhD, will be formally registered during your first year based on your academic qualifications and research experience.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Research Proposal RegistrationN/A
- MPhil/PhD Route (Full-time)
- MPhil/PhD Registration, then transfer to full PhD status after approx. 18 monthsN/A
- PhD Direct Route (Full-time)
- Direct registration for PhDN/A
- MA by Research (Full-time)
- Taught research training and major research project leading to a 30,000-word thesisN/A
- PhD (MPhil/PhD Route & PhD Direct Route)
- Original research leading to an 80,000-100,000-word thesisN/A
- Research Degree involving Creative Work (MPhil/PhD)
- Original creative work (e.g., novel, poetry) with a critical element (15,000-25,000 words for critical element + 65,000-75,000 words for creative work)N/A
- Research Degree involving preparation of an Edition of Works (PhD)
- Scholarly edition of texts/artefacts with textual/explanatory annotations and a 30,000-40,000-word introduction/critical commentaryN/A
- Research Degree involving preparation of an Edition of Works (MPhil)
- Scholarly edition of texts/artefacts with textual/explanatory annotations and a 15,000-20,000-word introduction/critical commentaryN/A
- PhD by Published Work
- Submission of published work with a 7,500-15,000-word critical appraisalN/A
Careers
A research degree in English from Oxford Brookes University can open doors to various career paths, both within academia and in other sectors that value advanced research, critical thinking, and communication skills.
- Academic Researcher
- University Lecturer
- Editor
- Writer
- Archivist
- Librarian
- Journalist
- Cultural Sector Professional
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- For PhD students, the annual international tuition fee is £16,000. For MA by Research students, please contact the university for specific fees.
- What are the estimated living costs for postgraduate students?
- Estimated living costs for a 52-week postgraduate course range from £16,796 to £22,256 per year. This includes accommodation, food, telephone, household goods, course essentials, and leisure activities.
- What academic qualifications are required for admission?
- For the MA by Research, a lower second-class UK honours degree or equivalent is required. For the MPhil/PhD Route, a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree or a relevant master’s qualification is needed. For the PhD Direct Route, the same as the MPhil/PhD route is required, plus demonstration of exceptional preparedness.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements?
- Applicants generally need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components.
- How long does the application process take?
- The application process typically takes up to five months for international and EU applicants from submission to enrollment, provided all necessary documentation is in place.
- What kind of career opportunities are available after completing this program?
- Graduates can pursue careers as Academic Researchers, University Lecturers, Editors, Writers, Archivists, Librarians, Journalists, Cultural Sector Professionals, Policy Analysts, or Consultants.
Entry requirements
MA by ResearchLower second-class UK honours degree or equivalent qualification.
MPhil/PhD RouteFirst-class or upper second-class UK honours degree, a relevant master’s qualification, or an equivalent qualification.
PhD DirectSame as MPhil/PhD, plus demonstration of exceptional preparedness and aptitude for PhD study (e.g., MPhil degree or outstanding Masters performance in a closely aligned area).
Research Degree involving preparation of an Edition of WorksRecent master’s degree in a discipline appropriate to the proposed research, including research training and a research project. Exceptional cases with a good honours degree and appropriate research/professional experience may be considered.
PhD by Published WorkVery clear and demonstrable association with Oxford Brookes University (e.g., past student/staff, associate lecturer, research collaborator).
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with 6.0 in all components
Applications from those holding qualifications other than the above will be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the work proposed.
Fees
Tuition (international)For PhD students, the annual international tuition fee is £16,000. For MA by Research students, please contact the university for specific fees.
Tuition (home)For PhD students, the annual home tuition fee is £6,270. For MA by Research students, please contact the university for specific fees.
LivingEstimated living costs for a 52-week postgraduate course range from £16,796 to £22,256 per year. This includes accommodation, food, telephone, household goods, course essentials, and leisure activities.
Tuition fees are subject to change. Living costs are estimates and can vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices. University accommodation for a self-catered room typically costs between £135 and £240 per week, including utilities. Shared private accommodation in Oxford averages £168 per week plus utilities.
How to apply
1. Develop a Research ProposalPrepare a detailed research proposal outlining your chosen topic, research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes. This is a crucial step for all research degree applications.
2. Identify a SupervisorContact the School of Education, Humanities and Languages (hss-researchdegrees@brookes.ac.uk) to discuss your research interests and identify potential supervisors whose expertise aligns with your proposed project. Establishing contact and gaining informal agreement from a supervisor can strengthen your application.
3. Complete the Online Application FormFill out the university's online application form. Ensure all sections are completed accurately and thoroughly.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all required supporting documents as part of your application. This typically includes academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language proficiency proof, and references.
5. Attend an Interview (if required)You may be invited for an interview, either in person or remotely, to discuss your research proposal and suitability for the program.
6. Await DecisionThe university will review your application and inform you of their decision. If successful, you will receive an offer of admission.
7. Secure Funding (if applicable)If you require funding, explore scholarship opportunities and ensure you have a financial plan in place.
8. Obtain Visa (International Students)Upon receiving an unconditional offer, international students must apply for a student visa to study in the UK. This involves providing proof of funds and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university.
9. EnrollComplete the enrollment process with the university by the specified start date.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
For PhD students, the annual international tuition fee is £16,000. For MA by Research students, please contact the university for specific fees.
What are the estimated living costs for postgraduate students?
+
Estimated living costs for a 52-week postgraduate course range from £16,796 to £22,256 per year. This includes accommodation, food, telephone, household goods, course essentials, and leisure activities.
What academic qualifications are required for admission?
+
For the MA by Research, a lower second-class UK honours degree or equivalent is required. For the MPhil/PhD Route, a first-class or upper second-class UK honours degree or a relevant master’s qualification is needed. For the PhD Direct Route, the same as the MPhil/PhD route is required, plus demonstration of exceptional preparedness.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
+
Applicants generally need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components.
How long does the application process take?
+
The application process typically takes up to five months for international and EU applicants from submission to enrollment, provided all necessary documentation is in place.
What kind of career opportunities are available after completing this program?
+
Graduates can pursue careers as Academic Researchers, University Lecturers, Editors, Writers, Archivists, Librarians, Journalists, Cultural Sector Professionals, Policy Analysts, or Consultants.