UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · UNITED KINGDOM
MPhil in Egyptology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
21 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 21 monthsExpected Length
- 4 October 2026Expected Start Date (currently closed for applications)
- Higher levelEnglish Language Requirement
- Small groups and one-on-one tutorialsPersonalised Teaching
- Ashmolean Museum, Griffith InstituteAccess to World-Class Resources
- Syllabus A (specialists) or Syllabus B (converters)Tailored Pathways
The MPhil in Egyptology at the University of Oxford is an advanced, taught master's course designed for students interested in ancient Egyptian languages, cultures, and history. It emphasizes in-depth study of primary texts within their historical and material contexts. This program is suitable for both those with prior Egyptology training and graduates from related disciplines looking to specialize in Egyptology, and it also prepares students for doctoral research in the field. The course is highly intensive, requiring full-time attendance in Oxford and dedication throughout university vacations.
Curriculum
The MPhil in Egyptology offers two distinct pathways, Syllabus A and Syllabus B, which are tailored to individual student interests where teaching specialisms allow. Both pathways strongly focus on detailed familiarity with primary textual sources in their original language and context, incorporating various interpretive and analytical approaches. The course also allows for an archaeological and/or material-culture focus, with opportunities to work with artefacts from the Ashmolean Museum's extensive collections.
- Year 1
- Qualifying Examinations (Syllabus A: 1-2 exams in language/phase; Syllabus B: 2 exams in Middle Egyptian)
- Middle Egyptian Language classes (Syllabus B)
- Lectures on History and Culture (Syllabus B)
- Study of Ancient Egyptian Language and Textual Culture
- Option Courses
- Year 2
- Dissertation
- Study of Ancient Egyptian Language and Textual Culture
- Option Courses
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Egyptology?
- For Syllabus A, applicants should have previous training in Egyptology and specify potential research areas. For Syllabus B, graduates in related disciplines or those with basic Egyptian language training can apply. A higher level of English language proficiency is required, demonstrated by an IELTS score.
- How long is the MPhil in Egyptology and when does it start?
- The MPhil in Egyptology is expected to take 21 months to complete. The next expected start date is 4 October 2026, though applications for 2026-27 entry are currently closed.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for this program?
- Tuition fees for international students are not specified. However, estimated living costs for a single, full-time student for 12 months (2025-26) range between £17,100 and £24,420, covering accommodation, food, and other expenses.
- How do I apply for the MPhil in Egyptology?
- Applications are submitted online and require documents such as academic transcripts, English language test scores, and references. For Syllabus A, a research proposal is also needed. Applications for 2026-27 entry are currently closed, but you can register for updates for 2027-28 entry.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- The New College Graduate Awards are available and offer generous college awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, and the closing date for consideration is the University's January application deadline.
Entry requirements
Syllabus AApplicants should have previous training in Egyptology and specify potential research/training areas in their proposals. Contact potential supervisors is recommended.
Syllabus BGraduates in a related discipline (e.g., Classics, history, archaeology, linguistics) or those with only basic Egyptian language training. This pathway is designed for conversion to Egyptology.
Overall IELTSHigher level required
The number of students accepted each year is very small, ensuring tailored teaching. The MPhil is an intensive course; university vacations are considered part of your work time. Ideally, you should visit Egypt before the course ends, if possible, as some colleges offer travel grants.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
LivingEstimated between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months (2025-26). These figures cover food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, study costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. For 21 months, these costs would be significantly higher.
These are estimated living costs for a single, full-time student without dependants. Accommodation costs are based on college figures and include utilities. Additional costs may include travel to and from Oxford, fieldwork, and for international students, visa and immigration health surcharge fees (paid upfront for the entire course duration and any additional time added by the Home Office).
How to apply
1. Course SelectionBrowse the complete list of postgraduate courses to find your desired program. Note that the MPhil in Egyptology for 2026-27 is closed to applications.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather all required application documents, which typically include academic transcripts, English language test scores, a research proposal (especially for Syllabus A), and references. Specific document requirements will be detailed in the application guide for your chosen course.
3. Meet DeadlinesBe aware of the University's application deadlines. For scholarships like those at New College, the University's January application deadline is often the closing date for consideration.
4. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the University's online application system.
5. Monitor Application StatusAfter applying, you can track the status of your application.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsGenerous college awards
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MPhil in Egyptology?
+
For Syllabus A, applicants should have previous training in Egyptology and specify potential research areas. For Syllabus B, graduates in related disciplines or those with basic Egyptian language training can apply. A higher level of English language proficiency is required, demonstrated by an IELTS score.
How long is the MPhil in Egyptology and when does it start?
+
The MPhil in Egyptology is expected to take 21 months to complete. The next expected start date is 4 October 2026, though applications for 2026-27 entry are currently closed.
What are the tuition fees and living costs for this program?
+
Tuition fees for international students are not specified. However, estimated living costs for a single, full-time student for 12 months (2025-26) range between £17,100 and £24,420, covering accommodation, food, and other expenses.
How do I apply for the MPhil in Egyptology?
+
Applications are submitted online and require documents such as academic transcripts, English language test scores, and references. For Syllabus A, a research proposal is also needed. Applications for 2026-27 entry are currently closed, but you can register for updates for 2027-28 entry.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
The New College Graduate Awards are available and offer generous college awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, and the closing date for consideration is the University's January application deadline.