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Full time — Closed
Graduate

MPhil in Greek and/or Latin Languages and Literature

The MPhil in Greek and/or Latin Languages and Literature is a 21-month taught course offering advanced study in classical languages and literature with a substantial thesis element. The course is designed as a foundation for future doctoral study.

Closed: Full time

Closed to applications for entry in 2026-27. Register to receive an email when applications open (for entry in 2027-28). 

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Expected length:
  • Full time: 21 months
Expected start date:
  • Full time:
English language level:
  • Higher level required
Bust and globe close-up in the Old Library, St Edmund Hall

About the course

The majority of students take the shorter MSt, which the faculty recommends as the default master's choice in Greek and/or Latin languages and literature. However, the MPhil is often taken by two groups of students and designed with them in mind: those who feel that they would benefit from two more years of taught education in Classics before embarking on a doctorate; and those who have a clear idea of the topic that they hope to research eventually for their doctorate, and who wish to start extensive work on this topic already in their master's dissertation.

Most students take the course as preparation for a research degree, and for such students it might offer, for instance, linguistic training; the opportunity to become acquainted with an ancillary discipline such as papyrology; engagement with a particular author's texts at a deeper level; and/or textual criticism of Greek and/or Latin; or, reception studies. The MPhil also offers, through an obligatory dissertation, the first steps in actual research and the extended presentation of a scholarly argument.

Course structure

This section provides an overview of the course structure, while details of the individual course components are provided below.

You will study three options: a thesis and two options from lists A, B and C. You will study one option in your first year and the other in your second year, and will work on your thesis across both years.

There is the possibility of specialising in reception across the course by choosing the Reception module option and working on reception topics in a text/genre option, though you will still sit a translation exam as detailed below.

All MPhil students have the opportunity to attend a wide range of lectures, seminars and talks by visiting speakers. In your first year, you will also attend a class on research techniques in Classical literature, extending over two to three terms. This looks at aspects of Classical scholarship and its history, and includes direct viewing of papyri, manuscripts, vases, and other resources in Oxford. In the second and third term considerable attention is paid to presentational skills, as students deliver papers of their own.

Core components

You will submit a final thesis in addition to completing the two option modules.

Option modules

You will select two options from lists A, B and C. One will be studied each year.

Course details

Entry requirements

For entry in 2026-27

Funding and costs

College preference

Before you apply

Completing your application

Contact details