Undergraduate Prospectus 2017 entry
University of Oxford
Section 2: Courses
This version was produced by the Oxford University Accessible Resources Acquisition and Creation Unit in 2016.
[Copyright notice]
This copy has been made for the use of people with print impairments and may not be further copied (including any electronic copying or transmission), without permission of the copyright holder, save as may be permitted by law.
[Transcriber's Note]
To ease navigation, heading levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 are used throughout the document. 
At heading level 1, you will find the section “Subject Requirements” and individual courses listed alphabetically.
Print page numbers are recorded at the point where they occur and are given on a separate line enclosed in square brackets.
Contents list
Subject requirements
Archaeology and Anthropology BA 3 years
Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular) MBiochem 4 years
Biological Sciences BA 3 years
Biomedical Sciences BA 3 years
Chemistry MChem 4 years
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History BA 3 years
Classics (Literae Humaniores) BA 4 years Classical Languages and Literature, Ancient History, Classical Archaeology, Philology, Ancient and Modern Philosophy
Classics and English BA 3 years (Course I) or 4 years (Course II)
Classics and Modern Languages BA 4 or 5 years including a year abroad
Classics with Oriental Studies BA 4 years (3 years if Oriental Studies is the main subject and no year abroad is taken)
Computer Science BA 3 years or MCompSci 4 years
Computer Science and Philosophy BA 3 years or MCompPhil 4 years
Earth Sciences (Geology) BA (Geology) 3 years or MEarthSc 4 years
Economics and Management BA 3 years
Engineering Science MEng 4 years
English Language and Literature BA 3 years
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
European and Middle Eastern Languages BA 4years with a year abroad Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish, with either Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish
Fine Art BFA 3 years
Geography BA 3 years
History BA 3 years
History (Ancient and Modern) BA 3 years
History and Economics BA 3 years
History and English BA 3 years
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
History and Politics BA 3 years
History of Art BA 3 years
Human Sciences BA 3 years
Law (Jurisprudence) BA 3 years (equivalent to LLB); 4-year course option includes a year studying abroad
Materials Science MEng 4 years
Mathematics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
Mathematics and Computer Science BA 3 years or MMathCompSci 4 years
Mathematics and Philosophy BA 3 years or MMathPhil 4 years
Mathematics and Statistics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
Medicine BA 3 years or BM BCh 6 years
Modern Languages BA 4 years with a year abroad Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish
Modern Languages and Linguistics BA 4 years with a year abroad
Music BA 3 years
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
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
Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) BA 3 years
Philosophy and Theology BA 3 years
Physics MPhys 4 years
Physics and Philosophy MPhysPhil 4 years
Psychology (Experimental) BA 3 years
Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics (PPL) BA 3 years
Theology and Religion BA 3 years
Theology and Oriental Studies BA 3 years
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Oxford degrees cover subjects in great breadth but 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, in depth, so be sure to choose something you really want to explore further. 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 at Oxford allow you to study two or more subjects together. Our joint course combinations are carefully chosen to provide opportunities to explore different subjects and examine the connections between them, revealing insights that you might not find by studying them individually. Choosing a joint course may also give you the chance to study something completely new alongside an old favourite. There are a few subjects which it is only possible to study as part of a joint course at undergraduate level, for example Philosophy or Economics.
Entrance requirements for courses at Oxford are entirely academic in nature. The tutors will consider extracurricular activities and work experience only if they help to demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria. You can demonstrate your academic ability with a huge range of different qualifications or test scores - see the individual course pages and more information at ox.ac.uk/enreqs.
Find Out More
Visit: ox.ac.uk/courses to use the A-Z search and see page 191 [printed edition page number]
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 “The vast majority of jobs do not specify the subject studied at university; all degree courses equip you with a wide range of valuable employability skills.” Jonathan Black, Careers 
“I love the choice of paper: I never have to do a paper I dislike, which makes the course really enjoyable.” Harry, 2nd year
“I like the diversity of my course and the broad range of ideas I get to cover.” Eleanor, 2nd year
“It made sense to me to try to study at the place that offered the best education for my chosen area. Many of the textbooks are written by tutors and lecturers at the University, which is a reflection of the standard of the education.” Bertrand, 4th year
“I had the opportunity to dictate what I learnt; there was a lot of freedom for me to choose courses that interested me.” Naveed, 2015 graduate
“Studying at Oxford will change the way you think about the universe, and make you a more analytical and thoughtful worker.” Sam, 3rd year
[40] and [41]
Subject requirements
These tables give a summary of the entrance requirements, but please check the details on your course pages as well.
Check
Do you have the right qualifications? See: ox.ac.uk/enreqs
Subject	Essential
Colleges will normally expect students to take the full or equivalent, in these subjects. See course pages for details	Recommended
It is highly desirable to study these subjects to full A-level, or equivalent	Helpful
A background in these subjects at either full A-level or AS-level (or equivalent) may be useful for some elements of the course	
Archaeology and Anthropology	[blank]	[blank]	Combination of arts and science subjects	
Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular)	Chemistry and another science or Mathematics	[blank]	Biology and Mathematics to at least AS-level (or equivalent)	
Biological Sciences	Biology or Human Biology	[blank]	Another science or Mathematics	
Biomedical Sciences	Two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics	[blank]	[blank]	
Chemistry	Chemistry and Mathematics	[blank]	Another science or Further Mathematics	
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History	[blank]	[blank]	A classical language, Classical Civilisation or Ancient History	
Classics	Latin and/or Greek (for Course I only)	[blank]	[blank]	
Classics and English	Latin and/or Greek (for Course I only), English Literature or English Language and Literature	[blank]	[blank]	
Classics and Modern Languages	Latin and/or Greek (for Course I only) and a modern language (depending on course choice)	[blank]	[blank]	
Classics with Oriental Studies	[blank]	Latin and/or Greek	[blank]	
Computer Science	Mathematics	Further Mathematics or a science	[blank]	
Computer Science and Philosophy	Mathematics	Further Mathematics or a science	A subject involving essay-writing	
Earth Sciences (Geology)	Mathematics, plus Chemistry or Physics	Chemistry or Physics	Biology, Geology, Further Mathematics	
Economics and Management	Mathematics	[blank]	[blank]	
Engineering Science	Mathematics and Physics	Inclusion of Maths Mechanics modules	Further Mathematics	
English Language and Literature	English Literature or English Language and Literature	[blank]	A language, History	
English and Modern Languages	A modern language (depending on course choice) and English Literature, or English Language and Literature	[blank]	[blank]	
European and Middle Eastern Languages	A modern language (depending on course choice)	[blank]	[blank]	
Fine Art	[blank]	Art	[blank]	
Geography	[blank]	Geography	[blank]	
History	[blank]	History	[blank]	
History (Ancient and Modern)	[blank]	History	A classical language, Classical Civilisation, Ancient History	
History and Economics	[blank]	History, Mathematics	[blank]	
History and English	English Literature or English Language and Literature	History	[blank]	
History and Modern Languages	A modern language (depending on course choice)	History	[blank]	
History and Politics	[blank]	History	Sociology, Politics, Government and Politics	
History of Art	A subject involving essaywriting	[blank]	History of Art, Fine Art, History, English, a language	
Human Sciences	[blank]	[blank]	Biology, Mathematics	
Law (Jurisprudence)	[blank]	[blank]	[blank]	
Law with Law Studies in Europe	A relevant modern language (not required for European Law)	[blank]	[blank]	
Materials Science	Mathematics and Physics	Chemistry	Further Mathematics, Design and Technology (Resistant Materials)	
Mathematics	Mathematics	Further Mathematics	[blank]	
Mathematics and Computer Science	Mathematics	Further Mathematics	A science	
Mathematics and Philosophy	Mathematics	Further Mathematics	[blank]	
Mathematics and Statistics	Mathematics	Further Mathematics	[blank]	
Medicine	Chemistry with either Mathematics or Biology or Physics		[blank]	
Modern Languages	One or more modern languages (depending on course choice)		[blank]	
Modern Languages and Linguistics	A modern language (depending on course choice)		English Language, Mathematics, a science or any other language	
Music	Music	Keyboard ability to ABRSM Grade V or above	[blank]	
Oriental Studies	[blank]	[blank]	A language	
Philosophy and Modern Languages	A modern language (depending on course choice)	[blank]	[blank]	
Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)	[blank]	[blank]	Mathematics, History	
Philosophy and Theology	[blank]	[blank]	A subject involving essay-writing	
Physics	Physics and Mathematics	Inclusion of Maths Mechanics module	Further Mathematics	
Physics and Philosophy	Physics and Mathematics	Inclusion of Maths Mechanics module	An arts subject and Further Mathematics	
Psychology (Experimental)	[blank]	One or more science subjects (including Psychology) or Mathematics	[blank]	
Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics	[blank]	For Psychology: one or more science subjects (including Psychology) or Mathematics	For Linguistics: English Language, Mathematics, a science or any other language	
Theology and Religion	[blank]	[blank]	A subject involving essay-writing	
Theology and Oriental Studies	[blank]	[blank]	A subject involving essay-writing, a language	
[42]
Archaeology and Anthropology BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV64
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points)
Or any other equivalent
A background of studying both arts and science subjects can be helpful to students in completing the course, although there are no specific subject requirements for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 81%
Successful: 28%
Intake: 26
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: Two pieces of marked work, written over two weeks or less, and one shorter essay of no more than 500 words in response to a given question. See www.arch.ox.ac.uk and ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Archaeology and anthropology together encompass the study of humankind from the origins of the human species to the present day. Both disciplines have a long history: archaeology grew from 18th-century antiquarianism, while anthropology began even earlier in the first days of colonial encounter. Today both subjects involve a range of sophisticated approaches shared with the arts, social sciences and physical sciences.
The Oxford degree is distinctive in the way it combines archaeology and anthropology throughout the course, offering an unusually broad perspective on human societies from earliest prehistory to the present. Six institutions specialise in these subjects: the Institutes of Archaeology and of Social and Cultural Anthropology, the Ashmolean Museum, the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, and the Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art. All play a key role in the degree, are supported by world-class libraries and are well equipped with laboratories and computing resources.
Oxford's Archaeology and Anthropology course offers a comprehensive guide to the richness and diversity of human cultural experience throughout space and time. By choosing to study here you will be able to:
•	explore how humans evolved
•	get to grips with major transformational processes in human history such as the development of farming, the emergence of towns and
•	trading systems and the spread of world religions
•	assess the relative importance of environmental, genetic and social factors in understanding patterns of human growth and nutrition
•	learn why societies structure their families, economies and political systems in the ways that they do
•	investigate how material culture represents and reproduces beliefs and ideologies.
Work placements/international opportunities
As part of your course you will undertake at least three weeks of fieldwork anywhere in the world (subject to approval by tutors). Recent destinations include South Africa, the Andes and Georgia. Fieldwork can take place in field settings, or in a laboratory or museum. Financial support for this fieldwork is available from the University and may also be available from your college. You may also engage in fieldwork as part of your final-year dissertation, while other opportunities may exist for work-based learning in the University's museums.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided among lectures, tutorials and practical classes. In the first year you will spend about six hours a week in lectures, closely tied to the course's core papers. Lectures for core and option papers take up about ten hours a week in years 2 and 3. Throughout the course, there are one or two tutorials a week (normally a total of twelve in each term).
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What are tutors looking for?
Tutors will primarily be looking for an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the study of humans and their material culture, ideally from both humanities and science perspectives, combined with an ability to digest and assimilate significant quantities of data and to argue from evidence. No prior experience of archaeology or anthropology is required, but any fieldwork experience and general reading in the subject further demonstrates your interest and commitment.
Our tutors will be looking for the following qualities at interview:
•	an ability to think independently
•	potential and motivation for studying archaeology and anthropology
•	enthusiasm and interest in the combined disciplines
•	commitment to the requirements of the course.
A&A careers
Archaeology and Anthropology opens up a wide range of career opportunities, in part because the degree offers a unique perspective on how human societies operate and develop and on how people interact with each other. It is also due to the intellectually demanding requirements of an Oxford degree, and to its ideal combination of personal learning, independent study and tutorial teaching. Graduates of this course have found opportunities in heritage management, museum curation, education, regional archaeological services, international development, the Civil Service, advertising, marketing, computing, energy supply, community relations, law and media.
Oxford Podcasts on iTunes
Audio and video podcasts are now available from the School of Archaeology. Interviews with Professor Barry Cunliffe, Professor Mark Pollard, Professor Chris Gosden and DPhil student Wendy Morrison are available from the University of Oxford podcasts page or directly from iTunes at: podcasts.ox.ac.uk/units/archaeology-institute
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugarchant
2016 open days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details:
www.arch.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0)1865 278246; ugsupport@arch.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four core courses are taken:
•	Introduction to world archaeology
•	Introduction to anthropological theory
•	Perspectives on human evolution
•	The nature of archaeological enquiry
Practical classes
Fieldwork
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Four core courses are taken:
•	Social analysis and interpretation
•	Cultural representations, beliefs and practices
•	Landscape and ecology
•	Urbanisation and change in complex societies
Options (three from a broad range of anthropological and archaeological courses)
Thesis
A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Seven written papers; thesis
[44]
Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular) MBiochem 4 years
UCAS code: C700
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA with A* in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Biology, or a closely related subject
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 7 in HL Chemistry and 6 in two other relevant subjects at HL or SL 
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have Chemistry to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent, plus another science or Mathematics.
Biology and Mathematics to at least AS-level, Scottish Higher, Standard Level in the IB (Mathematical Methods, not Mathematical Studies) or any other equivalent can be helpful to students in completing the course, although they are not required for admission. More detailed information is available on the department website.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 75%
Successful: 19%
Intake: 97
How to apply
Tests: None required
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
Students in their fourth year undertake full-time research over an 18-week extended term. This means that your living costs will be higher in your final year.
The study of living things at the molecular level has undergone tremendous expansion in recent years, leading to ever-increasing insights into topics as various as the origin of life, the nature of disease and the development of individual organisms. Powerful new techniques, such as those of molecular genetics and NMR spectroscopy, enable us to analyse biological phenomena in more and more precise molecular terms. These studies have led to commercially valuable developments in drug design and synthesis, forensic science, environmental sensing and a whole range of other areas. Furthermore, advances in biochemistry are largely responsible for the breakdown of traditional boundaries between cell biology, medicine, physics and chemistry as their applications become increasingly wide reaching.
The Biochemistry Department in Oxford is one of the largest in Europe, and is subdivided into research areas: Cell Biology, Development and Genetics; Chromosomal and RNA Biology; Infection and Disease Processes; Microbiology and Systems Biology; and Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics. The department is extremely active in research, with about 300 postgraduate students and research staff. The breadth and excellence of these activities are reflected in the scope of the undergraduate course and underpin the teaching.
The department has superb research facilities - having moved into our new building in 2008 - and excellent teaching facilities, IT resources and access to a wide range of online and hard-copy journals.
An important aspect of the Oxford Biochemistry course is its fourth-year project, lasting 18 full-time weeks, which allows you to explore both laboratory- based research and specific recent advances in biochemistry in detail. You choose the project yourself. Under the supervision of a group leader, you will design your own experiments, and will learn to plan research programmes and present your results and ideas - orally and in written form - to other workers in the field. The experience gained is much valued by employers. The project also gives you the opportunity to reflect on your aptitude and enthusiasm for a research career.
Research placements/ international opportunities
A wide choice of fourth-year research projects is available both within the Biochemistry Department and in related departments, such as Molecular Medicine, Clinical Biochemistry,
Pathology and Pharmacology. About ten students each year can carry out their project in selected European universities under the Erasmus exchange scheme, and at Princeton University in the USA.
A typical weekly timetable
During years 1 -3, your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials and classes (one to three a week) and practicals (averaging one full day a week). The remaining time is spent on private study (set reading, or problem-solving exercises). In the fourth year, the project occupies you in fulltime research for 18 weeks, and the
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remainder of the year is spent in writing up your research project and studying specialist option topics. Your final degree class is derived from a combination of marks from courses taken in the second, third and fourth years.
What are tutors looking for?
As Biochemistry is not taught as an A-level subject, tutors will not expect you to have a detailed knowledge of the subject. However, if you are shortlisted for interview, tutors will be looking for an informed interest in the subject (originating from news items, books, magazine articles etc.), together with an ability to use information (from other school or college subjects, particularly Chemistry) to analyse and solve problems and to construct your own opinions. For further information about the selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Biochem careers
Biochemists are playing an increasingly wide role in biological, environmental and clinical fields, with employment areas stretching from healthcare through forensic science to the food and pharmaceutical industries. Typically about 60% of our biochemistry graduates go on to do research or further study, mostly in the biochemistry field, while others find employment in industry, commerce or other areas, such as finance and law. Further details of careers in biochemistry can be found on the UK Biochemical Society website www.biochemistry.org.
Erasmus+ and Princeton Exchanges
For details of current student exchange schemes for this course, see: www.bioch.ox.ac.uk/erasmus
More about
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugbiochem
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.bioch.ox.ac.uk; admissions@bioch.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course outline
1st year
Courses
Five courses are taken:
•	Molecular cell biology
•	Biological chemistry
•	Biophysical chemistry
•	Organic chemistry
•	Maths and statistics
Assessment
First University examinations: Five written papers; satisfactory practical record
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Five courses are taken:
•	Structure and function of macromolecules
•	Energetics and metabolic processes
•	Molecular biology and genetics
•	Cell biology and integration of function
•	Data analysis and interpretation
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part 1: Six written papers; satisfactory practical record
4th year (extended first term)
Courses
A research project (full time, 18 weeks), plus two courses taken from a list of six options. The list typically includes subjects such as:
•	Bionanotechnology
•	Cancer biology
•	Clinical and applied immunology
•	Membrane transport
•	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
Final University examinations, Part II: Project dissertation and oral presentation; options written papers and/or submitted coursework
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Biological Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: C100
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in a science or Mathematics 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 7 in HL Mathematics or a science 
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Biology (or Human Biology) to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 67%
Successful: 21%
Intake: 112
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
Biological Sciences is an exciting and rapidly developing subject area. The study of living things has undergone tremendous expansion in recent years, and topics such as cell biology, neuroscience, evolutionary biology and ecology are advancing rapidly. The rapid expansion has been accompanied by a blurring of the distinctions between disciplines: a biologist with an interest in tropical plants may well use many of the tools and techniques that are indispensable to a molecular geneticist.
The degree of Biological Sciences is taught jointly by the departments of Plant Sciences and Zoology. Additional resources include: University Museum of Natural History, Botanic Garden, Herbarium, Arboretum, Wytham Woods.
Practical laboratory work is an integral part of teaching and there is a compulsory one-week field trip for all first-year students to Pembrokeshire to study ecology (for which a contribution of £200 is required from every student). Fieldwork is a crucial part of some 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. Many students carry out their research projects in 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.
A typical weekly timetable
Almost all teaching activities happen in the departments of Plant Sciences and Zoology and can be broken down into the following categories:
•	Lectures: around ten hours a week
•	Practicals: around eight hours a week
•	Tutorials: one hour a week, plus preparation time
•	Research projects - variable hours in second and third year.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for enthusiasm for biology and potential to study it at university. Interviews are not to test factual knowledge - they are designed to enable applicants to show an ability to think and to understand whatever facts have been encountered up to that time. Be prepared to talk intelligently about particular aspects of biology that are personally interesting. The process is rigorous but sympathetic. Applicants may be asked to examine and comment on biological objects, or to interpret a written passage or a simple set of data, provided during the interview.
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Biosci careers
A significant proportion of Oxford biologists embark on a professional, scientific or technical career after graduating, while more than a third go on to further study such as a research doctorate or a postgraduate course in an applied field. Others will take up careers in fields such as industry, finance, medicine, law, teaching, media or conservation.
After graduation, Jenny spent several years in a medical communication agency environment, and now has her own business, working directly with major global pharmaceutical companies. She explains: 'The tutorial system and writing opportunities during my degree were critical in developing the skills needed to analyse and interpret data, present them clearly and concisely in context and discuss results of clinical trials.'
Hannah, now a research assistant at the Royal Veterinary College, reports: 'My degree gave me a keen interest in my subject and the skills to pursue it. So far I have tracked rhinos across deserts, chased birds across oceans, and am currently working with chickens!'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugbiosci
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.biology.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 281 214; undergraduate.enquires@biology.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four courses are taken:
•	Cells and genes
•	Organisms
•	Ecology and evolution
•	Quantitative methods (a two-year course, assessed during the second University examinations) 
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers;
Satisfactory practical record
2nd year
Courses
Eight courses are offered. Students are encouraged to attend lectures in all themes.
Compulsory:
•	Evolution
•	Quantitative methods 
Themes:
•	Adaptations to the environment
•	Animal behaviour
•	Cell and developmental biology
•	Disease
•	Ecology
•	Plants and people
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part I: Three written papers:
•	Evolution paper
•	Essay paper covering the six themes
•	Quantitative methods paper 
Satisfactory practical record
3rd year
Courses
Around 20 options covering the full breadth of active research in the departments. Students are expected to take 6-8 of these specialist options, which are chosen freely. Two overseas field courses are also available but numbers able to attend are capped for logistical reasons.
A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part II: Four written papers:
•	A general paper
•	A data interpretation paper
•	A short essay-based paper
•	A long essay-based paper 
Two course assignments and research project (prepared work counts for 30% of overall assessment)
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Biomedical Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: BC98
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA excluding Critical Thinking and General Studies. Candidates are required to have two of their A-levels from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.
Advanced Highers: AA 
Highers: AAAAA Candidates are required to have an Advanced Higher in at least one from Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics, and two Highers from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Candidates are required to have two subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics at Higher Level. If not taken on to a higher level (A-level or equivalent), all candidates will need to show that they have received a basic education (achieving at least a grade C at GCSE, Intermediate 2 or Standard grade (Credit) or equivalent) in Biology, Chemistry, Physics (GCSE Dual Award Combined Sciences or equivalent is also acceptable) and Mathematics.
Other equivalent qualifications are also acceptable. Please see www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms for further details.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 39%
Successful: 12%
Intake: 31
How to apply
Tests: BMAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
Some students opt to stay longer in Oxford at the end of year 2 to complete their project. This is not required, but can increase living costs. 
Biomedical scientists focus on how cells, organs and systems function in the human body; an exciting and dynamic area that is highly relevant to the understanding and treatment of human diseases. This course does not provide a medical training.
Oxford is a highly respected and internationally recognised centre for biomedical research and, on this interdisciplinary course, students will receive the benefit of tuition from leading experts working within a variety of non-clinical and clinical departments.
This course provides students with an intellectually stimulating education in modern molecular, cellular and systems biology and neuroscience.
The course has been designed so that students first acquire an integrated understanding of biomedical science that allows them to shape their subsequent studies towards the topics that interest them the most.
As the course progresses, increasing emphasis is placed on relating knowledge to scientific research. That emphasis is demonstrated by the opportunity for all students to obtain first-hand experience of laboratory research in the later stages of the course. Students choose their own project and the possible areas for research within the University are wide ranging.
On the basis of the specialisation initiated by the selection of second-year modules and confirmed by the choice of third-year options, students will be awarded a degree in Neuroscience or Cell and Systems Biology.
For further details on the structure of the course, please refer to www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms. 
A typical weekly timetable
A first-year student would typically attend six to ten lectures, a Mathematics class and a three-hour practical class. Practical work undertaken in laboratories forms an integral part of this programme; students are required to complete practical work to a satisfactory standard in order to progress through the degree course. In addition, students prepare for weekly tutorials during which students and tutors discuss, through consideration of experimental studies, the significance and limitations of a given topic. Students' remaining time is available for self- directed study and extra-curricular activities.
During the first two terms of the second year, work is divided between lectures (about five a week), tutorials (one or two a week) and practical classes. The final term of the second year is set aside for experimental research in a laboratory.
During the third year students attend lectures, seminars and tutorials in their chosen specialist area.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors look for lively, receptive minds with the ability to evaluate evidence critically. You should be able to consider issues from different perspectives and have a capacity for logical and creative thinking. BMAT results will be considered when shortlisting candidates for interview. For further information about the selection criteria see: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms/applying/selection-criteria.
[49]
Biomedical careers 
This course provides a strong foundation to pursue academe research, work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, or apply for an accelerated graduate entry course in medicine.
The Biomedical Sciences course at the University of Oxford is a full-time, basic science degree course, offering education in cell and systems physiology and neuroscience. It is not accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.
Leaders in biomedical teaching and research
A flexible and modern undergraduate science programme at a university leading the way in biomedical teaching and research.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugbiomed
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/bms; bmsadmissions@medsci.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course outline
Terms 1 – 3 (1st year)
Courses
•	Numerical and scientific skills (Mathematics and Statistics, Chemistry and Physics)
•	Body, brain and behaviour
•	Cells, molecules and genes 
Delivered by lectures, classes and practical sessions
Assessment
Examined by five written papers at the end of the year.
A satisfactory practical record is required for progression to Year 2.
Terms 4 – 5: Part 1 Finals
Courses
Students select courses totalling ten units from a wide range of subject areas, which currently include: 
•	Psychological processes and disorders
•	Neurophysiology
•	Cellular and systems physiology
•	Intra- and intercellular signalling
•	Genetics and developmental biology
•	Pharmacology
•	Cellular pathology and immunology 
The full list of current options is available at www.medscl.ox.ac.uk/study/bms
Assessment
Examined by two written papers at the start of Term 6. These papers contribute 20% to the final degree mark. An academic penalty will be applied for an unsatisfactory practical record.
Terms 6 – 9: Part 2 Finals
Term 6
Students work on their research project. 
Terms 7-9
Options currently offered are:
•	Neuroscience (cellular and systems)
•	Molecular medicine
•	Cardiovascular, renal and respiratory biology
•	Infection and immunity
•	Cellular physiology and pharmacology
•	Experimental psychology
Cell and Systems Biology: students study two options from the first five above. 
Neuroscience: students study the Neuroscience and Experimental psychology options.
Students select topics within an option to study in depth.
The full list of current options is available at www.medscl.ox.ac.uk/study/bms
Assessment
Examined by four written papers during the third term of the final year. Students will also submit a project report and deliver a presentation on their research findings to the examiners.
80% of the final degree mark is determined by performance in the written papers and the project report/presentation.
[50]
Chemistry MChem 4 years
UCAS code: F100
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*A*A (including Chemistry and Mathematics) with both A*s in science subjects and/or Mathematics 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (including Chemistry and Mathematics)
IB: 40 (including core points) with 7 in HL Chemistry and EITHER 6/7 in HL Mathematics OR 7 in SL Mathematics plus a second science with 7 HL
Or any other equivalent
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 84%
Successful: 25%
Intake: 187
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
Students in their fourth year undertake full-time research over three extended terms of 12-13 weeks each (38 weeks in total). This means that your living costs will be higher in your final year.
Chemistry is a wide-ranging science concerned with matter at the atomic and molecular scale. Important facets are synthesis, structure, microscopic mechanisms, properties, analysis and transformations of all types of materials.
Chemists are a constant source of innovation: it is hard to imagine any product introduced in recent times that did not require the creative efforts of a chemist. Chemistry underpins the conceptual framework and methodology of biochemistry and molecular medicine, and is at the heart of many major industries.
A good Chemistry degree opens the door to a wide and varied range of careers.
Teaching and research are closely linked: Oxford is one of the leading chemistry departments in the world with a state-of-the-art lab, and international- level research in a wide range of areas including: synthesis and catalysis, medicinal and biological chemistry, sustainable energy, advanced materials, innovative measurement and theoretical and computational chemistry.
The department has an outstanding track record in commercialising the innovative work of research staff, which has raised millions of pounds for the University.
The MChem is a four-year course, 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 distinctive feature of Chemistry at Oxford since 1916. 
A typical weekly timetable (yrs 1-3)
•	About ten lectures, at 9 and 10am
•	One or two tutorials in your college with set work to be completed in your own time
•	Two afternoons of laboratory work (11am to 5pm)
•	A problems class, e.g. a maths class in the first year
The course is challenging but there is plenty of time for extra-curricular pursuits.
Work placements/international opportunities
Part II (the fourth year) involves full-time work with an established research group. There is the possibility of a few students spending time at laboratories in industry or at universities abroad. Many students find work placements during vacations - the Careers Service helps with this - and there are some opportunities within the department.
What are tutors looking for?
•	Evidence of motivation
•	Academic excellence
•	Potential for advanced study
•	Capacity to analyse, explain and use your knowledge
•	Readiness to have a go at problems even when you cannot see how.
[51]
Chemistry Careers
Chemistry provides an excellent opportunity for the development of your critical faculties and intellect, and also instills important transferable skills that will serve you well, whatever your subsequent choice of career. About 55% of our Chemistry graduates go on to do research or further study. Others enter professions such as publishing and marketing, banking and finance, manufacturing, IT, law and teaching.
Long term, more than half our graduates remain in posts related to Chemistry in some way. The Royal Society of Chemistry provides further information about careers using chemistry at www.rsc.org.
Amazing Chemistry at Oxford
The fourth year is entirely devoted to a research project. This unique feature of the degree can be a life-changing experience.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugchem
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays or admissions.chem.ox.ac.uk/opendays.aspx
Course details: www.chem.ox.ac.uk; +44(0)1865 272568; admissions@chem.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this, course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four courses are taken:
•	Inorganic chemistry
•	Physical chemistry
•	Organic chemistry
•	Mathematics for chemistry
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers; satisfactory practical record
2nd year
Courses
Core material, including courses on:
•	Theoretical chemistry
•	Biological chemistry
•	Molecular spectroscopy
•	Synthetic chemistry
Optional supplementary subject course
More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Part IA examinations: Three written papers
3rd year
Courses
Further core material, plus advanced courses with a choice from a wide variety of options
Optional supplementary subject course 
More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Part IB examinations: Seven written papers; continuous assessment of practicals
4th year (extended terms)
Research
Full-time research under the supervision of a member of the academic staff
Optional supplementary subject course
More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Part II examination: Dissertation; oral examination; determination of the class of honours degree
For the most up-to-date details on the Chemistry course's assessment, please refer to the department's website.
[52]
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History BA 3 years
UCAS code: VV14
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
A classical language, Classical Civilisation or Ancient History can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 90%
Successful: 25%
Intake: 20
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
At the end of the first year, you will attend an archaeological fieldwork project. You will receive a grant (currently £500) from the faculty towards your fieldwork, but may need to budget for additional costs depending on your choice of project. 
The course combines study of the history, archaeology and art of the classical world. It looks at the societies and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean world through their written texts, visual art and material remains, and has at its centre the two classical cultures of Greece and Rome. It is aimed at anyone interested in investigating ancient civilisations and their remains: from Greek temples and Roman amphitheatres to wall paintings and the poignant residues of everyday life. While it is primarily a historical and non-linguistic degree, ancient languages can be used and learned as part of the course. 
The degree is taught through a mixture of tutorials, lectures and classes. Some cover specifically archaeological or historical approaches to ancient Mediterranean cultures, but the degree is unique in also offering courses that combine both approaches. In every year of the course there are classes led by both an archaeologist and a historian, which are designed to give an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to the topics studied.
The University's resources for this combined subject are excellent, in terms of both library facilities, especially the Sackler Library, and the range and number of postholders in the two fields. The Ashmolean Museum also contains wide-ranging collections of art and artefacts from classical cultures.
Fieldwork and international opportunities
There are two practical elements - two weeks at the end of the first year spent on an archaeological field project, and the preparation of a report in the second and third years focusing either on a particular ancient site or on an artefact or set of artefacts in a museum of your choice.
A typical weekly timetable
First year:
•	lectures (four-six per week)
•	team-taught classes (one per week for the first two terms)
•	tutorials (one every one-two weeks) and/or language classes
Second and third years:
You will take six options and produce a site or museum report. The options are chosen from: 
•	integrated classes, bringing together historical and archaeological approaches to a particular period
•	core papers, which deal with central topics in Greco-Roman studies
•	further papers, which allow you either to build up concentrated expertise in some central areas and periods or to extend into earlier and later periods, and into non-classical cultures
•	Greek or Latin Language papers.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for intellectual potential, the specific visual, textual and reasoning abilities required for this course and, of course, serious interest in and commitment to both classical archaeology and ancient history.
Tutors will consider all the available information - past and predicted examination results, the personal statement, academic reference and interviews - to assess your potential to benefit from the course, to be a good tutorial student, and to attain good results in the examinations. The weight given to the different criteria will vary according to your individual background and circumstances.
For further information, see: ox.ac.uk/criteria
[53]
CAAH Careers
Some CAAH graduates go on to further study and research to become professional archaeologists and historians. Others move into different areas, including museum curation, heritage management, education, finance, advertising, publishing, the Civil Service and law. Recent CAAH graduates include a financial adviser, a teacher and a curator. Sarah is now a personal adviser. She says: 'My degree at Oxford provided the challenging environment in which I developed the skills I later needed to successfully complete Reed's rigorous application procedure’.
The Sackler Library
The Sackler Library is a principal research library of the University specialising in Archaeology, Art History and Classics (Ancient History and Literature).
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugcaah
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays 
Joint Classics open day in Cambridge: 18 March 2016 www.classics.ox.ac.uk/admiss-open.html 
Course details: www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288372; undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four courses are taken.
Core elements:
•	Aristocracy and democracy in the Greek world, 550-450 BC
•	Republic to empire: Rome, 50 BC to AD 50
Current optional elements:
•	Archaeology: Homeric archaeology and early Greece from 1550 to 700 BC; Greek vases; Greek sculpture c600- 300 BC; Roman architecture
•	History: Thucydides and the West; Aristophanes' political comedy; Cicero and Catiline; Tacitus and Tiberius
•	Ancient Languages: Beginning Ancient Greek; Beginning Latin; Intermediate Ancient Greek; Intermediate Latin; Advanced Ancient Greek; Advanced Latin 
Assessment
•	First University examinations: Four written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Six courses are taken from a wide choice of options. These currently include:
•	Rome, Italy and the Hellenistic East, 300-100 BC
•	Imperial culture and society, c. AD 50-150: Archaeology and history
•	The Greeks and the Mediterranean World, c. 950-500 BC
•	Greek art and archaeology, c. 500-300 BC
•	Cities and settlement under the Empire
•	Art under the Roman Empire, AD 14-337
•	Archaeology of the late Roman Empire, AD 284-641
•	Thucydides and the Greek world, 479-403 BC
•	Alexander the Great and his early successors
•	Roman history 146-46 BC
•	Egyptian art and architecture
•	Archaeology of Minoan Crete, 3200-1000 BC
•	Etruscan Italy, 900-300 BC
•	Science-based methods in archaeology
•	Greek and Roman coins
•	Mediterranean maritime archaeology
•	Epigraphy of the Greek and/or Roman world
•	Athenian democracy in the classical age
•	Sexuality and gender in Greece and Rome
•	Cicero: Politics and thought in the late Republic
•	Religions in the Greek and Roman world, c31 BC-AD 312
•	St Augustine and the Last Days of Rome, AD 370-430
•	Intermediate Ancient Greek or Latin
•	Advanced Ancient Greek or Latin
•	Research for a site or museum report
More information about current options is available on the course website (details above). 
Assessment
Final University examinations: Six written papers; one site or museum report
[54]
Classics (Literae Humaniores) BA 4 years Classical Languages and Literature, Ancient History, Classical Archaeology, Philology, Ancient and Modern Philosophy
UCAS codes: Q800 (Course I) or Q810 (Course II)
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL (and an aggregate of 12 in Latin and Greek, if taken)
Or any other equivalent 
For Course I, candidates should normally have Latin and/or Greek to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or equivalent. Course II is for candidates with no or lesser experience of these languages.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 94%
Successful: 37%
Intake: 109
How to apply
Tests: CAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
Classics (Literae Humaniores) is a wide- ranging degree devoted to the study of the literature, history, philosophy, languages and archaeology of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds. It is one of the most interdisciplinary of all subjects, and offers the opportunity to study two foundational ancient civilisations and their reception in modern times. The degree permits students also to take extensive options in modern philosophy, a flexibility which makes Oxford's Literae Humaniores different from most other Classics courses.
Oxford has the largest Classics department and programme of courses in the world, with outstanding teaching, library and museum resources, including the Sackler and Bodleian Libraries, the Ashmolean Museum and a designated Classics Centre. The degree involves extensive study of ancient languages, with a view to studying texts in the original. Applications are welcomed from candidates with and without prior knowledge of Greek and/or Latin. The breadth of options available means you can study papers ranging from Homeric Archaeology to Byzantine Literature, and the four-year course allows all students to explore the various disciplines within this vast subject and to engage with their particular interests within the classical world in real depth.
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest in the UK and one of the largest in the world, with more than 70 full-time members and admitting around 450 undergraduates annually to read the various degrees involving Philosophy. Many faculty members have a worldwide reputation. The large number of undergraduates and graduates reading Philosophy with a variety of other disciplines affords the opportunity to participate in a diverse and lively philosophical community.
Fieldwork/international opportunities
Fieldwork is not a requirement in any part of the course, but some undergraduates may participate in archaeological excavations.
A typical weekly timetable
Your time is divided between lectures, tutorials and private study. Most of your work will be in preparation of essays for your tutorials, although systematic language-learning and reading of texts also require considerable time and effort.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for potential and an enquiring mind, and a real commitment to this wide-ranging subject. For information about the selection criteria see ox.ac.uk/criteria.
[55]
Classics Careers
The breadth of subjects studied and variety of skills learned to a high level leave Classics graduates in high demand among employers. Occupations for Classics graduates have recently included teaching, the Civil Service, finance, media, software development, film production, conducting, NHS administration, consultancy, accountancy, the law, medicine, publishing and further classical study. 
Menai is now a project manager for Kent County Council. She says: 'I joined Kingfisher Retail and subsequently WHSmith. I then worked for a charity and finally moved to local government. The training in logical thinking and a questioning approach I developed while studying for my degree have been invaluable.'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugclassics
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Joint Classics open day in Cambridge: 18 March 2016 www.classics.ox.ac.uk/admiss-open.html
Course details:
www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288372; undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk; 
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outlines
Course IA (Latin and Greek, for those who have studied Latin and Greek to A-level or equivalent)
Terms 1–5 Courses
•	Homer’s Iliad
•	Virgil’s Aeneid
•	Texts and contexts: integrating literary, archaeological material
•	A special subject in Philosophy (ancient or modern)
•	A classical special subject: historical, archaeological or philological
•	Work on the Greek and Latin languages
Terms 1–5 Assessments
First University examinations IA: Ten papers, including four language papers (Latin and Greek)
Terms 6–12 Courses
Choose eight options from more than 80 in the following subjects (no area is compulsory); in most of these subjects it is possible to offer an undergraduate thesis in place of one of the papers:
•	Greek and Roman history (choose up to five): some are period papers, others topic-based
•	Philosophy (choose up to five ancient): numerous ancient and modern options; up to four can be in modern Philosophy
•	Greek and Latin literature (choose up to five)
•	Greek and Roman archaeology (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Philology and Linguistics (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Second classical language: Course II students can take up the second classical language if they wish (will count as two papers in the final exam)
Terms 6–12 Assessments
Final University examinations: eight exam subjects taken, with the possibility of offering one paper as a thesis. For some Literature options instead of a three-hour paper, assessment involves the composition of one long essay over a three-week period.
The options listed here are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Classics website (details above).
Course IB (Latin and Greek, for those who have studied only Latin to A-level or equivalent)
Terms 1–5 Courses
•	Homer’s Iliad
•	Virgil’s Aeneid
•	Texts and contexts: integrating literary, archaeological material
•	A special subject in Philosophy (ancient or modern)
•	A classical special subject: historical, archaeological or philological
•	Work on the Greek and Latin languages
Terms 1–5 Assessments
First University examinations IB: Ten papers, including four language papers (Greek language work at a less advanced level than IA, Latin at the same level as IA)
Terms 6–12 Courses
Choose eight options from more than 80 in the following subjects (no area is compulsory); in most of these subjects it is possible to offer an undergraduate thesis in place of one of the papers:
•	Greek and Roman history (choose up to five): some are period papers, others topic-based
•	Philosophy (choose up to five ancient): numerous ancient and modern options; up to four can be in modern Philosophy
•	Greek and Latin literature (choose up to five)
•	Greek and Roman archaeology (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Philology and Linguistics (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Second classical language: Course II students can take up the second classical language if they wish (will count as two papers in the final exam)
Terms 6–12 Assessments
Final University examinations: eight exam subjects taken, with the possibility of offering one paper as a thesis. For some Literature options instead of a three-hour paper, assessment involves the composition of one long essay over a three-week period.
The options listed here are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Classics website (details above).
Course IC (Latin and Greek, for those who have only Greek to A-level or equivalent)
Terms 1–5 Courses
•	Homer’s Iliad
•	Virgil’s Aeneid
•	Texts and contexts: integrating literary, archaeological material
•	A special subject in Philosophy (ancient or modern)
•	A classical special subject: historical, archaeological or philological
•	Work on the Greek and Latin languages
Terms 1–5 Assessments
First University examinations IC: Ten papers, including four language papers (Latin language work at a less advanced level than IA, Greek at the same level as IA)
Terms 6–12 Courses
Choose eight options from more than 80 in the following subjects (no area is compulsory); in most of these subjects it is possible to offer an undergraduate thesis in place of one of the papers:
•	Greek and Roman history (choose up to five): some are period papers, others topic-based
•	Philosophy (choose up to five ancient): numerous ancient and modern options; up to four can be in modern Philosophy
•	Greek and Latin literature (choose up to five)
•	Greek and Roman archaeology (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Philology and Linguistics (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Second classical language: Course II students can take up the second classical language if they wish (will count as two papers in the final exam)
Terms 6–12 Assessments
Final University examinations: eight exam subjects taken, with the possibility of offering one paper as a thesis. For some Literature options instead of a three-hour paper, assessment involves the composition of one long essay over a three-week period.
The options listed here are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Classics website (details above).
Course IIA (Latin only, for those who have not studied Greek or Latin to A-level or equivalent)
Terms 1–5 Courses
•	Virgil’s Aeneid
•	Special subjects and Texts and contexts as Course I
•	Work on the Latin language
Terms 1–5 Assessments
First University examinations IIA: Seven papers, including two language papers
Terms 6–12 Courses
Choose eight options from more than 80 in the following subjects (no area is compulsory); in most of these subjects it is possible to offer an undergraduate thesis in place of one of the papers:
•	Greek and Roman history (choose up to five): some are period papers, others topic-based
•	Philosophy (choose up to five ancient): numerous ancient and modern options; up to four can be in modern Philosophy
•	Greek and Latin literature (choose up to five)
•	Greek and Roman archaeology (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Philology and Linguistics (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Second classical language: Course II students can take up the second classical language if they wish (will count as two papers in the final exam)
Terms 6–12 Assessments 
Final University examinations: As Course I, but Latin only, unless you take optional second classical language
Course IIB (Greek only, for those who have not studied Latin or Greek to A-level or equivalent)
Terms 1–5 Courses
•	Homer’s Iliad
•	Special subjects and Texts and contexts as Course I
•	Work on the Greek language
Terms 1–5 Assessments
First University examinations IIB: Seven papers, including two language papers
Terms 6–12 Courses
Choose eight options from more than 80 in the following subjects (no area is compulsory); in most of these subjects it is possible to offer an undergraduate thesis in place of one of the papers:
•	Greek and Roman history (choose up to five): some are period papers, others topic-based
•	Philosophy (choose up to five ancient): numerous ancient and modern options; up to four can be in modern Philosophy
•	Greek and Latin literature (choose up to five)
•	Greek and Roman archaeology (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Philology and Linguistics (choose up to two, plus a thesis if you wish)
•	Second classical language: Course II students can take up the second classical language if they wish (will count as two papers in the final exam)
Terms 6–12 Assessments
Final University examinations: As Course I, but Greek only, unless you take optional second classical language
[56]
Classics and English BA 3 years (Course I) or 4 years (Course II)
UCAS codes: QQ38 (Classics and English) QQH8 (Classics II and English) 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL (with an aggregate of 12 in Latin and Greek, if taken)
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have English Literature, or English Language and Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. Applicants for Course I would be expected to have Latin and/or Greek to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. Course II is designed for candidates with no experience of studying the classical languages.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 81%
Successful: 26%
Intake: 11
How to apply
Tests: CAT and ELAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Classics and English appeals to those interested in the interactions of historically diverse literary cultures. English may be taken with Latin or Greek or both. For candidates with an A-level or equivalent in either Latin or Greek or both, this is a three-year course (Course I). For those who have not had the opportunity to study either language at school or college there is a preliminary year in which they learn Latin or Greek alongside some study of classical literature; for them the course lasts four years (Course II).
Oxford has a long and distinguished tradition of research and teaching in both Classics and English, and possesses remarkable library provision in both subjects.
The first year of the course (which follows the preliminary year of language learning for those taking Course II) is divided between the classical and English elements. The highlight of the Classics and English course is the link papers, which are studied over the second and third 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. 
A typical weekly timetable
Students usually have two tutorials a week, plus language classes. They are often (but not always) working on two papers simultaneously. Most students attend three to four lectures a week and produce around twelve pieces of written work during a term.
What are tutors looking for?
Successful candidates will be expected to display competence in Latin or Greek (or general language aptitude if applying for Course II). They will have read widely in English and classical literature (in the original or translation), and will enjoy talking and writing about literature and approaches to it. Shortlisted 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.
[57]
C&E Careers
Many graduates in Classics and English have entered fields such as teaching, the media, management, advertising and librarianship, or have continued to further study in their subject.
Philip is now a writer. He says: 'Since graduating I have embarked on a career in writing and journalism. I have published two novels, and write for a wide range of magazines and papers, and am a Contributing Editor to Literary Review, the Periscope Post and Port. My degree helped me develop the analytical, presentational and linguistic skills that are paramount in the media world.'
From a C&E student
“Classics & English at Oxford is an excellent course for those who have a real interest in how the two Subjects interact, not only through the fascinating range of link papers available, but also through the number of other papers associated with only one half of the course. There is so much choice and such personalised teaching due to the small year size, that there are always opportunities to specialise in your own interests, which is a real privilege. I have also been able to study both Greek and Latin from scratch since starting at Oxford which makes for a deep understanding of classical and modern languages, and a far richer understanding of literature.” India, Course II
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugce
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Joint Classics open day in Cambridge: 18 March 2016 www.classics.ox.ac.uk/admiss-open.html 
Course details: 
www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288372; undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk 
www.english.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271055; undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Five papers are taken:
•	Introduction to English Language and Literature
•	Literature in English 1550-1660
•	Unseen translation for Classics
•	Greek and/or Latin literature (two papers)
Note: Course II students spend an additional preliminary year learning Latin or Greek, alongside some study of classical literature.
Assessment
Four written papers form the First University Examination, together with a submitted portfolio of two essays for Introduction to English Language and Literature.
All exams must be passed, but marks do not count towards the final degree.
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Seven papers are taken:
•	Two link papers, one compulsory (Epic), and a choice from Comedy, Tragedy, Reception
•	Two papers from the English single honours course, including one period paper not taken in the first year
•	One core paper in Latin or in Greek literature
•	One Classics option
•	Dissertation of 8,000 words, either interdisciplinary or focused on English or Classics
A full list of current options is available on the Classics course website (details above).
Assessment
Up to three papers examined as coursework (extended essays and dissertation). The remaining papers will then be examined by final written examinations.
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Classics and Modern Languages BA 4 or 5 years including a year abroad
UCAS code: see combinations
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with As in Latin and Greek, if taken)
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL.
Or any other equivalent.
Candidates are not required to have studied Greek or Latin at the point of application. Course I is designed for candidates with Greek and/or Latin to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or equivalent. Course II is tailored for candidates without an A-level or other qualifications in either Greek or Latin. Classics II candidates would usually be expected to have studied the modern language before, or to speak it at home or school.
For French, German, Russian and Spanish
Candidates would usually be expected to have the language to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another academic equivalent.
For Czech, Modern Greek, Italian and Portuguese
Candidates may apply with an A-level or equivalent in the relevant language or for a beginners' course, which allows students to start studying one of these languages from scratch. Beginners' courses are not available to Course II candidates, who will be taking a beginners' course in Ancient Greek or Latin.
Course combinations
Classics (I or II) and:
Czech QR87
French QR81
German QR82
Modern Greek QQ87 
Italian QR83
Portuguese QR85
Russian QRV7
Spanish QR84
Classics I and Beginners':
Czech Q8R7
Modern Greek QR8Y 
Italian QR38
Portuguese QR8N
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 83%
Successful: 25%
Intake: 6
How to apply
Tests: CAT and MLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Three/four pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding - see ox.ac.uk/erasmus. 
Classics and Modern Languages enables you to combine study of Latin and/or Ancient Greek with a modern language. The course involves extensive study of major literary texts, alongside training in linguistic skills. Some papers on offer provide an opportunity to compare texts from both sides of the course, and to study classical influence on modern European literature.
Oxford has the largest Classics department in the world, and the Modern Languages Faculty is also one of the largest in the country, with a major research library and a well-equipped Language Centre. Undergraduates also develop oral proficiency in the modern language by regular contact with native speakers.
International opportunities
Students spend a year abroad before their final year. Please see Modern Languages (page 114 [printed edition page number]) for more information.
A typical weekly timetable
Your time is divided between lectures, language classes, tutorials and private study. Most of your work will be in preparation of essays for your tutorials and classes, although independent language work and systematic reading, not necessarily aimed at any particular tutorial, also requires a considerable input of time and effort.
What are tutors looking for?
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
[59]
CML Careers
Careers for CML graduates include the media, teaching, acting, management, advertising and librarianship, as well as working with international companies or organisations. Recent Classics and Modern Languages graduates include an investment manager and a trainee solicitor.
From a CML student
“I’d recommend CML to anyone passionate about languages and literature who likes to keep their area of study broad” Olivia
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugcml
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Joint Classics open day in Cambridge: 18 March 2016 www.classics.ox.ac.uk/admiss-open.html
Modern Languages and joint courses open day: April 2016 - booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days 
Course details:
www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288372 undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk 
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Erasmus
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
Course Outline
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 1st year (course I) or 1st and 2nd year (course II)
Course II students spend a preliminary year studying Latin or Greek, then follow Course I
Courses
•	Translation from the ancient language(s) into English (one paper)
•	Literature in the ancient language or languages (two papers)
•	Practical language work for the modern language (two papers)
•	Literature in your modern language (two papers)
Assessment
First University examinations: Three papers in the ancient language; four papers in the modern language
Option B 1st and 2nd year (terms 1 – 5)
Courses
As for Classics (see entry for Classics (page 54 [printed edition page number]) for the first five terms). Course II students follow Classics Course II. In addition, undergraduates normally maintain their modern language through language classes.
Assessment
First University examinations in Classics: Ten papers
Options A and B (plus intercalated year abroad) Terms 4 – 9 (Option 1 Course I), 6 – 12 (Option 2), or 7 – 12 (Option 1 Course III)
Courses
•	Classics (three/four papers): a core paper in Latin or in Greek literature, two or three Classics options
•	Modern Language (four/five papers)
•	Possibility of a paper or a long essay exploring the links between ancient and modern literatures
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine papers in total (eight compulsory, one optional) plus oral exam in the modern language. A thesis may be offered in place of one of the compulsory papers in Classics.
[60]
Classics with Oriental Studies BA 4 years (3 years if Oriental Studies is the main subject and no year abroad is taken)
UCAS codes:
Q8T9 (Classics with Oriental Studies)
T9Q8 (Oriental Studies with Classics)
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA with As in Latin and Greek, if taken
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB, with As in Latin and Greek, if taken 
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL and an aggregate of 12 in Latin and Greek, if taken
Or any other equivalent
Candidates for Classics with Oriental Studies without an A-level or similar qualification in either Greek or Latin will follow Classics Course II - please see page 54 [printed edition page number] for details.
How to apply
Tests: 
Classics with Oriental Studies CAT on 2 November 2016 (including part B for Arabic/Hebrew/Persian/Turkish options)
Oriental Studies with Classics (Arabic/Hebrew/Persian/Turkish options only) OLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016 
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
This course allows you to combine the study of an Oriental language and culture with Latin and/or Greek and the study of the ancient world. There are two options: Classics with Oriental Studies (Q8T9) and Oriental Studies with Classics (T9Q8). In each case the subject mentioned first is the main subject (approximately two- thirds of the degree) and the second subject is an additional subject (approximately one-third of the degree).
Oxford is ideally placed for the combined study of Classics and Oriental Studies, not least in the numerous and varied teaching staff in each faculty, and the resources of the Ashmolean Museum and the Sackler Library.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are keen to find out about your linguistic ability and commitment to a wide-ranging course. Ability to sustain an argument is also important.
For further information about the selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
From a COS student
'The Classics and Oriental Studies course is an enriching opportunity to broaden the usual frontiers of the study of Classics, by adding to it one language considered to be culturally external to the Greek and Roman civilisations. The languages to choose between are numerous, each of which has the potential to change your perspective both of Classics and of the world. On the other hand, the study of Classics will teach you a lot about how to look at the language of the Oriental Studies part. I am reading Classics IB with Arabic. Having chosen a linguistics paper for Mods (second-year examinations), which focuses on Indo-European, the study of Arabic, a Semitic and unrelated language, is fascinating. In many ways, this course can be remarkably stimulating for students who wish to learn about linguistics. You can choose to take Sanskrit or Armenian, for example, both instrumental in understanding Indo- European. The relationship between a language and its literature is also something which I find particularly interesting, and Latin, Greek and Arabic are an inviting combination of cases to observe. On an intellectual level, I find my course satisfactory because it is thorough: the fact that I must follow the Classics course until after the middle of second year means that my knowledge of Greek and Latin is stable and accurate when starting to learn Arabic. I also believe that the Classics with Oriental Studies course is interesting in times where cultural prejudices are commonplace. So far, this course has taught me that looking at some things from the outside is the finest lens to see through to their innermost workings. Overall, this external eye has helped me to think about the roots of civilisation and the relationship between language and society. Simply look at the name of the course: who are Classics classic for?' Dominique
COS careers
Students develop good linguistic and analytical abilities and will thus be very attractive to employers from a wide variety of sectors. Knowledge of a modern language opens up opportunities for careers with international companies or organisations.
[61]
Bodleian Oriental Institute Library
The Bodleian Oriental Institute Library has core collections comprising Islamic, South Asian and Jewish Studies.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugcos
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Joint Classics open day in Cambridge: 18 March 2016 www.classics.ox.ac.uk/admiss-open.html 
Oriental Studies open day: 30 April 2016 – booking required: www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/admissions.html 
Course details:
www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288372; undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278312; undergraduate.admissions@orinst.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline Classics with Oriental Studies
1st year, 2nd year (terms 1-5)
Courses
Follow the course for Classics (see page 54 [printed edition page number])
Assessment
First University examinations in Classics (see page 54 [printed edition page number])
2nd, 3rd and 4th years (terms 6-12),
Courses
Carry on with Classics options and start with chosen Oriental language from
•	Akkadian
•	Arabic
•	Aramaic and Syriac
•	Armenian
•	Coptic
•	Egyptian
•	Hebrew
•	Old Iranian
•	Pali
•	Persian
•	Sanskrit
or
•	Turkish
The options listed here are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight written papers (five in Classics, three in Oriental Studies); one paper may be substituted by a thesis.
Course Outline Oriental Studies with Classics
1st year
Courses
Select main language:
•	Akkadian
•	Arabic (This language includes a year abroad in the second year)
•	Egyptian
•	Hebrew
•	Persian (This language includes a year abroad in the second year)
•	Sanskrit
or
•	Turkish (This language includes a year abroad in the second year)
Assessment
First University examinations in Oriental Studies (see page 122 [printed edition page number])
2nd year (for languages with a year abroad)
Courses
Year abroad: approved course of language instruction.
2nd and 3rd year (for languages without a year abroad) or 3rd and 4th year (for languages with a year abroad)
Courses
Carry on with Oriental Studies options and choose classical language:
•	Greek
or
•	Latin
A full list of current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight to ten written papers (five to seven in Oriental Studies, three in Classics)
[62]
Computer Science BA 3 years or MCompSci 4 years
UCAS code: G400
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Computing/Computer Science 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A or A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics or another science would also be highly recommended.
Course statistics for 2015 entry
Interviewed: 34%
Successful: 9%
Intake: 30
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Computer Science is about understanding computer systems and networks at a deep level. Computers and the programs they run are among the most complex products ever created; designing and using them effectively presents immense challenges. Facing these challenges is the aim of Computer Science as a practical discipline, and this leads to some fundamental questions:
•	How can we capture in a precise way what we want a computer system to do?
•	Can we mathematically prove that a computer system does what we want it to?
•	How can computers help us to model and investigate complex systems like the Earth's climate, financial systems or our own bodies?
•	What are the limits to computing? Will quantum computers extend those limits?
The theories that are now emerging to answer these kinds of questions can be immediately applied to design new computers, programs, networks and systems that are transforming science, business, culture and all other aspects of life.
Computer Science can be studied for three years (BA) or four years (Master of Computer Science). The fourth year allows the study of advanced topics and an in-depth research project. Everyone applies for the four-year course and chooses their exit point during the third year.
The course concentrates on creating links between theory and practice. It covers a wide variety of software and hardware technologies and their applications. We are looking for students with a real flair for mathematics, which you will develop into skills that can be used both for applications such as scientific computing and, more importantly, for reasoning rigorously about the specific behaviour of programs and computer systems. You will also gain practical problem-solving and program design skills; the majority of subjects within the course are linked with practical work in our well-equipped laboratory.
A typical weekly timetable
During the first part of the course, your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials (about two a week) and practical classes (about two sessions a week).
In tutorials you discuss ideas in depth with an experienced computer scientist, usually with just one or two other students. You will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time developing your own understanding of the topics covered in lectures, answering questions designed to check your understanding, and preparing for tutorials. As the course progresses, you will also begin to work in small classes (up to ten people) on more specialised topics. In the second year you will take part in an industry-sponsored group design practical. In years three and four about a third of your time is spent working on your chosen individual project.
[63]
What are tutors looking for?
We look for proven mathematical flair, the ability to think and work independently, the capacity to absorb and use new ideas, and enthusiasm. We use these criteria and the MAT results to decide whom to interview.
At interview, we explore how you tackle unfamiliar problems and respond to new ideas; we are more interested in how you approach problem-solving than the solution. We don't require any previous formal qualification in computing, but we do expect a real interest in the subject.
CS careers
Common roles for graduates include computer programmer, software designer and engineer, financial analyst and scientific researcher.
A 2014 Sunday Times report reveals that, six months after graduating, Oxford Computer Science graduates were the top earners amongst their peer group.
Amazing Computer Science at Oxford
We’re changing the world: modelling the human body in the fight to cure cancer; programming swarms of autonomous helicopters that can find survivors in disaster zones; ensuring privacy online.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugcs
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Computer Science open day: 23 April 2016; www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions; +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863; undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Core courses:
•	Continuous maths
•	Design and analysis of algorithms
•	Digital systems
•	Discrete mathematics
•	Functional programming
•	Imperative programming
•	Introduction to formal proof
•	Linear algebra
•	Probability
Assessment
Four written papers, plus practicals
2nd year
Courses
Core courses (50%):
•	Object-oriented programming
•	Concurrent programming
•	Models of computation
•	Logic and proof
Current options (50%) include:
•	Computer architecture
•	Computer graphics
•	Compilers
•	Concurrency
•	Algorithms and data structures
•	Databases
•	Computer networks
•	Intelligent systems
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Four written papers, plus practicals (including a group design practical)
3rd year
Courses
Current options (67%) include:
•	Computational complexity
•	Computational learning theory
•	Computer security
•	Computer-aided formal verification
•	Geometric modelling
•	Knowledge representation and reasoning
•	Lambda calculus and types
•	Principles of programming languages
Project work (33%)
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Approximately five written papers or take-home exams, plus practicals and project
4th year
Courses
Current options (62%) include:
•	Automata, logic and games
•	Advanced security
•	Categories, proofs and processes
•	Computational linguistics
•	Computer animation
•	Concurrent algorithms and data structures
•	Database systems implementation
•	Machine learning
•	Probabilistic model checking
•	Probability and computing
•	Quantum computer science
•	Program analysis
•	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).
Assessment
Five written papers or take- home exams, plus practicals and project
[64]
Computer Science and Philosophy BA 3 years or MCompPhil 4 years
UCAS code: IV15 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA with the A* in Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Computing/Computer Science
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A or A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics or another science would also be highly recommended. Recent experience of writing essays, though by no means essential, would be helpful.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 44%
Successful: 11%
Intake: 5
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Artificial intelligence (AI), logic, robotics, virtual reality: fascinating areas where Computer Science and Philosophy meet. There are many others, since the two disciplines share a broad focus on the representation of information and rational inference, embracing common interests in algorithms, cognition, intelligence, language, models, proof and verification. Computer scientists need to be able to reflect critically and philosophically about these, as they push forward into novel domains. Philosophers need to understand a world increasingly shaped by technology, in which a whole new range of enquiry has opened up, from the philosophy of AI, to the ethics of privacy and intellectual property.
Some of the greatest thinkers of the past - including Aristotle, Hobbes and Turing - dreamed of automating reasoning and what this might achieve; the computer has now made it a reality, providing a wonderful tool for extending our speculation and understanding.
The study of Philosophy develops analytical, critical and logical rigour, and the ability to think through the consequences of novel ideas and speculations. It stretches the mind by considering a wide range of thought and thinkers on subjects as fundamental as the limits of knowledge, the nature of reality and our place in it, and the basis of morality. Computer Science is about understanding computer systems at a deep level. Computers and the programs they run are among the most complex products ever created. Designing and using them effectively presents immense challenges. Facing these challenges is the aim of Computer Science as a practical discipline.
Both subjects are intellectually exciting and creative. The degree combines analytical and technical knowledge with rhetorical and literary skills, and the chance to study within two internationally acclaimed academic departments.
Computer Science and Philosophy can be studied for three years (BA) or four years (Master of Computer Science and Philosophy). Everyone applies for the four-year course and chooses their exit point during their third year.
The first year covers core material in both subjects, including a bridging course studying Turing's pioneering work on computability and artificial intelligence. Later years include a wide range of options, with an emphasis on courses near the interface between the two subjects. The fourth year allows the study of advanced topics and an in-depth research project.
A typical weekly timetable
For the first two years, your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials in your college (two or three a week) and Computer Science practical classes (about one session a week). In your third and fourth years the Philosophy courses continue similarly, but most Computer Science courses are run as classes in the department rather than tutorials.
What are tutors looking for?
For Computer Science: strong mathematical aptitude, the ability to think and work independently, the capacity to absorb and use new ideas, and a great
[65]
deal of enthusiasm. For Philosophy: a critical and analytical approach to abstract questions, the ability to defend a viewpoint by reasoned argument, and a desire to delve deeper into the way we think about things. You do not need to have previously studied either subject.
CSP careers
Graduates will have highly marketable skills. Computer Science teaches you how to program, to design processes that are effective and efficient, to reason logically and formally. Philosophy teaches how to analyse complex concepts and the interconnections between them and - crucially - how to express this analysis, elegantly and precisely, in written form. This ability to analyse complex issues, both technically and discursively, provides the intellectual equipment needed for technical leadership and high-level positions in today's highly complex world.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugcsp
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Computer Science open day: 23 April 2016www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863; undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.acuk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Computer Science:
•	Functional programming
•	Design and analysis of algorithms
•	Imperative programming
•	Discrete mathematics
•	Probability
Philosophy:
•	General philosophy
•	Elements of deductive logic
•	Turing on computability and intelligence
Assessment
Five written papers, plus Computer Science practicals
2nd year
Courses
Computer Science (50%):
•	Models of computation
Current options include:
•	Algorithms and data structures
•	Compilers
•	Concurrent programming
•	Logic and proof
•	Intelligent systems
•	Object-oriented programming
Philosophy (50%):
Current options include:
•	Knowledge and reality
•	Early Modern philosophy
•	Philosophy of science
•	Philosophy of mind
•	Ethics
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Two Computer Science papers, plus Computer Science practicals (including a group design practical)
3rd year
Courses
Computer Science (25-75%):
Current options include:
•	Computational complexity
•	Computational learning theory
•	Computer-aided formal verification
•	Computers in society
•	Knowledge representation and reasoning
Philosophy (25-75%):
Current options include:
•	Philosophical logic
•	Philosophy of cognitive science
•	Philosophy of mathematics
•	Philosophy of logic and language
and many others
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Six three-hour written papers, including at least one in Computer Science and at least three in Philosophy, plus Computer Science practicals
4th year
Courses
Computer Science:
Current advanced options include:
•	Advanced security
•	Automata, logic and games
•	Computational linguistics
•	Concurrent algorithms and data structures
•	Machine learning
•	Optional Computer Science project
Philosophy:
Advanced options in Philosophy
Optional Philosophy thesis
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
For Computer Science options, written paper or take-home exam, plus practicals; for Philosophy options, three-hour written paper plus 5,000- word essay
[66]
Earth Sciences (Geology) BA (Geology) 3 years or MEarthSc 4 years
UCAS codes: F642 (Geology), F644 (Earth Sciences)
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA/AAAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are required to have Mathematics plus Physics or Chemistry either to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB, or an equivalent qualification. Chemistry or Physics are also highly recommended as a third subject. Biology, Geology or Further Mathematics can also be helpful to candidates in completing this course.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 86%
Successful: 27%
Intake: 30
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17 No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
The final term of this course is a week longer than usual, which may lead to slightly higher living costs. There are several compulsory field courses outside term. Costs of travel and accommodation are covered by the department, although students must provide suitable attire and sometimes their own lunch.
The Earth Sciences are changing rapidly in scope and nature. The course at Oxford reflects these changes, and provides sound and broadly based scientific training. Students are trained in the skills required for the interpretation of rock materials and geological phenomena as well as applying theory and techniques from physics, chemistry, materials science and biology to the study of the Earth and the environment.
The department has an international reputation, and houses state-of-the-art laboratories and computing facilities. Students, teachers and visitors mix and work together. Offices and teaching labs are close together but with plenty of shared open space, so you will become part of a vibrant community. This creates an atmosphere in which a student can not only learn the basics, but also get some feel for the discoveries emerging from current research.
The diversity of the subject is reflected in the range of courses which cover processes from the Earth's interior, as mapped by seismic waves, to the evolution of the Earth's crust documented in the rocks at the surface, to ocean and atmospheric circulation, through to the evolution of life on Earth.
Fieldwork/international opportunities
The Earth Sciences course includes several excursions. These link closely to material covered in lectures, and convey the practice of geology, geophysics, geochemistry and palaeontology in the field environment. This work culminates in an independent project to study and map an area chosen by the student. Many of the field excursions take place out of term time, so students must be available outside term.
A typical weekly timetable
During years 1-3, your work is divided between lectures, tutorials, and practical classes. In year 4 you have the opportunity for independent work on special topics or in a research laboratory
Application information
Students can apply for a three-year BA in Geology or a four-year MEarthSc. These are the same for the first three years. If students are not sure which course they would prefer, it is best to apply for the MEarthSc, as it is easier to transfer to the BA later on.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for highly motivated individuals with the intellectual skills necessary to do well on the course. As part of the interview process, candidates may be asked to comment on geological specimens, or carry out simple calculations, but always with due recognition of their previous knowledge of the subject being discussed.
For information about selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
[67]
ESG careers
Typical destinations for Earth Sciences graduates include the energy industry, the environmental sector and engineering/ technical consultancies. Some enter unrelated professions, in which the analytical and problem-solving skills they have developed are highly sought after. Around 40% continue to study, through a PhD or further master's course.
Martin works in the mining industry for De Beers Canada as a Field Geologist. He says: 'My Oxford degree helped me to develop the knowledge, understanding and confidence to approach geological problems in a critical and informed manner. I appreciate the course's focus on both the theoretical and practical side of geology.'
Rachael works for BP as a geoscientist. She says: 'I am currently working as an Operations Geologist in London for a project based in North Africa. My degree gave me the technical basis for my career, but more importantly it taught me how to think out complex issues from basic principles and to motivate myself to produce the best results I can.'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugearth
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.earth.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 272040; enquiries@earth.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course outline
1st year
Courses
Students take all courses in five parallel streams:
•	Planet Earth
•	Fundamentals of geology I
•	Fundamentals of geology II
•	Physics, chemistry and biology for Earth Sciences
•	Mathematics for Materials and Earth Sciences
Field courses
•	Pembroke field course (pre-session)
•	Arran field course (introduction)
•	Local field courses
Assessment
First University Examinations: Theory and Practical
2nd year
Courses
Students take all courses in five parallel streams:
•	Earth deformation and materials
•	Palaeobiology
•	Petrology
•	Geochemistry and ocean chemistry
•	Mathematical and geophysical tools
Field courses
•	Dorset field course
•	Assynt field course (mapping)
Assessment
Part A1 Examinations: Theory and Practical
3rd year
Courses
Students take a combination of core and optional papers from the following:
•	Natural resources
•	Sedimentary basins
•	The oceans
•	Palaeoclimate and sea level
•	Seismology and earth structure/ Continental deformation
•	Volcanoes and environment/ Igneous processes and petrogenesis
•	Evolutionary turning points/ Vertebrate palaeobiology
•	Earth materials, rock deformation and metamorphism
•	Mathematical and geophysical methods
Field courses
•	South-east Spain field course 
Independent field mapping project (conducted over summer break between 2nd and 3rd years) Extended essay
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Part A2 Examinations: Theory, Practical for Field course: BA Hons (Geology)
4th year
Courses
Students choose four options (out of eight to ten); generally two in each term:
•	Anatomy of a mountain belt
•	Planetary chemistry
•	Seismology
•	Records of major environmental change in Earth's history
•	Palaeobiology
•	Environmental, rock and palaeomagnetism
•	Topics in oceanography
•	Topics in volcanology
Field courses 
Optional field courses as announced each year 
Independent work 
Research project over 2.5 terms
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Part B Examination: (Theory) MEarthSc Hons (Earth Sciences)
[68]
Economics and Management BA 3 years
UCAS code: LN12
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are required to have Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 25%
Successful: 8%
Intake: 87
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition feed for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Economics studies how consumers, firms and governments make decisions that together determine how resources are allocated. An appreciation of economics helps to make sense of government policy-making, the conduct of businesses and the enormous changes in economic systems which are occurring throughout the world.
Management is concerned with the effective use and coordination of materials and labour within organisations in the pursuit of the organisation's defined objectives. It considers the interrelationship and interactions between distinct parts of an organisation, and between the organisation and its environment. Management students look at theories, models and frameworks in order to understand how managers behave and consider their role in the process of decision-making.
The top-ranking Economics and Management undergraduate degree programme examines issues central to the world: how the economy and organisations function, and how resources are allocated and coordinated. Economics and Management are ideal intellectual partners. Economics provides a broad understanding of economic activity within which all organisations function; Management in turn analyses the character and goals of that functioning.
The lectures and seminars are provided by the Department of Economics and the Said Business School.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Six lectures and two tutorials or classes
•	Preparation for the tutorials and classes: reading, writing essays, solving problem sets; up to two and a half days for each tutorial or class
•	Discussing the essay or the problems in the tutorial or class
What are tutors looking for?
•	An interest in and a motivation for studying the organisation of businesses and the economy
•	Independence and flexibility of mind
•	An ability to analyse and solve problems logically and critically
•	A capacity to construct and critically assess arguments
•	A willingness and an ability to express ideas clearly and effectively both on paper and orally.
The interview is not primarily a test of existing knowledge and, in particular, is not a test of economics or management, unless these subjects have been studied before.
Current student Dara says: 'It's not just about doing the work - it's about engaging fully in the subject. You're going to discuss this subject each week with a world expert, who is passionate about it as well.' Listen to more from Dara at ox.ac.uk/ugem.
[69]
E&M Careers
Graduates in Economics and Management are among the most sought after in the University. Employers of Economics and Management graduates include leading international organisations in traditional activities, as well as new start-up companies in a variety of high-tech fields. Recent graduates have secured positions in banking and finance, consultancy, research and teaching and a wide range of other sectors.
Dean is an analyst for Greenhill & Co, a leading independent mergers and acquisitions advisory firm. He says: 'Oxford provided an unparalleled opportunity to enhance my self-confidence, develop thorough analytical skills and hone my ability to communicate in a clear and articulate manner - prerequisites for a career in investment banking.'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugem
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: 
www.economics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271098; econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk; 
www.sbs.ox.ac.uk; 44 (0) 1865 288800
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Three courses are taken:
•	Introductory economics
•	General management
•	Financial management
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
2nd and 3rd year
Courses
Compulsory courses:
•	Microeconomics
•	Macroeconomics
•	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).
Assessment
Final University examinations: The three core Economics papers and five 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.
[70]
Engineering Science MEng 4 years
UCAS codes: see table
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*A*A to include Mathematics and Physics. The A*s must be in Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics.
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB 
IB: 40 (including core points) with 776 at HL (with 7s in HL Mathematics and Physics)
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have Physics and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent Inclusion of Mathematics Mechanics modules is highly recommended. Further Mathematics can be helpful to students in completing this course, although it is not required for admission. Details of the requirements for other qualifications, including the Advanced Diploma in Engineering, can be found at www.eng.ox.ac.uk
For candidates who are predicted A*AA serious consideration will be given to extenuating circumstances, such as disruption to education or bereavement, which have led to under-performance in exams and which are described in their application. Any offer would be conditional on achieving A*A*A.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 47%
Successful: 15%
Intake: 154
How to apply
Tests: PAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Course options
Engineering Science H100
Biomedical Engineering H811
Chemical Engineering H800
Civil Engineering H200
Electrical Engineering H620
Information Engineering H630
Mechanical Engineering H300
Engineering Science encompasses a vast range of subjects, from microelectronics to offshore oil platforms, and involves the application of creative reasoning, science, mathematics (and of course experience and common sense) to real problems.
The Department of Engineering Science at Oxford has a top-level quality assessment rating for teaching, and a world-class reputation for research. Because we believe that future engineering innovation will benefit from broad foundations as well as specialised knowledge, teaching is based on a unified course in Engineering Science, which integrates study of the subject across the traditional boundaries of engineering disciplines. Links between topics in apparently diverse fields of engineering provide well-structured fundamental understanding, and can be exploited to give efficient teaching.
The Engineering Science programme is a four-year course, leading to the degree of Master of Engineering. The first two years are devoted to topics which we believe all Engineering undergraduates should study. In the third and fourth years there is scope for specialisation into one of six branches of engineering: Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Information and Mechanical. Decisions about which of these will be your specialisation can be deferred until the third year. In the fourth year there may be opportunities to study abroad.
The course is currently accredited by the major engineering institutions in respect of the initial requirements for the designation of chartered engineer. Accreditation beyond 2016 is in progress.
Industrial experience is an extremely important adjunct to an academic engineering education, and undergraduates are strongly encouraged to obtain it. One way to do so is by being sponsored. Further information is generally available through your careers teacher, or from the engineering institutions.
If your sponsoring company wants you to spend a year with them before university, you will be asked to declare this at your interview and in your UCAS application.
A typical weekly timetable
As a guide, in an average week you will have approximately ten lectures and two college tutorials or classes. In some weeks in the first two years you will also have up to five hours of practical work.
What are tutors looking for?
Enthusiasm for engineering combined with high ability in mathematics and physics is essential for those wishing to study any engineering course. These qualities will be tested at the interview and combined with an assessment of your predicted and attained examination performance, especially in mathematics and physics, and your PAT score, to decide who will be offered places.
[71]
ES careers
The analytical skills, numeracy and practicality developed by Engineering Science graduates are sought after in both industry and commerce. Many continue into a career as a professional engineer while others enter business areas such as management consultancy or finance. Around 30% go on to further study following their degree.
Jonathan now works for a defence electronics firm called Thales Group as an acoustic engineer. He says: 'The approaches to problem-solving I learned at Oxford have been directly applicable to the challenges I have faced in my career so far. The tutorial system has given me confidence in my skills, and the ability to communicate my opinions effectively.'
SET awards success
One winner and three finalists from the University of Oxford's Department of Engineering Science were announced at the 2013 Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) awards ceremony. SET Awards are Europe's most important Science, Engineering and Technology awards for undergraduates
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/uges
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.eng.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 273012; faculty.office@eng.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course outline
1st year
Courses
•	Mathematics
•	Electrical and information engineering
•	Structures and mechanics
•	Energy and the environment
•	Engineering practical work
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers; Assessment of Engineering practical work
2nd year
Courses
•	Mathematics
•	Electrical and information engineering
•	Structures, materials and dynamics
•	Energy systems
•	Engineering practical work
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part A: Four written papers; Assessment of Engineering practical work
3rd year
Courses
•	Five optional Engineering courses
•	Engineering in society
•	Engineering computation
•	Engineering practical work
•	Group design project
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part B: Six written papers; Assessment of Engineering practical work; Project reports (Engineering Computation and Design Project)
4th year
Research
A major project, plus six specialist courses chosen from within the areas of:
•	Biomedical engineering
•	Chemical engineering
•	Civil engineering
•	Electrical engineering
•	Engineering 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).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part C: Six written papers; Project report
[72]
English Language and Literature BA 3 years
UCAS code: Q300
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have English Literature, or English Language and Literature to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. A language or History can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 59%
Successful: 22%
Intake: 226
How to apply
Tests: ELAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: One piece See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The English Language and Literature course is one of the broadest in the country, giving you the chance to study writing in English from its origins in Anglo-Saxon England to the literature of the 20th and early 21st centuries. As well as British literature, you can study works written in English from other parts of the world. The course also allows you a considerable degree of choice about the topics you would like to concentrate on. Studying literature at Oxford involves the development of sophisticated reading skills and of an ability to place literary texts in their wider intellectual and historical contexts. It also requires you to consider the critical processes by which you analyse and judge, to learn about literary form and technique, and to study the development of the English language.
The Oxford English Faculty is the largest English department in Britain. All Oxford colleges have at least two tutors in English who are responsible for tutorial teaching in their own college. Many also give lectures to all students in the English Faculty. You thus have the opportunity to learn from a wide range of specialist teachers.
Library provision for English at Oxford is exceptionally good. All students have access to the Bodleian Library, the English Faculty Library, other faculty libraries and their own college libraries. The English Faculty has long pioneered the use of electronic resources in teaching, and has a wide range of resources and facilities. The English Faculty building has its own computer room and all colleges have computing facilities for undergraduates to use.
In your first year 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. At the same time, you will be doing tutorial work on early medieval literature, Victorian literature and modern literature up to the present day.
In your second and third years you will extend your study of English literary history in four more period papers ranging from late medieval literature to the Romantic age. These papers are assessed by three-hour written examinations at the end of your third year. You will also produce a portfolio of work on Shakespeare; an essay relating to a Special Options paper with topics based on faculty research expertise; and an 8,000-word dissertation on a subject of your choice. Submitted work therefore constitutes almost half of your final assessment.
Alternatively, in the second and third years, you can choose to follow our specialist course in Medieval Literature and Language, whose papers cover literature in English from 650-1550 along with the history of the English language up to 1800, with a further paper either on Shakespeare or on manuscript and print culture. You will also take a Special Options paper and submit a dissertation on a topic of your choice.
[73]
A typical weekly timetable
Although details of practice vary from college to college, most students will have one or two tutorials and classes each week. A tutorial usually involves discussion of an essay, which you have produced based on your own reading and research that week. You will normally be expected to produce between eight and twelve pieces of written work each term.
Most students also attend three or four lectures each week.
What are tutors looking for?
Successful candidates will tend to be those who can give evidence of wide, enthusiastic and thoughtful reading. Tutors appreciate that you may be nervous in interview. You should not be afraid to defend your views or to suggest authors whose work you would particularly like to discuss. Shortlisted 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.
ELL Careers
A number of English graduates (about 7%) choose to undertake research, while many more use the communication and analytical skills they develop at Oxford in a range of careers including advertising, acting, publishing, teaching, librarianship, public relations, journalism, the legal professions, management consultancy and finance.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugenglish
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.english.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271055; undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	Introduction to English Language and Literature
•	Early medieval literature 650-1 350
•	Literature in English 1830-1910
•	Literature in English 1910-present day
Assessment
Three written papers form the First University Examination, together with a submitted portfolio of two essays for Introduction to English Language and Literature.
All exams must be passed, but marks do not count towards the final degree.
2nd year
Courses
Course I:
•	Literature in English 1350-1550
•	Literature in English 1550-1660
•	Literature in English 1660-1760
•	Literature in English 1760-1830
Course II:
•	Literature in English 650-1 100
•	Medieval English and related literatures 1066-1550
•	Literature in English 1350-1550
•	The history of the English language to c1800
3rd year
Courses
Course I:
•	Shakespeare (may also be studied in the 2nd year)
Course II:
•	The Material text or Shakespeare (choice of option)
Both courses:
•	Special options paper
•	Dissertation
More information on current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment (3rd year)
All period papers will be examined by final written examinations at the end of the third year.
One extended essay for Special options, due in at the end of the first term; dissertation and portfolio for Shakespeare/The Material text, due during the second term
[74]
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
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 3 8 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have English Literature, or English Language and Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 64%
Successful: 19%
Intake: 24
How to apply
Tests: ELAT and MLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Two/three pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016
Tuition fees for 2016 Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding - see ox.ac.uk/erasmus 
Course combinations
You can either study English with a Modern Language you already speak, or with a Modern Language you'd like to learn from scratch.
For the following course combinations you would usually be expected to have the Modern Language to A-level, or another academic equivalent.
English and:
Czech QR37
French QR31
German QR32
Modern Greek QQ37
Italian QR33
Portuguese QR35
Russian QRH7
Spanish QR34
The following course combinations allow you to begin studying a Modern Language from scratch. English and:
Beginners' Czech QR3S
Beginners' Modern Greek QR39
Beginners' Italian RQ33
Beginners' Portuguese QR3M 
The English side of the course offers you a choice from a list of papers covering all literature written in the English language from its origins in Anglo-Saxon through to works produced in English-speaking countries across the world in the present day. The Modern Language side of the course will give you practical linguistic training, encourage you to think coherently about language as a subject of study and introduce you to an extensive and fascinating field of Western literature and thought.
The English Faculty is the largest in the UK, and the Modern Languages Faculty is one of the largest, with both faculties including major scholars in all areas of the respective subjects. Students thus have access to a range of expert tutors.
Library provision at Oxford is excellent: all students have access to the English Faculty Library, the Taylor Institution Library (for languages), the Bodleian Library and their own college libraries.
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 year of the four-year course is spent abroad - see below for more information. On your return, you will choose from a range of special option papers in both English and Modern Languages, and in comparative literature.
International opportunities
Students spend a year abroad before their final year. Please see Modern Languages (page 114 [printed edition page number]) for more information.
[75]
A typical weekly timetable
Most students will have one or two tutorials a week as well as compulsory language classes. Most students also attend three to four lecture courses per subject.
What are tutors looking for?
Successful candidates will have an aptitude for their modern language, will read widely, and will enjoy writing and talking about literature and language. Candidates who are shortlisted may be asked to talk about a piece of prose or verse supplied before or in their interview.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
EML careers
Graduates in English and Modern Languages go on to careers in fields including broadcasting, publishing, teaching, journalism, the theatre, administration, management, advertising, translation, librarianship and law. Knowledge of a modern language opens up opportunities for internationally focused careers or careers with international companies or organisations.
Erasmus
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugeml
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September: ox.ac.uk/opendays
Modern Languages and joint courses open day: April 2016 – booking required www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days 
Course details: 
www.english.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271055; undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk 
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk;+44 (0) 1865 270750;reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Which college offers this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Six papers are taken:
•	Introduction to English Language and Literature
•	One period paper from single honours English Language and Literature
•	Two practical languages papers
•	Two literature papers in modern languages
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Six written papers form the First University Examination including a submitted portfolio of two essays for Introduction to English Language and Literature.
All exams must be passed, but marks do not count towards the final degree.
2nd and 4th years (3rd year spent abroad)
Courses
•	Three from papers 1-6 from single honours English Language and Literature
•	Dissertation 
•	Modern Language (four papers) including: practical language work (two papers plus oral examination), a period of literature and options (prescribed authors and texts from the 12th to 20th centuries, a special subject or a linguistics paper) 
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Papers will be examined by extended essays over the course of the second and fourth years, or by practical and written examinations at the end of your fourth year.
[76]
European and Middle Eastern Languages BA 4years 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
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
You would usually be expected to have the European language to A-level, or another academic equivalent. We would not normally expect you to have any knowledge of the Middle Eastern language before starting the course. 
How to apply
Tests: MLAT and OLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Two pieces: See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
The year abroad has lower fees: see the ‘fees and funding' tab at ox.ac.uk/ugemel
Course combinations
	Arabic	Hebrew	
Czech	RT7Q	RQ7K	
French	RT16	RQ14	
German	RT26	RQ24	
Modern Greek	QT76	QQ74	
Italian	RT36	RQ34	
Portuguese	RT56	RQ54	
Russian	RT76	RQ74	
Spanish	RT46	RQK4	

	Persian	Turkish	
Czech	RTT6	RTRP	
French	RTC6	RT1P	
German	RT2P	RT2Q	
Modern Greek	QT7P	QT7Q	
Italian	RTH6	RT3P	
Portuguese	RTM6	RT5P	
Russian	RT7P	RTR6	
Spanish	RT4P	RTK6	
This course in European and Middle Eastern Languages (EMEL) enables students to combine papers in one of the languages taught in the Faculty of Modern Languages with papers in Arabic, Hebrew, Persian or Turkish, thus providing opportunities to take advantage of the cultural linkages which exist between a number of European and Middle Eastern languages. For example, appropriate combinations might well be French and Arabic, German and Turkish, or Hebrew and Russian, but even some of the less obvious pairings would provide similar cultural and historical linkage. Thus Spanish and Turkish would be an interesting combination for the history of Sephardi Judaism, while Persian and Portuguese are important for the study of early imperialism.
Through its long-standing traditions 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.
[77]
International opportunities
You will normally spend your second academic year at an approved course of study in the Middle East. There are arrangements in place with partner universities to help you make the most of your time abroad. You are strongly advised to spend the adjacent summers where the European language of your choice is spoken.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided between language classes, lectures and tutorials (one or two a week). In the first year, the emphasis is on intensive learning of the Middle Eastern language. Throughout your course, you will prepare essays for your weekly tutorials and classes.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors will be looking for a good command of the grammar of any language you have already studied at school or college and want to continue studying at Oxford, in addition to an interest in literature and culture.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria
EML Careers
Oxford graduates in these subjects regularly go into highly competitive areas such as law, finance, commerce, management consultancy, accountancy, the media, advertising, the Foreign Office and the arts.
Recent European and Middle Eastern Languages graduates include a foreign office diplomat, a translator at the UN and a journalist at a foreign news channel 
Accelerated Language Learning
Start a Middle Eastern language from scratch and within a year you'll be studying full authentic texts.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugemel
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Oriental Studies open day: 30 April 2016 - booking required: www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/admissions.html
Modern Languages and joint courses open day: 30 April 2016 - booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days 
Course details:
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278312; undergraduate.admissions@orinst.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Study both languages - European languages: one language; Middle Eastern language: intensive language
Assessment
First University examinations: Five written papers; plus oral/aural examination (Arabic only)
2nd year
Year abroad
For the Middle Eastern Language, students attend an approved course of language instruction.
For the European Language, students are encouraged to spend as much of their vacations as possible in a relevant country.
Refer to sections on Oriental Studies (page 122 [printed edition page number]) and Modern Languages (page 114 [printed edition page number]).
Assessment
Qualifying examination at the end of the 2nd year course
3rd and 4th years
Courses
•	Practical language work in the European language
•	Period of literature and further paper chosen from a wide range of options in the European language
•	Practical language work in the Middle Eastern language
•	Three papers including literature and a range of options in the Middle Eastern language
•	Extended essay on a topic bridging the European and the Middle Eastern language
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine written papers are taken including a bridging extended essay;
Oral exam (both languages, but not Hebrew on the Middle Eastern side)
[78]
Fine Art BFA 3 years
UCAS code: W100 (no deferred applications accepted)
[Transcribers’ note: Image deleted; caption reads:] Artist: Eve Kitt, graduate; Photographer: greenroomphotography/Kinga Lubowiecka [Transcribers’ note: end of caption]; 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have studied Art at A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent and to take an Art Foundation course.
Applicants interested in applying for Fine Art who are studying for a BTEC National Extended Diploma (BTEC) will have to submit a portfolio of work, and any offer will require candidates to achieve DDD grades. As the Fine Art degree also includes a substantial history and theory component, BTEC applicants will be expected to have successfully completed a range of modules that include art history.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 23%
Successful: 10%
Intake: 28
How to apply
Tests: No pre-interview tests
Written Work: None required
You must submit a portfolio and, if shortlisted, sit a practical test.
For more details visit: www.rsa.ox.ac.uk
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Fine Art is the making and study of visual art. It educates and prepares students to become artists and to follow other practices that are aligned to the making of art. The curriculum is centred on the individual student's potential and imagination.
The Ruskin School of Art offers a three-year studio-based BFA course in which students work alongside each other in collaboratively organised studios. Whereas many fine art courses run in an environment devoted exclusively to art and design, Ruskin students, as members of a collegiate university, have the advantage of contact with their contemporaries on all of Oxford's other courses.
The Ruskin course aims to develop strong independent points of view and a mature grasp of the range of critical debate surrounding contemporary art and its many international histories. Oxford's short terms, coupled with the ambitious atmosphere at the Ruskin, suit highly motivated and resourceful students with a good sense of how to organise their time both in and out of Oxford.
The first year of the course is structured to introduce students to each other, to the resources of the school and to the staff involved in teaching and running the Ruskin. Students will familiarise themselves with their fellow students' work, take part in group criticism and engage in intensive dialogue with tutors and visiting artists.
The intimate working environment of the school, arranged in two buildings, allows art history, theory and criticism to be treated as integral to the development of studio work. The Ruskin also enjoys a strong and constructive relationship with Modern Art Oxford and students have full access to the many exceptional University libraries and museums, including the Ashmolean.
Fine Art Careers
After graduation, most students go on to work in fine art as practising artists, teachers and art writers, or as curators in public and private galleries and for arts councils and organisations. Many also pursue careers in academia, architecture and the film industry.
We maintain close ties with former students and keenly follow their developing careers.
Jack Stanton, who graduated in 2013 and now works as a professional artist, recalls: 'I think the most important element of the Ruskin is the seriousness with which your work is considered by tutors and fellow students. It is because of this mature reception that students are left with no choice but to develop a strong capacity for self-criticism and an astute awareness of the interpretations their work can induce. The freedom I was given to pursue any creative avenue was initially dizzying - but became thrilling. The Ruskin gave me an invaluable set of mental skills that I employ daily to navigate my own ideas and communicate fruitfully with others in a wide variety of collaborative projects.'
Many Ruskin students have been shortlisted for the prestigious Saatchi New Sensations Award, and two alumni were award winners: Jack Stanton in 2013 and Oliver Beer in 2009. Emily Motto and Melanie Eckersley were amongst the Bloomberg New Contemporaries for 2014 and 2015 respectively.
[79]
Top-rated Art School in the UK
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide and the Complete University Guide both put the Ruskin in first place in 2015 and 2016
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugfineart
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September: ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.rsa.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276940; info@rsa.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Students develop their studio work in discussion with the school's lecturers, tutors and visiting staff. They are allocated a tutor at the outset, who monitors progress, sets targets and directs them in their studies. Work is regularly presented and discussed at group crits involving staff and students from across the school. Alongside this, workshops and projects 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
Practical studio-based work, human anatomy
Three submitted essays
One written paper in the history and theory of visual culture
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Years two and three are similar in structure and continue the tutorial system introduced in the first year. All students are required to continue the study of art history and theory and to submit three essays during the course of the second year. In the first term of the third year they agree an extended essay title with their tutor. This essay is submitted at the end of the second term of the third year as part of the Final Examination. Students are expected to establish a strong bond between the interests of the essay and their studio studies.
Assessment (2nd year)
Satisfactory record in all areas of the course
Assessment (3rd year)
A final exhibition and a supporting portfolio of work made during the second and third years 
An extended essay
One written paper in the history and theory of visual culture since 1900
[80]
Geography BA 3 years
UCAS code: L700
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 points with 766 at higher level 
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have Geography to A-level, Advanced Higher or Higher Level in the IB.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 79%
Successful: 26%
Intake: 82
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
Around £250 for 2nd-year field trip
Geography is a diverse discipline that bridges the arts and social and natural sciences, providing a broad education and addressing pressing issues including environmental change, regional and global inequalities and the transformation of global economy and culture. Students obtain a coherent view of the rapidly changing world and the ways in which society influences and is influenced by it.
The Oxford Geography degree focuses on the interrelationships between society and the physical and human environment. Students are introduced to the full range of geographical topics in the foundational courses, which they can then follow up in more detail in the optional papers. There is considerable emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches in the course, with opportunities to explore the cross-fertilisation between Geography and other disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, history, political science, economics, earth sciences and biology.
The facilities available are among the best in the country, notably:
•	the Radcliffe Science Library, which holds a geography collection of over 28,000 volumes on its open shelves with many more held in 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.
Fieldwork and international opportunities
The School of Geography and the Environment emphasises the importance of fieldwork since it believes there is no substitute for teaching subjects at first hand. In the first year, all students take part in local skills-related field days. Second-year students will undertake a week-long overseas residential field course (currently to Copenhagen and Tenerife). Independent research in the field or in archives is a key element of the dissertation. Each year, around 30% of our undergraduates choose to do their dissertation overseas.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Lectures in the morning
•	Seminars/practical classes in the afternoon
•	Tutorials: at least one college tutorial a week, and some college-based classes.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for students who match academic achievement with enthusiasm, commitment and an awareness of the world around them.
For further information about the selection criteria see: www.geog.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/course/selection-criteria.html. 
[81]
GEO Careers
Geography graduates have a broad set of transferable skills including literacy, numeracy and graphicacy, along with their experience of research projects and working in groups. Some graduates are able to use their geographical knowledge directly in their work or in higher degrees. In recent years Geography graduates have proceeded to employment in management consultancy, local and central government, conservation and heritage management, law, the media, teaching and research. You can see more on alumni profiles at www.geog.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/course/careers.html 
Geography Podcasts
The School of Geography and the Environment's recorded talks and lectures are available at www.geog.ox.ac.uk/news/podcasts 
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/uggeo
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September: ox.ac.uk/opendays
Geography open day: 13 June 2016 (booking required) www.geog.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/opendays.html
Geography www.geog.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/course/course.html; +44 (0) 1865 285045; undergraduate.enquiries@geog.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four compulsory courses:
•	Earth systems processes
•	Human geography
•	Geographical controversies
•	Geographical techniques
1-day field trips: Human and Physical
Assessment
Four written papers: Two fieldwork reports; submitted essay on Geographical controversies 
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Geographical Research (core)
Foundational courses (two chosen)
•	Space, place and society
•	Earth system dynamics
•	Environmental geography 
Options (three chosen)
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
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
Assessment
Six written papers: Three extended essays; fieldwork report; dissertation
[82]
History BA 3 years
UCAS code: V100
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Courses statistics for 2015 entry
Interviewed: 72%
Successful: 23%
Intake: 235
How to apply
Tests: HAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: One piece: See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The study of History at Oxford combines the examination of large regions over extended periods of time with more focused work on smaller groups, shorter periods and particular problems. It provides a distinctive education by developing an awareness of differing political, cultural, social and economic structures in past societies and their interrelationship. It combines vigorous debate over questions of interpretation with rigorous attention to the source materials. Its constant enrichment by cross-fertilisation from other disciplines leads to the asking of new questions about the past.
Oxford is celebrated for the broad chronological sweep of its courses and the enormous amount of choice offered to students. Students can study options on any part of British and European history from the declining years of the Roman Empire to the present day. The geographical range is also broad: there are options on North American, Latin American, Asian and African history (see website for further details). Students are encouraged to adopt a variety of interdisciplinary approaches to their work, and the faculty is strong on intellectual and cultural history options. The Oxford History Faculty is at the forefront of research.
A typical weekly timetable
Students are expected to attend about five lectures a week during the first year, participate in regular meetings with tutors to discuss work, research in libraries and write at least one essay a week. In the second and third years students choose from an enormous variety of lectures and their regular tutorials are supplemented by faculty classes where they discuss work with a larger number of students. The thesis gives all students the opportunity to engage in a piece of independent research. Throughout the course, students are very much in charge of their own timetable.
What are tutors looking for?
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
If you are shortlisted, submitted work and UCAS personal statements may form starting points for discussion in your interview. Some colleges may require you to read a short passage of historical writing which they will ask you to discuss as part of the interview process. The tutors are not so much interested in the level of your knowledge as in your ability to think historically.
History Careers
History graduates go on to follow careers in fields such as law, investment banking and consultancies, advertising, accountancy, the Civil Service, publishing, journalism and the media, global charity work, museums, librarianship and archive work, and teaching. Recent graduates include a civil servant at the Department of Health, an investment management associate and a barrister.
Edward is now a curator. He says: 'My degree helped me acquire a position with the Pendle Heritage Centre and then at Historic Scotland. Afterwards I became a curator for the National Museum of the US Navy.'
David is a history teacher at Taunton School. He says: 'A History degree was a prerequisite to teaching history to A-level and IB, but the Oxford degree accelerated my career path, allowing me to step straight into a position at an academic school. I use my degree on a daily basis, in teaching a wide range of historical topics as well as advising 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 own consultancy, Schneider-Ross, specialising in global diversity and inclusion. I feel History gave me all the skills I've called on to analyse data, make arguments and convince people of the need to change... and the confidence to work at board level with FTSE 100 companies (it's just like a tutorial really).'
Sian says: 'Since graduating I have worked as assistant brand manager on Pringles and Braun at Procter & Gamble. My degree taught me analytical skills, time management and the ability to think critically, all of which are crucial in my role.'
[83]
Top-Ranked History Department in the UK
for largest volume of world-leading research in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ughistory
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September: ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	History of the British Isles
•	General history (primarily European)
•	Historical methods (choice of Approaches to history: Historiography: Tacitus to Weber; Quantification; one of seven foreign texts)
•	Optional subject (choice of around 20 including: Theories of the state, Making England protestant, 1558-1642; The rise and crises of European socialisms, 1881-1921; Radicalism in Britain, 1965-1975) 
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).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Six subjects are taken:
•	History of the British Isles
•	General history
•	Further subject (choice of about 35, including: China since 1900; The Near East in the age of Justinian and Muhammad, c527-700; The Middle East in the age of empire, 1830-1871; The authority of nature: Race, heredity and crime, 1800-1940; Culture, politics and identity in Cold War Europe 1945-68; Britain at the movies: Film and national identity since 1914)
•	Special subject: a paper and an extended essay (choice of about 30, including: The Norman conquest of England; Politics, art and culture in the Italian Renaissance, Venice and Florence c1475-1525; The Scientific Movement in the 17th century; English architecture, 1660-1720; Race, religion and resistance in the US, from Jim Crow to Civil Rights; Britain in the seventies; Terror and forced labour in Stalin's Russia; India, 1919-39: Contesting the nation; Nazi Germany, a racial order, 1 933-45; The Northern Ireland troubles, 1965-85)
•	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).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Five written papers; one extended essay; one thesis; an additional thesis may be offered
[84]
History (Ancient and Modern) BA 3 years
UCAS code: V118
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent. A classical language, Classical Civilisation and Ancient History can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 61%
Successful: 23%
Intake: 18
Applicants for this course may instead be offered a place for History. Such offers are not included in these statistics.
How to apply
Tests: HAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: One piece: See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
This course enables students to study history from the Bronze Age Mediterranean and Near East, through the Roman Empire, middle ages and early modern period, right up to British, European and world history in the present day. Fruitful comparisons between societies abound, and the methods by which we study them are mutually illuminating.
This Oxford course offers an extraordinary range of choices (more than 90 options) reflecting the breadth of interests of those who teach here. The Oxford Classics and History Faculties are world famous for teaching and research. Most of the people who will teach you here will be leading researchers in their field, and lecturers are encouraged to put on new courses which reflect their own interests. The study of original sources forms the basis of Further and Special Subjects.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided between lectures and classes, tutorials (one or two a week), and private study (including preparing essays for your weekly tutorials).
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are keen to find out whether you can demonstrate the skills needed by History undergraduates. Even if you have not previously studied ancient history or classics, it is important to show some awareness of and interest in the ancient world, including its material remains.
Some colleges may require you to read a short passage of historical writing which they will ask you to discuss during your interview.
For further information about the selection criteria see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
History (A&M) Careers
Oxford historians typically move on to careers in fields as varied as law, investment banking and consultancies, advertising, accountancy, the Civil Service, publishing, journalism and the media, global charity work, museums, librarianship and archive work, and teaching.
Recent Ancient and Modern History graduates include a civil servant, a 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.'
Heather now works as a Lecturer in British History at the Humboldt University in Berlin. She says: 'Learning to work independently and under time pressure as an undergraduate was the perfect preparation for an academic career. It gave me the skills I needed to teach successfully at a university level and the self-confidence necessary to publish and present my research before my peers.'
[85]
Top-Ranked History Department in the UK
for largest volume of world-leading research in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugham
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September: ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details:
www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
www.classics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288391; undergraduate@classics.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
•	Four courses are taken:
•	One period of either Greek or Roman history
•	One of the periods of general (non-British) history offered by the History Faculty
•	The world of Homer and Hesiod; or Augustan Rome; or one of the History optional subjects
•	A text-based paper on Herodotus; or Sallust; or Approaches to history; or Historiography: Tacitus to Weber from the History syllabus or Greek/Latin language paper 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers 
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Six courses are taken:
•	A period of Greek or Roman history
•	A period of general history or one of the periods of the history of the British Isles
•	Further subjects including work on primary sources, textual or archaeological
•	A choice of further subjects (at least one of the further or the special subject must be ancient) from the History syllabus; or an ancient further subject, including:
•	Athenian democracy in the classical age
•	Politics, society and culture from Nero to Hadrian
•	Religions in the Greek and Roman world c31 BC-AD 312
•	The Greeks and the Mediterranean world 950-500 BC
•	Art under the Roman Empire AD 14-337
•	The Hellenistic World: societies and cultures, c300 BC-100 BC
•	Special subjects (at least one of the further or the special subject must be ancient) (including work on primary sources, textual or archaeological). A choice of 31 special subjects from the History syllabus; or an ancient special subject, including:
•	Alexander the Great and his early successors
•	Cicero: politics and thought in the late Republic
•	Disciplines of history
•	Thesis
•	Optional Greek/Latin language paper 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Six written papers (or five written papers and one extended essay); one thesis
[86]
History and Economics BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV11
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have both History and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 51%
Successful: 11%
Intake: 13
Applicants for this course may instead be offered a place for History. Such offers are not included in these statistics.
How to apply 
Tests: HAT on 2 November 2016, including HECO question Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: One piece (History) See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The History and Economics course integrates these two subjects to form a coherent and intellectually stimulating programme. The combination allows insights that neither subject can realise alone. However, it is possible to specialise primarily in either History or Economics while still preserving the benefits of an integrated approach.
The combination of economics, economic history and history (political as well as social) means that you will be equipped to view issues in the real world from a variety of contrasting perspectives. You will learn both the historian's careful approaches to evidence and argumentation and the economist's analytical and quantitative methods, providing an excellent preparation for a range of professional, financial and academic careers.
The course is designed to equip you with the basic tools of both history and economics, while introducing you to some of the areas which you can study later in more depth. You will be given a wide choice of subjects. Everyone studies introductory economics, which is designed to give a solid understanding of the foundations of both micro- and macro-economics. The Economics course is identical to that for Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) and students for both courses are generally taught together.
A typical weekly timetable
You will be expected to attend about five lectures a week during the first year, participate in regular meetings with tutors to discuss work, research in libraries and write at least one essay a week. In the second and third years you will have the opportunity to write a thesis on economic history, which will enable you to do a piece of independent research.
What are tutors looking for?
Submitted work and UCAS personal statements are likely to form starting points for discussion in your interview.
Some colleges may require you to read a short passage of historical writing which they will ask you to discuss as part of the interview process. The tutors are not so much interested in the level of your knowledge as in your ability to think historically. We do not require any previous formal qualification in economics, but we do expect you to demonstrate a real interest in the subject.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
[87]
HECO Careers
Some of the most popular careers for History and Economics graduates include working in industry, management consulting, law, teaching and many branches of the public service, including the Civil and Diplomatic Services, and the Bank of England. Recent History and Economics graduates include a management consultant, a charity officer and an economist.
Michael is currently the Managing Director for Thomson Reuters' Treasury business across Asia Pacific. He says: 'Running a broad region as diverse as Asia Pacific requires me to think laterally across cultures coupled with a concise and engaging focus - traits that one hones quickly from the tutorial approach at Oxford.'
Top-Ranked History Department in the UK
for largest volume of world-leading research in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugheco
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details:
www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk 
www.economics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271098 econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	Introductory economics
•	General history (primarily European): four options available
•	Historical methods (available options: Approaches to history; Historiography: Tacitus to Weber; Foreign texts)
•	Optional subject (involving the use of primary sources): 21 options available 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written examinations
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Core courses in Economics and Economic History 
Economics Core papers:
•	Microeconomics
•	Macroeconomics
•	Quantitative economics 
History Core papers:
•	A period of British history (7 options) or of general history (19 options)
•	British economic history since 1870
Optional papers:
•	two further subjects in History
•	two further subjects in Economics
•	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
Assessment
Final University examinations:
Seven written papers, and one compulsory undergraduate thesis 
[88]
History and English BA 3 years
UCAS code: VQ13 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have English Literature, or English Language and Literature, to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. It is also highly recommended for candidates to have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Courses statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 63%
Successful: 13%
Intake: 9
Applicants for this course may instead be offered a place for History or for English. Such offers are not included in these statistics.
How to apply
Tests: HAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Three pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016
Tuition fees for 2016 Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
A joint degree in History and English requires students to think critically about how we define 'history' and 'literature', and about how the two disciplines interrelate and, in large measure, overlap. Close attention is given to changing methodologies, to the nature of evidence and to styles of argument. It is assumed that historical documents are just as much 'texts' as are poems, plays or novels, and are therefore subject to interpretation as works of narrative, rhetoric and, fundamentally, language. Equally, it is assumed that poems, plays and novels represent historically grounded ways of interpreting a culture.
The History and English Faculties are the largest in Britain, with long and distinguished traditions of teaching and research. Students are offered a great deal of choice in the course over their three years, and whether their interests are in the medieval period, the Renaissance or the later periods, intellectually fruitful combinations are always possible.
The course structure at Oxford is intended to enable students to relate literary and historical ideas as effectively as possible in the investigation of their chosen historical periods, topics or authors, while recognising that some students will wish to opt for variety rather than close congruity between their historical and literary papers. Interdisciplinarity is embedded in each year of the course with dedicated classes in the first year as part of the Introduction to English Language and Literature paper, a bridge paper taken in the second year and examined by extended essay, and an interdisciplinary dissertation in the final year.
Oxford possesses exceptional library provision for both subjects in the Bodleian Library, the History Faculty and English Faculty libraries, other faculty libraries and the college libraries.
A typical weekly timetable
Most students have up to two tutorials a week and are often, but not always, working on two papers simultaneously. Most students attend three to four lecture courses a week. In the first and second years, students will also attend interdisciplinary classes with both English and History tutors present, in preparation for the interdisciplinary bridge paper. For the final-year dissertation they will have an adviser from each discipline.
What are tutors looking for?
Shortlisted candidates will usually be given at least two interviews, one with the History tutor or tutors in the college, and one with the English tutor or tutors. 
In the English interview, the candidate may be asked to discuss a piece of prose or verse, provided before or at the interview. Successful candidates will read widely, will enjoy writing and talking about history, literature and language and will be interested in pursuing a comparative approach to historical and literary texts.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
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H&E Careers
By studying this degree you will acquire a range of skills valued by recruiters, including the ability to work independently, to evaluate the significance of evidence and to present arguments clearly and persuasively. Graduates from this course have worked in the media, legal professions, public administration, teaching and finance.
Top-Ranked History Department in the UK
for largest volume of world-leading research in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ughe
2016 Open Days29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays 
Course details:
www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
www.english.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271055; undergrad@ell.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	Introduction to English Language and Literature
•	One period paper from single honours English Language and Literature
•	One British history paper from single honours History
One of: Approaches to history; Historiography; optional subject (from single honours History) 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
Three written papers form the First University Examination, together with a submitted portfolio of two exam essays of 2,000 words for Introduction to English Language and Literature.
All exams must be passed, but marks do not count towards the final degree.
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Seven papers are taken:
•	One interdisciplinary bridge essay (6,000 words)
•	Two of papers 1-6 from single honours English Language and Literature 
•	One British period paper from single honours History
•	Either:
One History Special Subject (counts as two papers)
Or two from:
1.	General history paper from single honours History
2.	Further subject 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) 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
Up to four papers for the Final Honour school can be examined as coursework (extended essays and dissertation). Between three and five papers will then be examined by final written examinations at the end of the third year. 
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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
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Course statistics for 2015 entry
Interviewed: 75%
Successful: 21%
Intake: 18
Applicants for this course may instead be offered a place for History or for Modern Languages. Such offers are not included in these statistics.
How to apply
Tests: HAT and MLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Three pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016
Tuition fees for 2016 Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding - see ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Course combinations
You can either study History with a Modern Language you already speak, or with a Modern Language you'd like to learn from scratch.
For the following course combinations you would usually be expected to have the Modern Language to A-level, or another academic equivalent.
History and:
Czech VR17
French VR11
German VR12
Modern Greek VQ17
Italian VR13
Portuguese VR15
Russian VRC7
Spanish VR14
The following course combinations allow you to begin studying a Modern Language from scratch. History and:
Beginners' Czech VR1R
Beginners' Modern Greek VR1X
Beginners' Italian RV31
Beginners' Portuguese VR1N
In recent years history has experienced a 'linguistic turn' while literary studies have undergone a 'historical turn', making this combination of subjects stronger than ever. Knowledge of the past contextualises literary artefacts, while the forensic literary skills of the linguist are vital for interrogating historical documents. Historians have to be aware of genre, plot and rhetorical techniques in the creation both of their sources and their own arguments, while linguists need to appreciate the social and political concerns that are woven into literary works. This degree brings these two skill sets together.
Oxford has a long and enduring commitment to the teaching of European history and European languages, leading to a particularly rich environment in terms of staff expertise, library resources, language training and overseas contacts. The fullness and variety of the curriculum means that students can combine papers from the two faculties in stimulating ways. The 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 [printed edition page number]) 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.
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A typical weekly timetable
Your week's work will include:
•	tutorials in history and in the literature and culture of the language you study
•	language classes involving different skills, e.g. translation
•	about three or four lectures for each subject
•	preparing essays for your weekly tutorials.
What are tutors looking for?
During the interview, your submitted work may be a starting point for discussion. Some colleges may also ask you to read and discuss a short text in English and/or the modern language. Tutors wish to test your capacity for independent thought, your flexibility, your skills in conceptualising and relating ideas, the precision of your thinking and your oral competence in the language.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
HML Careers
Employers value language skills combined with the many transferable skills of a History and Modern Languages degree. Recent graduates from this course are employed in international institutions such as the UN and the EU, by NGOs as well as by national governments. They work in the media, publishing, law, banking, consultancy, teaching, research, commercial industry and many other sectors.
Matthew, now an investment manager, says: 'I enjoyed the sheer variety and choice of a History and Modern Languages degree. I benefit hugely in my professional life from the skills I learned from historical argument and literary criticism, not to mention the ability to speak French. Every time I tell my clients how politics and financial markets might affect their investments, I draw on the analytical and presentational skills I acquired at Oxford.' 
Erasmus
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
More About
Requirements and applying ox.ac.uk/ughml:
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Modern Languages and joint courses open day: 30 April 2016 – booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days 
Course details: 
www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac.uk
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Six courses are taken:
History
•	General history (four options: 370-900; 1000-1300; 1400-1650; 1815-1914)
•	Either a British history period, or a historical methods paper, or a foreign text or an optional subject
Modern Language
•	Practical language work (two papers)
•	Two literature papers 
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Six written papers
2nd and 4th years (3rd year spent abroad)
Courses
•	A period of general history
•	Either a special subject in History (two papers, see History (page 82 [printed edition page number])), with one additional history or literature option; or three papers selected from history (British history, further subject, thesis) or literature (special subjects, prescribed authors, extended essay)
•	An optional additional thesis in History
•	Practical language work (two papers)
•	A period of literature
•	A paper on one of a wide range of options
•	A bridge essay
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine written papers (including at least one extended essay); oral examination in the modern language
[92]
History and Politics BA 3 years
UCAS code: LV21
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
It is highly recommended for candidates to have History to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. Sociology, Politics or Government and Politics can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 60%
Successful: 13%
Intake: 41
Applicants for this course may instead be offered a place for History. Such offers are not included in these statistics.
How to apply
Tests: HAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written work: One piece (History) See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The History and Politics course aims to bring together complementary but separate disciplines to form a coherent and stimulating programme. The degree not only enables students to set contemporary political problems in their historical perspective, but also equips them to approach the study of the past with the conceptual rigour derived from political science.
The special feature of the Oxford course is the chance to choose subjects very broadly across the two disciplines, so that it is possible to combine medieval historical options with the analysis of contemporary political systems. The expertise of a number of Oxford's political theorists and historians in the history of political thought, the thematic approach taken to the teaching of general history in the first year, and the emphasis placed on interdisciplinarity in a number of both politics and history papers strengthen the intellectual rigour of this course.
A typical weekly timetable
You will be expected to attend about five lectures a week during the first year, participate in regular meetings with tutors to discuss work, research in libraries, and write at least one essay a week. You will be required to submit a thesis which will enable you to do a piece of independent research during your second and third years.
What are tutors looking for?
If your application is shortlisted, submitted work and UCAS personal statements are likely to form starting points for discussion in your interview. Some colleges may require you to read a short piece of prose or other material, which they will ask you to discuss as part of the interview process. The tutors are not so much interested in the level of your knowledge as in your ability to think analytically.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
An H&P Student
“I specialised more in Politics than in History- The ‘Introduction to Politics- Analysis of Democratic Institutions' paper at Prelims provided me with an excellent foundation for studying specific countries at Finals level- I was able to use the knowledge I obtained here, and apply it within several political contexts — from Japan to South Africa! I especially loved writing my thesis, where I was able to analyse the politicaI challenges of the past with reference to the leading political models of the present” Stefan
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H&P Careers
While some History and Politics graduates go on to further study and research to become professional historians, others move into different areas. Recent graduates have started their careers in accountancy, advertising, archive work, finance, the Civil Service, consultancy, international charity work, the media, law, librarianship, management consultancy, museums, politics, publishing, research, social work, teaching and the theatre. Graduates include a PhD researcher in political science, a senior account executive in public relations and a civil servant.
Simon worked for a think tank in Westminster for three years. He subsequently converted to law with a training contract at Slaughter and May.
Top-Ranked History Department in the UK
for largest volume of world-leading research in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ughp
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays 
Course details:
www.history.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 18656 15020; schools.liaison@history.ox.ac
www.politics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278706; ug.studies@politics.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four examination papers and a short piece of assessed coursework are taken:
•	Either any one of the seven periods in the history of the British Isles or any one of the four periods of general history
•	Introduction to the theory of politics
•	One optional subject: choice of
•	Quantification in history 
•	Approaches to history 
•	Historiography: Tacitus to Weber or any of the optional subjects (see History (page 82 [printed edition page number]) except Theories of the state), or any one of six foreign texts
•	The practice of politics
•	Quantitative methods: Political analysis
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 websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
The course has seven components:
•	A period of the history of the British Isles
•	A period of general history
•	Any two of the five core subjects in Politics:
•	Comparative government
•	British politics and government since 1900
•	Theory of politics
•	International relations
•	Political sociology
•	One of the following combinations:
1.	A special subject in History (two papers) and an optional subject in Politics (either a core paper not yet taken or a further subject)
2.	A further subject in History and two optional subjects in Politics
3.	A further subject in History, one optional subject in Politics and one special subject in Politics
•	A thesis in either History or Politics
Assessment
Final University examinations:
Six written papers and a thesis in History or Politics, or five written papers, a thesis and an extended essay
[94]
History of Art BA 3 years
UCAS code: V350 (no deferred applications accepted)
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are required to have taken an essay-based subject to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. History of Art, Fine Art, History, English or a language can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 34%
Successful: 10%
Intake: 14
Available places: 15-17
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: one marked piece, one response See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016
Tuition fees for 2016 Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Anything designed by human beings exhibits visual qualities that are specific to the place and period in which it originates. History of Art concentrates on objects generally described as 'art', though in Oxford this definition is framed broadly to embrace items beyond 'Fine art' or 'Western art'.
History of Art aims to arrive at an historical understanding of the origins of artefacts within specific world cultures, asking about the circumstances of their making, their makers, the media used, the functions of the images and objects, their critical reception and - not least - their subsequent history. As well as educating students in the historical interpretation of artefacts in their cultural contexts, a degree in History of Art provides skills in the critical analysis of objects through the cultivation of visual literacy. The acquired skills have broad applicability in a wide range of professional settings, as well as serving the needs of enduring personal enlightenment.
The University collections, including the world-famous Ashmolean Museum, provide subjects for first-hand study under the supervision of those entrusted with their care. The historic architecture of the city and its environs supplies a rich source of study in its own right. The Oxford degree is designed to provide innovative insights into a wider range of world art than is available elsewhere in Britain in a single course, drawing its expertise from various faculties and the staff of University collections, as well as from the department itself. There is a strong emphasis upon how the primary visual and written sources from various periods and places can be analysed in different ways, as well as encouraging students to enquire about the nature of reactions to what we call 'art'.
What are tutors looking for?
Candidates should show evidence of lively engagement with visual culture, both contemporary and historical.
Prior knowledge of the History of Art is absolutely not a requirement: many successful applicants have never studied the subject before university. What is looked for in applicants is a keen and critical observation of art and of the material environment in general. At interview, candidates are invited to demonstrate willingness to engage in focused discussion and debate about visual issues, and in addition to respond to one or more photographs of unfamiliar images, which applicants will not be expected to recognise.
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HOA Careers
The cultural industries are one of the biggest employers in the world. In addition to museums and galleries, there are many governmental and non-governmental agencies that work to conserve, research and promote cultural heritage and to further the production of art. Furthermore, History of Art graduates will be especially competitive for posts in any area that requires combinations of visual and verbal skills, such as publishing, advertising, marketing and web-based media, as well as entering the wide range of professions available to all humanities graduates.
History of Art Podcasts
A number of core lectures and some public lectures and seminars are available at podcasts.ox.ac.uk/units/department-history-art
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ughoa
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.hoa.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 286830; admin@hoa.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four elements are taken:
•	Core course: Introduction to the History of Art
•	Core course: European Art 1400-1900: Meaning and interpretation
•	Core course: Antiquity after Antiquity
•	Supervised extended essay on a building, object or image in Oxford
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers and one extended essay
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Seven elements are taken: a full list of current options is at www.hoa.ox.ac.uk 
Core Course: Approaches to the History of Art 
Further subject in Art History - choices currently include:
•	Anglo-Saxon archaeology
•	The Carolingian Renaissance
•	Culture and society in Early Renaissance Italy
•	Northern European portraiture 1400-1800
•	Flanders and Italy in the Quattrocento
•	Court culture and art in Early Modern Europe
•	Intellect and culture in Victorian Britain
Two 2nd-year options - choices currently include:
•	Egyptian art and architecture
•	Greek art and archaeology
•	Byzantine art: The transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages
•	Art under the Roman Empire
•	Hellenistic art and archaeology
•	Gothic art through medieval eyes
•	Art in China since 1911
•	Understanding museums and collections
•	Literature and the visual arts in France
•	German Expressionism in literature and visual arts
•	European cinema
•	Modernism and after
•	The Experience of modernity: visual culture, 1880-1925
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
Assessment
Final University examinations: Four or five written papers, one or two extended essay(s) and one thesis
[96]
Human Sciences BA 3 years
UCAS code: BCL0
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB IB: 38 (666 in HL)
Or any other equivalent 
Biology or Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015
Interviewed: 52%
Successful: 11%
Intake: 27
How to apply
Tests: TSA
Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Human Sciences studies the biological, social and cultural aspects of human life, and provides a challenging alternative to some of the more traditional courses offered at Oxford. The school was founded in 1969 in recognition of the need for interdisciplinary understanding of fundamental issues and problems confronting contemporary societies. Central topics include the evolution of humans, their behaviour, molecular and population genetics, population growth and ageing, ethnic and cultural diversity and the human interaction with the environment, including conservation, disease and nutrition. The study of both biological and social disciplines, integrated within a framework of human diversity and sustainability, should enable the human scientist to develop professional competencies suited to address such multidimensional human problems.
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 different fields, allow you to consider particular topics in greater depth. They also allow students from different academic backgrounds to gain the necessary grounding across a range of subjects.
A typical weekly timetable
During years 1 and 2 your work is divided between lectures (about ten a week) and tutorials (one or two a week). In addition, some practical experience in genetics, physiology, demography and statistics is offered in certain terms. Computers are used for the option in quantitative methods and sometimes in small-group teaching in demography. In the third year the tutorial and class requirement is reduced to allow more time for option papers and students' research for their dissertations.
What are tutors looking for?
The attributes tutors are looking for in applicants include:
•	keenness
•	an ability to see things in context and make connections
•	readiness to modify ideas in the light of evidence
•	the capacity to form and express a personal point of view.
HUMSCI Careers
Recent graduates have found opportunities in fields including the Civil Service, government, health services, teaching, the media, law, industry, commerce, computing, management consultancy and accountancy.
Alison currently works as the Principal Scientist in HIV epidemiology at the Health Protection Agency. She says: 'My undergraduate degree in Human Sciences was excellent preparation for my career. The field of HIV is multifaceted which means we not only measure the prevalence and incidence of HIV but also seek to understand the complexities of sexual behaviour and the political and social context of HIV. Human Sciences gave me a solid grounding in statistical methods, biological and social sciences.
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.'
Graduate Vanessa produced the series Frozen Planet. She has worked as a producer/director on a variety of wildlife series including Wildlife on One, The Natural World, Life of Mammals and Planet Earth. She also co-wrote the book accompanying Frozen Planet and has contributed to a number of academic books including The Biology of Religion, as well as magazines on various wildlife and conservation subjects.
Several scientific papers have also been published on the basis of exceptional behavioural footage taken on films she has produced.
[97]
Cutting Edge Human Sciences
From the nature of evil to apes with a GSOH, find out what Oxford's Human Scientists are up to by following us on Twitter @Oxford_HumiSci
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ughumsci
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.ihs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 274702; admissions@ihs.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Five compulsory courses are taken:
•	The biology of organisms including humans
•	Genetics and evolution
•	Society, culture and environment
•	Sociology and demography
•	Quantitative methods for the human sciences
Assessment
First University examinations: Five written papers; satisfactory practical record
2nd year
Courses
Five courses are taken:
•	Behaviour and its evolution, animal and human
•	Human genetics and evolution
•	Human ecology
•	Demography and population
•	Either Anthropological analysis and interpretation or Sociological theory
Assessment
The Human Ecology course is assessed by an extended essay written in the final term of the second year and a presentation given in the first term of the third year.
3rd year
Courses
•	Dissertation to be completed by the beginning of the
final term
•	Option courses (two chosen) from a list which may vary slightly depending on teaching availability: Anthropology of a selected region (for example Europe, Japan, Lowland South America, South Asia or West Africa); Cognition and culture; Cognitive and evolutionary anthropology; Evolution and medicine; Gender theories and realities: cross-cultural perspectives; Health and disease; Language; Physical and forensic anthropology: an introduction to human skeletal remains; Quantitative methods; Social policy; Sociology of post-industrial societies; South and southern Africa; 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).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Currently six written papers and a dissertation plus the extended essay and presentation (see under second year)
[98]
Law (Jurisprudence) BA 3 years (equivalent to LLB); 4-year course option includes a year studying abroad
UCAS codes: see table
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AAB, or AA plus an additional Higher at grade A
IB: 38 (including core points) with at least 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are also expected to have at least a C grade in GCSE Mathematics, or other evidence to demonstrate that they are appropriately numerate. We accept any subjects at A-level except General Studies. To study in France, Germany or Spain candidates would be expected to have the relevant modern language to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. To study in Italy, candidates may be admitted without A-level Italian, though they would be expected to demonstrate sufficient language aptitude to be able to achieve the standard required to study successfully in Italy during the year abroad. Intensive language training will be offered during the first two years of the course.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Law: 
Interviewed: 48%
Successful: 15%
Intake: 192
Law with Law Studies in Europe:
Interviewed: 41%
Successful: 11%
Intake: 31
How to apply
Tests: LNAT between 1 September and 20 October 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17.No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding - see ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Course options
Law (Jurisprudence) M100
Law with Law Studies in Europe:
Law with European Law M190
Law with French Law M191
Law with German Law M192
Law with Italian Law M193
Law with Spanish Law M194
Applicants for Law with Law studies in Europe may instead be offered a place on the three-year Law programme.
There are two Law courses at Oxford: Course I is a three-year course and Course II is a four-year course which follows the same syllabus, with the extra year being spent abroad following a prescribed course at another university within the European Union.
The Oxford Law degrees aim to develop in their students a high level of skill in comprehension, analysis and presentation. Students are expected to read a good deal, mostly from primary sources (such as cases and statutes), rather than to take other people's word for things. They are expected to think hard about what they have read, so as to develop views not simply about what the law is, but also about why it is so, whether it should be so, and how it might be different. Students are asked to process what they read, together with their own thoughts, and to prepare essays and presentations for discussion in tutorials.
The Oxford syllabus comprises topics chosen primarily for their intellectual interest, rather than for the frequency with which they arise in practice. Nevertheless, the skills of researching, thinking and presentation developed by the Oxford Law courses are eminently suited to practical application, and employers recognise this. Oxford is one of the very few leading law schools in the world where the teaching mainly consists of small group discussion (tutorials) between one, two or three students and a tutor.
The modern, purpose-built Bodleian Law Library holds more books than almost any other comparable library in the UK. Colleges also have collections of law books for student use.
European opportunities
Course II students spend their third year of study at a university in France, Germany, Italy or Spain (studying French, German, Italian or Spanish law) or the Netherlands (studying European and International law). See the faculty website for further details about Course II and the admissions arrangements.
What are tutors looking for?
The selection criteria are based on the qualities required of a successful law student. Throughout the admissions process, tutors look for evidence of a candidate's motivation, capacity for sustained academic work, reasoning ability and communication skills. Relevant evidence is provided by a candidate's academic record, reference, personal statement and performance in the LNAT. Interviews provide further relevant information. A candidate's pre-existing knowledge of the law is not assessed at any stage. For more on the admissions process, including a video of a demonstration interview, please see: www.law.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate.
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Law Careers
There is no assumption that our Law graduates pursue a legal career; around 75% of Oxford Law graduates go on to the legal profession. Although Oxford Law graduates gain a BA in Jurisprudence rather than an LLB, each of the Oxford Law courses counts as a qualifying law degree so Oxford Law graduates can immediately go on to the Legal Practice Course (for solicitors) or the Bar Professional Training Course (for barristers).
Many Oxford Law graduates go on to successful careers practising law outside England and Wales. The Oxford Law courses naturally focus on English law, but the fundamental principles of English common law play a key role in other jurisdictions. Graduates of the four-year course also gain important international knowledge during their year abroad. If you want to know the status of an English law degree in another jurisdiction, please contact the relevant local regulatory body.
Amal is now a barrister at Doughty Street Chambers in London specialising in international law, human rights, extradition and criminal law. She was previously a lawyer for the United Nations in the Middle East and at various international courts in The Hague. She says: 'Studying law at Oxford taught me to identify what is important, challenge accepted wisdom and not be intimidated. These skills helped me follow an unusual career path that I have found fascinating and meaningful.'
Erasmus+
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/uglaw
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Law open days: 14, 15 and 16 March 2016; www.law.ox.ac.uk
Course details: www.law.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate; +44 (0) 1865 271491; lawfac@law.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year (terms 1 and 2)
Courses
•	Criminal law
•	Constitutional law
•	A Roman introduction to private law
•	Research skills and mooting programme
For those on Course II, there are also French/German/Italian/Spanish law and language classes during the first six terms, or, for those going to the Netherlands, introductory Dutch language courses in the second year
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers: one each in Criminal law, Constitutional law and a Roman introduction to private law
1st year (term 3), 2nd and 3rd (4th) years
Courses
•	Tort law
•	Contract law
•	Trusts
•	Land law
•	Administrative law
•	Course II: year 3 is spent abroad
•	European Union law
•	Jurisprudence
•	Two optional subjects, chosen from a very wide range of options
A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations:
•	Tort law, Contract law, Trusts, Land law, Administrative law, European law one written paper each at the end of the final year
•	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.
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Materials Science MEng 4 years
UCAS code: FJ22
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA (including Mathematics and Physics, with an A* in either Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB (with AA in Mathematics and Physics)
IB: 40 (including core points) with 766 at HL (including Mathematics and Physics, with 7 at HL in either Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry)
Or any other equivalent
GCSE level Chemistry, or an equivalent, is also required. It is highly desirable to have Chemistry to A-level or equivalent, and if it is not studied to this level it is strongly recommended that it is studied to AS-level or equivalent. Further Mathematics (FM) can be helpful to students completing this degree programme but is not required for admission. For candidates studying Maths, Physics, Chemistry and FM to A-level, normally our conditional offer will require A*AA in the first three (the A* in any of these) and an expectation that you continue to study FM.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 74%
Successful: 22%
Intake: 32
How to apply
Tests: PAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Additional costs
Students in their fourth year undertake full-time research over three extended terms of 11-13 weeks each (37 weeks in total). This means that your living costs will be higher in your final year.
Materials Science is an interdisciplinary subject, spanning the physics and chemistry of matter, engineering applications and industrial manufacturing processes.
Modern society is heavily dependent on advanced materials: lightweight composites for faster vehicles, optical fibres for telecommunications and silicon microchips for the information revolution. Materials scientists study the relationships between the structure and properties of a material and how it is made. They also develop new materials and devise processes for manufacturing them. Materials Science is vital for developments in nanotechnology, quantum computing and nuclear fusion, as well as medical technologies such as bone replacement materials.
This diverse programme spans the subject from its foundations in physics and chemistry to the mechanical, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of materials, and the design, manufacture and applications of metals, alloys, ceramics, polymers, composites and biomaterials. This work is supported by excellent laboratory and teaching facilities.
In a course taught partly by the Saïd Business School, the programme also offers an opportunity to develop an introductory understanding of entrepreneurship (learning how to write a business plan, raise capital and start a company). There are also voluntary options to learn a language (see page 24 [printed edition page number]).
The Oxford Materials degree includes in its fourth year the special feature of an eight-month full-time research project, when you join a research team here at Oxford in one of the strongest Departments of Materials in the UK or, occasionally, at an overseas university or in an industrial laboratory (additional costs may be associated with a project outside Oxford). You will learn how to break down a complex problem, design an experiment or model, manage a project and communicate your results. These research skills are transferable to many career paths and are valued highly by employers.
The current MEng degree is accredited by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) on behalf of the UK Engineering Council, towards the achievement of Chartered Engineer status.
Work placements/international opportunities
Students are encouraged to undertake a voluntary summer project in industry or a research laboratory. Recent locations for overseas summer projects have included Beijing, Tokyo, Bochum, Krakow, Santa Barbara and Boston.
A voluntary industrial tour to an overseas destination is organised in most Easter holidays. Recent destinations include China, California, Italy, Poland and Ontario.
A typical weekly timetable
During years 1 and 2, the work is divided between lectures (about ten a week), tutorials/classes (about two a week), and practicals (two or three afternoons a week). Typically the work in preparation for each tutorial or class is expected to take six to eight hours. Year 3 starts with a two-week team design project, and about eight lectures and two classes/ tutorials a week for the first two terms.
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The third term is set aside for revision. Year 4 consists of a supervised research project spanning three extended terms.
What are tutors looking for?
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
At interview, tutors are aware that students may not have encountered Materials Science at school or college. Tutors look for an ability to apply logical reasoning to problems in physical science, and an enthusiasm for thinking about new concepts in science and engineering.
MATSCI Careers
Many of our graduates apply their technical knowledge in the manufacturing industry, both in management and in research and development positions. Others enter the financial, consultancy and IT sectors.
A significant proportion of graduates undertake research degrees in universities in the UK and abroad.
Katherine says: 'After leaving University I started work for Rolls-Royce (on aeroplanes, boats and power stations) as a graduate engineer, moving engineering roles within the company and around the globe every three months.'
Materials Research
The final year of this course is a full-time eight-month research project.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmatsci
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Material Science open days: 15, 16 and 22 March 2016 - booking required schoolsliaison@materials.ox.ac.uk
Course details: www.materials.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate; +44 (0) 1865 273651; schools.liaison@materials.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
•	Structure of materials
•	Properties of materials
•	Transforming materials
•	Mathematics for materials science
•	Crystallography
•	Practical work
•	Foreign language (optional)
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers; continual assessment components equivalent to a fifth paper
For important additional detail on course content, progression and assessment, please see http://www.materials.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/. This programme outline is for illustrative purposes and details may change from time to time.
2nd year
Courses
•	Structure and transformation of materials
•	Electronic properties of materials
•	Mechanical properties
•	Engineering applications of materials
•	Foreign language (optional)
•	Supplementary subject (optional)
•	Mathematics
•	Practical work
•	Industrial visits
•	Entrepreneurship module
•	Industrial talks
•	Communication skills
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.
3rd year
Courses
•	Materials options courses 1
•	Materials options courses 2
•	Team design project
•	Characterisation of Materials or Materials Modelling module
Examples of current options courses are available on the course website (details above). (At the start of Year 3 it is possible to transfer to a 3-year BA degree in Materials Science, graduating at the end of Year 3. A student opting to do this takes a smaller set of materials option lecture courses and carries out a literature-based research module. The BA is not accredited.)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part I: Six written papers; continual assessment components equivalent to a further two papers
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.
4th year
Research
Research project (full-time)
(Students are required to achieve 50% minimum in the Part I assessment in order to progress to Part II.)
Additional elements include Project Management, Presentation Skills and an optional Foreign language course
Examples of project titles are available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part II (equivalent to 4 papers): Project dissertation submitted and assessed; Oral examination of 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.
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Mathematics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
UCAS code: G100
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in Mathematics and Further Mathematics (if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics is highly recommended. Please see the Requirements tab for Mathematics at ox.ac.uk/courses for further information.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 47%
Successful: 15%
Intake: 176
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Mathematicians have always been fascinated by numbers. One of the most famous problems is Fermat's Last Theorem: if n≥3, the equation xn+yn=zn has no solutions with x, y, z all nonzero integers. An older problem is to show that one cannot construct a line of length ∛2 with ruler and compass, starting with a unit length.
Often the solution to a problem will require you to think outside its original framing. This is true here, and you will see the second problem solved in your course; the first is far too deep and was famously solved by Andrew Wiles.
In applied mathematics we use mathematics to explain phenomena that occur in the real world. You can learn how a leopard gets its spots, explore quantum theory and relativity, or study the mathematics of stock markets.
We will encourage you to ask questions and find solutions for yourself. You will need to think mathematically and we begin by teaching you careful definitions so that you can construct theorems and proofs. Above all, mathematics is a logical subject, so you will need to argue clearly and concisely as you solve problems. For some of you, this way of thinking or solving problems will be your goal. Others will want to see what further can be discovered. Either way, it is a subject we want you to enjoy.
The course
There are two Mathematics degrees, the three-year BA and the four-year MMath. You will not be asked to choose between these until your third year.
The first year consists of core courses in pure and applied mathematics (including statistics). Options start in the second year, with the third and fourth years offering a large variety of courses, including options from outside mathematics.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Years 1 and 2: around ten lectures a week, 2-3 tutorials or classes a week
•	Additional practicals in computing (first year) and numerical analysis (if taken)
•	Years 3 and 4: eight lectures a week, with 2-4 classes a week, depending on options taken
What are tutors looking for?
We will be looking for the potential to succeed on the course. A good mathematician is naturally inquisitive and will generally take advantage of any opportunity to further their mathematical knowledge. While AEA and STEP papers are not part of our entry requirements, we encourage applicants to take these or similar extension material, if they are available. Ultimately, we are most interested in a candidate's potential to think imaginatively, deeply and in a structured manner about the patterns of mathematics.
MATHS Careers
Quantitative skills are highly valued, and this degree prepares students for employment in a wide variety of occupations in the public and private sectors. Around 30% of our graduates go on to further study, but for those who go into work typical careers include finance, consultancy and IT.
Nathan, now an engineer, says: 'During my degree I developed my ability to solve complex problems - a fundamental skill set to tackle challenges I encounter on a day-to-day basis as an engineer. The application of mathematics in engineering and manufacturing is ever increasing, meaning there will be more and more opportunities to find interesting roles in which I can apply my skills.'
New Andrew Wiles Building
The home of Mathematics in Oxford since 2013; see more at: www.maths.ox.ac.uk
Mathematical Sciences Ranked Best Overall in the UK
in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmaths
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Mathematics open days: 23 and 30 April 2016 www.maths.ox.ac.uk/open-days
Course details: www.maths.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615205; undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Compulsory 1st year includes:
•	Algebra
•	Analysis
•	Probability and statistics
•	Geometry and dynamics
•	Multivariate calculus and mathematical models
Assessment
First University examinations: Five compulsory papers
2nd year
Courses
•	Compulsory core of Algebra, Complex analysis, Metric spaces, Differential equations
•	Selection from topics including Algebra; Number theory; Analysis; Applied analysis; Geometry; Topology; Fluid dynamics; Probability; Statistics; Numerical analysis; Graph theory; Special relativity; Quantum theory
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A. full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part A: Three core papers and six or seven optional papers
3rd and 4th years
Courses
Large variety, ranging across: Algebra; Analysis; Applied analysis; Geometry; Topology; Logic; Number theory; Applied probability; Statistics; Theoretical mechanics; Mathematical physics; Mathematical biology; Information theory; Mathematical finance; Actuarial mathematics; Undergraduate Ambassadors Scheme; Dissertation; Mathematical philosophy; Computer Science options; History of Mathematics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A. full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
3rd year: Final University Examinations, Part B: Eight papers or equivalent
4th year: Final University Examinations, Part C: Eight papers or equivalent
Classification on Parts A and B. Upper second required to progress to Part C. Separate classification on Part C
New MMathPhys 4th year 
From 2015-16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments jointly offer a new 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 features research-level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and Continuous media. For full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
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Mathematics and Computer Science BA 3 years or MMathCompSci 4 years
UCAS code: GG14 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA. If Further Mathematics is taken, then including A*A between Mathematics and Further Mathematics; otherwise including A* in Mathematics 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB 
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A or A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics is highly recommended. A science is also recommended.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 55%
Successful: 14%
Intake: 28
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition Fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
This joint degree offers the opportunity to combine an appreciation of mathematical reasoning with an understanding of computing.
Mathematics is a fundamental intellectual tool in computing, but computing is increasingly used as a key component in mathematical problem-solving.
The course concentrates on areas where mathematics and computing are most relevant to each other, emphasising the bridges between theory and practice. It offers opportunities for potential computer scientists both to develop a deeper understanding of the mathematical foundations of their subject, and to acquire a familiarity with the mathematics of application areas where computers can solve otherwise intractable problems. It also gives mathematicians access to both a practical understanding of the use of computers and a deeper understanding of the limits on the use of computers in their own subject.
The first year and part of the second year of the course are spent acquiring a firm grounding in the core topics from both subjects; students are then free to choose options from a wide range of Mathematics and Computer Science subjects. In the second year students take part in an industry-sponsored group design practical.
Course structure
Mathematics and Computer Science can be studied for three years, leading to the award of a BA degree, or for four years, leading to the award of Master of Mathematics and Computer Science. The fourth year of the Mathematics and Computer Science degree provides the opportunity to study advanced topics and undertake a more in-depth research project. Everyone applies for the four- year course and chooses their exit point during the third year.
A typical weekly timetable
The typical week for a student in Mathematics and Computer Science is similar to that for Computer Science (see page 62 [printed edition page number]) or Mathematics (see page 102 [printed edition page number]).
What are tutors looking for?
The most important qualities we are looking for are strong mathematical ability, the ability to think and work independently, the capacity to absorb and use new ideas, and a great deal of enthusiasm. We use this set of criteria and the result of the Admissions Test to decide whom to shortlist for interview.
At the interview we will explore how you tackle unfamiliar problems and new ideas. We are more interested in how you approach problem-solving than whether you can get straight to 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.
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MCS careers
This course gives training in logical thought and expression, and is a good preparation for many careers. About 20% of Mathematics and Computer Science graduates tend to go on to further study. Recent graduates secured positions as software and hardware professionals in research, finance and investment analysis, and include a product controller for an international bank, an actuarial consultant and an accountant.
Mathematical sciences ranked best overall in the UK
in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmcs
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Computer Science open day 23 April 2016 www.cs.ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details:
www.maths.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615205; undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
www.cs.ox.ac.uk/ugadmissions; +44 (0) 1865 273821 / 273863; undergraduate.admissions@cs.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Core Mathematics (50%)
Analysis
•	Continuous maths
•	Groups and group actions
•	Introduction to complex numbers
•	Introduction to University maths
•	Linear algebra
•	Probability
Core Computer Science (50%)
•	Design and analysis of algorithms
•	Functional programming
•	Imperative programming 
Assessment
Five written papers, plus practicals
2nd year
Courses
Computer Science (50%)
•	Concurrent programming
•	Logic and proof
•	Models of computation
•	Object-oriented programming
•	Intelligent systems 
Core Mathematics (30%)
•	Linear algebra
•	Complex analysis
•	Metric spaces 
Options in Mathematics (20%)
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course websites (details above)
Assessment
Eight written papers plus practicals (including a group design practical)
3rd year
Courses
Mathematics
Options including:
•	Number theory
•	Communication theory
Computer Science
Options including:
•	Computer security
•	Computational learning theory
•	Computational complexity
•	Lambda calculus and types 
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course websites (details above)
Assessment
Eight written papers, plus practicals
4th year
Research
Mathematics
Advanced options including:
•	Model theory
•	Category theory
•	Lie groups
•	Probabilistic combinatorics
Computer Science
•	Advanced options including:
•	Computer animation
•	Machine learning
•	Computational linguistics
•	Automata, logic and games
•	Quantum computer science
•	Concurrent algorithms and data structures
•	Advanced security 
The courses listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Approximately five written papers or take-home exams plus practicals, and either a Mathematics dissertation or a Computer Science project
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Mathematics and Philosophy BA 3 years or MMathPhil 4 years
UCAS code: GV15
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in Mathematics and Further Mathematics (if taken)
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics is highly recommended.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 44%
Successful: 14%
Intake: 14
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
This course brings together two of the most fundamental and widely applicable intellectual skills. Mathematical knowledge and the ability to use it is the most important means of tackling quantifiable problems, while philosophical training enhances the ability to analyse issues, question received assumptions and clearly articulate understanding. The combination provides a powerful background from which to proceed to graduate study in either Mathematics or Philosophy or to pursue diverse careers. Historically, there have been strong links between Mathematics and Philosophy; logic, an important branch of both subjects, provides a natural bridge between the two, as does the philosophy of mathematics.
The degree is constructed in the belief that the parallel study of these related disciplines can significantly enhance your understanding of each.
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest in the UK, and one of the largest in the world, with more than 70 full-time members and admitting around 450 undergraduates annually to read the various degrees involving Philosophy. Many faculty members have a worldwide reputation, and the faculty has the highest research ratings of any philosophy department in the UK. The Philosophy Library is among the best in the country. The large number of undergraduates and graduates reading Philosophy with a variety of other disciplines affords the opportunity to participate in a diverse and lively philosophical community.
The Mathematics Department, since 2013 housed in the new Andrew Wiles Building, is also one of the largest and best in the UK and contains within it many world-class research groups. This is reflected in the wide choice of mathematics topics available to you, especially in the fourth year.
The course
There are two Mathematics and Philosophy degrees, the three-year BA and the four-year MMathPhil. You will not be asked to choose between these until your third year.
The mathematics units in this joint course are all from the single-subject Mathematics course. Accordingly the standard in mathematics for admission to the joint course is the same as for admission to the single-subject Mathematics course.
The compulsory core mathematics for the joint course consists of the pure (as opposed to applied) mathematics from the compulsory core for the single-subject Mathematics course. The philosophy units for the Mathematics and Philosophy course are mostly shared with the other joint courses with Philosophy.
In the first year all parts of the course are compulsory. In the second and third years some subjects are compulsory, consisting of core mathematics and philosophy and bridge papers on philosophy of mathematics and on foundations (logic and set theory), but you also choose options. In the fourth year there are no compulsory subjects, and you can do all Mathematics, all Philosophy, or a combination of the two.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Years 1 and 2: ten lectures a week, 2-3 tutorials a week
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•	Years 3 and 4: eight lectures a week, 2-3 tutorials a week for Philosophy, 2-4 classes a week for Mathematics
What are tutors looking for?
During the interview for Philosophy you will be given the opportunity to show a critical and analytical approach to abstract questions and the ability to defend a viewpoint by reasoned argument. In Mathematics you may find yourself asked to look at problems 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 how to tackle new things, rather than find out simply what you have been taught.
M&P Careers
Graduates secure positions in diverse occupational areas such as software development, teaching, research, the public sector, including the civil and diplomatic services, and journalism, both in the UK and abroad. Around 30% of graduates go on to further academic study.
Katherine currently works for the Bodleian Libraries. She found that the logical problem-solving skills and attention to detail she gained from studying mathematics came in useful when tackling new technical challenges in her work and whilst she completed a second master's. The experience of studying both subjects so intensely, and having to pick up and apply new knowledge quickly, gave her the confidence to work with new subject areas, including legal and medical research libraries.
Mathematical sciences and philosophy ranked best overall in the UK
in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmp
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Mathematics open days: 23 and 30 April 2016 www.maths.ox.ac.uk/open-days
Course details:
www.maths.ox.ac.uk;+44 (0) 1865 615205; undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course outline
1st year
Courses
Mathematics
•	Algebra
•	Analysis
•	Calculus and probability
Philosophy
•	Elements of deductive logic
•	General philosophy
•	Frege, Foundations of Arithmetic
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Mathematics website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Five compulsory written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Mathematics
•	Core pure mathematics (Algebra, Metric spaces Complex analysis 
•	Foundations (Set theory, Logic) 
•	Intermediate mathematics options
Philosophy 
•	Knowledge and reality or Early Modern philosophy
•	Philosophy of mathematics
•	Further philosophy papers 
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Mathematics website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part A (2nd year): Two written papers on pure mathematics core and two written papers on mathematics options.
Final University examinations, Part B (3rd year): Four 90-minute exams in Mathematics and three three-hour papers in Philosophy and either two further 90-minute Mathematics exams or one further three-hour Philosophy paper (or the equivalent)
4th year
Courses
Mathematics 
•	Advanced options including:
•	Axiomatic Set Theory
•	Elliptic Curves
•	Gödel's Incompleteness Theorems
•	Infinite Groups
•	Model Theory
•	Stochastic Differential Equations
•	Optional Mathematics dissertation 
Philosophy 
Advanced options in Philosophy 
Optional Philosophy thesis 
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the Mathematics website (details above).
Assessment
Final University Examinations, Part C: Philosophy subjects include a 5000-word essay. Students study three Philosophy subjects or eight Mathematics units, or a mixture of the two disciplines.	Upper second required to progress to Part C.
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Mathematics and Statistics BA 3 years or MMath 4 years
UCAS code: GG13
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*A*A with the A*s in Mathematics and Further Mathematics (if taken).
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Candidates are expected to have Mathematics to A-level (A* grade), Advanced Higher (A grade), Higher Level in the IB (score 7) or another equivalent. Further Mathematics is highly recommended.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 42%
Successful: 7%
Intake: 16
How to apply
Tests: MAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
All over the world, human beings create an immense and ever-increasing volume of data, with new kinds of data regularly emerging from science and industry. A new understanding of the value of these data to society has emerged, and, with it, a new and leading role for Statistics. In order to produce sensible theories and draw accurate conclusions from data, cutting-edge statistical methods are needed. These methods use advanced mathematical ideas combined with modern computational techniques, which require expert knowledge and experience to apply. A degree in Mathematics and Statistics equips you with the skills required for developing and implementing these methods, and provides a fascinating combination of deep and mathematically well-grounded method-building and wide-ranging applied work with data.
The Department of Statistics at Oxford is an exciting and dynamic place to study, with teaching and research strengths in a wide range of modern areas of statistical science. Many of its academic staff work in the development of fundamental statistical methodology and probability. There is a strong new research group working on statistical machine learning and scalable methods for Big Data. The department's world-leading team working on population genetics and evolution applied new statistical methods to huge genetic data sets to unlock the secrets of human genetic variation and disease. Other groups work on applied probability, network analysis, and medical, actuarial and financial applications. These interests are reflected in the lecture courses available to undergraduates in their third and fourth years.
Course structure
The first year of this course is identical to Mathematics, and the core mathematics part of the degree is completed in the first term of the second year. Mathematics and Statistics students also follow second-year courses in probability and statistics, and the remainder of the second year allows for some choice of topics in preparation for the greater selectivity of the third and fourth years.
In the first two years it is usually straightforward to move between the Mathematics course and the Mathematics and Statistics course, subject to the availability of space on the course and to the consent of your college.
There are two Mathematics and Statistics degrees, the three-year BA and the four-year MMath. You will not be asked to choose between the degrees until you are in your third year. All third- and fourth-year mathematical topics available in the Mathematics course are also available to Mathematics and Statistics students. The fourth year is, naturally, more challenging and it provides an opportunity for more in-depth study, including a substantial Statistics project.
A typical weekly timetable
•	The typical week of a student in Mathematics and Statistics is similar to that for Mathematics:
•	Years 1 and 2: around ten lectures and 2-3 tutorials or classes a week
•	Years 3 and 4: 8-12 lectures and 2-4 classes a week, depending on options taken
•	Courses involving statistical software packages have some lecture hours replaced by teaching sessions in labs.
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What are tutors looking for?
In order to succeed in the Mathematics and Statistics degree, students need to have a strong aptitude for mathematics. The criteria applied at admissions are entirely comparable to those applied to the Mathematics degree, and we refer you to the Mathematics entry (page 102 [printed edition page number]).
M&S Careers
In recent years, 96% of Mathematics and Statistics graduates were in work or study six months after graduation. The majority have joined the insurance and financial services professions, but there are a wide range of options for graduates whose studies have included a substantial amount of statistics and applied probability. There is great demand for those wishing to work in the relatively new area of data science, whilst careers in fields as diverse as health, technology, education and industry are all possible.
Mathematical Sciences Ranked Best Overall in the UK 
in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugms
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Mathematics open days: 23 and 30 April 2016 www.maths.ox.ac.uk/open-days
Course details:
www.maths.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 615205; undergraduate.admissions@maths.ox.ac.uk
www.stats.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; undergraduate.admissions@stats.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Compulsory 1st year includes:
•	Algebra
•	Analysis
•	Probability and statistics
•	Geometry and dynamics
•	Multivariate calculus and mathematical models
Assessment
First University Examinations: Five compulsory papers
2nd year
Courses
Current core courses:
•	Probability 
•	Statistics
•	Algebra and differential equations
•	Metric spaces and complex analysis
Current options:
•	Statistical programming and simulation
•	Selection from a menu 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).
Assessment
Final University Examinations: Part A: Five core papers and four or five optional papers
3rd year
Courses
Current options include:
•	Applied statistics
•	Statistical inference
•	Applied probability
•	Statistical lifetime models
•	Actuarial science
•	Mathematical finance
•	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).
Assessment
Final University Examinations: Part B: The equivalent of eight written including assessed praticals 
4th year (extended terms)
Research
•	Statistics project
•	Advanced options ranging across probability and statistics, pure and applied mathematics, and statistical genetics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. A full list of current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Part C: Project and papers (or equivalent) in ratio 3:5 Upper second required to progress to Part C.
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Medicine BA 3 years or BM BCh 6 years
UCAS code: A100
A-levels: A*AA in three A-levels (excluding Critical Thinking and General Studies) taken in one academic year. Candidates are required to achieve at least a grade A in both Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics.
Advanced Highers: AA (taken in one academic year and to include Chemistry, plus Biology or Mathematics or Physics)
Highers: AAAAA (taken in one academic year)
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Candidates are required to take Chemistry and a second science (Biology or Physics) and/or Mathematics to Higher Level.
Please note that we have no preference for whether the third or fourth A-level subject (or further subject in equivalent qualifications) is a science or not.
Other qualifications
Other national and international qualifications are also acceptable. Please see our website for further guidance: www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/medicine. Any candidate in doubt as to their academic eligibility for this course is strongly encouraged to seek advice by emailing admissions@medschool.ox.ac.uk.
Level of attainment in Science and Mathematics
There are no formal GCSE requirements for 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 at GCSE, Intermediate 2 or Standard grade (Credit) or equivalent; the GCSE Dual Award Combined Sciences is also appropriate).
Graduates
Students with degrees may apply for the standard course. There are no places specifically reserved for graduates, and there is no separate application process. Graduates are in open competition with school-leavers, and need to fulfil the same entrance requirements.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 31%
Successful: 11%
Intake: 145
How to apply
Tests: BMAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Medicine is a single six-year course for fees purposes. You will be charged fees related to your year of entry to the pre-clinical course. Note: the number of international fee status medical students at each medical school in the UK is subject to a government quota: currently this is 14.
Additional costs
There are no mandatory additional costs for the pre-clinical years, but some students choose to extend their research project into the summer vacation. Students in the Clinical School study for extended terms. You will need to budget for higher living costs in these three years, as you will be required to be in Oxford for longer than the standard terms. Please see ox.ac.uk/ugmedicine (Fees and Funding tab) for more information.
The accelerated course (graduate entry)
Graduates in experimental science subjects may be eligible to apply for the four-year accelerated course (UCAS code A101 BMBCh4). After a two-year transition phase covering basic science and clinical skills, the accelerated programme leads into the final two years of the standard course and to the same Oxford medical qualification as the standard (six-year) course. The four-year course is designed specifically for science graduates, and places a strong emphasis on the scientific basis of medical practice.
Applicants to the four-year accelerated course must follow the application procedure (described on page 12 [printed edition page number]) (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.
The practice of Medicine offers a breadth of experiences that it is impossible to find in any other subject. Every day brings different patients with different needs. It's a great choice for scientists who strive to understand and apply research findings to improve the lives of the patients in their care. It offers a meaningful career that is prestigious, secure and relatively well paid. However, practising Medicine can be arduous, stressful, frustrating and bureaucratic and it's not suited to everyone. You need to be sure that Medicine is the right choice for you. These pages will help you work that out, but there's no better way to find out for sure than by gaining insight of medical practice by seeing it in action and talking to those who provide healthcare. Studying Medicine because that is what is expected of you is never a good idea: make sure that your motives for choosing to do so are well reasoned.
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The Medicine course at Oxford provides a well-rounded intellectual training with particular emphasis on the basic science research that underpins medicine. We have retained a distinct three-year pre-clinical stage that includes studying towards a BA Honours degree in Medical Sciences, followed by a three-year clinical stage.
Despite recent expansion, the Medical School at Oxford remains relatively small, allowing students and staff to get to know one another and benefit from a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The pre-clinical stage
Applicants are initially admitted to the pre-clinical stage of the course.
The first five terms of this course are devoted to the First BM. This addresses not only much of the science that underpins Medicine, but also the clinical problems that arise when systems fail. Students are introduced to the major systems of the body and study all aspects of their structure and function in health and also the principles of disease processes. Students are encouraged to develop an enquiring approach and to consider the experimental basis of the science in the course. Matters of clinical relevance are illustrated from the outset. There are clinical demonstrations in hospitals, and students make regular visits to GP tutors.
The First BM is followed by a four- term BA Honours course (the Final Honour School) in Medical Sciences. Students specialise in an area of biomedical science selected from one of five options. They will become adept at working from primary research literature, and will be encouraged to think both critically and creatively. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of their chosen option, as well as advanced technical skills at the laboratory bench and in scientific data handling and presentation.
The Principles of Clinical Anatomy course, delivered at the end of the third year, is designed to teach students clinically relevant aspects of anatomy that will be of immediate use in their clinical years.
Teaching methods and study support
During the pre-clinical stage of the course, the college tutorial system is a central feature: students see their tutors and are taught weekly in groups often as small as two. This teaching can be tailored to individuals' needs and interests. Most University lectures, seminars and practical classes take place in the Medical Sciences Teaching Centre in the Science Area. Lecturers are drawn from Oxford's extensive preclinical and clinical departments, all of which have international reputations for excellence in research, and the courses are organised on an interdisciplinary basis so as to emphasise the interrelatedness of all aspects of the curriculum.
Research work
In addition to taking written and computer-based examinations, and submitting practical reports and an extended essay, students undertake a research project as part of their BA course. This will be in a field of interest to the student, and will offer valuable first-hand experience of scientific research. Students have the opportunity to undertake research in a laboratory from a wide range of departments within the University.
A typical weekly timetable
During the First BM, lectures and practicals occupy about half of the time, and the remainder is free for tutorial work, self-directed study and extracurricular activities. During the BA course, formal lecturing is kept to a minimum, and students are mostly free to pursue their research and to prepare for tutorials and seminars. Strong academic support ensures that students manage their time effectively.
Best in the World for Medicine
Oxford is the best in the world for Medicine, according to The Times Higher Education's World University Rankings 2015-16 league table for 'clinical, pre- clinical and health' a position t has held since 2011-12.
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Progress to clinical training
In December of the third year, students must apply to be accepted by a clinical school. Currently a joint admissions scheme is in place with the medical schools of London University to ensure that all suitably qualified Oxford preclinical students will be allocated a clinical school place within the scheme. Of those who choose to apply to the Oxford Clinical School, about 85% have been successful in recent years. Upon completion of the clinical stage of the course, the subsequent years are spent on Foundation and Specialist Training programmes.
What are tutors looking for?
Please note that competition to study Medicine at Oxford is particularly strong and only around 425 applicants are shortlisted for interview each year. Applicants are shortlisted for interview on the basis of BMAT performance, GCSE performance (if applicable) and other information on their application.
No student is admitted without interview. Any overseas candidates for Medicine who are shortlisted will be expected to come to Oxford for interview in December.
Students are selected for their scientific ability and for their aptitude for Medicine. Applicants are expected to show that they have a realistic understanding of what a medical career will involve, and that they have the potential to become effective and caring doctors. All colleges use a common set of selection criteria that relate to academic potential and suitability for Medicine. For further information about selection criteria, please see: www.ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Applicants are free to make reference to skills or experience acquired in any context to illustrate how they might fulfil the selection criteria; sometimes candidates refer to voluntary work and other extracurricular activities, but many forms of evidence can help demonstrate to tutors that a candidate has made an informed decision regarding their own suitability to study Medicine.
Application conditions
Oxford conforms to the UK Department of Health's requirements regarding immunisation status (hepatitis, BCG and rubella) and the GMC's conditions on Fitness to Practise, and a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check. Students may be refused entry to, or be removed from, the University's Register of Medical Students on grounds that may be either academic or non-academic (for instance health or conduct). Applicants should be aware that some practical studies involving living animal tissue are an obligatory component of the course.
Medicine Careers
From becoming a GP to training as a brain surgeon, a vast array of speciality training pathways is available after obtaining a medical qualification: ranging from anaesthesia or emergency medicine through obstetrics or ophthalmology to paediatrics or psychiatry.
Of course, you need not remain confined to the surgery or the operating theatre: the lecture theatre or the laboratory could also beckon. Some of our graduates end up leading the education of the next generation of doctors or directing biomedical research. You don't need to know right now what you want to do when you qualify: the Medical School organises careers sessions for final-year clinical students and helps students learn about and apply for foundation house officer posts.
BM BCh graduates are entitled to provisional registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) with a licence to practise, subject to
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demonstrating to the GMC that their fitness to practise is not impaired.
Gordon now works in the field of biotechnology. He says: 'Although I studied medicine as an undergraduate and qualified as a doctor in 2004, I have not remained working in clinical medicine in the NHS. Instead I have built my career in small high-growth biotechnology companies in the UK, California and France. My time as an undergraduate at Oxford was hugely influential in seizing interesting scientific and business opportunities well outside the boundaries of a typical medical career in the NHS.'
Brad currently works as a forensic psychiatrist with mentally disordered offenders at Broadmoor high-security psychiatric hospital. Brad developed through tutorials at Oxford the strong academic knowledge base and confidence to challenge 'received wisdom'. This has allowed him to diversify his clinical career to include roles in leadership and innovation in the NHS.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmedicine
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Mathematics open days: 23 and 30 April 2016 www.maths.ox.ac.uk/open-days
Course details:
www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/medicine; admissions@medschool.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
First BM Part 1: Terms 1-3
Courses
•	Organisation of the body
•	Physiology and pharmacology
•	Biochemistry and medical genetics
•	Population health: Medical sociology
•	Patient and doctor course
Assessment
•	Three core computer-based assessments
•	Four written papers
•	Satisfactory practical record
First BM Part 2: Terms 4-5
Courses
•	Applied physiology and pharmacology
•	The nervous system
•	Principles of pathology
•	Psychology for medicine
•	Patient and doctor course
Assessment
•	Three core computer-based assessments
•	Four written papers
•	Satisfactory practical record
Final Honour School in Medical Sciences: Terms 6-9
Courses
•	Option (currently one from: Neuroscience; Molecular medicine; Infection and immunity; Cardiovascular, renal and respiratory biology; Cellular 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
Assessment
•	Written papers
•	Submission of extended essay and research project write-up
•	Oral presentation of research project
•	Qualifying exam in Principles of clinical anatomy: computer-based assessment
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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 ox.ac.uk/courses
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
There are several combinations available that allow students to begin studying a language from scratch. However, please note that it is not usually possible for students to study two languages from scratch. Candidates would be expected to have competence in at least one of the languages chosen.
For French or Spanish 
Candidates would usually be expected to have the language to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another academic equivalent.
For Czech, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Portuguese and Russian
Please note there are different course codes for these languages, depending on whether or not you have studied them before. Beginners' courses allow students to start studying one of these languages from scratch - otherwise they would be expected to have an A-level or equivalent (or, for German, an A-level or equivalent proven competence). The Beginners' German course also includes an intermediate option for those who have studied some German. Find out more at www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk. 
For Polish
We generally expect all students applying for this course to be beginners, though those with experience are also very welcome to apply.
Course options
Some Modern Languages may be studied on their own:
French R110
German R200
Modern Greek Q710
Italian R300
Portuguese R500
Russian R711
Spanish R400
Two modern languages may be studied together in combination: see ox.ac.uk/courses for course codes.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 87%
Successful: 34%
Intake: 168
How to apply
Tests: MLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Two to four pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding – see ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Studying Modern Languages provides both practical training in written and spoken language and also an extensive introduction to European literature and thought. You will learn to write and speak the language(s) fluently, and will be able to choose from a range of options including linguistics and film studies.
Modern Languages have been taught in Oxford since 1724. The faculty is one of the largest in the country, with a total intake of more than 250 students a year (including joint courses). Undergraduate students can use the Taylor Institution Library, the biggest research library in Britain devoted to modern languages.
The University's excellently equipped Language Centre (see page 24 [printed edition page number]) received special praise in the last Teaching Quality Assessment. Some of its resources are specifically tailored to the needs of Modern Languages students.
Language is at the centre of the Oxford course, making up around 50% of both first-year and final examinations. The course aims to teach spoken fluency in colloquial and more formal situations, the ability to write essays in the foreign language, and the ability to translate into and out of the foreign language with accuracy and sensitivity to a range of vocabulary, styles and registers. You will also develop your reading skills to a high level.
The study of literature and cultural developments gives you an understanding of other cultures that cannot be acquired solely through
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learning the language, and it leads you into areas such as gender issues, popular culture, theatre studies, aesthetics, anthropology, art history, ethics, history, philosophy, politics, psychology and theology. You can study a broad range of literature, or focus your studies on any period from the medieval to the present day.
A wide range of other options allow you to explore subjects including linguistics, philology, film studies or (in French and German) advanced translation.
Course structure
Your first year is closely structured. You will attend oral classes and courses on the grammatical structure of your language(s), translation into and out of the language(s) and, in some of the languages, comprehension. You will also attend introductory lecture courses and participate in seminars and/or tutorials on literature. If you study either French or German as a single language, you will take a range of additional options in that language in the first year, such as literary theory and film studies. If you study any other language by itself then you must also take Linguistics in the first year.
Your other years of study give you more freedom to choose the areas on which you wish to focus, from a very wide range of options. You will have tutorials and language classes each week in each of the languages being studied. Students studying courses with Polish take this as a subsidiary language, beginning in the second year. Catalan, Galician, Provencal, Yiddish and most of the Slavonic languages may also be taken as additional options.
International opportunities
Modern Languages students usually spend the third year of their course abroad. They may work as paid language assistants in a foreign school or do internships abroad, both of which provide valuable opportunities to develop career experience while improving language competence. The year may also be spent studying at a foreign university. (Students taking Beginners' Russian spend the second year - as opposed to the third year - of their studies on a specially designed eight-month language course in the city of Yaroslavl.) Students are encouraged to spend as much as possible of their vacations in the countries whose languages they are studying. In addition to the possibility of Erasmus funding, extra financial support, including travel scholarships, may be available from your college and/or the faculty.
A typical weekly timetable
Your week's work will include a tutorial in, or organised by, your college, language classes on different skills relating to the language(s) you study, and probably three to four hours of lectures for each subject.
Deferred entry
Students are welcome to apply for deferred entry for any language courses except those including Beginners' Russian.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors will be looking for a good command of the grammar of any language you have already studied at school and want to continue studying at Oxford, as well as an interest in literature and culture.
Tutors want to find out as much as possible about your intellectual interests and academic potential, so you may be asked about your reading, your interest in the culture of the relevant country, or the work you have submitted. You may be asked questions about a short passage in English or the relevant foreign language(s). You will be given the opportunity to speak in the relevant foreign language(s) which you have studied to an advanced level. As far as possible, interviewers will try to let you show your strengths, interest in the subject(s) you intend to study, and reasons for applying to Oxford.
For more information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
Erasmus
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
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Language careers
Employers value Modern Languages graduates because they are competent in one or two languages, have acquired a range of transferable skills and have first-hand experience of other cultures. Modern Languages graduates from Oxford regularly enter careers focused on languages such as translation and teaching, or go into areas such as law, management consultancy, accountancy, international press agencies, the media, advertising, the Foreign Office and the performing arts.
Catherine is now Director of the Refugee Support Network. She says: 'Since graduating from Oxford, I have worked in the field of refugee education and education in emergencies for various charities, including Save the Children and various United Nations agencies. The skills I gained at Oxford have helped me to analyse situations thoughtfully and critically, and gave me the confidence to establish the Refugee Support Network in 2009. I never thought I would use my language skills in situations as diverse as Sudanese refugee camps, with Haitian earthquake survivors and with young victims of trafficking in London.'
The Taylor Institution Library
Part of the world-famous Bodleian Libraries, the Taylor Institution Library is the biggest research library in Britain devoted to modern languages.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugml
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Modern Languages open day: April 2016 – booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days 
Course details: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Two-language course
•	practical language work
•	study of important works and/or topics in the literature of each language
One-language course: as above, plus
•	for French or German, additional options: introduction to film studies; literary theory (French only); medieval studies (German only); key texts in French or German thought
•	for other sole languages, linguistics option (general linguistics; phonetics and phonology; grammatical analysis)
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Seven or eight written papers, including translation and literature (language only for Beginners' Russian)
2nd year
Courses
Two-language course 
•	practical language work
•	a period of literature each language
•	optional subjects, including linguistics; medieval literature; authors prescribed for detailed study
One-language course
•	as above, but including a greater range of optional subjects
3rd and 4th years
Year 3
Spent abroad 
Beginners' Russian: Students spend the second year in Russia, and the third year following the second-year course in Oxford
Year 4
Continues the course from year 2, plus special subjects across a wide range of options
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine or ten written papers and an oral examination are taken, including unprepared translations, literature subjects, special subjects and linguistics. Some special subjects are examined by submitting a portfolio of essays.
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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.
Modern Languages
Page 114 [printed edition page number]
•	Czech (with Slovak), French, German, Greek (modern), Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish
•	Plus subsidiary options in: Catalan, Galician, Provençal, Yiddish, most Slavonic languages
•	History and Modern Languages page 90 [printed edition page number]
•	English and Modern Languages page 74 [printed edition page number]
•	Philosophy and Modern Languages page 126 [printed edition page number]
•	Modern Languages and Linguistics page 118 [printed edition page number]
•	European and Middle Eastern Languages page 76 [printed edition page number]
•	Classics and Modern Languages page 58 [printed edition page number]
Classics 
Page 54 [printed edition page number]
•	Latin, Greek (ancient)
•	Classics and Modern Languages page 58 [printed edition page number]
•	Classics and English page 56 [printed edition page number]
•	Classics and Oriental Studies page 60 [printed edition page number]
Oriental Studies 
Page 122 [printed edition page number]
•	Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, Turkish, Akkadian, Chinese, Egyptian, Japanese, Sanskrit
•	plus subsidiary options in: Aramaic, Coptic, Hindi, Hittite, Korean, Old Iranian, Pali, Prakrit, Sumerian, Syriac, Tibetan
•	Classics and Oriental Studies page 60 [printed edition page number]
•	European and Middle Eastern Languages page 76 [printed edition page number]
•	Theology and Oriental Studies page 142 [printed edition page number]
Law with Law Studies in Europe (page 98 [printed edition page number]) gives you the chance to study French, German, Italian or Spanish law - in the relevant language and country. (You can also study European Law in the Netherlands, which is taught in English.)
Extra-curricular Language learning
Any Oxford student can learn a language at the University's Language Centre - see page 24 [printed edition page number].
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Modern Languages and Linguistics BA 4 years with a year abroad
UCAS codes: see combinations
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
No experience of studying Linguistics is required, though knowledge of the relevant modern language may be expected, as detailed below. English Language, Mathematics, a science or any other language may be useful for some elements of the course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 86%
Successful: 33%
Intake: 23
How to apply
Tests: MLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Three pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding – see ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Course combinations
You can either study Linguistics with a Modern Language you already speak, or with a Modern Language you'd like to learn from scratch. For the following course combinations you would usually be expected to have the Modern Language to A-level (or another academic equivalent).
Linguistics and:
French RQ11
German RQ21
Modern Greek QQ71
Italian RQ31
Portuguese RQ51
Russian RQ71
Spanish RQ41
The following course combinations allow you to begin studying a Modern Language from scratch. Linguistics and:
Beginners' Modern Greek QQ72
Beginners' Italian QR13
Beginners' Portuguese RQ5D
This course allows students to study one modern language in depth together with Linguistics, the study of language itself. Part of your course will consist of developing your practical language skills to a high level, and you will engage with the literature and cultural developments associated with the language (see Modern Languages, page 114 [printed edition page number]).
In your study of Linguistics, you will be introduced to the analysis of the nature and structure of human language (including topics such as how words and sentences are formed, how we make and hear sounds, how languages change and vary, and how language is organised in the brain) and you will apply these ideas to the study of your chosen language.
The University has particular expertise in general linguistics, phonetics, phonology, syntax and semantics, psycholinguistics and in the history and structure of many individual European languages and language families. All these combine to offer a mutually reinforcing package of theoretical study of what human language is and how it works and more detailed study of specific issues of language structure and change applied to the language you are studying. You will find a wide range of options available, allowing you to concentrate on those areas you find most exciting.
International opportunities
Students spend a year abroad before their final year. Please see Modern Languages (page 114 [printed edition page number]) for more information.
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A typical weekly timetable
Your week's work will include a tutorial on linguistics and one on literature, in or arranged by your college, a linguistics class and language classes on different skills relating to the language or languages you study, and five or six lectures.
What are tutors looking for?
Language tutors look for a good command of any language you have already studied and want to continue studying at Oxford and a strong interest in literature and culture.
Linguistics is a subject that many students start from scratch at University. Therefore admissions tutors look for potential, in the form of an interest in exploring the nature of human language, aptitude for describing and analysing it, and willingness to learn the formal tools for acquiring a detailed and rigorous understanding of the structure, use and history of the language you are studying.
For further information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/ criteria.
MLL Careers
The training in rigorous analysis provided by Linguistics coupled with highly developed practical competence in a language gives graduates an excellent basis for a wide range of careers in language-related employment and other areas. Recent Modern Languages and Linguistics graduates include a management consultant, a brand marketing manager, a market researcher for a company in the chemical industry, a Psychology lecturer and a teacher. 
Erasmus
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmll
2016 Open Days 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Modern languages and joint courses open day: 30 April 2016 – booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days
Course details: 
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/pros_linguistics
www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk/pros_undergrads; +44 (0) 1865 280400; enquiries@ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Modern Language
•	Practical language work (two papers)
•	Study of important works and/or topics in the literature of the language (two papers)
Linguistics
•	General linguistics
•	Phonetics and phonology
•	Grammatical analysis
Assessment
First University examinations: Seven written papers, including translation and literature
2nd and 4th years (3rd year spent abroad)
Courses
Modern Language
•	Practical language work
•	A period of literature
•	Optional further subject chosen from a wide range 
Linguistics
•	General linguistics
•	History of the language you will be studying
•	Structure and use of that language in its modern form
•	One or two specialist options, for example: Syntax; semantics and pragmatics; phonetics and phonology; sociolinguistics; psycholinguistics; linguistic project
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight or nine papers and an oral examination
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Music BA 3 years
UCAS code: W300
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Music to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent. Keyboard ability of ABRSM Grade V or above is also highly recommended.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 84%
Successful: 36%
Intake: 70
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Why study Music?
•	We 'study' music by reading, listening, performing and composing.
•	We investigate, through analysis, the relationships between the various parts of the composition.
•	We use documentary evidence to explore how reliable and authoritative a score is and how to perform it.
•	We investigate the various uses of music to see how a musical work (or repertory or style) has been shaped over time, and how it might differ from that of earlier ages or of different cultures.
Music at Oxford
Music has been part of the life of Oxford for more than 800 years.
•	30 academic staff - scholars with distinguished reputations as musicologists, performers or composers.
•	Numerous visiting speakers and professional performing ensembles.
•	Students enjoy performance and composition workshops, and play an active part in the life of their colleges - in chapels, orchestras, ensembles, bands and stage performances.
•	The faculty building incorporates practice rooms, electronic music and recording studios, and probably one of the best music libraries in a British university. The world-famous Bate Collection of Musical Instruments, in the faculty, lends historical instruments to students.
•	The course is broadly based but allows increasing specialisation and choice as you proceed. Performance and composition are prominent, but you can concentrate on other areas such as history or analysis.
•	Students graduate as mature and well-rounded musicians with an informed and lively sense of the contemporary study and practice of the subject.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Four to six lectures a week
•	One or two tutorials in college
•	Practice, workshops and rehearsals
•	More time for independent study in the summer terms.
What are tutors looking for?
Potential to engage with the undergraduate course through a genuine spirit of enquiry and keenness to think critically about music.
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Music Careers
Teaching, performance and arts administration are among the more popular destinations for Music graduates, but others include broadcasting, publishing, law, politics and the Civil Service. Many students undertake further study in performance often at conservatoires in the UK and abroad.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugmusic
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September; ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.music.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 286264; academic.admin@music.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Six subjects are taken (one chosen from a list of Eight subjects are taken (six chosen from a list of options)
Compulsory 
•	Special topics, for example:
•	Machaut's songs
•	Historically informed performance options)
•	Schubert's last decade 
•	Psychology of everyday musical	experience
•	Global hip hop 
•	Musical analysis
•	Techniques of composition and keyboard skills 
Options
•	Issues in the study of music
•	Composition
•	Performance
•	Extended essay
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).
Assessment
Three written papers and one 'take-away' paper, a practical examination and a recital/portfolio of compositions/essay
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Eight subjects are taken (six chosen from a list of options)
Compulsory
•	Topics in music history before 1750
•	Topics in music history after 1700
Optional topics studied
•	Musical analysis and criticism
•	Musical thought and scholarship
•	Techniques of composition
•	Solo performance
•	Orchestration
•	Dissertation
•	Composition portfolio
•	Edition with commentary
•	Analysis portfolio
•	Music ethnography
•	Chamber music performance
•	Choral conducting
•	Choral performance
•	Special topic papers. Some recent examples:
•	Music perception
•	Music in Scandinavia
•	Women composers
•	Dance music
•	Lieder
•	Music and 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).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Three or more written papers and a combination of take-away papers, portfolio submissions, recitals and practical tests, depending on the options chosen
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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
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
Students are not expected to have studied any Oriental language before. A language to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent can be helpful to students in completing this course, although this is not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 87%
Successful: 24%
Intake: 39
How to apply
Tests: For Arabic/Hebrew/Jewish Studies/Persian/Turkish options only: OLAT on 2 November 2016; Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The year abroad has lower fees: see the fees and funding' tab at ox.ac.uk/ugos.
Additional costs
During the year abroad, the Oriental Institute covers the cost of language tuition, but not living costs and flights. For more information, see www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/year_abroad_faq.html.
Among subjects in the humanities, Oriental Studies is unique in introducing students to civilisations that are different from the Western ones that form the basis of the curriculum in most British schools and colleges. The courses present both the major traditions of the regions studied and, in most cases, their modern developments. All courses include language, literature, history and culture, and there is a wide range of options in such fields as art and archaeology, history, literature, philosophy, religion and modern social studies.
Oriental Studies has a long history in Oxford. The Bodleian and other libraries have acquired magnificent collections. The Oriental Institute, Institute for Chinese Studies, Bodleian Japanese and Indian Institute Libraries are specialists in their respective fields. Adjacent to the Oriental Institute is the Ashmolean Museum, which houses superb collections. The Sackler Library includes the principal library for Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies.
Work placements/international opportunities
Most courses offer the opportunity to spend time in the region being studied. The Arabic course includes a year in the Middle East, the Persian and Turkish courses a year in Iran (due to visa restrictions some students are unable to travel to Iran, in which case separate individual arrangements are made) or Turkey respectively, and the Hebrew course an optional year in Israel. The Chinese and Japanese courses also include a year in China and Japan respectively.
What are tutors looking for?
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate the following: high academic achievement, potential for the intended course of study and strong motivation. Oriental Studies requires a capacity for hard work and the ability to tackle foreign languages as well as skills of analysis, argument and essay writing. For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
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OS Careers
A degree in Oriental Studies is not a vocational degree, but a wide range of employers appreciate the skills our graduates gain from their studies. Career options exist in finance, the media, commerce, the Civil Service, law, accountancy and the arts. Around 30% of Oriental Studies graduates go on to further study.
Andi, who graduated with a BA (OS) in Japanese, is now Director, 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 required to handle the constant change and learning required in the software industry. I've had the opportunity to do business in Japan on several occasions through my career.'
lason, who graduated with a BA (OS) in Arabic, is a photojournalist, film-maker and lecturer currently working for the UN in Libya. He says: 'I have lived in Cairo, Damascus, Sanaa and Tehran, and covered events like the 2011 Arab revolts and the Greek economic crisis. After studying for a master's in Persian and Contemporary Iranian Studies, I was a Nieman fellow at Harvard.'
Beijing, Kobe & Oxford
Peking University hosts the year abroad for students of Chinese. The University of Kobe is our partner in the Kobe-Oxford Japanese Studies Programme.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugos
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September; ox.ac.uk/opendays
Oriental Studies open day: 30 April 2016 – booking required: www.orinist.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/admissions.html
Course details: www.orinst.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278312; undergraduate.admissions@orinst.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline:
•	Arabic and Islamic Studies T601
•	Arabic with subsidiary language T6T9
•	Persian T613
•	Persian with subsidiary language T6TX
•	Turkish T600
•	Turkish with subsidiary language T6TY
1st year
Courses
•	Elementary language
•	Islamic history and culture 
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations after term 3: Three written papers; an oral exam (Arabic only)
2nd year
Courses
Year abroad: approved course of language instruction
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Qualifying examination at the end of the course
3rd and 4th years
Courses
•	Core work on language and literature
•	History
•	Specialisation or subsidiary language
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Oral exam and eight or nine written papers (one of which may be a dissertation)
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Course Outline
•	Chinese T101
1st year
Courses
•	Elementary language in classical and modern Chinese
•	History and culture 
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers; an oral exam.
2nd year
Courses
•	Year abroad at Peking University
3rd and 4th year
Courses
•	Extended language classes and historical study
•	Options: Ancient history; Literature; Modern society and politics; or subsidiary languages: Tibetan, Japanese or Korean
Assessment
Final University examinations: Oral examination; 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 [printed edition page number]).
Course Outline
•	Egyptology and Ancient Near Eastern Studies Q401
•	Egyptology Q400
•	Ancient Near Eastern Studies Q402
1st year
Courses
•	Broad survey of civilisations of Egypt and the Ancient Near East
•	Language teaching in Egyptian or Akkadian
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers.
2nd year
Courses
•	Addition of second language, or Archaeology and Anthropology
•	Language options: Akkadian, Egyptian, Arabic, Aramaic and Syriac, Coptic, Hebrew (Biblical and Mishnaic), Old Iranian, Sumerian or Hittite (if available)
•	Literary and historical topics through study of texts 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 [printed edition page number].
3rd year and 4th years
Courses
•	Essay writing and dissertation work
•	Intensive classes in the first and second terms
•	Artefact classes
•	Field of concentration
Assessment
Final University examinations: Ten units
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123 [printed edition page number]).
Course Outline
•	Hebrew Studies Q480 (primarily languages, literature, culture and history)
1st year
Courses
•	Intensive study in Hebrew language in all periods
•	Introduction to Jewish history and culture
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers.
2nd year
Courses
•	Handling Hebrew texts and developing knowledge of historical and cultural background
•	Choice of options from Jewish Studies
3rd and 4th year
3rd year can optionally be spent abroad
Courses
•	Texts
•	Historical and cultural background
Assessment
Final University examinations: Seven written papers; dissertation; 4-year course only: oral examination
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123 [printed edition page number]).
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Course Outline
•	Japanese T201
1st year
Courses
•	Elementary Japanese language
•	History and culture
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
2nd year
Courses
•	Year abroad at Kobe University
Assessment
Test at end of course
3rd and 4th years
Courses
•	Extended language classes
•	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
Assessment
Final University examinations: Oral examination; 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 [printed edition page number]).
Course Outline
•	Jewish Studies QV91 (primarily focused on the history, religion and culture of the Jews from biblical to modern times)
1st year
Course
•	Intensive study in Hebrew language in all periods
•	Introduction to Jewish history and culture
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers
2nd year
Courses
•	Options (three subjects to be chosen)
3rd year
Courses
•	Options (two subjects to be chosen)
Assessment
Final University examinations: Seven written papers; dissertation
A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123 [printed edition page number]).
Course Outline
•	Sanskrit Q450
1st year
Courses
•	Intensive language teaching
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
2nd year
Courses
•	Preparation for Final University examinations in final year
•	Study of Sanskrit grammar
•	Subsidiary language options: Hindi, Old Iranian, Pali, Prakrit and Tibetan
3rd year
Courses
•	Sanskrit literature
•	Special subject
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine papers: seven in Sanskrit and two in subsidiary languages
Options listed are only illustrative of what is available. A full list of current options is available on the course website (see page 123 [printed edition page number]).
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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
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent Candidates are not required to have any experience of studying Philosophy though some background reading is highly recommended.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 88%
Successful: 27%
Intake: 16
How to apply
Tests: MLAT (including a Philosophy test) on 2 November 2016; Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding 
The year abroad has lower fees and extra funding - see ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Course combinations
You can either study Philosophy with a Modern Language you already speak, or with a Modern Language you'd like to learn from scratch.
For the following course combinations you would usually be expected to have the Modern Language to A-level, or another academic equivalent.
Philosophy and:
Czech VR57
French VR51
German VR52
Modern Greek VQ57
Italian VR53
Portuguese VR55
Russian VRM7
Spanish VR54
The following course combinations allow you to begin studying a Modern Language from scratch.
Philosophy and:
Beginners' Czech VR5R
Beginners' Modern Greek VR59
Beginners' Italian RV35
Beginners' Portuguese VR5M
Philosophy and Modern Languages brings together some of the most important approaches to understanding language, literature and ideas.
The study of philosophy develops analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically. It allows you to apply these skills to questions ranging from how we acquire knowledge and form moral judgements to the nature of language, art and literature. Since many works of literature are shaped by the dominant philosophical ideas of their epoch, study of philosophy can illuminate that intellectual background.
The study of a modern European language develops analytical and critical abilities as well as a high level of linguistic skills; the study of the literature written in that language contributes to an understanding of many aspects of European culture. It develops attention to stylistic and terminological detail and rhetorical strategies, and sensitivity to cultural and historical context, which are also of great value for the study of philosophy.
Studying these two disciplines in parallel has numerous advantages and affords students greater insights into each.
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest philosophy department in the UK, and one of the largest in the world, admitting around 450 undergraduates annually to read the various degrees involving Philosophy. Many faculty members have a worldwide reputation, and our library and other facilities are acknowledged as among the best in the country.
Oxford's Modern Languages Faculty is one of the largest in the country, with a total intake of more than 250 students a year, including those reading joint degrees. The Taylor Institution is the biggest modern languages research library in the UK. The Modern Languages Faculty also has an undergraduate lending library, and students are able to take advantage of the excellently equipped Language Centre (see page 24 [printed edition page number]).
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International opportunities
Students spend a year abroad before their final year. Please see Modern Languages (page 114 [printed edition page number]) for more information.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided between tutorials (one or two weekly), lectures (typically about six hours weekly) and classes (first-year logic, language classes throughout the course, typically about two to three hours weekly). The rest of your week will be spent in private study to prepare essays for tutorials and improve your command of your language.
What are tutors looking for?
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
At interview, tutors will be looking for interest in the proposed fields of study, relevant linguistic ability, a critical and analytical response to questions and/or texts and the ability to defend a viewpoint by reasoned argument.
PML Careers
Philosophy and Modern Languages graduates enter careers including academic teaching and research, teaching, commerce, banking and financial services, journalism and communications. An Oxford degree in a modern language opens up opportunities for internationally focused careers or careers with international companies or organisations.
Recent Philosophy and Modern Languages graduates include an economic consultant, a management consultant and a bilingual editor for a publishing company.
Erasmus+
Please see ox.ac.uk/Erasmus for details of Erasmus opportunities for this course.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugpml
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September; ox.ac.uk/opendays
Modern Languages and joint courses open day: 30 April 2016 – booking required: www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk/fac_open_days
Course details:
www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270750; reception@mod-langs.ox.ac.uk;
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Philosophy
•	General philosophy
•	Moral philosophy
•	Logic
Modern Languages
•	Practical language work (two papers)
•	Study of important literary works and/or topics (two papers)
Assessment
First University examinations: Six written papers: two in Philosophy, four in in Modern Languages
2nd and 4th years (3rd year spent abroad)
Courses
Philosophy
•	Either Early modern philosophy
•	or Plato's Republic
•	or Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics
Modern Languages
•	Three language papers
•	Practical language work (two papers)
•	One further paper from a list of options
Further options
•	Either four further papers in Philosophy (many options, including 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 
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on both course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Nine written papers (with a minimum of three in Philosophy and four in Modern Languages; one Philosophy paper may be replaced by a thesis; some Modern Languages papers may be replaced by a thesis or a portfolio of essays); Modern Languages oral examination
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Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) BA 3 years
UCAS code: L0V0
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
You may apply for PPE having done any combination of subjects at school; it is not necessary to have studied Politics, Philosophy or Economics. History and Mathematics are useful backgrounds, but are not essential.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 41%
Successful: 14%
Intake: 237
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
PPE brings together some of the most important approaches to understanding the world around us, developing skills useful for a whole range of careers and activities.
Studying Philosophy, you will develop analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically, and be able to apply these skills to questions concerning how we acquire knowledge or make ethical judgements.
The study of Politics provides a thorough understanding of the impact of political institutions on modern societies. It helps you to evaluate the choices that political systems must regularly make, to explain the processes that maintain or change those systems, and to examine the concepts and values used in political analysis.
Economics is the study of how consumers, firms and government make decisions that together determine how resources are allocated. An appreciation of economics has become increasingly necessary to make sense of governmental policy-making, the conduct of businesses and the enormous economic transformations throughout the world.
All three branches of PPE at Oxford have an international reputation, supported by more than 200 renowned scholars. PPE at Oxford is a very flexible course which allows you to study all three branches, or to specialise in two after the first year.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided between lectures (six to eight a week), tutorials and classes (typically two tutorials or one tutorial and one class a week), and private study mainly spent preparing essays or problem sets for tutorials and classes.
What are tutors looking for?
Admissions tutors will want to find out if you can think clearly and analytically. They are less concerned with what you know than with how you think and use your knowledge. They will seek evidence of interest in social and political concerns. Applicants may enjoy reading some of the following sources:
Thomas Nagel's What Does It All Mean?, Martin Hollis's An Invitation to Philosophy and Simon Blackburn's Think are useful introductions to Philosophy.
Jonathan Wolff's An Introduction to Political Philosophy, Gillian Peele's Developments in British Politics and Adrian Leftwich's What Is Politics? are good introductory texts for Politics.
The best introduction to Economics is to read the economics and business pages of newspapers, particularly The Economist. Tim Harford's Undercover Economist and Paul Krugman's The Accidental Theorist are also recommended.
PPE CAREERS
The careers most commonly chosen by PPE graduates are in banking and finance, politics, journalism and broadcasting, law, industry, teaching, social work, accountancy, business management, management consultancy, advertising and the many branches of the public services, including the Civil and Diplomatic Services and local government.
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Recent PPE graduates include a financial journalist, a strategy consultant and a fundraising officer.
Amit is currently Head of Corporate Partnerships at the British Heart Foundation. He says: 'PPE encouraged me to be inquisitive, open-minded and analytical, preparing me for a career that has spanned the private, public and charity sectors.'
Jan works for OC&C Strategy Consultants in London. He says: 'As a strategy consultant, I have to break down and analyse companies' complex problems and communicate the solution clearly to the client. Preparing and discussing essays in weekly tutorials in Oxford helped develop these skills, as well as the ability to think outside the box.'
Maša is a reporter at the Financial Times. She says: 'I found the skills I learnt reading PPE invaluable. Most importantly, the course teaches you to think in a very rigorous way. Your tutors are constantly challenging you and won't let you get away with woolly arguments. While this can initially be difficult to get to grips with, it has been incredibly useful in my career.'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugppe
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September; ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: 
www.ppe.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 288564; ppeadmissions@socsci.ox.ac.uk; 
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk; 
www.politics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278706; ug.studies@politics.ox.ac.uk; 
www.economics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271098 econundergrad@economics.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
All three branches of PPE are studied equally:
Philosophy
•	General philosophy
•	Moral philosophy
•	Elementary logic
Politics
•	The theory of politics (introductory political theory)
•	The practice of politics (introductory comparative government and politics)
•	Political analysis (introductory empirical and quantitative methods)
Economics
•	Microeconomics: the functioning of the market economy
•	Macroeconomics: dealing with national output and employment, exchange rates and policy issues
•	Mathematical techniques used in economics
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
2nd and 3rd years
Courses
Students choose to continue with all three branches or concentrate on any two, taking compulsory courses in the chosen branches along with optional courses:
Compulsory courses
•	Philosophy: Ethics, and either Early modern philosophy or Knowledge and reality or Plato's Republic or Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics
•	Politics (any two of these): Comparative government; British politics and government since 1900; Theory of politics; International relations; Political sociology
•	Economics: Microeconomics; Macroeconomics; Quantitative economics
Optional courses
•	More than 65 choices, currently including: Post-Kantian philosophy, Politics in sub-Saharan Africa and International economics
Please note that the options offered may change. A full list of and policy issues current options is available on the course website: www.ppe.ox.ac.uk/index.php/course-information
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight written papers, one of which can be replaced by a thesis
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Philosophy and Theology BA 3 years
UCAS code: VV56 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent
A subject involving essay-writing to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent can be helpful to students in completing this course, although this is not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 52%
Successful: 22%
Intake: 23
How to apply
Tests: Philosophy Test on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Philosophy and Theology brings together some of the most important approaches to understanding and assessing the intellectual claims of religion.
The study of Philosophy develops analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically. It allows you to apply these skills to many contemporary and historical schools of thought and individual thinkers, and to questions ranging from how we acquire knowledge and form moral judgements to central questions in the philosophy of religion, including the existence and nature of God and the relevance of religion to human life.
The study of Theology provides an understanding of the intellectual underpinning of religious traditions, and of the social and cultural contexts for religious belief and practice. It 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 systematic theologians. Its reputation and excellent library facilities attract scholars from all over the world.
A typical weekly timetable
Work is divided between tutorials (usually one or two weekly), lectures (typically six to eight weekly), and (when studying certain topics) some classes. A large part of your week will be spent in private study to prepare essays for tutorials.
What are tutors looking for?
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
In interviews, tutors look for interest in the proposed fields of study, a critical and analytical approach to abstract questions and the ability to defend a viewpoint by reasoned argument.
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P&T Careers
Philosophy and Theology graduates enter careers including academic teaching and research, school teaching, commerce, banking and financial services, journalism and communications. Recent graduates have secured positions as authors, writers, newspaper and periodical editors and teachers, and include a student at the Royal Academy of Music, a journalist and a marketing executive for a philanthropy adviser. The Theology and Religion Faculty's website (see below) has further information about careers for theologians.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugpt
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: 
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk; 
www.theology.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270790; general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk 
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	The figure of Jesus through the centuries
•	General philosophy
•	Logic and moral philosophy 
and one of the following:
•	Introduction to the study of the Bible
•	Religion and religions
•	New Testament Greek
•	Biblical Hebrew
•	Qur'anic Arabic
•	Vulgate Latin
•	Pali
•	Sanskrit
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: One written paper in each of four subjects
2nd and 3rd years
Course
Students take eight papers, either five in Philosophy and three in Theology, or five in Theology and three in Philosophy, or four in each.
A thesis may replace one of the eight papers.
All students study:
•	Ethics or Knowledge and reality
•	Early modern philosophy or Plato's Republic or Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics
•	Philosophy of religion
Remaining papers are chosen from a wide range of options.
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight papers assessed either by written examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon the option, or seven papers plus a thesis.
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Physics MPhys 4 years
UCAS code: F303
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA - this should either be A*A in Physics and Mathematics (with the A* in either Physics or Mathematics) plus any other A, or A* in Further Mathematics with AA in Mathematics and Physics Advanced Highers: AA/AAB 
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL (the 7 should be in either Physics or Mathematics)
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Physics and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent. The inclusion of a Maths Mechanics module would also be highly recommended. Further Mathematics can be helpful to candidates in completing this course, although this is not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 43%
Successful: 17%
Intake: 183
How to apply
Tests: PAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Physics is concerned with the study of the universe from the smallest to the largest scale, why it is the way it is and how it works. Such knowledge is basic to scientific progress. The language of physics is mathematics: formulating physical theories sometimes requires new mathematical structures. Physics is a fundamental science and a practical subject. Many techniques used in medical imaging, nanotechnology and quantum computing are derived from physics instrumentation. Even the World Wide Web was a spin-off from the information processing and communications requirements of high- energy particle physics.
Oxford has one of the largest university physics departments in the UK, with an outstanding and very diverse research programme in six sub-departments:
•	Astrophysics
•	Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics
•	Atomic and Laser Physics
•	Condensed Matter Physics (including Biophysics)
•	Particle Physics
•	Theoretical Physics.
Physics at Oxford is challenging and mathematical with a strong emphasis on fundamental concepts such as optics and relativity. The fourth-year MPhys option courses bring you to the threshold of current research, and can lead to subject specialism. An accepted student can also opt to complete in three years with a BA. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art lecture facilities and teaching laboratories. Tutorials give students direct and regular access to physicists actively involved in research and provide an opportunity to explore scientific ideas with experts in the field.
Project work/international opportunities
A wide choice of fourth-year MPhys projects is available across all six physics sub-departments. Third-year MPhys students carry out a short project in the teaching laboratories. Those taking the three-year BA course do a group project investigating a real industrial physics problem.
A typical weekly timetable
In the first year, time is equally divided between mathematics and physics, with about ten lectures and two tutorials plus one day in the practical laboratories a week. In the second and third years the core and mainstream physics topics are covered in tutorials and small group classes. Practical work is also done during the year. In the fourth year you take two major options and the MPhys project.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are looking for enthusiastic and highly motivated students with the ability to apply basic principles to unfamiliar situations. The course requires a good level of mathematical competence: the ability to formulate a problem in mathematical terms and then extract the physical consequences from the solution.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria
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Physics Careers
More than 40% of Physics graduates go on to study for a higher degree, leading to careers in universities or in industry or in research and development, technical consultancy, manufacturing and science education. Many others enter professions unrelated to Physics, such as finance and business, where the analytical and problem-solving skills they have developed are highly sought after.
All about Oxford Physics
Visit www.physics.ox.ac.uk/study-here to get the inside view from current Physics students.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugphysics
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.physics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 272200; enquiries@physics.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Current courses
•	Classical mechanics and special relativity
•	Electromagnetism, circuit theory and optics
•	Mathematical	 methods I
•	Differential equations and waves
Short options, e.g.:
•	Astronomy
•	Complex analysis
•	Quantum ideas
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers; short option paper; satisfactory laboratory work
2nd year
Current courses
•	Thermal physics
•	Electromagnetism and optics
•	Quantum physics
•	Mathematical methods II
Short options, e.g.:
•	Classical mechanics
•	Climate physics
•	Introduction to biological physics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part A (BA and MPhys): Three written papers; short option paper; laboratory work
3rd year 
Current courses
•	Flows, fluctuations and complexity
•	Symmetry and relativity
•	Quantum, atomic and molecular physics
•	Sub-atomic physics
•	General relativity and cosmology
•	Condensed-matter physics
Short options, e.g.:
•	Advanced quantum mechanics
•	Classical mechanics
•	Plasma physics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part B (MPhys): Six written papers; short option paper; mini-project; laboratory work.
Final University examinations, Part B (BA): Four written papers; short option paper; mini project; group presentation; laboratory work; project report
4th year
Research
Project and two option courses:
MPhys project
Current major options:
•	Astrophysics
•	Laser science and quantum information processing
•	Condensed matter
•	Particle physics
•	Atmospheres and oceans
•	Theoretical 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)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part C (MPhys): Project report; two major option papers
New MMathPhys 4th year
From 2015-16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments jointly offer a new 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 features research-level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and Continuous media. For full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
[134]
Physics and Philosophy MPhysPhil 4 years
UCAS code: VF53
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA - this should either be A*A in Physics and Mathematics (with the A* in either Physics or Mathematics) plus any other A, or A* in Further Mathematics with AA in Mathematics and Physics Advanced Highers: AA/AAB 
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL (the 7 should be in either Physics or Mathematics)
Or any other equivalent 
Candidates are expected to have Physics and Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent. The inclusion of a Maths Mechanics module would also be highly recommended. Further Mathematics and an arts subject can be helpful to candidates in completing this course, although they are not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 37%
Successful: 15%
Intake: 16
How to apply
Tests: PAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17 No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/1 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Application information
If your application for Physics and Philosophy is unsuccessful you will be considered for Physics. If you do not want to be considered for Physics please make this clear at interview.
Physics and Philosophy is a demanding and rewarding course, combining the most rigorous and fundamental subjects in the arts and the sciences. It seeks understanding of the nature of reality and of our knowledge of it. There are strong links between physics and philosophy, and the stimulus for each discipline lies in part in the other.
Oxford has one of the largest physics departments in the UK, with an outstanding and broad research programme. The expertise in the department ensures the curriculum is updated in the light of developments in research.
The Philosophy Faculty is the largest in the UK, and one of the most prestigious in the world. The large number of students reading Philosophy leads to a diverse and lively philosophical community.
The Oxford research group in Philosophy of Physics is extremely active, with interests in classical space-time theories, foundations of classical statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, quantum field theory and quantum gravity.
A typical weekly timetable
Your work is divided between private study, tutorials, classes (two or three weekly) and lectures (about eight weekly). Private study (reading for and writing essays, completing problem sets) will take up the majority of your working time.
What are tutors looking for?
Philosophy is rarely taught in schools, but anyone who has an interest in general questions about the nature of science, mathematics, mind, knowledge or truth has an interest in philosophy. No more than that is needed - you are not disadvantaged if you have not studied Philosophy before. Philosophy tutors will be looking for a critical and analytical approach to abstract questions and an ability to defend a point of view by reasoned argument.
The Physics tutors will ask you the same style of questions about mathematics and physics as they ask Physics applicants, to determine your mathematical and problem-solving ability and potential for further study (see Physics, page 132 [printed edition page number]).
P&P Careers
Graduates in Physics and Philosophy offer an unusual and valuable combination of skills to employers in commerce and industry. Almost 40% go on to study for a higher degree. Some will enter science professions such as research and development or technical roles in industry. Many others enter professions unrelated to their subject.
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More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugpp
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.philosophy-of-physics.ox.ac.uk
www.physics.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 272200; enquires@physics.ox.ac.uk
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
1st year
Current courses
Physics
•	Mechanics and special relativity
•	Differential equations and linear algebra
•	Calculus and waves
Philosophy
•	Elements of deductive logic
•	General philosophy
•	Introductory philosophy of physics
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers in Physics; two written papers in Philosophy
2nd year
Current courses
Physics
•	Thermal physics
•	Electromagnetism
•	Quantum physics
•	Mathematical methods
•	Physics practicals
Philosophy
•	Early modern philosophy or Knowledge and reality
•	Philosophy of special relativity
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part A: Three papers in Physics; satisfactory lab work
3rd year
Current courses
One elective paper in either Physics or Philosophy
Physics
A choice of three (or five if the elective paper is in Physics) of the following subjects:
•	Classical mechanics
•	Flows, fluctuations and complexity
•	Symmetry and relativity
•	Quantum, atomic and molecular physics
•	Sub-atomic physics
•	General relativity and cosmology
•	Condensed-matter physics
Philosophy
•	Philosophy of science option
•	Philosophy of quantum mechanics
•	Choice of Philosophy option (if the elective paper is in philosophy)
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part B: Three or four written papers in Philosophy; one or two written papers and one short paper in Physics
4th year
Research
Three units chosen in any combination from the lists for Physics and Philosophy
Advanced philosophy of physics is an option.
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above)
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part C: A mix (three in all) of written papers and essays, or thesis (in Philosophy), or project (in Physics)
New MMathPhys 4th year
From 2015-16, the Physics and Mathematics Departments jointly offer a new 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 features research-level training in: Particle physics, Condensed matter physics, Astrophysics, Plasma physics and Continuous media. For full details see mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
[136]
Psychology (Experimental) BA 3 years
UCAS code: C830
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent
It is highly recommended for candidates to have studied one or more science subjects (including Psychology) or Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 47%
Successful: 19%
Intake: 50
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Psychology has been defined as the science of mental life and its scope includes a wide variety of issues. It addresses such questions as: How do we perceive colours? How do children acquire language? What predisposes two people to get on with each other? What causes schizophrenia?
Psychology at Oxford is essentially a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection.
The Oxford Experimental Psychology Department is widely regarded as one of the leading psychology departments in the UK. The department's size and its commitment to research, as well as to excellence in teaching, means there are typically four or five research seminars each week, in addition to undergraduate lectures and classes. At present, there are particularly strong research groups in the fields of human cognitive processes, neuroscience, language, developmental psychology, social psychology and psychological disorders.
Fieldwork and international opportunities
A wide choice of research projects is available, including projects based in other departments and outside the University.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Terms 1 and 2: About six lectures and 2-3 tutorials
•	Terms 3-8: About six lectures,1-2 tutorials and one practical class. You will also carry out your own research project and be given the opportunity to write a library dissertation and undertake independent research
•	Term 9: About two revision lectures or tutorials and final examinations
What are tutors looking for?
In addition to a very good track record of academic achievement, tutors are keen to see whether you appreciate the scope of scientific psychology, can evaluate evidence, are able to consider issues from different perspectives, have a 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.
[137]
Psych Careers
Experimental Psychology students go on to follow careers in fields such as professional psychology, teaching and research, as well as finance and industry. Some careers will require additional study and/or training. This degree is accredited by the British Psychological Society for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.
Rachel is now a client consultant at Nunwood. She says ‘Since graduating I have worked for two large market research companies specialising in brands and advertising research. My degree helped me to develop my analytical skills as well as gaining project management experience which have been invaluable in my chosen career path.’
World-Leading Research
Oxford Psychology achieved outstanding results in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework:
•	ranked first place across UK Institutions in the overall quality of our submission, and had the highest proportion of world-leading research;
•	scored 100% for the quality of our research and training environment.
For more details see: www.psy.ox.ac.uk/about-us.
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugpsych
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.psy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271353; admissions@psy.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
Terms 1 and 2
Courses
Three courses are taken out of:
•	Psychology
•	Philosophy
•	Linguistics
•	Neurophysiology
•	Probability theory and statistics
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
Terms 3 - 5
Courses
Eight core courses:
•	Cognitive neuroscience
•	Behavioural neuroscience
•	Perception
•	Memory, attention and information processing
•	Language and cognition
•	Developmental psychology
•	Social psychology
•	Personality, individual differences and psychological disorders
Plus one course in:
•	Experimental design and statistics
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part I: Four written papers
Practical portfolio
Terms 6 - 9
Courses
Three advanced option courses in psychology are taken. One option can be a library dissertation. The course options change each year to reflect advances in psychology.
A full list of current options is available on the course website (details above).
•	Research project
Assessment
Final University examinations, Part II: Research project report
Three written papers (or two written papers and a library dissertation)
[138]
Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics (PPL) BA 3 years
UCAS codes: see combinations
Entrance requirements
A-levels: A*AA
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
For Psychology, it is highly recommended for candidates to have studied one or more science subjects (including Psychology) or Mathematics to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent. For Linguistics, it is helpful for candidates to have studied English Language, Mathematics, a science or any other language.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 54%
Successful: 16%
Intake: 3 2
How to apply
Tests: TSA on 2 November 2016. MLAT on 2 November 2016 for course combinations with Linguistics only. Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests 
Written Work: None required
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
Course Combinations
Although it is possible to study papers from all three PPL subject areas as part of this course (subject to college approval), you must apply to specialise in two of the three:
Psychology and Philosophy CV85
Psychology and Linguistics CQ81
Philosophy and Linguistics VQ51 
A list of colleges that accept each combination of the PPL degree can be found at: www.psy.ox.ac.uk/study/undergrad/collegeinformation
There are close connections between these three subjects, so studying a combination of them makes a lot of sense. Psychology includes subjects as diverse as social interaction, learning, child development, schizophrenia and information processing. Philosophy is concerned with a wide range of questions including ethics, knowledge and the nature of mind. Linguistics is the study of language in all its aspects, including the structure of languages, meaning (semantics), how children learn language, pronunciation, and how people understand, mentally represent and generate language.
Psychology at Oxford is essentially a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection. The Oxford Experimental Psychology Department is widely regarded as one of the leading psychology departments in the UK. At present, there are particularly strong groups in the fields of human cognitive processes, neuroscience, language, developmental and social psychology.
The Oxford Philosophy Faculty is the largest philosophy department in the UK, and one of the largest in the world. Philosophy at Oxford has active interests in the philosophy of mind and the philosophy of science, and has very close links with those working in neuroscience and psychology.
The Faculty of Linguistics, Philology and Phonetics brings together scholars working in theoretical and descriptive linguistics (especially syntax, semantics and phonology), experimental phonetics, psycholinguistics, linguistics of the Romance languages, historical linguistics and comparative philology. Unlike other subjects in the humanities, it includes two scientific research laboratories - the Language and Brain Laboratory and the Phonetics Laboratory.
A typical weekly timetable
•	Terms 1 and 2: About six lectures and 2-3 tutorials
•	Terms 3-9: About six lectures, 1-2 tutorials and one practical class. You may also do independent research by carrying out your own research project, library dissertation or thesis.
What are tutors looking for?
In addition to a very good track record of academic achievement, tutors are keen to see whether you appreciate the scope of those branches of Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics you are applying for, can evaluate evidence, are able to consider issues from different perspectives, have a capacity for logical 
[139]
and creative thinking, appreciate the importance of empirical evidence in supporting arguments, and could cope with the quantitative demands of the course.
PPL Careers
Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics graduates can enter careers in fields including professional psychology, education, research, medicine, the health services, finance, commerce, industry, the media and information technology.
If Psychology constitutes at least 50% of your course, and covers the BPS curriculum, and provided you achieve the minimum standard of a Second Class	 Honours, your degree is accredited as 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. 
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugppl
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: 
www.psy.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 271353+44; admissions@psy.ox.ac.uk
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk; (0) 1865 276926; enquiries@philosophy.ox.ac.uk
www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk/pros_undergrads ; +44 (0) 1865 280400; enquiries@ling-phil.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
Terms 1 and 2
Courses
Three courses are taken from:
•	Philosophy
•	Psychology
•	Linguistics
•	Neurophysiology 
•	Probability theory and statistics (Students studying Psychology must sit the examination in Probability theory and statistics either at Prelims (first University examination) or as a qualifying examination)
Assessment
First University examinations: Three written papers
Terms 3 - 9
Courses
After the second term, students can continue to follow a bipartite degree (Psychology and Philosophy, Psychology and Linguistics, or Philosophy and Linguistics) or, exceptionally and subject to their college's approval, a tripartite degree (Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics).
Students choosing Psychology take four of the eight courses in Experimental Psychology in terms 3-5, plus a course in Experimental design and statistics, followed by one, two or three advanced options in Psychology in terms 6-8.
A full list of current options is available on the course website (see above).
Students choosing Philosophy take from three to five courses in Philosophy, from a wide range including Philosophy of mind and Philosophy of cognitive science. For details see
www.philosophy.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate.
Students choosing Linguistics take from three to five courses in Linguistics. For further details, see the Paper A and Paper B options at www.ling-phil.ox.ac.uk/undergrads#fhs.
Students opting for a bipartite degree may take a single paper in the third subject. 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.
Assessment
Final University examinations: Eight papers; practical portfolio (for Psychology); a research project or thesis may also be taken (depending upon the combination of courses)
Students choosing Psychology take the equivalent of two written papers in Psychology in the second year based on the core courses (see Experimental Psychology, page 136 [printed edition page number]).
[140]
Theology and Religion BA 3 years
UCAS code: V600
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB 
IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
A subject involving essay-writing to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent can be helpful to students in completing this course, although this is not required for admission.
Course statistics 2015 entry
Interviewed: 68%
Successful: 29%
Intake: 34
How to apply
Tests: None required 
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork
Tuition fees for 2016
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
While Theology is an ancient intellectual discipline, no one can doubt the momentous social significance of religion around the world today. Study of the subject provides an understanding of the intellectual underpinning of religious traditions, and of the social and cultural contexts for religious belief and practice. Engaging fully with the questions that scrutiny of religions elicit will require you to become something of a historian and a philosopher, a textual and literary critic, and a linguist. To be able to employ these disciplines effectively will not only make you a scholar of religion but equip you to embark on a wide range of careers.
Oxford has been at the very heart of religious debate, reform and turmoil in the British Isles for eight centuries so that the faculty here wears a mantle of history not available in most other universities. At the same time Theology and Religion at Oxford is embracing wholeheartedly the challenges of the 21st century with the opportunity to 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.
A typical weekly timetable
Work is divided between tutorials (at least one a week), lectures (up to six a week), and language classes (at least three a week in the first year). A large part of your week will be spent in private study to prepare for tutorials.
What are tutors looking for?
Tutors are primarily interested in previous academic achievements as demonstrated, for example, by GCSE or other examination results, and in the quality of submitted written work, but may also take other information on your UCAS application into account (such as your personal statement and reference). Personal statements should focus on your academic reasons for wishing to study Theology and Religion; references should comment primarily on academic performance.
In interviews, tutors will look for your ability to think clearly, form sound arguments and to listen and respond to counterarguments; your openness to learning; evidence of your enthusiasm and motivation for the course; and your oral communication skills.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
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Theology Careers
While some Theology and Religion graduates go on to further academic study, other recent graduates have pursued careers in law, the Civil Service, social work, education, the media, publishing, banking, management	 consultancy, accountancy, personnel management, teaching, the police force and the churches. See www.theology.ox.ac.uk for more information about careers after a Theology and Religion degree.
Rob is now a manager in Accenture: 'People are always surprised when I tell them what my degree was! However, it really helped shape my analytical skills through the tutorial system. The breadth of subject matter in Theology prepared me for the different subjects I encounter each day as a management consultant.'
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugtheology
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Course details: www.theology.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270790; general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
Terms 1 - 3
Courses
Four papers are taken:
•	Religion and religions
•	Introduction to the study of the Bible
•	The figure of Jesus through the centuries
•	One of the following languages
•	New Testament Greek
•	Biblical Hebrew
•	Qur'anic Arabic
•	Vulgate Latin	
•	Pali
•	Sanskrit
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course website (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: One written paper in each of four subjects
Terms 4 - 9
Courses
Choice of seven papers across four subject areas, from which students select freely
•	Biblical studies
•	Systematic theology	and ethics
•	History of religions
•	Religion and religions (Contemporary Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism)
All students must prepare a 12,000-word thesis on a topic of their choice
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University examinations: Seven papers (assessed either by written examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon the option), plus a compulsory thesis
[142]
Theology and Oriental Studies BA 3 years
UCAS code: VT69 
Entrance requirements
A-levels: AAA 
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
IB: 3 8 (including core points) with 666 at HL
Or any other equivalent 
Experience of studying a language, and a subject involving essay-writing, to either A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent can be helpful to students in completing this course, although they are not required for admission. Students are not expected to have studied any Oriental Language before.
How to apply
Tests: Judaism/Islam only: OLAT on 2 November 2016 Advance registration required: See ox.ac.uk/tests
Written Work: Two pieces See ox.ac.uk/writwork 
Tuition fees for 2016 
Home/EU: £9,000/year in 2016/17. No upfront costs: loans are available for the full amount. Fees for 2017/18 are subject to a government review. For the latest information visit: ox.ac.uk/funding
The course in Theology and Oriental Studies enables you to learn in depth about a number of the world's great religious traditions, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism. To engage with all the different aspects of the course, you have to be something of a historian and a philosopher, a textual and literary critic, and a linguist. These disciplines together not only enable students to appreciate the qualities of religions that can be radically different from those in Western societies, but also equip graduates to embark on a wide range of careers.
This degree offers the opportunity to study the major world religions and their primary languages. Students can also explore the relationship between religions and science, and the place of religious ethics in public life. Theology and Oriental Studies provides an understanding of the intellectual underpinning of religious traditions, and of the social and cultural contexts for religious belief and practice.
The Theology and Religion and Oriental Studies Faculties have between them more than 270 members, ranging from experts in the ancient languages and literature of the world's religions to church historians and systematic theologians. Their reputations, together with excellent library facilities, attract scholars from all over the world.
A typical weekly timetable
Work is divided between tutorials (at least one a week), lectures (up to six a week) and language classes (at least three a week in the first year). A large part of your week will be spent in private study to prepare for tutorials.
What are tutors looking for?
Admissions tutors will be keen to find out about your linguistic aptitude and your commitment to a wide-ranging course. They will be looking for ability to think clearly, form sound arguments and to listen and respond to counterarguments.
For information about the selection criteria please see: ox.ac.uk/criteria.
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TOS Careers
Oxford graduates in Theology and Oriental Studies can expect to go on to careers as diverse as law, social work, the media, journalism, publishing, banking, management consultancy, accountancy, personnel management, teaching, the police force and the arts. Employers look very favourably on applicants who have learned oriental languages, and Oxford graduates with such skills are among the most successful each year in finding employment. The Theology and Religion Faculty's website (see right) has information about careers for theologians
More About
Requirements and applying: ox.ac.uk/ugtos
2016 Open Days: 29 and 30 June and 16 September ox.ac.uk/opendays
Oriental Studies open day: 30 April 2016 - booking required: www.orinst.ox.ac.uk/undergraduate/admissions.html
Course details: 
www.theology.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 270790; general.administrator@theology.ox.ac.uk
www.orinst.ox.ac.uk; +44 (0) 1865 278312; undergraduate.admissions@orinst.ox.ac.uk
Which colleges offer this course? See page 146 [printed edition page number]
Course Outline
Terms 1 - 3
Courses
•	Religion and religions
•	One of the following languages:
•	Greek.
•	Hebrew
•	Arabic
•	Tibetan
•	Pali (not always available)
•	Sanskrit
which have three assessment components each
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
First University examinations: Four written papers and possibly an oral examination, depending on the option
Terms 4 - 9
Courses
Students take seven papers, three in Oriental Studies and three in Theology; the seventh may be chosen from either Oriental Studies or Theology. In addition, all students must prepare a 12,000-word thesis on a topic of their choice, which may be chosen from either Oriental Studies or Theology
The options listed above are illustrative and may change. More information about current options is available on the course websites (details above).
Assessment
Final University Examinations: Seven papers assessed either by written examination or by submitted coursework, depending upon the option, plus a thesis.