MPhil in Buddhist Studies
University of Oxford
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Qualification

MPhil - Master of Philosophy

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Location

University of Oxford

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

OCT-25

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Duration

21 months

Course info

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Qualification

MPhil - Master of Philosophy

Location

University of Oxford

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

OCT-25

Duration

21 months

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Theology & Religious Studies
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Course info

About the courseThis two-year degree aims to give you a comprehensive training in one of the main Buddhist canonical languages, along with in-depth explorations of Buddhist history, philosophy, and literature. You will choose to specialise in Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan, or Classical Chinese, and may select another of these languages as an optional subject. This degree can be a standalone qualification or preparation for doctoral research.You will be requested to select a primary Buddhist ...Read more

About the course

This two-year degree aims to give you a comprehensive training in one of the main Buddhist canonical languages, along with in-depth explorations of Buddhist history, philosophy, and literature. You will choose to specialise in Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan, or Classical Chinese, and may select another of these languages as an optional subject. This degree can be a standalone qualification or preparation for doctoral research.

You will be requested to select a primary Buddhist canonical language. The options currently available are Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan and Classical Chinese.

The first year focuses on intensive training in all aspects of your chosen language, without presuming previous knowledge of it, and takes advantage of the world class linguistic expertise available at Oxford.

Study of the chosen language is complemented by training in various aspects relevant to the study of Buddhism, including historical, literary, and philosophical. Teaching happens through lectures and tutorials, utilising the small group practice characteristic of Oxford.

This solid base of training is built on in the second year with the in-depth study of important Buddhist texts in the original language in which you are specialising.

You are also required to choose one optional paper. Possible options are a second primary Buddhist language (Sanskrit, Tibetan or Chinese) or a paper chosen from a list published annually. These optional courses are subject to availability of teaching each year.

Assessment

The first year’s is assessed by a qualifying exam in Trinity term, ensuring that you have fully comprehended the first year’s teaching activities.

Your assessment at the end of the second year is specified by the given course instructor.

Graduate destinations

Oriental studies graduates have found employment in many and diverse fields including business, finance, law, civil service, journalism, government and industry.

Many graduates have also undertaken further research into subjects linked with Oriental studies and have pursued successful careers in the academic world, education and in museums.

Key stats

CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
3rd
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
2nd

Entry requirements

As a minimum, applicants should normally hold or be predicted to achieve the equivalent of the following UK qualifications or their equivalent or their equivalent: a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject. For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£17,250 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£41,250 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£41,250 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

IDP Connect

Uni info

University of Oxford
University Offices Wellington Square Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 2JD United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Oxford  0.2 miles away

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