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Course options

  • Qualification

    MPhil - Master of Philosophy

  • Location

    University of Oxford

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    OCT

  • Duration

    21 months

Course summary

This two-year degree aims to introduce you to the study of Buddhism primarily in its diverse Asian forms, give you a comprehensive training in one of the main Buddhist canonical languages, and guide you through in-depth explorations of Buddhist history, philosophy, literature and practice.

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 Pali, Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan and Classical Chinese. You may select another of these languages as an optional subject.

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, philosophical and ethnographic. Teaching happens through lectures, seminars and tutorials, utilising the small group practice characteristic of Oxford. Your training is also supported by a rich provision of visiting lectures, research seminars and workshops.

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 and an analytical approach to Buddhist studies as an academic discipline.

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

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 3,438month

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Oxford

  • University League Table

    2nd

  • Campus address

    University of Oxford, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 2JD, United Kingdom

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    4th out of 22 1

  • Entry standards

    / Max 210
    187 89%

    3rd

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    86.0 86%

    2nd

    1
  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.21 80%

    9th

    5

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