Buddhist Studies (Taught)

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2025). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.

The MPhil in Buddhist Studies is a taught course offering training in a primary Buddhist canonical language and in-depth study of Buddhist history, philosophy, literature, and practice, with options for further language or thematic study.

This degree can be a standalone qualification or preparation for doctoral research.

Course structure
You will be requested to select a primary Buddhist canonical language. 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. Sanskrit is a difficult language to learn and evidence of prior experience of language learning is preferred.

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.