Mathematics (Research)

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.

DPhil
The DPhil in Mathematics is a research degree in which students pursue original research in areas such as algebra, geometry, number theory, mathematical biology, quantum theory, and data science, and write a thesis contributing to the field.

During your study at Oxford, you can share in the excitement of contributing to research in one or more of the many topics studied by Oxford mathematicians.

During your DPhil you will be required to complete some 'broadening training' to broaden your mathematical knowledge beyond your specialist area. Exactly how this happens varies, but usually it is by attending lectures, seminars, and colloquia. You will also gain a wide range of research and other skills.

You will be required to contribute to the teaching work of the department. You will be trained for this at the start of your time as a DPhil student, and the work itself will include marking students’ work and later leading classes of students.

MSc by Research
The MSc by Research in Mathematics is a research-based course covering areas such as algebra, geometry, topology, mathematical biology, applied mathematics, and numerical analysis, with no taught components and a focus on independent research.

The research project is designed to take less time than a doctorate degree (normally two years, though it is possible to complete the requirements in a single year). It is not intended as a first step towards a DPhil, but rather as an alternative to a DPhil.

There are no associated lectures, classes or written examinations. Your project can be in any of the subject areas for which supervision is available.

You will be expected to acquire transferable skills as part of your training, which will require you to attend courses, lectures, workshops and colloquia. You will have the opportunity to develop other valuable skills and to contribute to the teaching work of the department, both by marking students’ work and later by leading classes of around eight to twelve students.