Late Antique and Byzantine Studies
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies at the University of Oxford is a 21-month, full-time, on-campus program designed for those who wish to explore the history, culture, and society of the Late Antique and Byzantine periods. The program covers the period from the 3rd to the 15th century, offering an in-depth study of the fall of the Roman Empire, the rise of Byzantium, and its complex interactions with the wider Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds. Students will engage with key topics such as religion, art, political history, and economic structures that shaped the Byzantine world.
Oxford’s MPhil in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies provides students with a unique opportunity to combine historical research with an interdisciplinary approach, examining texts, material culture, and art from the Byzantine period. The program is ideal for those wishing to pursue careers in academia, museums, archaeology, or cultural heritage management, with a particular focus on the medieval Mediterranean world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Duration: 21 Months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 5th January 2026
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: History
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
The MPhil in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the history, culture, and society of the Byzantine Empire and its transformation from the Roman world. In the first year, students will cover foundational topics such as Byzantine politics, religion, and art, as well as the Romanization of the Eastern Mediterranean. The second year of the program offers specialized study in areas such as Byzantine historiography, material culture, and the interaction between Byzantium and neighboring regions. Students will also complete a dissertation based on original research, allowing them to explore a specific aspect of Late Antique and Byzantine history in depth.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MPhil in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies are well-prepared for careers in academia, museum curation, archaeological research, and cultural heritage management. Many graduates pursue careers as researchers, curators, or archaeologists, working in museums, academic institutions, or cultural organizations that focus on Byzantine studies and medieval history. The program also offers strong preparation for those wishing to continue their studies with a DPhil (PhD) in Byzantine Studies or related fields. With the support of Oxford’s global alumni network, graduates have access to top-tier career opportunities in historical research and museum studies.
Why Choose This Program
The MPhil in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies at the University of Oxford offers a unique opportunity to study one of the most influential periods in world history. Oxford’s renowned faculty, world-class resources, and research facilities provide students with the tools necessary to conduct rigorous, interdisciplinary research. The program is ideal for those seeking to gain a deep understanding of the Byzantine Empire, its culture, religion, and its legacy in the medieval Mediterranean world. The program’s focus on both historical and material culture makes it an exceptional choice for those interested in archaeology, art history, and medieval studies.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
- Phone: +44 (0)1865 270000
- Email: admissions@ox.ac.uk
- Address: University of Oxford, University Parks, Oxford OX1 2JD, United Kingdom
