<p>What is the fastest way to go from the US to Oxford, to obtain a PHD level certification in philosophy? How many years would it take? I’ve read all the info on their websites, but their system is unfamiliar. Here is my situation. I want to go to Oxford to study philosophy, once I’ve earned a BA in liberal arts at St. Johns College (MD/NM). What will I need to do to get into Oxford and get to a PHD level asasp? What is required because some of the info on their website is confusing since the types of levels they have go by different names. I just want a bottom line: what will it take. In terms I can understand. Thanks.</p>
<p>Why are you so eager to do this (1) as fast as humanly possible, and (2) only and specifically at Oxford? Are you just starting your undergrad now? If so, I would reign yourself in, look at a variety of options and focus right now on figuring out what in particular in your field appeals to you.</p>
<p>Part of the problem is that the European system is simply set up differently from the American one. Typically, a bachelor’s degree takes 3 years (since they don’t have the US-style general education requirements), then you complete a 1 year master’s degree, and if you are sufficiently qualified, then you can move on to a PhD.</p>
<p>Thanks for the response. I don’t know why I’m in such a rush or why I want it to be Oxford besides reading it’s the best philosophy school. Though I know it all depends on who the person is, etc.</p>
<p>Not sure St John’s would be the best program though, it wouldn’t be specialized enough for UK schools. You’d likely have to add a 2 year Master’s in philosophy in the US, THEN apply for the “postgraduate” (Master’s) course, and then if you ranked high enough you’d be admitted to the PHD.</p>
<p>Affording to study at Oxford for your PhD might prove more challenging that getting admitted…</p>
<p>As someone doing a DPhil at Oxford now (we don’t call them PhDs here), I actually can’t think of a better programme of preparation for an Oxford DPhil than the great books curriculum at John’s. Oxford offers quite a good MPhil (2 years) in Philosophical Theology; you could then apply to stay on for a DPhil, which would take you 2-3 years beyond the MPhil. There’s also a master’s level course called the BPhil, which I believe is also two years, but I know little about it.</p>
<p>Also, @highland_poppy, all applications for graduate study at Oxford (including international students) are considered for the Clarendon Fund (as well as other scholarships, but the Clarendon is the biggest/most comprehensive). Pays all tuition plus a generous living stipend! Certainly doable.</p>
<p>I will find information about the graduate courses offered by the Oxford Philosophy Faculty, including the Faculty’s flagship two-year Master’s course, the PHD in Philosophy.</p>