MSt in Jewish Studies in the Graeco-Roman Period

at University of Oxford

The course consists of instruction in the history and institutions of the Jews and in three specialised areas of Jewish studies which involve close study of particular types of primary texts. You will be expected to have a working knowledge of the relevant languages before starting the course, and no time is set aside for basic language instruction. 

You can expect to be engaged in academic work for at least thirty-five hours a week during the full term and to be expected to carry out a considerable amount of work during the vacations.

The course is taught by a mixture of tutorials and classes. Tutorials will normally consist in one-to-one discussion with a tutor of your written work. The general paper on Jewish history and institutions is taught entirely by a series of weekly tutorials (usually eight) in this manner. The classes provide instruction in the translation and interpretation of most but not necessarily all of the set texts which you are required to study for your specialised papers. General questions about these texts are discussed in tutorials.

Teaching for the general paper and the specialised papers which you will have chosen, is carried out in the first two terms of the course. The third term is set aside for revision, although this may sometimes include further tutorials for consolidation. Numbers of students on the course are very small (1–2 per year) and so teaching is tailored according to the needs and interests of individual students. Classes are sometimes shared with those on other similar courses, and there are also seminars covering wider subject areas that students on this course are encouraged to attend.

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should normally hold or be predicted to achieve the equivalent of the following UK qualifications:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in any subject.

Previous knowledge of Jewish studies is not a requirement for admission.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
 

• Applicants need to have sufficient knowledge of Hebrew to profit from the course. Some options in the course can only be chosen by students with prior knowledge of Greek.

• Publications are not required.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic

 7.5  

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£19,950

Overseas    
£30,910

Asian and Middle Eastern studies graduates have found employment in many diverse fields including business, finance law, civil service, journalism, government and industry.

Many graduates have also undertaken further research into subjects linked with Asian and Middle Eastern studies and have pursued successful careers in the academic world, education and in museums.