Eastern Christian Studies MPhil

University of Oxford

The MPhil in Eastern Christian Studies is a two-year degree which is intended to give you experience in reading and interpreting a wide range of Eastern Christian texts in one of three options - Greek, Armenian with Greek, or Syriac with Greek. All students also prepare a thesis. This degree can be a stand-alone qualification or preparation for doctoral research.

Before arrival in Oxford you will be required to choose to study for papers in one of the three following options:

• Greek (Patristic and Byzantine)
• Armenian with Greek
• Syriac with Greek

Teaching for each option may not be available in every year. In 2024/25 the Greek (Patristic and Byzantine) option will not be offered.

A list of set texts in each language is included in the Course Handbook, which can be accessed via the faculty's course webpage. Set texts are agreed with candidates at the beginning of the academic year, and a list of these can be obtained from the Course Director.

Teaching takes the form of text classes, supervisions and/or seminars, and background lectures. The Armenian and Syriac set texts are read in the first year in text classes, for which you will be expected to prepare, while the Greek set texts will normally be left to you to work through alone. You will also be required to write and present essays, either for supervisions or for seminars. The second year is normally left for work on the thesis, the subject of which must be approved by the Faculty Board, and for this your supervisor will provide general guidance.