Studying at DSPI

DSPI is a small, friendly department, made up of a diverse body of talented people making a huge impact.

Studying at DSPI. you can develop your academic research skills for use in practice and policy settings. You may already be an experienced practitioner wanting to become more skilled in the use of high quality research methods to inform your decisions. Whatever your background, you will become an important part of our community.

Academic excellence

You will be taught by our multi-disciplinary, international body of academic staff, who are experts in their field. You will benefit from their expertise through lectures and classes, and learn a great deal from staff and students in your small teaching groups. Your academic supervisor will guide you through your intellectual development.

College life

By joining DSPI, you will also become members of a University college. You will be able to make the most of this key element of the Oxford experience. Your college will provide you with a base, where you will meet like-minded scholars and get involved in college life.

Grand Union Doctoral Training Partnership

The University of Oxford is the lead research organisation in the Grand Union Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), one of a network of partnerships accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

The DTP awards more than 35 studentships a year to outstanding students, giving you access to the highest quality research training and professional development opportunities. The DTP enhances the doctoral experience of more than 1200 postgraduate researchers studying on 19 different accredited pathways across the social sciences in Oxford.

Equality and Diversity

At DSPI we are a diverse team of people looking for outstanding academic potential to join us, regardless of your race, religion or background. Applications are particularly welcome from students from groups who are under-represented at Oxford. Find out more about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at DSPI.