Course summary

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2022). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas. This two-year degree aims to give you a comprehensive training in one of the main Buddhist canonical languages, along with in-depth explorations of Buddhist history, philosophy, and literature. You will choose to specialise in Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan, or Classical Chinese, and may select another of these languages as an optional subject. This degree can be a standalone qualification or preparation for doctoral research. You will be requested to select a primary Buddhist canonical language. The options currently available are Sanskrit, Classical Tibetan and Classical Chinese. The first year focuses on intensive training in all aspects of your chosen language, without presuming previous knowledge of it, and takes advantage of the world class linguistic expertise available at Oxford. Study of the chosen language is complemented by training in various aspects relevant to the study of Buddhism, including historical, literary, and philosophical. Teaching happens through lectures and tutorials, utilising the small group practice characteristic of Oxford. This solid base of training is built on in the second year with the in-depth study of important Buddhist texts in the original language in which you are specialising. You are also required to choose one optional paper. Possible options are a second primary Buddhist language (Sanskrit, Tibetan or Chinese) or a paper chosen from a list published annually. These optional courses are subject to availability of teaching each year. Supervision The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies. Students should meet with their supervisor at least once per term.