Studying at DSPI
DSPI is a small, friendly department, made up of a diverse body of talented people making a huge impact.
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.
In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021, the University of Oxford ranked second overall in Social Policy and Administration, and first in the UK. View the QS rankings.
We are immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of our staff, researchers and students, who all contribute to an environment where these levels of excellence can be achieved and maintained.
Our department
Academic excellence
Equality and diversity
Our research
Hear from our students
DSPI courses and admissions
Life at DSPI
You will attend lectures, seminars, workshops and supervision sessions, depending on your study.
You will be assigned a supervisor who will provide one-to-one supervision.
You will also be supported by the Course Director and Director of Graduate Studies, and the course administration team.
Find out more about teaching methods at DSPI.
Find out more about DSPI's departmental lectures and seminars.
As a student at DSPI, you can also enjoy public lectures and seminars arranged by other departments across the University and by individual colleges. These will offer superb opportunities to hear from a range of high-profile speakers and broaden your network.
Get a feel for what's out there by visiting the Oxford Events website.
DSPI's main departmental building is Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square.
You can find out more about accessing the building through the University Access Guide.
This has details about accessible entrances and facilities, as well as information on parking, our reception, lecture and seminar rooms, building layout and much more.
Our department building includes lecture and seminar rooms, common rooms, teaching rooms, offices and workspaces.
Find out more about DSPI's facilities and resources.
We value student feedback and encourage all students to share their views throughout their time in the department.
At the beginning of the academic year, students elect programme representatives who act as a link between the student body and the faculty. Representatives raise feedback and discuss matters affecting the student experience through committees including Executive Committee (DPhil representatives), Graduate Studies Committee (DPhil representatives), Teaching Committees (Master's representatives), and the Graduate Joint Consultative Committee (all representatives).
Students also have the opportunity to provide feedback on all aspects of their course (learning, living, pastoral support, college) through the Student Barometer or Postgraduate Research (PGR)/ Postgraduate Taught (PGT) Experience surveys, and are invited to complete the department's end-of-year survey.
Studying at Oxford
