I've been turned down once for a doctoral degree at Oxford (in Renaissance Literature), and I'm currently reviewing my options. I passed my BA (English Lit.) with a 2:1, and my taught MA (Renaissance Lit.) with Distinction, both from a good university (York).

I definitely want to do a PhD, but I've got a year to kill before I can apply again. Is it worth my doing (assuming I can get accepted) a taught MA in a different subject, but broadly the same field (I'm considering Renaissance/Early Modern History)?

Will this improve my chances of being accepted for a PhD next time round, or will it just be a waste of time?

All opinions gratefully received.

======= Date Modified 06 May 2009 11:51:08 =======
It won't harm to do another taught MA, but I doubt it will help much for improving your chances of getting a PhD programme. Personally, I wouldn't bother, particularly given the cost involved.

Doing an MRes or MA by research will be more useful, and certainly put you ahead of the game for a PhD.

If you're planning to do the MA again this Sept, you might be too late for applications to all the top unis.

I'm not an arts student, but it sounds like you already have the ideal educational background, and I'm not sure another MA would improve your chances.

What might do is having some research experience, of some kind. Is it worth trying to find some kind of researchy job, even if not in an academic sector? Could you try to get any articles published while you wait to reapply (even if not in academic journals)?

Regarding your first attempt, was Oxford the only place to which you applied? It might be worth (a) asking for feedback, so you might be able to produce a stronger application for next time, and (b) casting the net a little wider.

Good luck!