The M.Phil.. in Jewish Studies in the Graeco-Roman Period at Oxford aims to give students a good general knowledge of Jewish history, religion and culture in the period from 200 BCE to 425 CE, the period of the Second Temple and the Talmud, to introduce students to the range of primary sources for Jewish history in this period, and to ensure that students understand and can use a range of historiographical and critical methods in the treatment of such primary sources.

The course consists in instruction in the history and institutions of the Jews and in three specialised areas of Jewish studies which involve close study of particular types of primary texts. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of the relevant languages before starting the course, and no time is set aside for basic language instruction.