Natural sciences
Explore natural phenomena with Oxford University
Short courses in Oxford and online
Our courses in the natural sciences include biology, physics, astronomy and earth science, with some overlap into the medical and environmental sciences. Courses might be hands-on or philosophical, and might address topics as diverse as climate change, particle physics, animal behaviour, the universe or the brain.
Many of our short courses can be studied for credit, which means they can count towards a recognised qualification such as our Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education.
Upcoming courses
Online - flexible • Short courses
Why do animals behave the way they do? In this course we will look at the full range of behaviours found in the animal kingdom, from simple escape behaviours to complex tool use and their evolution.
- Wed 22 Apr 2026 – 03 Jul 2026
Online - flexible • Short courses
Investigate the power of maps and spatial data to document and illustrate local and global issues. Learn how to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the world around you and share ideas.
- Wed 22 Apr 2026 – 03 Jul 2026
In-person weekly • Short courses
Everything you wanted to know about fossils – from the very first life (the 'weird and wonderfuls') to the multitude of life through geological time. You may also bring in your own fossils for a fun identification class activity. Includes a field trip.
- Thu 23 Apr 2026 – Thu 25 Jun 2026
- 10 meetings
- 2:00 – 4:00pm
In-person weekly • Short courses
Explore the Standard Model of particle physics through its symmetries, fields, and real-world discoveries, from photons to gluons, quarks, and the Higgs boson, where theory and experiment together reveal the building blocks of the universe.
- Fri 24 Apr 2026 – Fri 26 Jun 2026
- 10 meetings
- 2:00 – 4:00pm
In-person weekly • Short courses
A non-mathematical overview of the current scientific understanding of space and time. Including an introduction to Einstein's theory of relativity, its consequences, and applications.
- Fri 24 Apr 2026 – Fri 26 Jun 2026
- 10 meetings
- 2:00 – 4:00pm
Short intensive • Professional development
This ten-week online course will survey the range of techniques and methodologies used to determine the nature and composition of nanoparticles, thin films and nanostructures. It includes a hands-on visit to Begbroke Science Park over two days.
- Mon 27 Apr 2026 – 05 Jul 2026
Environment and sustainability
Courses in the environment, sustainability, urbanism, wildlife conservation and ecology - whether your interest is professional or personal.Ecological survey techniques
Flexible postgraduate and online courses in ecological survey techniques for professionals working in field surveysMedical and health sciences
Postgraduate qualifications, short courses, part-time study and online courses in medical and health sciences at Oxford University.