Summer schools in Oxford

Summer courses for adult learners

Immerse yourself in the Oxford experience

Join us for a study holiday in Oxford – for personal enrichment, academic progression or professional development. You'll live and study at one of Oxford's historic colleges or at Rewley House, experience dining in hall, and explore the world's most famous university city. 

Choose from more than 100 one-week introductory summer courses; or opt for a longer, specialist summer programme in a single topic. Many classes can be taken for credit; others require no coursework and are non-assessed.

For those aged 18 and above only.

2026 programmes still open to enrolment/applications

Inspiring Oxford, Brasenose College

Join us for an unforgettable summer in the heart of Oxford at Brasenose College, beside the iconic Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library.

Choose from 60 one-week, introductory-level courses across a wide range of subjects, including history and art history; literature, creative writing and film; diplomacy and international relations; business (including marketing and leadership); economics, politics and law; and psychology, sociology, environmental studies, philosophy and more.

Seminars are small and engaging (maximum 16 participants) and are led by friendly, supportive expert tutors who bring subjects to life through lively discussion and exploration. After class, wander through Oxford’s cobbled streets, unwind in the peaceful quads of Brasenose, or join our optional social activities to make the most of your Oxford experience.

Be part of a welcoming community of curious minds, meet fellow lifelong learners and discover what it’s like to study at one of the world’s most inspiring universities.

Find out more about the Inspiring Oxford programme

English Language Teachers' Summer Seminar, Harris Manchester College

This two-week summer programme is designed exclusively for experienced teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) who are ready to take their practice to the next level.

Whether you teach primary or secondary school pupils, university students or adult learners, this course offers the perfect opportunity to refine your teaching approach, explore innovative classroom strategies, and engage with colleagues from around the world.

Led by a team of highly experienced international trainers, the programme provides an enriching blend of interactive workshops, thought-provoking lectures, and opportunities for professional and cultural exchange.

Find out more about the English Language Teachers' Summer Seminar

Theology Summer School, Christ Church

Join us at Christ Church for a theology summer school on the theme of 'Christian Theology in Conversation with St Francis of Assisi’. 

Marking 800 years since St Francis's death, our 2026 programme explores how his life and thought can help us engage with and examine issues that we face today. From St Francis's concern for the environment and creation to his engagement with the arts, seminars will consider how theology speaks into these areas while walking in the footsteps of St Francis.

You will enjoy lectures from leading scholars in the field of theology and take part in seminars led by members of Oxford University's Faculty of Theology and Religion, distinguished theologians and prominent church leaders.

The summer school runs over two weeks, with the option to attend the full programme or one week of your choosing.

Find out more about the Theology Summer School

Courses closed to new enrolments

Introductory level

These week-long non-assessed summer programmes all take place at one of Oxford University's historic colleges. All courses are pitched at an introductory level for non-specialists, and no prior knowledge is necessary.

Courses span a range of subjects, including history, literature, creative writing, psychology, philosophy, archaeology, law, art history, film, sociology, environmental studies, international relations and more.

Undergraduate level

The Oxford University Summer School for Adults (OUSSA) programme offers accredited week-long courses at Rewley House in central Oxford. Credit earned from OUSSA is transferable towards our flexible and part-time Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education. 

Courses cover a wide range of subjects including literature, archaeology, architectural history, creative writing, history of art, philosophy, biological sciences, theology, psychology and more.

Specialist and advanced

These intensive summer programmes are for those who want in-depth learning on a subject they are passionate about for personal, academic or professional advancement.

 

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