To be eligible, applicants should:

• Be between 18-24 years old.
• Have a sufficient understanding of English to participate in academic discussions and coursework.
• Have a keen interest in exploring their chosen subject(s).

If you meet these requirements, we’d love to see your application!

Applying is easy! Follow these steps:

1. Choose a Course: Select your subject, location, dates, and accommodation. You can add additional courses if you wish.
2. Provide Student Info: Fill in your name, contact details, and a short personal statement about why you'd be a great fit.
3. Enter School Info: Provide the name and address of your most recent school.
4. Review & Submit: Double-check your details and submit your application.

After submission, our admissions team will review your application, and you’ll hear back within 2-3 days. Apply now!

Yes, you can book more than one course! During the application process, you will have the option to add additional courses either before or after your main course. The total price, including any additional courses, will be displayed before you proceed.

After paying your deposit to secure your place, our admissions team will help you set up a bespoke payment plan. You can choose from options like monthly or bimonthly payments, and we will provide a detailed invoice outlining your instalment schedule. Learn more about payment plans.

Note: There are no additional fees for setting up a payment plan, and your place is secure once the deposit is paid.

The course is structured over two weeks, focusing on architectural styles, history, and practical design skills.

Week 1: Historical and Contemporary Architecture (Example)

• History and theory of architecture.
• Ancient civilizations and their architectural heritage.
• Contemporary architecture: High Tech and Digital Architecture (e.g., Pompidou Centre, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao).
• Analysis of historical failures: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

Week 2: Structural Analysis and Design (Example)

• Basics of structural analysis.
• Superstructures: Purpose and design.
• Contemporary challenges in architecture, such as climate change.
• Group project: Design a sustainable building.

Note: This is an example structure. The actual content may vary based on the tutor’s expertise and student preferences. Students will have the opportunity to discuss their learning goals with admissions to tailor the course.

By the end of the course, students may:

• Gain an understanding of the history of architecture, from ancient civilizations to modern styles.
• Develop basic skills in structural analysis and architectural design.
• Learn how contemporary architecture responds to environmental challenges.
• Explore famous architectural failures and design solutions to improve them.

Note: Learning objectives may vary based on student interests, which will be discussed during the admissions process.

Students are encouraged to do pre-course preparation to maximise their learning. Suggested resources include:

• Judith Dupre's Skyscrapers: A History of the World's Most Extraordinary Buildings: While there isn’t a direct online link to the full text, you can find information and purchase the book on platforms like Amazon.

Research on architectural failures:

• Leaning Tower of Pisa: Leaning Tower of Pisa - History and Construction
• Tacoma Narrows Bridge: Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse
• Walkie Talkie Centre (20 Fenchurch Street): Walkie Talkie Building - Design Failures

Note: These are example resources. Specific materials may vary depending on tutor and student preferences. Students will be informed of the required materials in advance to allow enough time to prepare.

This course provides an excellent foundation for further studies in architecture, urban planning, or structural engineering. You will develop critical thinking skills, design analysis, and a deep understanding of architectural history—valuable for careers in architecture, construction, or design.

Note: Career exploration opportunities may vary based on the session and guest speaker availability.

You are not required to have prior knowledge of architecture, but you are expected to:

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions about architectural history, theory, and design.

The course is designed to foster creative thinking and problem-solving, giving students hands-on experience with architectural challenges.

Note: The level of participation and engagement can be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences.

At Oxford Summer Courses, we understand that students aged 18-24 have different needs in terms of safeguarding. All staff are enhanced DBS-checked and trained in safeguarding policies. We maintain 24/7 on-site security, but with more independence allowed for this age group. Our policies are focused on ensuring safety while encouraging personal responsibility and autonomy.