At Oxford Summer Courses, we're dedicated to nurturing a passion for arts and humanities through tailored summer courses. Our summer schools provide an immersive exploration of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and critical inquiry, empowering young minds to appreciate the richness and diversity of human creativity. Offering over 40 subjects designed for ages 13-15, our courses are hosted in prestigious Cambridge and Oxford University colleges, providing an enriching environment for aspiring artists, scholars, and future leaders in the arts and humanities. Apply now to study arts and humanities.

Who’s Eligible to Apply to Oxford Summer Courses?

Eligibility for standard courses across all age groups (ages 9-24) requires applicants to be proficient in English and possess a keen interest in exploring the subjects they are applying for. For advanced courses in Cambridge for ages 18-24, students must have completed at least the second year of an undergraduate qualification (or equivalent) in the same area as the subject they wish to study. Apply now to check your eligibility and apply for our courses.

Defining Arts and Humanities

Arts and humanities encompass a diverse array of disciplines that celebrate human expression, creativity, and cultural heritage. The arts include visual arts, literature, music, and performing arts, while humanities delve into subjects such as history, philosophy, languages, literature, religion, and cultural studies. Through theoretical study, practical exercises, and creative projects, students explore key concepts such as artistic techniques, literary analysis, historical context, and philosophical inquiry, gaining insight into the profound ways in which art and culture shape our understanding of the world and ourselves.

Exploring the Role of Arts and Humanities

At their core, arts and humanities serve as a lens through which we explore the human experience and grapple with fundamental questions about identity, society, and existence. They provide a platform for self-expression, critical inquiry, and cultural exchange, fostering empathy, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. Whether analysing literary texts, interpreting works of art, or debating ethical dilemmas, students engage with diverse perspectives and ideas, gaining a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human thought, emotion, and creativity.

The Interdisciplinary Nature of Arts and Humanities

Arts and humanities intersect with various disciplines, including history, psychology, sociology, and anthropology, offering multidimensional insights into human behaviour and culture. Students explore how artistic expression and cultural artefacts reflect and shape social norms, beliefs, and values, illuminating the interconnectedness of past and present. Through interdisciplinary approaches, students gain a holistic understanding of the connections between art, history, literature, and society, preparing them to navigate the complexities of the human experience and contribute meaningfully to the cultural and intellectual life of their communities.

Cultivating Essential Skills: Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Cultural Literacy

Studying arts and humanities cultivates essential skills for success in today's complex and interconnected world, including creativity, critical thinking, and cultural literacy. By engaging with artistic works, historical documents, philosophical texts, and cultural artefacts, students learn to analyze and interpret complex ideas, communicate effectively, and think critically about the world around them. They gain practical experience in artistic expression, research methods, and scholarly writing, honing their skills and building a strong foundation for future studies and careers in the arts, humanities, and beyond.

Preparing for the Future: Relevance in a Changing World

In today's rapidly changing world, the skills cultivated in arts and humanities are more relevant than ever. They equip students with the ability to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives, navigate cultural differences, and communicate across boundaries. Whether pursuing further studies in the arts or humanities, entering the creative industries, or pursuing careers in fields such as education, journalism, or public service, graduates of arts and humanities programs bring valuable skills and insights to their endeavours, enriching the cultural and intellectual life of society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What topics are covered in the Oxford Summer Courses arts and humanities program?

Our arts and humanities program covers a wide range of topics, including visual arts, literature, music, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. Students engage in both theoretical study and practical exercises to deepen their understanding and enhance their creative skills.

How do Oxford Summer Courses prepare students for future careers in arts and humanities?

Oxford Summer Courses provide students with a strong foundation in artistic expression, critical thinking, and cultural literacy. Students develop essential skills through rigorous academic instruction and practical experience, preparing them for further studies and careers in arts, humanities, and related fields.

What makes the Oxford Summer Courses arts and humanities program unique?

Our program is hosted in prestigious university colleges in historic cities like Oxford and Cambridge, offering students an enriching environment to study arts and humanities. The courses are designed to be immersive and interdisciplinary, connecting artistic and scholarly pursuits with cultural and historical contexts. Students also benefit from the opportunity to engage with renowned artists, scholars, and cultural professionals.

Can international students apply for the arts and humanities program at Oxford Summer Courses?

Yes, our arts and humanities program is open to international students. We welcome students from around the world to join us in exploring the rich world of arts and humanities and experiencing life at some of the world's most esteemed university colleges.

What career paths can graduates of the arts and humanities program pursue?

Graduates of our arts and humanities program can pursue diverse career paths in the creative industries, education, journalism, public service, cultural management, and more. The skills and knowledge gained through our program equip students to contribute to various fields and drive innovation in the cultural and intellectual sectors.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Arts and Humanities Journey

If you're passionate about exploring the fascinating world of arts and humanities, Oxford Summer Courses offers tailored summer courses for ages 13-15 hosted at prestigious Cambridge and Oxford University colleges. Experience the joy of artistic discovery, engage with timeless works of literature and art, and connect with fellow young scholars and artists in a vibrant and inspiring setting. Apply now and embark on a transformative journey of artistic and intellectual exploration and discovery!

Ready to Join Oxford Summer Courses?

After submitting your application, we'll be in touch very soon to inform you of the outcome. Apply now to begin your journey with Oxford Summer Courses!

About the author

Rhys Mackenzie is the Website Marketing Manager at Oxford Summer Courses. With extensive experience in SEO and digital content management, they are passionate about showcasing the best that Oxford has to offer. Their previous role at Experience Oxfordshire gave them a deep appreciation for the city's unique cultural and academic offerings. Learn more about Rhys here.