To be eligible, applicants should:

• Be between 16-17 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 typically structured over two weeks, with each week focusing on different aspects of genetics and biology.

Week 1: Foundations of Genetics (Example)

• Genetic variation between individuals within a species.
• The central dogma of molecular biology.
• Structure and function of DNA.
• The relationship between genotype and phenotype.

Week 2: Advanced Topics in Genetics (Example)

• Gene expression regulation.
• Research in genetic models.
• Trends in the field of human genetics.
• Designing and building hypotheses for scientific experiments in biology.

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:

• Understand key genetic concepts such as variation, gene expression, and inheritance.
• Learn how DNA functions and how it influences organisms' traits.
• Analyse the relationship between genotypes, phenotypes, and environmental factors.
• Develop skills to build hypotheses and design biological experiments.

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

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

• Benjamin A. Pierce, Genetics: A Conceptual Approach (4th Edition, 2012).
• Chapter 1: Introduction to genetics (pages 1–12).
• Chapter 10: DNA and the chemical nature of the gene (pages 271–286).
• Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIP0lYrdirI&t=167s.

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 biology, genetics, or medical research. You will gain a deep understanding of genetics, gene expression, and experiment design—skills that are valuable for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, and scientific research.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and reading.
• Engage in discussions on genetics and how it relates to organisms' traits and environments.

The course will help you develop critical thinking skills and a strong understanding of genetics and biology.

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

At Oxford Summer Courses, the safeguarding and wellbeing of our students aged 16-17 is our highest priority. All staff are fully trained in safeguarding policies and procedures, including enhanced DBS checks. We provide a safe and supportive environment with 24/7 on-site security, supervision when necessary, and curfews to ensure a secure atmosphere. Our policies are designed to offer age-appropriate care, balancing independence with safety.