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 biotechnology and genetics.

Week 1: Molecular Toolkits (Example)

• The central dogma of molecular biology.
• Gene editing and cloning.
• Genome sequencing.
• CRISPR: A contemporary example of biotechnology in action.

Week 2: Genetic Engineering of Crop Plants (Example)

• Plant domestication and improvement.
• Feeding a global population.
• Debate: Are GMOs necessary to tackle climate change?

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 the central dogma and how molecular biology tools like CRISPR work.
• Learn how gene editing and cloning have impacted biotechnological advances.
• Analyse the role of biotechnology in global food production and climate change.
• Debate the ethical implications of genetic engineering, particularly in relation to GMOs and CRISPR.

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:

• Help Me Understand Genetics, especially "Cells and DNA" and "How Genes Work."
• Genetically Modified Organisms: Editing Genes with CRISPR-Cas.
• Foundations of Molecular Cloning: Past, Present, and Future.
• Explore additional resources such as Larry Gonick’s Cartoon Guide to Genetics.

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 genetics, biotechnology, or agricultural sciences. You will develop critical skills in gene editing, cloning, and biotechnology tools, which are highly valuable in fields like biotechnology, healthcare, and environmental science.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research on biotechnology-related topics.
• Engage in debates and discussions on the ethical, social, and scientific implications of biotechnology.

The course is designed to develop both academic knowledge and hands-on understanding of how biotechnology and genetics are applied to solve real-world challenges.

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.