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 foundational computer science concepts, algorithms, and theory.

Week 1: Algorithms and Encryption (Example)

• Algorithms and complexity.
• Integer arithmetic and Euclid’s algorithm.
• Modular arithmetic, primes, and factorisation.
• Modern encryption techniques: Diffie-Hellman and Public Key Cryptography.

Week 2: Theoretical Foundations of Computing (Example)

• Turing machines and basic arithmetic.
• Decidability and the universal machine.
• The halting problem and its implications.

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 core computer science concepts such as algorithms, encryption, and Turing machines.
• Learn how to implement algorithms in Octave (or other programming languages).
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to both theory and practice.
• Gain foundational knowledge in computational theory and its real-world applications.

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:

• Install Octave on your laptop and familiarise yourself with its user manual. You can download Octave here: GNU Octave.
• Optional: Look over chapters 1 and 2 of the Octave user manual and try simple examples to familiarise yourself with the software: Octave User Manual.

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 computer science, artificial intelligence, or software engineering. You will develop both theoretical and practical skills, including algorithm development and encryption techniques, which are essential for careers in technology, research, and development.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions on algorithms, computational theory, and encryption techniques.

The course is designed to foster critical thinking and technical skills through active participation and hands-on programming exercises.

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.