Natural Sciences

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 interdisciplinary aspects of natural sciences.

Week 1: Material & Biological Properties of Bone (Example)

• Structure and composition of bone.
• Stress, strain, and Young’s modulus.
• Formation and resorption in response to the environment.
• Rule of mixtures for fiber composites.
• Strength, elasticity, and toughness.

Week 2: Biomaterials for Hip Implants (Example)

• Reasons for bone replacement.
• Structure of hip implants.
• Materials selection for hip implants.
• Journal club: Future challenges and potential solutions.
• Biomaterials in nature.

Note: This is an example structure. The actual content may vary depending 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 interdisciplinary approach of natural sciences through the study of biomaterials.
• Gain knowledge of the structure, function, and material properties of bone and biomaterials.
• Explore real-world applications of biomaterials in medical fields, such as hip implants.
• Develop skills in critical thinking, scientific research, and practical application.

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

What materials should I prepare before the course starts?Students are encouraged to do pre-course preparation to maximise their learning. Suggested resources include:

• Read Stuff Matters by Mark Miodownik, which explores the science behind everyday materials.
• Optional: Familiarise yourself with the DoITPoMS TLP structure of bone and implant materials: DoITPoMS TLP.

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 natural sciences, biomedical engineering, or materials science. You will develop key skills in interdisciplinary research, scientific analysis, and practical problem-solving—valuable for careers in scientific research, healthcare, or engineering.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions on biomaterials, bone structure, and their applications in medicine.

The course is designed to enhance your understanding of interdisciplinary scientific research while developing your practical skills in applying science to real-world problems.

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.

Since spaces are limited, once a course is full, we are unable to accept additional students. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.

We recommend applying as soon as possible. Spaces are in high demand, and many courses fill up well in advance. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of securing your preferred course dates and accommodation type.

Each course has a limited number of spaces available across multiple accommodation options—Plus, Superior, and Premier. With two-week courses running from 29 June to 30 August 2025, we recommend securing your spot early as spaces fill up quickly.

Courses begin on 29 June 2025, with two-week courses running until 30 August 2025. Spaces are already filling up fast, so apply now to avoid missing out.