PPE
Join the PPE summer school at the award-winning Oxford Summer Courses in 2026. Hosted in historic Oxford colleges for ambitious 16–17-year-olds, each class is limited to just 8 places. Apply now to secure your place.
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Learning
Outline
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) is designed for 16–17-year-olds who want to explore the connections between these three major fields. Students will study key topics in political theory, ethics, international relations, and economics, developing a deep understanding of how these disciplines influence the world. They’ll engage in critical thinking and discussion about global governance, theories of justice, and behavioural economics. We don’t follow a fixed curriculum—our tutors tailor the course to the group’s interests, making learning engaging and relevant. The course includes tutorial Q&A sessions, an academic skills masterclass, expert speakers, and visits to different Oxford colleges for a well-rounded experience. We also offer opportunities to explore future career pathways and attend a university fair
Teaching methodology
Learn the Oxford way with tutorial-style teaching. Your expert tutor will foster self-directed learning and critical thinking through interactive seminars in small groups (no bigger than 8). During your course, you will complete two pieces of independent work (essays or problem sheets), which your tutor will then evaluate in either a 1:1 or 2:1 tutorial. Tutorials will provide you with the opportunity to discuss your work and feedback with your tutor and learn new perspectives from your classmates. On completion of the course, you'll receive a certificate and letter of recommendation from your tutor.
The city of Oxford, with nearly 1,000 years of academic history, has been associated with influential philosophers such as John Locke, Isaiah Berlin, and Mary Midgley. As part of the 16–17 Philosophy programme, you’ll live in a city shaped by debate, reflection, and new ideas. The city of Oxford provides an inspiring backdrop for learning, with its historic colleges, rich traditions, and long-standing culture of intellectual inquiry.
Accommodation is in single or twin rooms, depending on the tier. Plus lets you choose single or twin; Superior guarantees an ensuite; Premier provides concierge-selected rooms. All include shared spaces and on-course staff support.
Meals are half-board (breakfast and dinner), served in college dining halls or selected local restaurants, with students arranging their own lunch. All dietary requirements are catered for.
The Oxford Summer Courses Experience
Get ready to engage with the fundamental ideas that shape society. On our PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) course for ages 16–17, you’ll explore the core concepts and debates in each of these three interconnected disciplines. From examining moral philosophy and political theory to understanding economic principles and global issues, you’ll develop critical thinking and analytical skills needed to tackle complex problems. With no fixed curriculum, you’re encouraged to share your interests when you apply, and our expert tutors will tailor the course to reflect those passions wherever possible.
Experience the unique tutorial-style teaching Oxford is known for. Your tutor will foster self-directed learning and critical thinking through interactive seminars in small groups (no bigger than 8). You’ll complete two pieces of independent work (essays or problem sheets), which your tutor will then evaluate in either a 1:1 or 2:1 tutorial. These tutorials offer the opportunity for in-depth discussion and feedback from both your tutor and peers.
Beyond the classroom, enjoy a full summer programme — including social events, excursions to Oxford’s cultural landmarks, and a final graduation ceremony with a celebratory bop. With small class sizes and personalised support, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the material, while also making lasting memories with new friends. It’s a summer of intellectual discovery, personal growth, and exciting new experiences.
Typical outings
Dates & Prices
- Teaching: Academic tuition.
- Meals: Full board includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Sunday to Thursday. Friday includes breakfast only, and Saturday no meals are provided.
- Accommodation: Housing in Resa Vallehermoso.
- Extracurricular Activities & Excursions: Included activities and excursions are available every afternoon, evening, and throughout the weekend.
- Transportation: Transportation for included activities.
- Use of Athletic and Recreation Facilities: Access to athletic and recreation facilities during the program.
- Safety & Supervision: Safety and supervision are provided for students throughout the course.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Concierge helps select the best available option.
- Certificate: Framed, signed (wet signature).
- Customer Service: Enhanced (OxSC concierge).
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only. No time restrictions.).
- Insurance: Platinum coverage (top-level protection on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Included (1 session).
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Guaranteed ensuite room.
- Certificate: Paper.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Enhanced coverage (higher limits on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Select your preferred single or twin room.
- Certificate: Paper.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Standard coverage (cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discounts: Not included.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Since spaces are limited, once a course is full, we are unable to accept additional students. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.