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 international relations.

Week 1: Theoretical Perspectives & the Global Order (Example)

• Realism and neorealism.
• Liberalism and institutionalism.
• Constructivism.
• The balance of power, collective security, and causes of WWI & WWII.

Week 2: Human Rights & Contemporary Issues (Example)

• Human rights and norm formation.
• Humanitarian intervention.
• Terrorism.
• Transnational issues: the environment and global health.

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:

• Develop a strong understanding of major theories in international relations, including realism, liberalism, and constructivism.
• Explore case studies on global conflicts, human rights, and transnational issues.
• Build skills in critical thinking, argument formulation, and essay writing.
• Understand the balance of power and its role in major world conflicts like WWI, WWII, and contemporary issues.

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:

• Watch the YouTube video: Steve Smith on Bringing International Relations Theory to Life.
• Read Karen Mingst and Ivan Arreguín-Toft’s Approaches to International Relations from Essentials of International Relations (2017).
• Optional: Stephen Walt, International Relations: One World, Many Theories.

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 international relations, politics, or global studies. You will develop analytical skills in understanding global conflicts, human rights, and international policies—valuable for careers in diplomacy, international organisations, or government roles.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and essay assignments.
• Engage in debates and discussions on global conflicts, human rights, and contemporary international issues.

The course is designed to develop critical thinking and argumentation skills while deepening your understanding of global politics.

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.