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 public relations, public diplomacy, and the role of media in shaping foreign policy.

Week 1: Public Relations, Public Diplomacy, and War (Example)

• Introduction to public relations and public diplomacy.
• Historical examples and tools used in war propaganda.
• Study of the role of PR in influencing public opinion on international relations.

Week 2: The Power of Words and Mass Media in International Relations (Example)

• Analysis of the mass media’s role in shaping international policy and diplomacy.
• Public relations and diplomacy in the age of the internet.
• Discussion on “fake news,” “post-truth,” and mass surveillance in modern media.

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 role of public relations and diplomacy in shaping international relations.
• Develop a critical understanding of the relationship between mass media and foreign policy.
• Learn about historical examples of propaganda and modern media’s influence on public opinion.
• Gain skills in analysing public relations strategies and their impact on global governance.

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 BBC documentary The Century of the Self (Link to Documentary)

Read:

• Propaganda for War: The Campaign Against American Neutrality, 1914-1917 by H.C. Peterson (University of Oklahoma Press)
• Public Diplomacy in the Age of the Internet (various articles accessible via academic databases)

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, political science, or media studies. You will develop skills in public relations analysis and media strategy, which are valuable for careers in diplomacy, journalism, or global policy-making.

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 or media studies, but you are expected to:

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions on media’s influence on foreign policy and international relations.

The course is designed to foster critical thinking and analysis, helping students explore the complex relationship between media, diplomacy, and public relations.

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.