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, focusing on understanding different moral theories and philosophical argumentation.

Week 1: What is Morality? (Example)

• Explore definitions of morality.
• Analyze key theories:
• Divine Command Theory
• Utilitarianism
• Deontology
• Discuss philosophers associated with these theories.

Week 2: Constructing Arguments (Example)

• Learn how to construct philosophical arguments.
• Practice articulating your own moral perspective.
• Explore which version of morality you find most compelling.

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:

• Gain an understanding of different views on morality, including Divine Command Theory, Utilitarianism, and Deontology.
• Learn how to analyze philosophical arguments and construct well-reasoned viewpoints.
• Improve debating and critical thinking skills by exploring key philosophical texts and discussions.
• Develop essay writing skills through tutorial work on complex philosophical 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 videos on moral philosophy:
• The Trolley Problem YouTube link
• The Child and the Shoes YouTube link
• Read John Rawls' The Veil of Ignorance from A Theory of Justice.
• Optional: Write a 500-word summary of Rawls’ text.

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 philosophy, ethics, or law. You will develop skills in critical thinking, argument construction, and ethical reasoning, which are valuable for careers in law, politics, academia, and public policy.

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

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

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions about moral theories and philosophical problems.
• The course is designed to help you develop your philosophical thinking and argumentation skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.

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.