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 methods in ethnography and material culture, with topics inspired by the University of Oxford's Anthropology curriculum.

Week 1: Foundations of Sociology & Anthropology (Example)

• Introduction and history of anthropology and sociology.
• Research methods in social sciences.
• Social relations and participant observation.
• Engaging with museum collections (Pitt Rivers Museum).
• Essay writing skills.

Week 2: Identity, Material Culture, and Research (Example)

• The construction of identity.
• Conducting research in material culture.
• Reflexivity in social science research.
• Presentation of findings through mini-ethnographic videos.

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 key sociological and anthropological concepts, including identity, social relations, and ethnography.
• Learn how to conduct independent research using qualitative methods.
• Explore the importance of material culture and museum collections in social science research.
• Develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and presenting research.

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:

• Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum website: Pitt Rivers Museum
• Watch films and read articles on anthropology: Discover Anthropology
• Optional extension: Write a 500-word analysis of an object from the museum collection.

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 sociology, anthropology, or social sciences. You will develop critical skills in research, analysis, and presentation—essential for careers in academia, cultural institutions, or international development.

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

You are not required to have prior knowledge of sociology or anthropology, but you are expected to:

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and assignments.
• Engage in discussions on social relations, identity, and material culture.

The course is designed to foster an inquisitive approach to social sciences, encouraging students to explore complex ideas through research and interactive learning.

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.