The Oxford Social Sciences Summer Schools offer an immersive educational experience for young adults aged 18 to 25, focusing on critical disciplines within the social sciences. Hosted by esteemed institutions such as Lady Margaret Hall at the University of Oxford, Oxford Royale, and Oxford Summer Courses, these programs are designed to cultivate analytical skills and foster intellectual engagement. Participants will explore contemporary issues, engage with expert faculty, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their understanding of social dynamics and informed citizenship.
Oxford offers a focused set of Social Sciences summer programmes for Adults, providing early exposure to structured study and subject-specific development.
Teaching in Oxford’s summer schools emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches within social sciences. Instructors typically draw from a wealth of research and practical experience, offering students insight into contemporary social issues such as inequality, governance, and cultural dynamics. This contrasts with many traditional educational settings that often rely on standardized curricula and rote memorization. Instead, the pedagogical focus here encourages active engagement, analytical discussions, and the application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
The structure of summer schools in Oxford promotes a balanced rhythm of intensive study and independent exploration. Class sessions are often interactive, fostering an environment where students collaborate and challenge each other’s viewpoints. While guided by knowledgeable faculty, participants are also encouraged to delve into independent research projects, enhancing their learning experience. This blend of collaborative and autonomous work cultivates a dynamic classroom atmosphere that is both stimulating and supportive, providing a rich educational journey.
Targeted at adults aged 18 to 25, these summer schools cater to a demographic eager to deepen their understanding of social sciences. Participants typically possess a foundational knowledge of the subject, whether through prior study or personal interest. The environment is designed to challenge and engage this age group, promoting a mature discourse that reflects their academic and experiential backgrounds.
What distinguishes these summer schools in Oxford is their integration of academic rigor with a globally recognized scholarly environment. Students benefit from the city’s rich intellectual heritage, gaining access to a network of thought leaders and a diverse peer group. This setting encourages dialogue across different cultural and academic perspectives, enhancing personal growth and expanding critical viewpoints. Unlike many other educational offerings, the unique atmosphere of Oxford fosters a depth of engagement that significantly enriches the learning experience.
Fees vary by provider and course.
When you’re ready, you can browse providers or compare courses that match your interests.
Last updated: 27/01/2026
| Course | Provider | Subject | Location | Duration | Fees | Short Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Futures: Solutions to Environmental Challenges (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Climate & Sustainability, Social Sciences, Sciences | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,595 | The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful research project related to the Environmental crisis. At the same time, the instructor will propose a range of topics students might wish to concentrate on. | View |
| Pre-University Preparation Medicine | Bucksmore Education | Medicine, Sciences, Psychology, Neuroscience, Exam Preparation, University Preparation | Oxford | 2 or 4 weeks | 3195 | This programme prepares students to excel in their chosen subjects within the highly competitive higher education environment. Students choose one university-level subject taught at a first-year undergraduate level. | View |
| Mathematics in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Mathematics, STEM, Sciences, Economics | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Solve complex equations in Oxford, following in the footsteps of world-renowned mathematicians. | View |
| Politics (The Oxford Summer Seminar) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 1 or 2 weeks | $3,995 for one session; $7,395 for the combined session | What goals and methodologies, if any, do politicians around the world share? To what extent are politicians able to change contemporary society? | View |
| Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy | Oxford Scholastica Academy | Psychology, Neuroscience, Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Fascinated by the human mind, thought and behaviour? If you’re thinking of studying psychology, this course will give you a great head start. | View |
| Explore Law (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Law, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Oxford Royale’s Explore Law Summer School in Oxford offers students aged 12–15 an immersive introduction to UK law. Through expert-led classes, mock trials, debates, and investigations, students gain foundational legal knowledge and skills. | View |
| Computational Psychology and Artificial Intelligence | Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford | Psychology, Neuroscience, Artificial Intelligence, Sciences, STEM | Oxford | 3 Weeks | 4384 | How does the brain process information, make decisions, and learn? Computational Psychologists seek to answer these questions by using algorithms and mathematical models to simulate and analyse the mechanisms behind mental processes. | View |
| Future Global Leader at Headington Oxford | Summer Boarding Courses | International Relations, Leadership, Business, Social Sciences, Economics | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 4595 | Future Global Leaders is a two-week programme for students who want to understand power, politics and influence in an international context. You’ll study how governments work, how global organisations respond to crises, and how leaders build trust and authority. | View |
| International Relations in a Post-Unipolar World (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,595 | The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful International Relations research project. At the same time, the instructor will propose a range of topics students might wish to concentrate on. | View |
| International Law and Politics in the 21st Century (Adults) | Oxford Royale | International Relations, Politics, Law, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of international law and global governance, exploring critical issues like human rights, conflict, and the environment. Learn from subject experts and international peers through hands-on projects, workshops, and masterclasses. | View |
| Politics, Philosophy and Economics (The Oxford Experience) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Politics, Economics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,495 | Oxford's famous undergraduate degree, Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE), is adapted for our students. They examine the governing institutions and policies of modern Britain and contrast the British, American, European, and East Asian approaches to the challenges of government. | View |
| Psychology (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Psychology, Social Sciences, Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Psychology summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| International Relations and Politics (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | International Relations, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The International Relations and Politics summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Philosophy (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Philosophy, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Philosophy summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Neuropsychology (The Oxford Tradition) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Neuroscience, Psychology, Sciences | Oxford | 2 or 4 weeks | $7,395 for one session; $12,595 for combined session | Using cognitive, experimental, and clinical approaches, students explore the structure and function of the brain as it relates to cognitive process and behavior. Students address the principles of neuroscience, neurology, and psychiatry, learn select diagnostic techniques, and study brain injuries and mental disorders. | View |
| Engineering in Oxford for Ages 13-15 | Immerse Education | Engineering, STEM, Sciences | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Discover engineering principles in Oxford, where innovation meets centuries of scientific tradition. | View |
| Chemistry (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Chemistry, Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Chemistry summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £5,495 for Non Residential option. | View |
| Biology in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Biology, Sciences, Medicine | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Unravel life's complexities in Oxford, home to groundbreaking biological research and discovery. | View |
| Engineering in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Engineering, STEM, Sciences | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Push engineering boundaries in Oxford, a city known for its contributions to technological advancement. | View |
| Pre-University Mathematics | Bucksmore Education | Mathematics, STEM, Engineering, Computer Science, Sciences | Oxford | 2 or 4 weeks | 3195 | This programme prepares students to excel in their chosen subjects within the highly competitive higher education environment. Students choose one university-level subject taught at a first-year undergraduate level. | View |