The Oxford Social Sciences Summer Schools provide an opportunity for teenagers aged 13 to 18 to engage with critical social science topics in an intellectually stimulating environment. Participants will explore various disciplines such as sociology, psychology, and political science, guided by experienced educators and industry professionals. These programs aim to foster analytical thinking and enhance understanding of contemporary social issues, preparing students for future academic pursuits.
Oxford offers a focused set of Social Sciences summer programmes for 13-15, providing early exposure to structured study and subject-specific development.
The teaching approach in Oxford’s summer schools for social sciences emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world application. Students engage with themes such as sociology, psychology, and political science, fostering a well-rounded understanding of societal structures and human behavior. This contrasts with typical school provision, which often prioritizes rote learning and standardized curricula. The summer school environment encourages discussion, debate, and collaboration, allowing students to explore complex issues in depth and develop their analytical skills in a dynamic setting.
A typical day in these programmes features a blend of interactive lectures, group discussions, and independent research projects. This structure cultivates an engaging classroom atmosphere where students feel empowered to voice their opinions and challenge perspectives. Independent work is balanced with collaborative activities, ensuring that participants not only absorb knowledge but also apply it in practical contexts. Overall, students experience a rich educational journey that promotes personal growth and intellectual curiosity, far removed from conventional classroom settings.
Designed for students aged 13 to 15, these programmes cater to young learners eager to delve into social sciences. Participants typically possess a foundational understanding of social concepts and are encouraged to build upon this knowledge in a supportive environment. Expectations include active engagement and a willingness to explore diverse viewpoints, which together foster a collaborative learning experience.
The uniqueness of these summer schools lies in their integration of academic rigor with the vibrant cultural context of Oxford. Unlike many summer programmes that may offer a more generalized approach, the focus here is explicitly on social sciences, complemented by the city’s rich intellectual heritage. This environment not only enhances the learning experience but also inspires students by connecting theoretical knowledge to historical and contemporary issues within society.
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 |