Natural sciences

Explore natural phenomena with Oxford University

Short courses in Oxford and online

Our courses in the natural sciences include biology, physics, astronomy and earth science, with some overlap into the medical and environmental sciences. Courses might be hands-on or philosophical, and might address topics as diverse as climate change, particle physics, animal behaviour, the universe or the brain. 

Many of our short courses can be studied for credit, which means they can count towards a recognised qualification such as our Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education.

The video below was filmed during a past day school (Animals as Inventors) and is an example of what students can expect from our face-to-face classes. Presented by Dr Thomas Hesselberg, Director of Studies in Biological Sciences at the Department.


Upcoming courses

Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
  • Mon 08 Jan 2024 – 17 Mar 2024
  • 10 meetings
Online - flexible • Short courses
  • Wed 10 Jan 2024 – 22 Mar 2024
Online - live • Short courses
  • Fri 12 Jan 2024 – 22 Mar 2024
  • 11 meetings
  • 3:00 – 4:00pm
Online - flexible • Short courses
  • Mon 15 Jan 2024 – 05 Apr 2024
Online - flexible • Short courses
  • Wed 17 Jan 2024 – 05 Apr 2024