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
In-person weekly • Short courses
Develop a practical understanding of geological landscapes in Oxfordshire and adjacent counties. See the rock outcrops and learn techniques for geological fieldwork by visiting geological localities within driving distance of Oxford.
- Tue 07 May 2024 – Tue 11 Jun 2024
- 6 meetings
- 10:30am – 12:30pm
In-person day/weekend • Short courses
Insects are everywhere, but we often don’t fully appreciate their fascinating natural history. During this day, you will learn more about the insects in our county including the many ways in which they benefit us and our ecosystems.
- Sat 01 Jun 2024
- 9:45am – 5:00pm
Summer schools • Short courses
The eternal fascination of artists, scientists, film-makers and writers alike, we explore the myriad manifestations of humankind’s engagement with time, from scratches on stone to the Theory of Relativity, from art-house cinema to the metaphysical novel.
- Sun 30 Jun 2024 – 06 Jul 2024
Summer schools • Short courses
This course will introduce some of the main cellular structures, and their function in human cells. We will explore how the normal “happy” cell maintains a healthy body, concluding with a discussion about advances in cell biology.
- Sun 30 Jun 2024 – 06 Jul 2024
Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
This five-day course provides an overview of the regulatory, financial, clinical and commercial challenges faced by those wishing to bring innovative nanotechnologies to market.
- Mon 01 Jul 2024 – 05 Jul 2024
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