Short open-access courses

Part-time learning at Oxford University – online and in Oxford

Start your learning journey at Oxford Continuing Education, at any time of life! You’ll join a highly diverse learning community: students of all ages, from all backgrounds and from all over the world. 

Our open-access short courses have no entry requirements. Some courses are as short as one or two days and involve no coursework; others let you study in depth over several weeks, and can be taken for credit.

View all Oxford Continuing Education short open-access courses – or learn more about the different types of courses we offer below.

Day and weekend events

Our rich programme of more than 100 single day events and weekend schools allow you to explore a topic without committing to a longer course. These run in person or online, with some offered in both formats. Larger events are livestreamed, and allow you the flexibility of joining us in person or online. All are non-assessed and don't require coursework. Learn more about our day and weekend events.

Weekly learning courses

Explore a favourite topic in depth by joining a class that meets weekly for one or two terms. These include courses that meet in Oxford, online courses with live-time sessions, and flexible online courses. Most require coursework and may be studied for credit. Our weekly learning classes start in autumn, winter, spring and summer and there are more than 400 to choose from. Learn more about our weekly learning courses.

Lecture series

Structured as a series of 5 or 6 weekly lectures with Q&A, our lecture series offer you a comprehensive introduction to your chosen subject, with no coursework to do. All can be enjoyed online via a livestream. The majority can also be attended in person at Rewley House, Oxford. (If joining us in Oxford, tea and coffee is provided before or after each lecture.) Learn more about our lecture series.

Summer schools

Join us for a study holiday in Oxford – for personal enrichment, academic progression or professional development. Many summer schools can be taken for credit; others require no coursework, and are non-assessed.