How our short courses work

Join us online or in Oxford
Explore a new topic or revisit a favourite subject over a few days, a few weeks or a term. Our short courses run in person or online, with some offered in both formats – so you can choose the study option best for you.
- Online (Live) courses combine online course materials you can explore in your own time with a weekly live video webinar led by an expert tutor. You will therefore expect to commit to a 1-hour meeting at the same time every week
- Online (Flexible) courses have no live meetings. You study structured online course materials and do not have to be online at any specific time. You will be led through the course on a week-by-week schedule by your expert tutor, but you access the course according to your own schedule
- In-person events require attendance in Oxford and have no online components. These include weekly classes, day events and weekend schools.
- Hybrid teaching events are livestreamed from Oxford and include lecture series, day events and weekend schools. You can choose to join either in person or online.
Upcoming courses
Summer schools • Short courses
Explore how global organisations like the UN and ICC respond to political crises and warfare, and examine the power dynamics, legal challenges, and state influence shaping international diplomacy in times of conflict.
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 – 02 Aug 2025
Summer schools • Short courses
Explore how the world’s most powerful intelligence agencies have failed to prevent surprise attacks, from 9/11 to October 7th, using real-world case studies and academic theories. Taught by Andrew Badger, a veteran of the US Intelligence Community (IC).
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 – 02 Aug 2025
Summer schools • Short courses
Drawing on the city of Oxford’s role in the history of pharmaceuticals, technology, philanthropy, hospitals and healthcare systems, this summer school will provide an introduction to medical and healthcare history in Britain since the 17th century.
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 – 02 Aug 2025
Summer schools • Short courses
Ever wondered why a liberal revolt in France ended in abject terror? Why the shadow of the guillotine continues to hang over politics today? If so join our course exploring the fascinating and nature of the French revolution’s descent into terror.
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 – 02 Aug 2025
Summer schools • Short courses
Flash fiction is a complete story told in 1000 words or fewer. Join us for a week of writing, experimenting and honing your writerly craft – and discover why flash fiction is the ideal form for beginners and seasoned writers alike.
- Sun 27 Jul 2025 – 02 Aug 2025
Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
Explore the fascinating intersection of psychology and culinary arts in this online course, focusing on how food affects emotional regulation, mental health, and well-being. Join experts in culinary psychology from Oxford and Harvard University.
- Wed 03 Sep 2025 – 22 Oct 2025
- 2:00 – 6:00pm