- +44 7391 388154
- admin@oxsummerschools.co.uk
Join us at the stunning Magdalen College & St Edmund Hall for the Oxford Academic Summer School, where tradition meets excellence in an inspiring setting. We have been running this Academic Summer School since 1978 with North American Universities, building on strong relationships with institutions on both sides of the Atlantic to deliver a world class educational experience in the heart of Oxford. Since our relocation from St Peter’s College in 2010, we have cultivated a vibrant international community supported by our partner institutions, offering an unparalleled educational experience. Founded in 1458, Magdalen College is one of Oxford’s oldest and most architecturally magnificent colleges, featuring the iconic Magdalen Bridge and serene water meadows that provide a picturesque backdrop for your studies and explorations. St Edmund Hall is even older, founded 1278. For more than 40 years, our summer schools have given students first-hand experience of Oxford’s distinctive tutorial approach: interactive learning in small groups led by experienced academics from Oxford and other leading universities.
Rather than narrow, single-discipline classes, our curriculum lets you build a pathway across literature, language, history, and the environment to explore courses from rich classic authors, language, contemporary adaptations from page to screen, the rich medieval heritage of Oxford through to global risk, climate change, landscapes and sustainability around the U.N Sustainable Development Goals. Choose from themed options, mix methods, and develop the transversal thinking needed to analyse real-world questions. We bring learning to life through robust themes; Literature & Culture, Language & Society, Medieval Studies; Architecture and tradition, both historical and modern day Environment & Sustainability.
Working in small groups with peers from varied backgrounds, you’ll connect close reading, historical context, and contemporary debates to tackle complex, interdisciplinary problems.
A residential programme for students aged 18+ who are:
Currently studying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or Recent graduates seeking rigorous academic enrichment.
Small-group tutorials & seminars echoing the Oxford tradition with between 20-25 hours of class time and 40 hours of field based learning.
Guided readings, structured preparation, and short assignments.
A research project (individual or in a team of 2–3) with targeted support in project design, academic writing, and presentation.
Personalised feedback at each stage to build critical thinking, methodological rigour, and scholarly communication.
Five weeks, 4th July–8th August 2026.
Designed to deliver intensive, high-level academic engagement within a supportive cohort environment.
A proven programme running successfully since 1978.
Direct exposure to Oxford’s tutorial-style learning in small groups.
Cross-disciplinary themes that sharpen analysis of complex global issues.
A welcoming, international community and an unforgettable learning experience.
Outcomes & certification
You’ll finish with a Certificate of Attendance and an academic report detailing your engagement and assessed work—including your research project—providing clear evidence of performance for future applications.
Stay in the historic heart of the University city at Magdalen College and St Edmund Hall.
Single study bedrooms and full board.
Academic skills workshops, multidisciplinary discussions, and guest lectures from distinguished speakers.
A full social programme: curated visits around Oxford’s libraries, museums, and colleges, plus excursions
A formal celebratory dinner each Monday night with guest speakers during the programme including farewell banquet.
Our summer program is built on over four decades of collaboration with universities around the world. We offer undergraduate courses in English Literature, Environmental Studies, and Medieval Studies, along with Professional Courses developed in partnership with esteemed faculty. At the heart of our curriculum are weekly tutorials, where small groups of 1-5 students engage in in-depth discussions with experienced tutors. This personalised approach, combined with seminars and keynote lectures, ensures a rich and dynamic learning environment. Students also enjoy access to the world-renowned Bodleian Library, enhancing their academic experience.
Beyond coursework, students participate in weekly interdisciplinary lectures covering a wide range of topics—from current affairs to cultural issues—delivered by distinguished speakers. These engaging sessions foster broader discussions and enrich the overall learning experience. Our program also includes exciting field visits to explore Britain’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, with day trips and a four-day residential excursion to Wales, including a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The location of Magdalen College allows for easy access to a multitude of fascinating destinations. Enjoy your weekends exploring nearby cities like London, Edinburgh, and even vibrant European capitals like Paris and Rome, all within a few hours’ travel.
In addition to academic pursuits, our summer school encourages students to engage with the rich cultural offerings of Oxford. Experience open-air theatre in the college gardens, concerts at the Sheldonian Theatre, and leisurely punting on the River Cherwell. The vibrant social scene includes evenings in historic pubs and events that foster connections with fellow students from around the globe. Join us at the Oxford Summer School and immerse yourself in an unforgettable summer of learning, exploration, and cultural enrichment at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to broaden your horizons and elevate your academic journey!
Download our Full 2026 A4 Brochure Here
© Oxford Academic Summer School Tours Ltd: for 2026, Oxford Summer School at Magdalen College, University of Oxford
We offer great services to our clients
Magdalen College
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Donec eros elit, pretium et adipiscing vel, consectetur adipiscing elit.
See All Features