International Relations & Diplomacy Summer School

This programme is designed for bright, ambitious students seeking to spark a new interest or deepen an existing passion in International Relations & Global Diplomacy with a group of like-minded peers. Students do not need to be certain that they want to follow a degree or career in the field. They just need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn new things.

Previous subject knowledge is not essential. While this course provides an excellent addition to advanced study of politics or modern history at school, it also forms a great introduction to the formal study of International Relations & Global Diplomacy, and the subjects which come under its umbrella including politics and geography. Thanks to small class sizes and personalised feedback, students are supported while they encounter new ideas and academic challenges.

The course is highly academic. It is designed to stretch and challenge ambitious students by introducing them to university-level concepts and teaching styles, while offering them lots of opportunities to put this learning into practice. Students are introduced to concepts which expand their intellectual horizons and push them to new limits, all within a supportive environment led by expert tutors.

The course is excellent preparation for studying International Relations & Global Diplomacy or a related subject at university. Students gain skills and knowledge which they would not have ordinarily encountered at school, putting them in a strong position to craft a compelling application. Students have the opportunity to ask their tutors and industry professionals for application advice. They also receive a certificate, grades and a report which make excellent supporting materials for a strong university application.

The course complements academic rigour with hands-on experience, bringing learning to life and consolidating new skills. Through activities like simulated international relations conferences and crisis management workshops, students experience life as a professional in global relations. As well as providing an opportunity to develop an excellent portfolio of skills, this hands-on experience helps students to make informed decisions about their future careers.

A typical morning involves a lecture and two seminars or workshops. In the afternoon students have another extended workshop or practical session. The rest of the day is spent socialising with friends during activities, enjoying delicious meals in inspiring campus settings and exploring the city.

The programme takes place in one of two inspiring campuses in the historic colleges of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Whichever location they choose, students have access to university-level facilities and teaching spaces.

Classes are designed to be small, with a maximum of 12 students for close interaction and discussion. By teaching in small groups, we ensure that each student has a personalised relationship with their tutor. This means they receive high-quality constructive feedback and any support they need in class. It also means that students bond with their classmates, creating a friendly atmosphere in which students get involved and ask questions with confidence.

Our students come from all over the world. Since our first summer school in 2004, we have welcomed students from over 175 countries. They speak a wide range of languages and come from a wide range of backgrounds, creating a vibrant community perfect for international students.

At the end of the course, students receive a graduation pack which contains a certificate acknowledging their academic achievements during the course. They also receive a personalised report and detailed grades.