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 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
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
Online - flexible • Short courses
Investigate the power of maps and spatial data to document and illustrate local and global issues. Learn how to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the world around you and share ideas.
- Wed 11 Sep 2024 – 22 Nov 2024
Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
This five-day course introduces physical scientists, engineers and non-scientists to biological systems and terminology relevant to nanotechnology, and showcases current applications and new developments in bionanotechnology.
- Mon 07 Oct 2024 – 11 Oct 2024