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
Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
This five-day course provides a thorough overview of the exciting and emerging discipline of nanomedicine, which is already starting to transform the way that medical and health care solutions are developed and delivered.
- Mon 20 Mar 2023 – 24 Mar 2023
In-person day/weekend • Short courses
A wide-ranging introduction to this inspiring subject. Peter Sheldon will cover how fossils get preserved, an overview of the history of life, mass extinctions and evolutionary radiations, with a chance to study many real fossils in the teaching room.
- Sat 15 Apr 2023
- 9:15am – 5:15pm
In-person day/weekend • Short courses
A wide-ranging introduction to this inspiring subject. Peter Sheldon will cover how fossils get preserved, an overview of the history of life, mass extinctions and evolutionary radiations, with a chance to study many real fossils in the teaching room.
- Sun 16 Apr 2023
- 9:15am – 5:15pm
Online - live • Short courses
Climate affects the planning of our daily activities. Its variability also inflicts damage on individuals and entire economies and societies. We will explore how climate varies, in the past, present and future, and how this impacts on society.
- Tue 18 Apr 2023 – 27 Jun 2023
- 11 meetings
- 11:00am – 12:00pm
Online - flexible • Short courses
Why do animals behave the way they do? In this course we will look at the full range of behaviours found in the animal kingdom, from simple escape behaviours to complex tool use and their evolution.
- Wed 19 Apr 2023 – 30 Jun 2023
Related subjects and student spotlights
Environment and sustainability
Courses in the environment, sustainability, urbanism, wildlife conservation and ecology - whether your interest is professional or personal.Ecological survey techniques
Flexible postgraduate and online courses in ecological survey techniques for professionals working in field surveysMedical and health sciences
Postgraduate qualifications, short courses, part-time study and online courses in medical and health sciences