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
A wide-ranging introduction to evolution from a geological viewpoint. Topics include evolutionary processes, evidence from fossils, extinction and an overview of the evolution of life, with a chance to study many real fossils in the teaching room.
- Sat 06 Apr 2024
- 9:15am – 5:15pm
In-person day/weekend • Short courses
A wide-ranging introduction to evolution from a geological viewpoint. Topics include evolutionary processes, evidence from fossils, extinction and an overview of the evolution of life, with a chance to study many real fossils in the teaching room.
- Sun 07 Apr 2024
- 9:15am – 5:15pm
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 17 Apr 2024 – 28 Jun 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 17 Apr 2024 – 28 Jun 2024
Online - live • Short courses
Introduction to the Energy Transition is a course that covers an increasingly important issue with respect to climate change, ecology, energy policies, supply disruption, and competition for energy.
- Fri 19 Apr 2024 – 28 Jun 2024
- 11 meetings
- 10:30 – 11:30am