This summer programme is an excellent opportunity for university undergraduates to earn credits to transfer to their home degree. What better way to improve your grades and advance in your studies than to take courses in the city of Oxford. Students can choose to take either one or two courses, earning 3 or 6 credits.

To apply for this programme please complete this application form giving your course choices and deposit. Contact us for more detailed information about the programme or any questions you may have about enrolment. Email manuela.williams@stclares.ac.uk or call +44 1865 517707.

The subjects we offer during the 4 week programme are listed below. Take a look at the course summaries and make your choice.

Oxford Art and Architecture (art history, 3 credits)

This course is designed to give students an opportunity to explore the direction and nature of change in the built environment of Oxford, a city famed for its architectural beauty and history. There is a continuous tradition of civic, ecclesiastical and collegiate architecture spanning almost a thousand years. This is the background to any proposed conservation or change in the city. The topics to be explored include the range of period styles and diversity of building types to be found in the city. From these students will focus in on a particular architect, building, collection, or individual work of art for further independent study in greater depth.

English Civil War (history, 3 credits)

This course aims to introduce students to the first English Civil War (1642-1646), a conflict between Royalists and Parliamentarians. We will examine the parallel issues and events at a national and local level, emphasizing the causes, course and consequences of this critical 17th century struggle. Oxford was the Royalist capital and, therefore, this area is rich in study visits. Extensive use will be made of local resources.

Terrorism (politics, 3 credits)

This course considers various definitions of the concept of terrorism. It traces the historical antecedence of the phenomenon, considers its motivations, organizational structures, and support networks, and evaluates the response of liberal democratic states and the world community in confronting terrorism. Philosophical and moral issues are explored and illustrated with up-to-date practical, political examples.

European Ideas: Enlightenment to Romanticism (philosophy, 3 credits)

This course explores the philosophical roots of modern Western thought in the Scientific Revolution and the development of Enlightenment ideals, in particular the belief in the unity and autonomy of human reason. As a form of philosophical thought that emphasizes rationality, innovation, and intellectual progress the enlightenment project is an object of much present-day philosophical debate. We will analyze the development of a Romantic reaction to Enlightenment values. Romanticism emerged in the aftermath of the French Revolution and in contrast to Enlightenment values of reason and order, emphasized the self, creativity, imagination, and emotion. We will trace the development of Romanticism to the growing nationalism of the late nineteenth century and reconsider the significance of these philosophical movements in the contemporary world.

Philosophy of the Imagination in Oxford (philosophy, 3 credits)

This course considers philosophies of the imagination from Aristotle to the present. We will examine the use of metaphor/irony and necessary ‘noble lies' in political life; and reflect upon the imagination in relation to suffering, harm and happiness. Relevant Oxford related texts, authors and themes will be included as are appropriate study visits.

Eastern Religions (religion, 3 credits)

This course aims to give students a stimulating introduction to the major religions of Asia, focusing on Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism, and also exploring Shinto and Confucian traditions. The Indian and East Asian views of the cosmos have shaped the lives of half the globe, and continue to have an increasing influence on Western culture. We will look at the philosophy of reincarnation and liberation, and the arts and rituals of Hinduism and Buddhism. We will go on to see how the movement of Buddhism into South and East Asia blended Indian influences with Taoist, Confucian and Shinto traditions to create profound new approaches to life. Our approach will show how key philosophical ideas give rise to the beliefs and practices that shape people's lives today.

Shakespeare (English literature, 3 credits)

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the plays of Shakespeare, giving a survey of his development as a playwright in terms of both the written text and stagecraft. Students will be encouraged to assess Shakespeare's continuing cultural relevance from within a supportive critical environment. As part of this course, students will have the opportunity to attend a number of Shakespearean plays.

Gothic Fiction (English literature, 3 credits)

This course is designed to introduce students in a methodical manner to an ample selection of Gothic literature from its beginnings in the eighteenth century through to twentieth century transmutations of the genre. For the main part students will be given the opportunity to engage with nineteenth century Gothic fiction. The course is intended to nurture careful and fresh readings of key works as students work out imaginative ways to talk about the texts to hand. Students will be encouraged to reflect on the development of Gothic fiction while focusing on individual writers and their critical reputations.

The Oxford of Literature (English literature, 3 credits)

Many of England's greatest writers have lived and studied in Oxford, and some have set their works of literature in the city and the university. This seminar will examine several Oxford novels with special reference to the influence of setting on character and plot. Among the works to be considered are: Jude the Obscure, by Thomas Hardy; Brideshead Revisited, by Evelyn Waugh; Jill, by Philip Larkin; A Question of Upbringing, by Anthony Powell; Gaudy Night, by Dorothy Sayers; An Instance of the Fingerpost, by Iain Pears; and The Remorseful Day, by Colin Dexter. Students will participate in seminar presentations, write papers, and keep a written and pictorial journal. Day trips to London and other sites will be included.

Travel Writing (English literature, 3 credits)

This course aims to facilitate an understanding of the key themes and stylistic features of the travel writing genre, with regard to their creative potential and their representation in a range of literary texts. Students will explore a variety of critical approaches and writing techniques with a view to applying these to their own individual experiences and creative work. Students will be encouraged to reflect upon the role of travel writing in the promotion of global citizenship. The course will be taught using individual and collaborative learning techniques. Students will be given writing exercises and will engage with a longer project of their choice.

St. Clare's will complete all paper work associated with credit transfer. Please note that if your school does not accept St. Clare's credit, your credits will be transferred through our University of Record in the USA. This option carries an additional fee of $150 non-refundable processing fee.