Summer Study in Oxford – 2012
July 1st – 28th (2 or 4 weeks)
2 Weeks – 2850 GBP / 4 Weeks – 5500 GBP
| (est $4495 USD) | (est $8595 USD) | |
| Housing and meals included | ||
The Program
Study at the University of Oxford for 2 or 4 weeks summer program. Academically challenging courses taught by faculty from the University that include: English Literature, Classical Studies, European Languages, European History, International Relations, Creative Writing and Visual Arts. All courses taught in English. Earn transfer credit – fully accredited. Early registration advised….for this program is very popular.
The Location
Oxford, England. Renowned for the study of Humanities and Languages in particular, Oxford is the home town of the famous University of Oxford. Once called the “city of dreaming spires” for its grand architecture, Oxford has been known for “centuries” as one of the world’s most prestigious academic communities.
Located on the river Thames, Oxford was founded in the 9th Century by Alfred the Great. Located 50 miles from London, Oxford is now home to over 115,000 people, of which over 15,000 are university students. The University is comprised of over 35 colleges, and most classes are kept small for more individual one-to-one interaction with the professor.
Courses
Students choose two(2) courses from the four(4) listed below. The seminars take place in small groups for fifteen(15) hours each week, with one seminar led by a guest speaker from the University. In addition, 2 -3 afternoons each week you take part in two(2) interactive workshops – based on subjects led by a tutor. You can combine any two(2) workshops with the two(2) courses you selected.
- Course One: English Literature – Shakespeare and the Oxford WritersStudents study Shakespeare and also writers associated with Oxford, including: J.K. Rowling, Oscar Wilde, T.S. Eliot, J.R. Tolkien, Lewis Carroll, John Betjeman, and Thomas Hardy. You will read novels, play, and poetry from a selection of both the old and new, which are then looked at critically in the context of the time at which they were written.This course considers Shakespeare’s writing from his earliest works to the late plays. We will address concerns that persist throughout his work (power, gender, language), as well as trying to become attentive to the ways in which his writing changes over time. A particular focus will be on the relationship between Shakespeare’s work and the world in which he lived and wrote.You will enjoy the program if you love reading, and enjoyed those English lessons where you really got to grips with a novel, play, or poem. You will also visit places associated with Shakespeare (Stratford), and places linked with Oxford writers, such as Tolkien, Shelley and Lewis Carroll.
- Course Two: Classical Studies and European LanguagesIn this course you will study (in translation) major writers of the Classical Period, such as Plato, Aristotle, Horace and Cicero. Greek and Roman Literature and Philosophy are the basis of the future development of European Culture. You will relate their works to the society in which they lived.You will also study the language and literature of a European country, chosen from France, Spain or Germany. The texts will include works by 20th Century writers and will relate their work to the historical and social background of the time.Students who have previously studied a Classical or Modern Language will take some of their classes separately from beginners, and their program will include translation and study of the tests in the original.
- Course Three: European History and International RelationsYou will study 20th Century European History, focusing upon the changing relationships between the European States and the importance of the USA in the century’s history.You will study the British system of government including parliament, parties, elections, pressure groups, and British concepts of representation and participation. But students can also choose to look at the US government as well as the new systems in Europe.Fascinated by current affairs? Want to understand how our societies developed? Or perhaps you just enjoy studying a subject that unfolds on our television screens everyday. You will also visit the Oxford Union and Debating Society, where many of our Prime Ministers began their political career.
- Course Four: The Visual ArtsYou will study fine art, painting, photography, sculpture, and the decorative arts, as well as the social and political context in which they were produced. You will look at European Art of the Renaissance as well as Modern Art. There is also a chance to specialize, including writing an extended essay on the subject of your choice.Oxford is a wonderful city for the study of Art. There are numerous galleries including the Ashmolean (the oldest in Europe) and MOMA. The Colleges of the University often house major works such as those of the pre-Raphaelites. If you love wandering around art galleries, this is the course for you, and it will give you an insight into our culture and history.
- WORKSHOP # 1: Creative WritingAre you eager to write your first play, poem or novel but not sure how to start ? Or have you written previously but need some new inspiration?Our creative writing workshop is led by published authors, and they will guide and stimulate your imagination. You will expand your skills of observation and language by looking at the work of various writers of drama, novels and poetry. You will learn numerous tips on craft and practices.You will produce your own short story, play or poems during the workshop, and shared with the group. Creative writing is one of the most stimulating and fulfilling ways to express yourself.
- WORKSHOP # 2: Drawing, Painting, and Jewelery DesignLed by some of Oxford’s finest artists and jewelery designers, the workshop provides and enjoyable introduction to both painting and jewelery design, covering line, tone, shape, composition, and color. You will use various drawing and painting mediums and show how to create structure, depth, space, as well as see color.You will produce your own portfolio of work, sometimes based outdoors with your tutor and drawing upon the inspiration of the beautiful city of Oxford. You will also produce at least one piece of jewelery as a momento.
- WORKSHOP # 3: The Oxford University Union Style DebatesThe Oxford University Union is probably the most famous “Debating Society” in the world. It is the place where many British Prime Ministers began their political careers. It attracts renowned international guest speakers – presidents, business leaders, entertainment stars.In this workshop audience members are expected to contribute during the debate itself. Each member of the group will also have the opportunity to be a speaker or to chair the debate. An experienced tutor will lead the debates and topics will include current affairs, culture, music, and society. Participants will also visit the Oxford University Union. Overall, it is a fun way to increase your communication skills and confidence.
- WORKSHOP # 4: The Oxford Summer ShowLed by a professional actor, the group will produce and perform a play working which will be shown in front of a live audience on completion. The workshop includes practical theatre techniques, a Shakespeare Masterclass, a behind the scenes visit to the Theatre, and the opportunity to see one of Oxford’s famous summer plays, held in the Gardens of one of the Colleges of the University. If you enjoy acting, directing, or just visiting the theatre…this workshop is for you.
Academic Credit
See the “Academic Credit” section of the Main Menu. This program usually allows 2 – 6 college transfer credits to be earned. Transcript (certificate) is issued by the Oxford International Study Center in Oxford, England. Fully accredited by the British Government, along with the British Council.
Financial Aid
See the “Financial Aid” text of the Main Menu…located in the “Academic Credit” section.
Activities
Program includes visits to museums, galleries, “punting” on the river (a long boat like a gondola), international evenings, barbecues, talent contests, indoor ice skating, learn to play cricket and croquet. Once every two(2) weeks, there is a full day weekend excursion outside Oxford…..destinations include: London, Stratford and Bath. Also, there are half-day excursions to a local theatre or musical performance.
Students have use of the Oxford City Library, which has excellent facilities for loan of books for additional reading, and for use of computers with educational software. Very close to the Colleges of residence. Students who wish to travel to locations in the city can buy a “Freedom Pass” (bus pass).
Housing: Included in Price (campus housing + 2 meals daily)
Students live like an Oxford undergraduate, in one of the Colleges of Oxford University such as St. Peters or Wadham College. Rooms are for single occupancy, but it is possible to arrange for two(2) friends to share a room, and students have breakfast and dinner in the College. Oxford is a small city, and these Colleges are in the center. Lunches can be easily purchased from a nearby restaurant, store, or coffee shop. Housing on campus costs about $950 USD per week, includes meals. Requires $900 housing deposit added to confirmation deposit to reserve space in the residence (non -refundable). You can arrange own housing if you prefer…..such as other student residence, hotel, or bed & breakfast inn.
Airfares and hotel housing at: www.csa-travel.com
CSA will provide housing website links to those students who want to arrange own housing.
Dates and Fees 2012
* Prices in GBP = Great Britain Pound
* Prices include housing on campus, and meals (2 per day)
| 2 weeks: July 1st – 14th (Sat) | 2850 GBP (est $4495 USD) |
| 2 weeks: July 15th – 28th (Sat) | 2850 GBP (est $4495 USD) |
| 4 weeks: July 1st – 28th (Sat) | 5500 GBP (est $8595 USD) |
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Housing and meals (2 daily)
- Tuition for Courses and Workshops
- Social, cultural excursions, including transport, guide, and admission fees.
- Welcome reception, orientation, and farewell party.
- Certificate of Completion (reports on completion – transcript).
- Counselor services throughout the program. On-site program counselors.
- Books and class materials.
- Membership of Oxford City Library.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Travel and medical insurance. Required – see “Travel Info” section of Main Menu.
- Travel to and from the U.K. – see the CSA travel discount website for great fares.
- Transfers to and from Oxford.
- Bus pass in Oxford.
- Personal spending money.
- Early arrival housing.
Arrival
Arrival day is Sunday, and departure day is Saturday. Plan on arriving no later than 4:00 pm on Sunday, and to depart by 10:00 am Saturday. You can arrange for a airport transfer service (costs extra), or you can take a bus (less expensive) from all major airports directly to Oxford. Heathrow is the nearest airport, and takes about 90 minutes by bus. Let us know in advance if you want airport pick-up services arranged (will cost more than bus). See the CSA discount travel website for good airline fares: www.csa-travel.com. Airport transfer (back/forth) will cost about $350 USD. Let us know if you want pick-up service.
Requirements
Minimum age is 16 years. Open to all students and adults from all countries. Must be fluent in English, for all courses are taught in English. Most participants are between the ages of 18 – 23, and are usually college students. Open to working adults as well. Early registration is advised – popular program.
Register
Register online. CSA Registration Deposit of $45 USD required to be fully registered. Can pay online by credit card. CSA also accepts personal checks, cashier checks, money orders, wire transfer, or direct deposit. Please review the “Register Overview” section for details. We will send an e-mail confirmation receipt and additional information shortly after receiving your online registration form. Thank you.
