Best Summer Courses for Adults in 2025

Nine reasons why summer courses are for adults, not just kids and teens.

Whether you’re an academic enthusiast, a lifelong learner, or a professional seeking intellectual enrichment, summer courses at prestigious institutions like the University of St Andrews, Kellogg College, and St Clare’s in Oxford offer unmatched opportunities for growth and exploration for adults. These programs combine rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and social experiences, creating a truly transformative learning journey. Here’s why these courses stand out as ideal choices for adults.

Jane at OSCG

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Categories: Uncategorized

November 26, 2024

World-Class Teaching from Renowned Academics

One of the most compelling reasons to choose these programs is the access they provide to world-class teaching. At the University of St Andrews, you’ll learn from leading lecturers who are experts in their fields. Similarly, the Humanities Summer School at Kellogg College brings together academics from Oxford University and French institutions like the Sorbonne, ensuring a diverse and expert-led learning experience. St Clare’s, with its 70+ years of academic expertise, specializes in English language teaching for adults over 30, offering interactive lessons tailored to different weekly themes. Across all these programs, the quality of teaching enriches your knowledge and broadens your intellectual horizons.

Immersive Learning in Prestigious Institutions

These programs are hosted by globally acclaimed universities and institutions with rich academic traditions. Studying at St Andrews or Oxford allows you to experience the academic rigour and unique learning environments of these historic locations. St Clare’s courses take place in elegant buildings within the academic city of Oxford, offering a unique blend of traditional charm and modern facilities. For those attending the Kellogg College program, the Anglo-French academic focus delves into centuries of interconnected British and French art, architecture, and literature, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural narratives.

What students say: I really had no idea how much I would love St Andrews, and being able to actually see the town and live in it for 3 weeks has just completely changed the image of what I thought this University would be, and how much I would love it. (St Andrews, Scotland)

Engaging Out-of-Classroom Experiences

These courses go beyond classroom learning to offer immersive cultural experiences. St Andrews integrates field trips and environmental learning into its curriculum, allowing students to explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic landmarks. Similarly, Kellogg College organizes guided tours of Oxford’s museums, colleges, and the picturesque Cotswolds, alongside visits to iconic sites like Blenheim Palace. St Clare’s includes a variety of study visits, activities, and excursions in the afternoons and weekends, all included in the fees. These experiences ensure that learning is vibrant, memorable, and enriched by cultural discovery.

What students say: Kellogg is a really friendly college with a range of extra curricular activities and interesting talks. The atmosphere is really pleasant and welcoming (Kellogg College, Oxford)

Cultural and Social Enrichment

Participants enjoy a host of cultural activities that foster connections and build lasting memories. St Andrews offers social events like traditional Scottish dancing, talent shows, and yoga classes. Meanwhile, Kellogg College provides a black-tie Oxford formal dinner, welcome drinks, and outings, offering a taste of British elegance and tradition. St Clare’s provides social and cultural experiences tailored to adults over 30, giving participants a chance to connect with an international mix of students while exploring the historic city of Oxford. These activities create the perfect balance of intellectual stimulation and social engagement.

What students say: St Clare’s puts students in contact with such a diversity of students that they feel that they went abroad to more than one country. (St Clare’s Hall, Oxford)

Exceptional Accommodations and Amenities

All programs prioritize participant comfort and convenience. At St Andrews, you’ll stay in on-campus accommodations with access to facilities like libraries, sports centres, and dining halls offering full board. Similarly, Kellogg College offers high-quality ensuite rooms on its historic campus, creating a supportive and enriching learning environment. St Clare’s takes extra care to provide a safe and welcoming environment, with facilities designed to support student welfare. Participants benefit from comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a strong focus on support services.

Flexibility and Accessibility

The courses cater to a wide range of interests and schedules. St Andrews provides both residential and fieldwork course options, while Kellogg College’s week-long program is ideal for those seeking a short yet impactful academic experience. St Clare’s English in Oxford course is explicitly designed for adults over 30, with a flexible program combining English lessons in the morning with social and cultural activities in the afternoons and weekends. These flexible offerings ensure that learners of all backgrounds can find a course that suits their needs.

Networking and Global Connections

Participants in these programs come from diverse backgrounds and countries, creating a dynamic learning community. Engaging with peers from around the world fosters cross-cultural understanding and valuable professional networks. Whether you’re at St Andrews, Kellogg College, or St Clare’s, the relationships you build will undoubtedly enhance your global perspective. St Clare’s vibrant international mix ensures a thriving community where you can make friends from all over the world.

Exclusive Benefits and Perks

These programs provide unique perks that elevate the experience. St Andrews includes credit-bearing courses, which may allow for credit transfer to other institutions. At Kellogg College, participants gain access to exclusive facilities like the College’s library and café, along with guided tours led by Oxford Fellows. St Clare’s includes all course materials, study visits, and excursions in the fees, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive learning experience. The teaching approach at St Clare’s is interactive, promoting engagement and learning through specialist themes that change weekly, keeping the experience fresh and stimulating.

A Gateway to Lifelong Learning

For adults seeking personal growth or academic advancement, these summer programs offer a gateway to lifelong learning. The balance of academic rigour, cultural exploration, and social interaction ensures a holistic experience that stimulates the mind, enriches the soul, and broadens horizons. Whether you’re learning English at St Clare’s, studying art and literature at Kellogg College, or exploring sustainable development at St Andrew’s, these programs are designed to inspire and transform.

What we say: Summer courses aren’t just for kids and teens—they are equally valuable for adults seeking growth, discovery, and enrichment. Adults deserve the same opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, expand their horizons, and invest in their personal and professional growth. These summer courses prove that learning and discovery are lifelong pursuits, making them the perfect choice for adults who are ready to embrace the transformative power of education.(OSCG)

Featured Courses

Featured Programs

St Andrews16-18

Summer Academic Experience Courses at St Andrews University

The University of St Andrews offers a variety of summer courses designed to provide a glimpse of university life and study. These courses, taught by full-time faculty members, are open to students and individuals worldwide. They include options like Academic English Qualification Courses for non-native English speakers and specific subjects like Geology, Earth Science, and Medieval Monasticism. Additionally, the university ...
Options from £6,000 / 3 weeks