The Oxford Design Summer Schools offer a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the study of design within a historic and intellectually stimulating environment. Participants will engage with expert instructors from renowned institutions, gaining insights into various design disciplines. The program is designed to foster critical thinking and creativity, equipping attendees with the skills necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of design.
oxford hosts a distinct range of design summer courses for motivated learners.
The teaching approach in Oxford’s design summer schools emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Instructors often draw from their own professional experiences, providing students with insights that go beyond traditional classroom boundaries. Themes may encompass various aspects of design, including aesthetics, functionality, user experience, and sustainability. This contrasts sharply with conventional school curriculums, where the focus tends to be more rigid and standardized, potentially stifling creativity and innovation.
Students can expect a dynamic study rhythm characterized by a mix of collaborative projects, hands-on workshops, and individual assignments. The classroom atmosphere is typically interactive, encouraging dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Independent work is integral, allowing participants to explore their personal design interests while benefiting from peer feedback. This holistic experience fosters not only skill development but also a sense of community among aspiring designers.
While no specific age group is indicated, the programmes cater to a diverse audience, making them suitable for individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds. Participants generally possess a passion for design and a desire to enhance their creative skills, aligning with the expectations of those typically aged 13–18.
Oxford’s design summer schools stand out due to their integration of local cultural and historical contexts into the curriculum. The city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant artistic community provide a unique backdrop that enriches the learning experience. Unlike many other design programmes, the focus here is not solely on technical skills; it also encompasses a broader understanding of design’s role in society, fostering a sense of responsibility and innovation among students.
Observed fees for current intakes start from £1,395, with total cost shaped by duration, accommodation and subject intensity.
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Last updated: 15/02/2026
| Course | Provider | Subject | Location | Duration | Fees | Short Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photography MINOR ONLY (The Oxford Experience) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Arts, Media, Creative Writing, Design | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,495 | Photographers of all levels of expertise spend much of their time in the field, pursuing assignments designed to improve their landscape, portraiture, art, and fashion photography skills. Students exhibit their best work at the end of the program. | View |
| Architecture in Oxford for Ages 13-15 | Immerse Education | Architecture, Arts, Design, Humanities | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Begin your architectural journey in Oxford, where centuries of design inspire future innovators. | View |
| Project Eco-innovation (15-17 years old) | St Clare’s, Oxford | Climate & Sustainability, Business, Entrepreneurship, Arts, Art, Design, Leadership, Social Sciences | Oxford | 1 Week – add on to other St Clare's academic course | 1395 | Where sustainability, creativity, and entrepreneurship come together! In this one-week, multi-disciplinary course, students from different courses collaborate to develop bold ideas for a greener world. | View |
| Art and Digital Design (15-17 years old) | St Clare’s, Oxford | Art, Arts, Design, Creative Writing, Architecture | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 3790 | Explore and develop creative art and design techniques in our purpose-built art studio complete with dark room, printing press and a wide range of resources. Be inspired by Oxford’s historical and contemporary architecture, museums and art galleries. | View |
| Architecture (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Architecture, Arts, Design | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Architecture summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Architecture (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Architecture, Arts, Design | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Architecture summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £5,495 for Non Residential option. | View |
| Pre-University Architecture, AI & Computer Science |
Bucksmore Education | Architecture, Engineering, Design, Arts, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, STEM, University Preparation | Oxford | 2 or 4 weeks | 3195 | This programme prepares students to excel in their chosen subjects within the highly competitive higher education environment. Students choose one university-level subject taught at a first-year undergraduate level. | View |
| Architecture in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Architecture, Arts, Design, Humanities | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Analyse architectural marvels in Oxford, a city that embodies the evolution of design through the ages. | View |
| Young Professionals Architecture, AI and Computer Science | Bucksmore Education | Architecture, Art, Design, Humanities, Social Sciences, STEM, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence | Oxford | 2 weeks | 2695 | Ignite your career aspirations, our Young Professionals courses combine academic rigour, industry embedded workshops and a real world collaboration with professionals in order to provide the most immersive career experience currently available. In addition, each programme offers external certification from a recognised UK provider | View |
| Architecture & Design (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Architecture, Arts, Art, Design | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | The Architecture & Design Summer School at Oxford Royale immerses students in Oxford’s iconic architecture, blending hands-on design, technical drawing, and model-making with historical study from Classical to Postmodern eras. Through walking tours, workshops, and the “City of the Future” design challenge, students develop professional portfolios, collaborate on urban solutions, and gain insight into architectural history and practice in one of the world’s richest artistic settings. | View |
| Architecture (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Architecture, Arts, Design | Oxford | 6995 | The Architecture summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £5,495. | View | |
| Studio Art MINOR ONLY (The Oxford Experience) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Art, Arts, Architecture, Design | Oxford | 4 weeks | $12,495 | Beginners and more advanced students receive instruction in a variety of media. They spend much of their time outside, sketching medieval towers, capturing pastoral landscapes, practicing their portrait skills, or discovering masterpieces in locations such as the Christ Church Picture Gallery. | View |
