Psychology
For Ambitious Scholars Aged 14–18
2-15 August
2026
£6,499 OSP Experience Fee
100 Exceptional Global Scholars
Key Features
- Project-based learning
- Small class sizes
- Project report and presentations
- Official transcripts
- Letter of recommendation
- Academic mentorship
Join the Leading Psychology Summer School in Oxford
Discover how humans think, feel, and behave through an immersive academic journey in psychology. This two-week programme offers a university-level introduction to experimental, cognitive, social, and biological psychology, connecting theory with practice and standing out as one of Oxford’s best Psychology Summer School.
- Understand the foundations of experimental, cognitive, social, and biological psychology.
- Learn how to design psychological experiments, collect data, and analyse results.
- Explore key topics such as memory, emotion, personality, and mental health.
- Discover how psychology connects with real-world issues like relationships, education, and decision-making.
- Scholars review materials before lectures and prepare any questions to deepen class discussions.
- Engage in sessions that introduce core psychological concepts and essential clinical principles.
- Strengthen understanding by applying knowledge through case studies and group activities.
- Scholars are evaluated through group projects, presentations, and the quality of individual written reports.
- Experience life as an Oxford scholar while studying under expert tutors in psychology and neuroscience.
- Build academic and research skills that strengthen university and career applications.
- Gain insight into psychology-related professions – from therapy and mental health to research and education.
- Join a global community of motivated learners and get a personalised recommendation letter from Oxford academics to boost your future applications.
Day 1: Introduction to Psychology
Day 2: Experimental Methods in Psychology
Day 3: Thinking, Memory & Language
Day 4: Brain & Behaviour
Day 5: Development Across the Lifespan
Day 6: Groups, Influence & Social Context
Day 7: Mental Health & Individual Differences
Day 8: Psychology in Action
Day 9: Project Preparation Day
Day 10: Presentations & Reflection
Note: This course plan may be adjusted at the discretion of the Instructor.
The OSP Challenge
Learning at the Oxford Scholars Programme goes far beyond the classroom. Through this intensive academic challenge, you’ll put theory into practice by collaborating with your peers to solve real-world problems. It’s a hands-on experience that pushes you to think creatively, work strategically, and apply everything you’ve learned throughout the course.
Personal Research Challenge
Apply what you’ve learnt at the Oxford Psychology Summer School by conducting your own mini psychological investigation. With your tutor’s guidance, you’ll explore a topic of personal interest and experience the process of real research – from idea to presentation.
- Design and carry out a small-scale study or analysis.
- Choose a focused topic such as stress, attention, or mood.
- Collect, interpret, and discuss data with your tutor.
- Analyse findings using psychological theory and evidence.
- Present your report and conclusions to your peers.
Group Workshop Challenge
Work collaboratively with classmates on a short experimental task to explore key psychological concepts in practice. This project builds teamwork, creativity, and communication skills while mirroring real-world research collaboration.
- Form a small team and select a shared research question.
- Design a simple experiment or observational study.
- Gather and interpret results during class workshops.
- Explore themes such as decision-making, perception, or social influence.
- Reflect on group dynamics and the collaborative nature of psychology research.
Yassin Fergany
UAE
Andy King
Liberia
What Our Scholars Say
Tutors
Our Scholars are mentored by an outstanding team of accomplished professionals who bring real-world expertise, insight, and a passion for teaching. Their mentorship inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence, creating a truly transformative Pre-College Summer Program experience. Meet some of the distinguished educators leading this journey below.
Dr. Cristiana Tisca
AI & Programming
Post-Doctoral Researcher in Neuroimaging at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford
Dr. Waqas Kamal
Engineering
Research Fellow at University of Oxford
DPhil in Engineering Science
Dr. Nick Dickinson
Politics
Bingham Fellow in Constitutional Studies, University of Oxford
Juliana Choi
Medicine
DPhil Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics
University of Oxford
Dr. Daryna Dvornichenko
Law
British Academy Researcher At Risk and Visiting Research Fellow at Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford
Abbey Palmer
English
MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition, University of Oxford
Beyond The Classroom
Each summer, a select group of exceptional students from around the world come together in Oxford to learn, grow, and discover who they can become.
Top Up With Career Exploration
Step into the shoes of a future doctor and experience the world of medicine through hands-on clinical simulations, interactive workshops, and visits to leading medical institutions. Explore anatomy, diagnostics, and public health as you develop the skills, curiosity, and compassion that define tomorrow’s healthcare leaders.
- Surgical Skills Workshop
- Clinical Simulations
- Hunterian Museum
- Alexander Fleming Museum
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Oxford Psychology Summer School at the Oxford Scholars Programme?
The Oxford Psychology Summer School at the Oxford Scholars Programme is a two-week immersive programme designed for high school students aged 14–18 interested in exploring the field of psychology. Scholars engage in interactive lectures, case studies, and practical workshops covering topics such as human behavior, cognitive processes, mental health, and research methods. This comprehensive course provides a foundational understanding of psychology and prepares students for further academic studies in this field.
2. Can high school students study psychology in Oxford?
Yes, the Psychology Summer School in Oxford at OSP offers high school students a unique opportunity to study psychology at one of the world’s leading academic institutions. The course provides a detailed introduction to psychological concepts and research, giving Scholars a solid foundation for future studies in psychology, neuroscience, or behavioral science.
3. What will I learn during the Oxford Psychology Summer School?
During the programme, Scholars explore key topics in psychology, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and mental health. The course combines academic theory with hands-on activities, such as research methods and practical applications of psychological theories in real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, students gain essential skills for future psychological studies and research.
4. Who can attend the Oxford Psychology Summer School at OSP?
The Psychology Summer School in Oxford is open to students aged 14–18 who are curious about human behavior and want to explore the field of psychology. Whether you’re considering a career in psychology, neuroscience, or behavioral science, this course offers a deep dive into the fundamentals of psychology, preparing Scholars for university-level psychology studies and future careers in the field.
5. How can the Oxford Psychology Summer School help with university applications?
The Psychology Summer School in Oxford at OSP enhances university applications by demonstrating commitment to studying psychology and intellectual curiosity in the field. The knowledge and skills gained in this programme, including practical experience through case studies, workshops, and research methods, help Scholars stand out in competitive applications to psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science programmes at top universities. Scholars also receive letters of recommendation from Oxford tutors, further bolstering their academic credentials.
6. Do I need prior knowledge of psychology to attend the Oxford Psychology Summer School?
No prior knowledge of psychology is required. The course caters to Scholars at all levels, from beginners to those with some background knowledge in psychology. The curriculum provides foundational concepts and introduces research methods, allowing Scholars to succeed regardless of previous experience with the subject.
7. How can the Oxford Psychology Summer School at OSP benefit my future career?
The Psychology Summer School provides Scholars with essential skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking—skills valuable for careers in psychology, mental health, social work, education, and business. The course also offers a solid foundation in psychological principles that can benefit Scholars in university studies and future careers in various psychology-related fields. By participating in hands-on activities and learning from Oxford academics, Scholars gain practical experience that can be applied to their future careers.
8. How do I apply for the Oxford Psychology Summer School at OSP?
To apply, visit the application page and complete the online form. Submit your academic records, personal statement, and any other required documents. After reviewing applications, successful candidates will receive further instructions and details about the course.
9. What is the cost of attending the Oxford Psychology Summer School?
The total cost of the Oxford Psychology Summer School includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and all excursions and activities. Scholarships and financial aid options are available to support students from diverse financial backgrounds. Please check our fee page for detailed pricing information and funding options.
