Philosophy
Join the Philosophy summer programme at Atlas Summer Courses in 2027. Hosted at colleges of the University of Oxford, whose facilities we hire for the summer, the programme is designed for ambitious 18–24-year-olds who learn in classes of up to 10 students. Apply now to secure your place.
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Learning
Outline
At Atlas Summer Courses, Philosophy is designed for 18–24-year-olds who are curious about the deeper questions of life and our understanding of the world. Students will explore different schools of thought and examine how our beliefs and morals are shaped. The course will delve into key philosophical concepts, such as the nature of knowledge, the existence of God, morality, the mind-body problem, and the ethics surrounding animals. Students will engage with some of the most profound questions humanity has pondered and develop their skills in critical thinking, reasoning, and argumentation. Through thought-provoking discussions and challenging debates, students will broaden their philosophical perspective and enhance their analytical abilities. This course offers a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most important issues in philosophy and how they continue to shape our thinking today. We don’t follow a fixed curriculum—our tutors tailor the course to the group’s interests, making learning both engaging and relevant. The course also includes a masterclass on critical thinking, along with a reflection session to track progress and set new goals.
Teaching methodology
Develop your thinking with tutorial-style teaching. Your expert tutor will foster self-directed learning and critical thinking through interactive small-group seminars (typically 8–10 students). During your course, you will complete two pieces of independent work (essays or problem sheets), which your tutor will then evaluate in either a 1:1 or 2:1 tutorial. These tutorials allow you to discuss your work and receive in-depth feedback from your tutor, while also gaining new perspectives from your classmates. On completion of the course, you'll receive a certificate and a letter of recommendation from your tutor.
The city of Oxford, with nearly 1,000 years of academic history, has been home to influential philosophers such as John Locke, Isaiah Berlin, and Mary Midgley. As part of the 18–24 Philosophy programme, you’ll live in a city shaped by debate, reflection, and new ideas. The city of Oxford provides an inspiring backdrop for learning, with its historic colleges, libraries, and long tradition of exploring the questions that define how we think and live.
Accommodation is in single or twin rooms, depending on the tier. Plus lets you choose single or twin; Superior guarantees an ensuite; and Premier provides concierge-selected rooms. All include shared spaces and on-course staff support.
Meals are provided on a half-board basis (breakfast and dinner), served in college dining halls or at selected local restaurants. Students arrange their own lunch. All dietary requirements are catered for.
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The Atlas Summer Courses Experience
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Philosophy challenges us to examine ideas we take for granted — truth, morality, power, consciousness, freedom. In Oxford, advanced learners explore major philosophical traditions while developing their own viewpoints through argument, critique, and close reading of influential thinkers. Students investigate topics such as ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, and the philosophy of mind, connecting classical ideas with contemporary issues shaping society today.
Small tutorial groups (up to 10 students) allow for rigorous debate and peer-led discussion. Two independent written assignments are supported through personalised, tutorial-style feedback that sharpens reasoning, essay structure, and persuasive argumentation — essential skills for university and beyond. Alongside cultural activities, supportive college-style living, and a global network of peers, students gain both academic confidence and a deeper awareness of how philosophical inquiry applies to the real world. Every participant leaves with a certificate of completion and a tailored tutor recommendation to support their next ambitions.
Discover the British Museum, one of the world's leading museums of history, art and culture. Explore extraordinary collections spanning more than two million years of human history, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies and ancient Greek sculptures, while uncovering the stories of civilisations from around the world.
Step inside Warwick Castle, one of England's best-preserved medieval fortresses, and discover more than 1,000 years of history. Explore its magnificent Great Hall and towers, experience spectacular live jousting and falconry displays, and uncover the stories of medieval life in one of the UK's most iconic castles.
Explore the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with nearly 1,000 years of royal history. Discover the magnificent Crown Jewels, step inside the iconic White Tower, and uncover the stories of kings, queens and famous prisoners, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes, while exploring one of London's most historic landmarks.
Explore the historic heart of London with a visit to Westminster, home to some of the UK's most iconic landmarks. Discover the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace while learning about Britain's royal heritage, political history and centuries of architectural excellence.
Step back in time with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, famous for its remarkably preserved Roman Baths and elegant Georgian architecture. Explore iconic landmarks including the Royal Crescent and the Jane Austen Centre while discovering the history, culture and literary heritage that make Bath one of England's most celebrated cities.
Discover the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore its magnificent State Rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy attractions including the Marlborough Maze, Butterfly House, miniature railway and historic grounds.
Explore the Ashmolean Museum, the the Ashmolean Museum — the University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology, open to the public. Discover remarkable collections spanning ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome to contemporary art, rare manuscripts and archaeological treasures, while exploring one of the world's oldest public museums.
Discover the historic city of Oxford, home to the world-renowned University of Oxford and centuries of academic excellence. Wander through its iconic colleges and cobbled streets, visit landmarks including the Bodleian Library and Christ Church, and explore the city's rich literary, architectural and cultural heritage. Fans of Harry Potter can also see the Great Hall that inspired Hogwarts' famous dining hall.
Explore Portsmouth's rich maritime heritage with a visit to the Historic Dockyard, home to some of Britain's most famous naval landmarks. Discover the story of Henry VIII's flagship at the Mary Rose Museum, learn about the Royal Navy at the National Museum of the Royal Navy, and explore the city's centuries-old connection to Britain's seafaring history.
Discover the creativity and innovation of Bristol, one of the UK's most vibrant cities. Step aboard Brunel's iconic SS Great Britain, enjoy interactive science exhibits at We The Curious, and experience the Planetarium while exploring Bristol's rich maritime heritage, engineering achievements and thriving cultural scene.
Typical Outings
Timetable
Dates & Prices
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Lunch and dinner included.
- Accommodation: Not included.
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Not included.
- Insurance: Not included.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Lunch and dinner included.
- Lunch and dinner included.
- Accommodation: Not included.
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Not included.
- Insurance: Not included.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: For ages 13–15, lunch and dinner are included, and for ages 16–24, dinner is included.
- Accommodation: Not included.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Not included.
- Insurance: Not included.
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discounts: Not included.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: 13-24: Tutorials (1-2 students per tutor), seminars, and workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13–15 are on a full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16–24 are on a half board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or at local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Single or twin room (confirmed by us at a later date).
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Not included.
- Insurance: Not included.
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (up to 10) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13–15 are on a full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16–24 are on a half board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or at local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Concierge helps select the best available option.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Enhanced (OxSC concierge).
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only. No time restrictions.).
- Insurance: Platinum coverage (top-level protection on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Included (1 session).
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (up to 10) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13–15 are on full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16–24 are on half board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Guaranteed private room and bathroom.
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Enhanced coverage (higher limits on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (up to 10) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13–15 are on full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16–24 are on half board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Select your preferred single or twin room (shared bathroom).
- Certificate: Awarded upon completion.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Standard coverage (cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discounts: Not included.
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Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Different package options may be available for students aged 18–24, with inclusions varying by course and location. Check the course page for the package options, accommodation and inclusions available for your chosen dates.
Our courses for ages 18–24 are taught by experienced educators and subject specialists with expertise relevant to their subjects. Tutors shape their syllabi around their own areas of specialism. Tutors are confirmed closer to the summer, so profiles on our website are examples of educators who have previously taught with us.
Oxford is open to all learners aged 18–24. Cambridge is more advanced and requires at least two years of undergraduate study in a related subject.
Students aged 18–24 receive a certificate of completion, detailed feedback from their tutor and a personalised letter of recommendation, reflecting their participation, academic progress and achievements during the course.
Atlas Summer Courses gives students aged 18–24 the opportunity to deepen their subject knowledge through small-group teaching and independent study. Students can engage with challenging ideas, develop their own academic thinking and learn alongside an international community of peers.
There are no formal entry requirements. Students should have a genuine interest in their chosen subject, and teaching is tailored to each student’s interests and abilities so everyone can engage at the right level. All lessons are taught in English, so students should have a good working understanding of spoken and written English.
