Undergraduate Prospectus 2018 - University of Oxford
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Undergraduate
Prospectus
2018
a
Open days are the best time to
explore student life at Oxford –
visit places not normally open to
the public – and talk to current
students and tutors. You can just
turn up to most events but
some require booking, so check
first and plan your day at
ox.ac.uk/opendays.
28 and 29 June and 15 September 2017
After feeling the atmosphere
and exploring the city on an
open day I knew I wanted to
spend the next few years of
my life in Oxford.
Sam
The tutors and students I
spoke to on the open day were
all incredibly encouraging and
welcoming and I loved the
thought of studying in such a
unique community of passionate
and friendly students.
Francesca
If you can’t make one of these days, please see page 188
or ox.ac.uk/ugvisit.
Have a look at our virtual college tours at ox.ac.uk/ugcolls.
b
Contents With thanks to all our students
who volunteered to appear
in the prospectus.
2–10 Introducing Oxford
2 Why Oxford?
4 How Oxford works
6 Is Oxford for me?
8 At Oxford, how do you…?
10 Global Oxford
12–17 Applying to Oxford
12 How to apply
14 International students
15 Mature students
16 Disabled students Do you need this
17 Equality for all prospectus in another
18–19 Fees and funding
format?
20–25 Support for you and your studies
20 Libraries Download a high-contrast version
22 Museums and collections from ox.ac.uk/moreinfo.
24 IT Services
Braille, large print and audio formats
24 Language Centre
25 Supporting you
are also available on request from:
26–33 Clubs and societies +44 (0) 1865 288000
26 Sport www.ox.ac.uk/ask
28 Music
30 Drama
ox.ac.uk/study
32 Oxford University Students’ Union and more
34–35 Your career after Oxford
36–37 In and around Oxford
38–143 Courses
38 Introducing our courses
40 Subject requirements
42–143 The courses (alphabetically)
Details are correct at the
144–183 Colleges time of going to press in
144 Introducing the colleges January 2017. Any
146 Which colleges offer my course? updates or changes to
148 Choosing a college information can be found
149–183 The colleges (alphabetically) on our webpages:
ox.ac.uk/study.
184–189 Finding out more
184 Events in Oxford
186 Events near you
188 Visiting Oxford
©The University of Oxford 2017
190–192 Index and maps All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced,
190 Index stored in a retrieval system, or
191 Please read carefully transmitted, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical,
192 Maps photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, without prior permission.
1
Why Oxford?
THE First UK
UNIVERSITY TO BE
Oxford is a fantastic university,
1
no. in the world
*
*Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2016–17
renowned for academic
excellence - the teaching is
world class, and being taught
by experts in my subject area
in this way really appealed to
me. Also, Oxford is a really
great city, so this factored
into my decision too.
Megan
Though the academic reputation
was definitely a factor, I
was really attracted by the
collegiate structure. Everything
works on a smaller scale with
concentrated resources, a
close-knit community and highly
individual teaching with tutors
who take a real interest in you.
Archie
Funnily enough, Oxford was
also actually the cheapest
place for me to go to
university. Even before I
was aware of the Moritz-
Heyman Scholarship, the
Oxford Bursaries scheme is
the most comprehensive one
at the time of my application.
2 Bertrand
1
no. in the world for research
quality**
**Most recent UK Research Excellence Framework (2014)
There are constantly career-related events at Oxford.
If you know what you want to do, this place provides
amazing networking opportunities. If you don’t know quite
what you’re doing, the Careers Service is always putting
on talks, workshops, 1:1 sessions and fairs. They are
really helpful and a great source of ideas.There is also
a lot of information on further study including exciting
opportunities abroad.
Lilian
I’d never thought about
applying to somewhere so
prestigious, but I was lucky
enough to be encouraged
by a fantastic maths
teacher. Both the academic
reputation and the beautiful
city were enough to win me
over, and since applying I
have never looked back.
Ian
Oxford is known all over the
world for academic excellence
and I think the unique collegiate
system plays a huge part in
that. I chose Oxford because
I thought it would be an
unbelievable opportunity for me
if I was fortunate enough to be
successful in my application.
Naveed 3
How Oxford works I think the teaching
is outstanding.The
quality of the lectures,
As an Oxford undergraduate you’ll be part of one or more tutorials and practicals
departments, depending on the course you’re studying. is incomparable. I
You’ll also be a member of a college – a community of have really benefited
students and academics from many different subject areas. from the attention and
challenges of small
Whichever college you go to, you will be group tutorial learning
studying for the same degree. which has driven me to
work harder and learn
When you accept your offer of a place at Oxford you will enter into two separate more than I thought I
contracts: one with the University and one with your college. These contracts could and still enjoy it.
are inter-linked: as an undergraduate you cannot be a member of the University Joe
without being a member of a college and vice versa. While you are admitted
by your college, you are awarded your degree by the University. See more
information about this at ox.ac.uk/oxforddegree.
250 30 23
NEARLY from over IN Groups of
0R
COURSES faculties and for specialised
departments TUTORIAL TEACHING
Course Assessment
Each course has a compulsory core Oxford courses have two stages. There
(usually in your first year), plus a broad are exams at the end of the first stage
range of options which allows you to tailor (usually at the end of your first year) that
your studies to your personal interests. you must pass, but they don’t count
These aspects of the course are organised towards your final degree grade. However,
by the departments of the University. your tutors will need to be happy with COLLEGES
For more on courses see page 38. your work for you to progress throughout ARE NOT JUST
the course.
Lectures WHERE YOU LIVE
After this, assessment depends on
All students in a particular subject will
the course you are studying. You might – IN MOST CASES
come together for lectures. These provide
core information that may be useful for
sit your Finals (written exams on which THEY ARE A BASE
your final grade is based) at the end of
tutorials, essays or exams. Lectures also
each remaining year or just at the end of
FOR TUTORIAL
give you an opportunity to meet students
your last year. Some exams may be TEACHING.
from other colleges doing your course.
replaced by a project, extended essay
Practicals or dissertation, or there might be
All students of science-based subjects an oral exam.
work together for lab work and/or
fieldwork – typically for at least two
half days a week.
4
SEE ALSO
Colleges:
page 144
ST CATZ
HERTFORD
35
ACROSS
UNDERGRADUATE
COLLEGES AND HALLS
College prepare for tutorials, often by writing Your college is so much
Oxford is made up of undergraduate an essay or solutions to set problems. more than just buildings,
colleges and halls spread across the city You meet your tutor, usually with one it’s your home (not just
of Oxford. There is no central university or two other students, to discuss your
campus. Whatever course you are work in the tutorials. The aim is to
for three years either...
studying you will become a member of review your answers or theories and I never want to leave!).
one of these small academic explore ideas that arise in discussion. It’s where you live, work,
communities. It is here that college A tutorial relies on the exchange of sleep and eat. It’s where
tutors will oversee your studies and ideas so you don’t need to be experienced you’re going to develop
normally arrange your tutorial teaching. in debating – just ready to present and into an adult, make
All colleges provide somewhere for their defend your opinions, accept constructive
students to live during the first year and criticism and listen to others. Tutorials
memories and create
often for the duration of their course. develop your ability to think for yourself – friendships that last for
For more on colleges see page 144. an essential skill for academic success and a long time... this is very
Tutorials
something that the best employers cheesy - but I genuinely
expect from Oxford graduates. As well couldn’t imagine myself
These usually take place twice a week
as overseeing your studies, college staff
in your first year, though this may vary
are responsible for your welfare.
anywhere else.
later depending on the options you Jane
Read more about the breadth
choose. It’s up to you to research and
of support on offer at Oxford
on page 25.
5
SEE ALSO
Is Oxford for me? Equality for all:
page 17
Courses:
page 38–143
• Would you love to talk about what you learn? You don’t
• Do you love to study and thrive on hard work? have to be
perfect, you
• Do you like the idea of being taught in very just have to
small, interactive groups? be yourself.
• Do you want lots of opportunities – to explore Holly
new interests as well as enjoying old ones?
• Do you want to meet more people like you – We are committed
to ensuring that
and people who aren’t like you? Oxford provides a
safe and inclusive
And... community for
all its students,
• Is there a course here you really want to study? in which they are
able to thrive and
feel supported.
• Are you on target to meet our entrance requirements?
If the answers are YES then Oxford
may be for you.
Don’t be afraid
to have a try.
Oxford students come from all over the world and Jack
from all kinds of backgrounds. We offer an intellectually
stimulating environment, with expert tutors and
fantastic resources to support your studies. Oxford
offers you amazing opportunities to pursue all kinds of
interests.
If you like the sound of all this –
then please apply!
6
OXFORD BURSARIES
HELP ELIGIBLE STUDENTS FROM LOWER-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS
TO MEET THEIR LIVING COSTS - SEE PAGES 18-19
The bursary has offered me
the financial security I’ve
needed to be able to focus on
the academic and social sides
of my degree without fear
of becoming overdrawn or
needing to seek employment
during term time.
Matthew
Most importantly I think the
bursary has allowed me to
enjoy myself more, as I am
not constantly worrying about
whether I have enough money
to do something or not.The
generosity of the support has
also given me the motivation to
work as hard as I can, because
I want to know that I deserve it.
Seamus
Oxford has the most
generous bursary
package I’ve come
across. I keep track of
what I’m spending week
byweek but haven’t
found myself stretched.
Elizabeth
My time at Oxford has been absolutely incredible so far, and that
would not have been possible without the bursary support I have
received. It has allowed me to purchase essential things such as
textbooks and meet daily living costs, without having the constant
worry of money hanging over my head. It has also allowed me to
engage in social activities with my friends which I never even thought
I would be able to afford or consider. It really has been life-changing.
Amy
Read more about fees and funding on page 18 or visit ox.ac.uk/funding. 7
At Oxford, how do you... Read our student diaries:
apply.ousu.org/
student-life
It can be difficult to I go to university society Play a bit of hockey, or
...Relax? switch off after a day in events - I’m quite involved just lie down and watch
the library, so exercise is in LGBTQ stuff, so I’ll some iPlayer or something.
a really important part of go to a drinks event in Pubs and the college bar
the week - I run near my the evening, the LGBTQ are great as well, just to
house and go to the gym Campaign open meeting or hang out with friends and
occasionally. I still find a board game social. ‘forget’ about work for an
time just to watch badTV Anna evening.
with my friends though. Callum
Noni
If clubbing is your thing,
there’s plenty of that; if I sing in my college choir
Ultimate Frisbee is the not, there is a load of and play in an orchestra
best (temporary) cure stuff to get involved in, which are always nice
for every essay crisis, no from societies to people ways to unwind just before
matter how severe. just getting together for a or after dinner.
Noémi bit of midnight ice skating. Hannah
Jack
Working in the library Managing your workload is Somehow it gets done. It
...Manage is a very good way of about being honest with what does take time to figure out
staying focused and you can and can’t achieve. how to work well, and what
your being as productive as Jane that means for you. Once
workload?
possible. you’ve got it sussed, you can
Sam get down to it and find an
I know that I’m no good at enjoyable rhythm to it. Don’t
working in the evenings so forget that your workload
I tend to get up fairly early is on a topic you chose, so
to work in the mornings whilst it is a lot - and it is,
instead. to be honest - it’s a lot of
Sarah really interesting stuff.
Lilian
Realise that it is okay to
say ‘No’ to something if
you have too much work
to do, but also realise
that if you’re not getting
anywhere, sometimes a
social/ ‘me-time’ break
might be just what you need.
Susanna
8Once you’ve paid your In term time budgeting Eating in college is really
...Afford fees it’s useful to work is key. Hall food can be cheap, and you rarely
have to buy books because
out a weekly budget for great value but it is often
everything? the rest of term. I keep cheaper to cook for Oxford has everything.
a notebook with all my yourself, and that often fits Maeve
expenditure in it so I can better into your timetable.
work out how much I’m Nicola
Don’t do your laundry until
spending per week. you have completely run
Lizzie
out of clothes!
Sally
When I had a family I have a couple of close There are at least
...Get help? bereavement last year,
my friends were my main
friends I can turn to.
The welfare reps at my
ten people to go to for
any problem I have
support network, but I college are amazing. And whatsoever, domestic,
also got support from my the counselling service ie broken window latch,
college chaplain (even is there too. There’s or personal. The most
though I’m not religious support in every direction useful people are the
- they function in a - it’s brilliant. The welfare porters; they know
non-religious capacity as service was one of the almost everything about
a welfare officer) and things that I was most Oxford, and if they don’t,
my tutors were also very impressed with - as was my they know people who do.
understanding in reducing mum - it definitely put her Very useful indeed!
my workload for that week. at ease! Jack
Sarah Isla
I know everyone There is such a Everyone is in the
...Make says it, but there is diverse range of people same situation! I
honestly no need to here with so many just found that
friends? worry about making interests that you will engaging people in
friends. Everyone definitely find someone conversation and
is so friendly, and you have something being as confident
college puts on loads in common with. You (or brave!) as
of activities to get you might not meet them on possible worked.
meeting new people. the first day, but stay Marcus
Georgina patient and keep going
to events and societies
that interest you.
Izzy
Joining societies is a good
way of meeting like-minded
people from many different
colleges and subjects. During
the first week of your first
term there will be plenty of
structured events to make
friends with other people in
your college.
Sam 9Global Oxford International Oxford:
ox.ac.uk/
international-oxford
If you are interested in your
subject, then you must apply
to Oxford! There are almost
no places globally which can
provide the same student
experience.
Niloy
INTERNATIONAL STUDY
& RESEARCH
While at Oxford there are lots
of opportunities for you to gain
international experience to further
Erasmus study exchanges let
your academic, career and personal
students spend up to 12 months at
development. These include studying,
one of our partner universities.
working or undertaking research abroad.
Modern Languages students also
Organised and funded by the University
have the option of an Erasmus
and its colleges, examples include:
traineeship during their year abroad.
Over 650 college travel grants Erasmus is supported by the European
Commission, and includes a monthly
More than 500 summer internships
living expenses allowance. Please note
Funded summer schools at universities abroad that the Erasmus programme may
not be available after the 2017-18
Student exchanges with the US, Asia and Europe
academic year. Read the latest at:
A year abroad for most students of Modern Languages, ox.ac.uk/erasmus.
Oriental Studies and Law with Law Studies in Europe
ox.ac.uk/students/goabroad
10SEE ALSO
Careers:
page 34
International students:
page 14
Events near you:
page 186
Oxford has introduced me
to people from around the
world I never could have
met otherwise.
Jack
Alumni
When you complete a degree at
Oxford, you will join a global
community of more than 250,000
graduates. As an Oxonian, you will benefit
from lifelong careers advice and professional
networking both online and in person. You
will also be able to join one of 230 alumni
groups worldwide, including Oxford10 for
recent graduates in London. From an
engaging schedule of alumni events in the
UK and abroad, to an online community of
alumni mentors, the University offers a wide
range of valuable resources. For a full list, go
to www.alumni.ox.ac.uk.
Oxford: a great
group of interesting Oxford STUDENTS
people who come 26 Nobel Prize winners
from all across
27 UK prime ministers
the world and yet
can relate to each International leaders including Aung San Suu Kyi, Indira Gandhi and Malcolm Turnbull
other so easily. Scientists like Ben Goldacre, Stephen Hawking, Susan Greenfield and Tim Berners-Lee
Mathew
Writers and poets including Vikram Seth, William Boyd, Jeanette Winterson,
Monica Ali and Wendy Cope
Actors and filmmakers including Felicity Jones, Hugh Grant and Ken Loach
11How to apply
To apply to begin studying at Oxford in 2018, you must submit a
UCAS online form and register for our admissions tests anytime
from mid-September to 15 October 2017. We recommend
that you do this as soon as possible. The final deadline for
all applicants is Sunday 15 October 2017.
october 2017
UCAS application Admissions Tests
You can start working on your online For most courses, you are required
UCAS form anytime from June. to take a test, normally at your school All Law applicants must
You will need to provide information or college: check your course page and take the LNAT (the National
about yourself, including a personal see ox.ac.uk/tests for the test date. Admissions Test for Law)
between 1 September
statement where you explain your
Registration is a two-stage process: and 20 October 2017.
interest in your chosen course. A To guarantee a test slot you
1. Your school or college must be
teacher or advisor needs to add a will need to register by
registered as a test centre – so 5 October 2017 at
written reference: their account of
check with your exams officer. www.lnat.ac.uk.
your academic potential and suitability
(Many UK schools are already
to study here.
registered.) If your school cannot
Most people apply to Oxford before
do this, you may take the test at an
they have finished school or college, in
open centre.
which case your referee will need to
2. You need to be registered as a
provide predicted grades: what
candidate. Please ask the exams
they expect you to achieve in your The application
officer at your school or college to
A-levels (or equivalent). No transcripts process is the same for
register you, or contact an open
are required unless you have already everyone but please
centre.
completed your first degree. see our additional
See: ox.ac.uk/tests
guidance if you are:
Start work on your UCAS form an international
Make sure you register in plenty of
early and submit it before the student (page 14)
time before the final registration
deadline, especially as it falls on a a mature student
deadline:
Sunday this year. (page 15)
Register by 6pm UK time on a disabled student
Submit by 6pm UK time on
Sunday 15 October 2017. (page 16)
Sunday 15 October 2017 at
www.ucas.com
12SEE Also
Oxford is very competitive and many successful Fees and funding:
page 18
applicants actually exceed our entrance requirements.
Unfortunately, every year there are far more excellent Colleges:
candidates than there are places available. page 144
Subject requirements:
page 40
JANUARY 2018
november 2017 DECEmber 2017
Written work Decisions
For some courses, you need to
Interviews You will hear on Wednesday
Tutors review each UCAS application, 10 January 2018 whether or
send in written work as part of not your application has been
along with any test or written work,
your application: check the page successful.
and decide on a shortlist of candidates
for your course. For exact If you have not yet completed
to interview. You will find out whether
requirements for each subject, the necessary qualifications,
or not you have been shortlisted in
and to download a cover then any offer made will be a
late November or early December.
sheet, please visit conditional offer. You will have
If you are shortlisted, you will be
ox.ac.uk/writwork. until August 2018 to achieve
invited to come to a college in
December. The college will provide the required grades.
free accommodation and food while
you are here. You will be interviewed SPRING 2018
by tutors at that college, and possibly
by tutors at other colleges as well. finance
Seriously, relax during If you live outside the EU, and are Student finance applications
unable to travel to Oxford for open from early 2018.
the interview. Rushing interview, then you may be offered For fees, funding, grants and
off the first thought that an interview by Skype. (Medicine is bursaries information see
comes to mind will very an exception – all shortlisted page 18 or visit
likely end in a wrong candidates must come to Oxford.) ox.ac.uk/funding.
answer. Although getting There are lots of myths about
interviews at Oxford, but really
an answer wrong doesn’t they’re just conversations about
mean that you will fail - your chosen subject. For more
if you have fun learning
from the interview -
information visit ox.ac.uk/
interviews. OCTOBER 2018
chances are that you’ll START your
do just fine. DownloadYour guide to Oxford
interviews at ox.ac.uk/interviews COURSE ?
Yedam
Start your course?
13International students See
ox.ac.uk/int
See
ox.ac.uk/euref
for the latest
information
We encourage applications from academically regarding Britain’s
strong students from around the world, and membership of the
European Union.
welcome the diversity international students
contribute to the University.
Over a third of our students (including English language
17% of undergraduates) are international Teaching at Oxford is all in English (apart
citizens, and come from over 140 from some language-specific courses) so
countries. Student societies represent to study here you must have sufficient
most countries in the world. fluency in written and spoken English.
In a survey of international students If you are not a native speaker you may
at 49 UK universities, Oxford was rated be asked to take an English test to
for satisfaction: prove your fluency. See the list at The number of
international fee
ox.ac.uk/enlang. status medical
Good place to be 97%
students at each
Expert lecturers 96% Coming to Oxford medical school in
Our Student Information and the UK is subject
Online library 95% Immigration team offers: to a government
quota: currently
Physical library 93% • an International Student Orientation for Oxford this
Programme is 14.
Research 92% • immigration and visa advice.
ox.ac.uk/students/new/
Course content 90%
international
Source: International Student Barometer, IGI Services Ltd (2015) If you are offered a place to study at
Oxford and you are not an EEA or Swiss
national, you must apply for a visa in your
Entrance requirements
home country/country of residence
You do not have to take British A-levels
before you enter the UK.
to apply to Oxford – we accept
www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa
SEE Also
school-leaving qualifications and test
www.ukcisa.org.uk
scores from many countries: see the
list at ox.ac.uk/intquals. Sometimes, Applying: page 12
Visiting students
if your school-leaving qualifications Fees and funding:
University students from overseas
aren’t sufficient, you might need to page 18
can spend up to one year in Oxford
undertake further study before Language Centre:
on a course related to their degree. page 24
applying.
Visiting students apply directly to Events near you:
individual colleges, not through UCAS. page 186
ox.ac.uk/visiting
14Mature students See
ox.ac.uk/mature
21 or over at the start of October in your first year
Oxford is looking for the best and brightest candidates, I’d always had an interest
irrespective of their age or background. Just like everyone in attending university;
else who applies, mature students need to demonstrate poor performance in
academic ability and commitment to study. secondary schooling and
then the fulfilment of
Which college? Department for Continuing
parental responsibilities
As a mature student, you can apply to any Education
precluded an orthodox
college. One college (Harris Manchester) Those with less recent academic
route to higher education
and three of the Permanent Private Halls experience or with work or family
for me, however. Much
(Blackfriars, St Stephen’s House and commitments may be interested in the
later in life I returned to
Wycliffe Hall) take only mature students. part-time Undergraduate Certificates,
education, studying part
An environment specifically catering for Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas we offer
time in the evenings or
mature students can provide excellent peer in many subjects through the Department
at weekends whilst still
support in which to enjoy the varied and for Continuing Education. Some courses
working. Having completed
fast-paced life of Oxford. may be studied online, and all earn
a two-year course, I then
nationally recognised credits. Students
applied for a full-time BA
from the Foundation Certificates in English
at Oxford and am now
Accommodation living in Harris Manchester
All undergraduate degrees at Oxford and History can apply to join the second
year of our full-time English or History
College in the early stages
involve intense study and high levels of of my first year and, it
commitment. Undergraduate students are degree course.
conted.ox.ac.uk
must be said, feeling very
required to be resident in the city during much at home already.
term time: either in college, in other
Martin
accommodation within 6 miles of the Second undergraduate degrees
city centre, or within 25 miles if at your Studying for a second undergraduate degree
family home. is a common route for students who decide
to change direction in their education or to
Qualifications and study skills pursue a new area of study. The application
Tutors will take your work experience and procedure and entrance requirements are
life skills into account, but it’s essential that exactly the same, except that you will be
you have also undertaken formal academic expected to have a good academic record Priority
NURSERY
qualifications within the three years before from your first degree (usually at least a
you apply. We need to be sure that you will 2:1). You may apply for Senior Status, which
be able to cope with the demands of gives direct entry to the second year of the places for student
course: ox.ac.uk/sud. parents – page 25
academic study at Oxford. Many different
academic qualifications could be Studying for a second undergraduate
acceptable: see ox.ac.uk/enreqs. degree will have funding implications: see
ox.ac.uk/elq.
15SEE ALSO
Disabled students Colleges:
page 144
Hear about
disabled students’
experiences:
ox.ac.uk/swd
Read more about
The University welcomes how we can support
your move:
applications from disabled students ox.ac.uk/swd
students, and is committed to
2,800+
with dyslexia,
dyspraxia and
making reasonable adjustments other specific
to facilitate access to courses. learning
difficulties students registered
with Oxford’s
The Disability Advisory Service disability
service students
(DAS) provides information, advice and students with any long-
assistance with coordinating practical with autistic term mental or
spectrum physical health
study support arrangements, and works conditions condition
with both prospective and current
students.
The DAS will arrange support in line UK students are encouraged to
with your individual circumstances. This apply for the Disabled Students
might include, for example, access to Allowance (DSA) as soon as possible
support workers, help with travel costs, and our Assessment Centre can
provision of specialist equipment, or offer the study needs assessments to
alternative examination arrangements support your application.
such as extra time. The University can If you are disabled, and thinking of
also supply materials in alternative formats: applying to Oxford, we’d advise you to:
see www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/ • consider the requirements of your
services/disability/aracu. chosen course before applying
• identify any elements that might
present particular barriers
The unimaginable has happened • talk to or visit your college and
- I have been awarded a degree department of choice, to explore
with distinction and a prize for facilities and discuss any specific
best dissertation. I was able to do disability-related issues.
an amazing amount of work and It is essential to contact the DAS
edit my dissertation very fast Plan your way around
as early as possible in the application
the city using our
with the assistive technology you process so that any necessary interactive map at
recommended and put in place. arrangements can be made for a ox.ac.uk/maps
For once I was able to do a vast possible visit or interview and well in and have a look at
amount of work without it impacting advance of the start of your course. our access guide at
on my health. www.admin.ox.ac.uk/
Find out more by visiting: ox.ac.uk/ access
Sabena students/welfare/disability.
16Equality for all See
www.admin.ox.ac.uk/eop
Oxford students
11%
come from over
Our students and staff all
contribute to making Oxford
an inclusive community
where we feel safe,
140
countries.
of all our
undergraduate
students are
disabled
respected and valued. Academic and research
staff come from
26%
nearly 100.
Join us and you will have the chance to
of all our students
make a unique contribution. Here you identify as black
will have the opportunity to study and Equality-focused activities or minority
socialise with talented people from a include: ethnic
wide range of backgrounds, and with a
huge variety of interests and passions.
• Gender: the Women’s Campaign within
Oxford University Student Union (OUSU)
We make admissions decisions solely
ousu.org
on the individual merits of each
candidate using selection criteria • Ethnicity: CRAE (the OUSU Campaign
appropriate to the course of study. for Racial Awareness and Equality)
ousu.org
• LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender and queer):
OUSU LGBTQ Campaign
ousu.org
Being a bisexual woman has lots LGBTQ Society Having a mental illness has
of negative consequences in a oulgbtsoc.org.uk always made me doubt the
patriarchal queerphobic society. • Religion and belief: worship facilities prospects of my university
Thankfully in Oxford, fortnightly for a wide variety of faiths success, academically or
bisexual events and campaigns ox.ac.uk/religionandbelief otherwise. Thankfully, my
like ‘Bye Bi Prejudice’ all • Disability: support for disabled students tutors and fellow students
lead to a super supportive ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/ make me feel valued and
community, and the LGBTQ disability respected, which allows me
community here really thrives. to truly flourish in Oxford.
Sandy, OUSU Vice-President for
• Care leavers and looked-after Anna
Welfare and Equal Opportunities children: one-on-one meetings at
open days and support throughout
your time here. Contact:
james.slattery@admin.ox.ac.uk
or 01865 270543
17Fees and funding Visit ox.ac.uk/funding
for the latest information
Oxford is committed to providing generous financial
support to eligible students from lower-income
households to ensure that those with the academic
ability to achieve a place here are not held back by
their financial circumstances.
What it costs Changes to Fees
The University caps the amount
Fees Living costs
by which it can increase fees
What you pay each year is Your living costs will vary depending
annually. More information about
determined by your fee status on your lifestyle. In 2017-18 living the amount of the cap and how
(based on your nationality and where costs at Oxford are estimated to be the increase is calculated is
you usually live). The categorisations between c£1,000 and £1,470 a month available at
for 2017-18 are Home (UK), EU for essentials like accommodation ox.ac.uk/ffchanges-fees
(rest of European Union), Islands and food. Budget over nine months to In 2017–18, for Home/EU
(Channel Islands or Isle of Man) or cover the full academic year (c£9,020 undergraduate students, tuition
Overseas (outside EU). For the to £13,235). There may also be fees are also subject to a
latest categorisations, see: additional costs associated with governmental fee cap and will
ox.ac.uk/ugfeestatus. your course, such as field trips or not increase above the level
consumables; more information of the fee cap, which is subject
can be found on your course page to annual review. For 2017–18,
University policy is to charge
(pages 40-143).
fees at the level of the cap set
FEES FOR 2018-19 by the government.
The fees for all undergraduate students in 2018-19 will be confirmed
in September 2017 at ox.ac.uk/ugfees.
Home/EU fees: Islands fees: Overseas fees:
As a guide the 2017-18 tuition Islands students Overseas students pay
fee for Home/EU students is currently pay a higher rate of tuition
£9,250 and will usually increase the same fee, which varies
annually. Home students can tuition fee according to subject
receive a loan to cover their fees as Home (up to £23,190* in
and do not have to pay this cost students*. 2017-18) plus an
upfront. Fee rates and support annual college fee
for EU students starting a course (£7,350 in 2017-18).
*with the exception
in academic year 2018-19 are of Clinical Medicine,
currently unknown. where the fee is
significantly higher
18Check the costs of
studying and support
available using the Fees,
Funding and Scholarship
Search:
ox.ac.uk/ffsearch
What you get - Home and EU students
From the UK government From Oxford
Oxford’s financial support will be
Home students: confirmed in summer 2017. As a
Moritz-Heyman
A loan to cover all your fees guide: in 2017–18, Oxford is offering
generous annual bursaries of up to
Home students:
A maintenance loan to cover some of
£3,700 for students from lower- Scholarship
programme
income households.
your living costs
We make it as easy as possible to
access our funding – there is no Each year, up to 175 eligible
Home students from lower- UK first-year students from
income households: separate application process. We use
households with an income of
Additional maintenance support to information from your funding agency
£16,000 or less are invited
cover more of your living costs to assess you for Oxford funding, so to become Moritz-Heyman
make sure you are financially scholars. This generous
UK government loan repayments are combined assessed. scholarship programme
into a single amount which only becomes repayable
once you have left your course.
Updates on Oxford’s funding will provides funding, opportunities
be available at ox.ac.uk/funding. for volunteering, and access to
UK government support for EU internships during the summer
students starting a course in 2018-19 vacations.
is currently unknown. Latest eligibility ox.ac.uk/mh
details: www.gov.uk/apply-for-
student-finance.
Student finance applications open from early 2018; you should apply as early
as possible. To be considered for additional maintenance support and bursaries, you
Previous study
If you have previously
must have your household income assessed by your funding agency. Where to completed a course at
apply depends on whether you are from: undergraduate level, you will
be classed as an Equivalent
England: Northern Ireland: or Lower Qualification (ELQ)
www.gov.uk/student-finance www.studentfinanceni.co.uk student and won’t receive
funding for your course. If you
began but did not complete
Scotland: Wales: a degree, you might not get
www.saas.gov.uk www.studentfinancewales.co.uk funding for the full length of
your course.
ox.ac.uk/elq
19Libraries
Oxford meets the needs of its students, academics
and the international research community with
a wide range of services provided by the largest
academic library system in the UK.
80,000
100+
e-journals
Every
14
libraries
seconds someone
visits a
library
Read key texts research A topic in depth
Whether you’re writing an essay or When you find something really interesting,
preparing for an experiment, you’ll be Oxford makes it easy to go beyond your
given a reading list to start from. You reading list and find out more. Many
can find the books you will need in your courses offer a chance to write a
college or department, or both. dissertation or carry out a research project.
College libraries are open to everyone Subject librarians are your guides to
in your college. They stock the core Oxford’s world-class research collections.
materials for your course, and have They can advise on the latest publications
generous lending arrangements. They in your field, or on the best databases to
are often open 24 hours a day, providing search. They often run classes to help you
quiet, convenient places to study. The make the most of what they can offer.
college librarian can help you to find The Bodleian Libraries form the UK’s
what you need, and in many cases will largest academic library service with
order books in specially. combined collections of over 12 million
items. The Bodleian Library is a legal
deposit library, meaning it can claim a copy
Sitting in the Bodleian Library at the same of any book or journal published in the UK
desk that might once have been occupied or Ireland. All Oxford students are entitled
by John Locke and Robert Hooke, I feel to use the Bod for their research.
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
part of the University’s rich history.
Olinga
20Visit
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
12 million*+
printed items
400 km
of shelving Every
21
seconds someone
STUDY ONLINE reading rooms borrows a
book
Oxford has an extensive online Oxford has a mix of old and new
collection, available 24 hours a day, libraries, which offer a fantastic range
7 days a week. This includes databases, of places to study. Choose from Duke
books, reference materials and an Humfrey’s (built in 1488, and used as
excellent online journal collection. These the Hogwarts library in some of the
are available to members of the Harry Potter films), the elegant circular weston
library
University from anywhere with an Radcliffe Camera, the bright modern
internet connection. Social Science Library, and many more.
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk Opened to readers
in September 2014
SOLO (Search Oxford Libraries Online)
with three refurbished
lists books and journals, print and online:
I think the big realisation for me reading rooms as well
solo.bodleian.ox.ac.uk as exhibition spaces,
was that you actually don’t need to shop and café.
OxLIP+ lists databases, electronic buy that much. So much is provided
reference works and e-journals:
oxlip-plus.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
for you; for example, as a History
student I’ve never ever had to buy a
Research assistance, subject guides and book or course materials. Everything
how the Oxford library system works: I need is in a library, somewhere!
libguides.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
Chloe
*held by the Bodleian Libraries
21Museums and collections 6,000+
species of plants
Oxford has collections of
international importance –
databanks for research, teaching
and study – full of wonderful
treasures that anyone can enjoy.
Ashmolean Museum Museum of the
Opened in 1683, the Ashmolean is the
oldest public museum in the world. Its History of Science
rich and incredibly diverse collections The world’s oldest surviving purpose-
range from artefacts of the world’s great built museum building houses an
ancient civilisations to modern art, telling unrivalled collection of scientific
human stories across cultures and across instruments from the Middle Ages to
time. The Ashmolean hosts major the 20th century. Astrolabes, sundials,
international exhibitions which will be of quadrants, mathematical and optical
interest to many students, and of instruments, and apparatus associated
particular use to students in Ancient and with chemistry, natural philosophy
Modern History, Fine Art, History of Art, and medicine are displayed, alongside
Archaeology, Classics, and Anthropology. temporary exhibitions. The collections
www.ashmolean.org are used in teaching History of Science
and History of Art.
www.mhs.ox.ac.uk
Oxford University Museum
of Natural History
The spectacular neo-Gothic architecture
of a Grade I-listed building houses the
University’s geological and zoological
specimens. Among its most famous
are the only soft tissue remains of
a dodo, the first dinosaur to be
scientifically identified, and the swifts
in the tower. The Archaeology, Biological
and Earth Sciences courses make use
of its staff expertise and collections.
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
22Visit
2,ooo+ 1 www.museums.ox.ac.uk
musical instruments dodo
Pitt Rivers Museum Botanic Garden &
The Pitt Rivers is a museum of
ethnography and world archaeology,
Harcourt Arboretum
Oxford is unusual among UK
celebrated for its period feel and the
universities having both a Botanic
density of its displays. Courses that
Garden and an extensive Arboretum,
use the museum’s resources include
with over 6,000 species of plants
Human Sciences, Archaeology and
from all over the world. The collection
Anthropology, Geography, Classics,
includes unique specimens not in
History of Art and Fine Art.
cultivation anywhere else. The
In addition to a collection
gardens and glasshouses at the
which now numbers over
Botanic Garden, and the exotic
half a million objects, there are
collection, meadows and native
extensive photographic and
woodland at the Arboretum, are
sound archives.
perfect for visiting any time of
www.prm.ox.ac.uk
the year.
These collections are particularly
Bate Collection used by students in Biological
Sciences.
One of the most magnificent collections
www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk
of musical instruments in the world, the
www.harcourt-arboretum.ox.
Bate has more than 2,000 instruments
ac.uk
from the Renaissance, through the
baroque, classical and romantic periods, up
to modern times. More than a thousand
instruments are on display, by the most
BODLEIAN LIBRARIES
Treasures include rare books,
important makers and from pre-eminent
maps and manuscripts, such as
collectors. Music and History of Art
Shakespeare’s First Folio and the
undergraduates make use of the
Magna Carta.
collection.
www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk
www.bate.ox.ac.uk
23Supporting your studies Visit
www.lang.ox.ac.uk
courses.it.ox.ac.uk
IT Services Language Centre
The University Wi-Fi network covers much of The Language Centre’s term-time
central Oxford, the museums and the libraries. programmes of study offer students a
Eduroam is also available in many NHS sites and chance to learn a new language or keep
doctors’ surgeries. up an old one, whatever their degree.
114TB
a day network traffic
(that’s over 24,000 DVDs) The Language Library has a range of
multimedia facilities including text and
audio-visual material in over 190
languages.
Mobile Oxford: whether you need maps, library
190 +
books, the next bus, or even collection times at
the nearest postbox, Mobile Oxford is here to help.
m.ox.ac.uk languages
Podcasts and iTunes U: public lectures, teaching Language classes are provided from day
material, interviews with leading academics – all to evening. They are offered at different
5,800
hours of content
available to download for free, and watch and
listen to on the move.
levels of proficiency and intensity, and
some offer a certificate. You can learn
from 6,900 podcasts.ox.ac.uk languages for study and research, to
speakers itunes.ox.ac.uk support your career ambitions and for
cultural and recreational purposes.
WebLearn: course materials and recorded lectures
for your studies, and tools – eg for plagiarism
Tailored courses are provided for
awareness – for use on your mobile device.
students from certain departments.
weblearn.ox.ac.uk
lynda: free 24/7 access to high-quality online Courses in academic English are
courses for business, creative, and technology skills available for international students who
in your own time. would like to improve their English for
courses.it.ox.ac.uk/lynda study purposes while they are here.
IT Learning Centre: wide range of free/low-cost
Intensive week-long courses are
workshops and courses to support your studies,
run out of term time in some of the most
both teacher-led and online.
popular languages.
courses.it.ox.ac.uk
Getting started: what to bring with you to More about the Language Centre,
Oxford, and how to get started or find help courses, and fees:
if you need it. www.lang.ox.ac.uk
welcometoit.ox.ac.uk
24Supporting you Visit
ox.ac.uk/students/
welfare
YOUR Support NETWORK
350 Peer Supporters
College welfare contacts Childcare students are trained
Colleges are a great source of personal Extensive childcare provision for student
support. Those who are available to help parents is available. University Childcare
include your subject tutor, student peer Services manage multisite nursery
supporters, people in designated welfare provision within Oxford. Four colleges
roles, NHS doctors and college nurses. operate independent nurseries.
350 students across the University www.admin.ox.ac.uk/childcare
are trained peer supporters, supervised
by the Counselling Service. Oxford Nightline
ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/peer Nightline is a confidential listening,
information and support service run by
I am one of six trained peer supporters students, for students. It is open
in my college. Our photos and phone 8pm–8am, every night in term time.
numbers are up around college for oxfordnightline.org
people to get in touch if they want to.
As college LGBTQ rep*, I organise things
like LGBTQ teas and dinners out with Harassment
nearby colleges. Oxford is an incredibly The University is committed to
welcoming and supportive environment, maintaining an environment in which the
and my job is to make it even more so. rights and dignity of all members of the
University community are respected.
Daniel
There is a network of harassment I was convinced somebody had
Student Counselling Service advisors and a dedicated harassment line. made a mistake letting me
The counselling service, staffed by ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/ into Oxford. I got to the point
counsellors, psychologists and harassment where I started to think I should
psychotherapists, is available to help you leave before they told me to.
address personal or emotional problems Student Advice Service My counsellor helped me to
that affect your experience at Oxford. Its The Student Advice Service is the understand why I felt a fraud
aim is to help you realise your full independent advice, information and and we worked on how I could
academic potential and develop greater advocacy service exclusively available to change the way I thought about
ability to take decisions for yourself that Oxford University students. Independent myself. I got a first in Finals!
effect real change. Alongside individual of colleges and the University, they can Zara
and group sessions there are workshops provide information and support to
and self-help materials available. students facing any difficult situation.
ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/ ousu.org
counselling ousu.org/advice
*see page 17
25Sport Visit ousu.org/
get-involved/
clubs-societies
to explore over 400
clubs and societies
It isn’t all rowing and rugby at Oxford. You can play for
fun, try a new sport or just get fit. But if you want to
represent the University, you have the chance to join a
rich tradition and some very competitive teams.
Oxford is currently ranked among the The University’s
top British universities for sport thanks Sports Federation
to our talented students. As well as the helps to run more
British Universities and Colleges Sport than 80 clubs –
(BUCS) championships and other including traditional
tournaments, there are inter-university sports, new and
competitions and college leagues. esoteric activities,
You have the use of some of the best and everything in
sporting facilities of any university on between – for
three main sites: the Iffley Road sports anyone from the
complex, the University Parks sports interested beginner
grounds and the Marston Road sports to the international
ground. Iffley Road is where many clubs athlete. Whether
train and compete; it boasts a fitness you want to play in
gym, an all-weather running track, an a serious team or a college kickabout, or
Olympic-standard hockey pitch, a you just enjoy running, swimming or
25-metre swimming pool, rowing tank, cycling, you will find what you are
cricket school, sports hall and dojo, along looking for here.
with provision for association football, The University’s top athletes gain the
lawn tennis and rugby. status of Blue – an accolade that stems
Cricketers play on the picturesque from the first boat race in 1829, when
University Parks – the only place in Cambridge tied light blue ribbons to
Britain where spectators can watch first- their boat and Oxford adopted Christ
class cricket for free. Church’s dark blue.
Most of the colleges have facilities of www.sport.ox.ac.uk
their own, from squash courts and
fitness suites to boathouses, cricket
pitches and lively clubhouses.
2627
28
Music Visit ousu.org/
get-involved/
clubs-societies
to explore over 400
clubs and societies
From classical to jazz through indie, rock, folk and
electronic, all the styles of music you could dream
of (and then some) are represented at Oxford.
Whether you want to sing, perform, DJ or just listen,
you will find what you are looking for here.
For live music, the city’s big venues Choral and organ awards
(O2 Academy, New Theatre) regularly Oxford’s chapel music environment
draw national and international acts. is extremely lively, offering scope for University is a great chance
Many smaller venues host local unsigned outstanding work in liturgical music to pick up something new,
acts, as well as regular jam sessions and and also experience in concert make a difference, and
open mic nights. RockSoc, the rock music performance, touring and recording. learn new skills that are
society, spawns many student bands Whatever subject you’re planning to not taught in your degree.
and organises group trips to gigs. If you apply for, you can audition for a Jacob
prefer classical music, you’ll enjoy choral or organ award in September.
Oxford’s wealth of lunchtime and For details see:
evening concerts, often taking place ox.ac.uk/choralorganawards.
in spectacular settings such as the Choral scholars gain invaluable
Sheldonian Theatre or the Holywell performance experience and training
Music Room. at a high level through membership of a
If you’re looking to practise an college chapel choir. Many of today’s
instrument or form a band, then check
out your college’s music room – they’re
leading singers, such as Toby Spence,
Emma Kirkby and Robin Blaze, were
Choral and organ
often well equipped with piano, amps and choral scholars. Awards open day
drums. College parties are a great place to Organ scholars play a crucial part in An open day on Saturday 22
try DJing, and many colleges have their Oxford music. In some colleges they April 2017 provides workshops
own choirs, orchestras and bands. direct the music in chapel; in others and the opportunity to join a
college choir for Evensong.
The Oxford University Music Society they assist professional directors of
www.music.ox.ac.uk/
(OUMS) runs four orchestras, a wind music. The role develops skills in choral
apply/undergraduate/
orchestra, a big band, a brass band, a accompanying, direction and choral-and-organ-awards
string ensemble and the University chorus. administration. Many Oxford organ
Singers can choose from traditional scholars have gone on to become
college choirs, Glee-style a cappella groups celebrated musicians while others have
and non-auditioned vocal ensembles. attained distinction beyond music,
oums.org including a prime minister and a
Hollywood actor.
29Drama Visit
ouds.org
for more about Oxford
University Drama
Oxford University has one of the largest and most
vibrant drama scenes in the country with around
30 shows performed each term. These range from
new writing, modern drama and classical plays
to musical theatre.
There is a huge choice of theatre spaces, The Oxford Imps are a mixture of
from the 50-seater Burton Taylor Studio Oxford students and locals who stage
to the professional 600+ -seater Oxford improvised comedy every term-time
Playhouse which hosts two student Monday in a local pub. They are
productions a term. Many colleges regulars at the Edinburgh Fringe
have their own theatres and student Festival where they perform daily.
producers also put on summer shows oxfordimps.com
in the gardens, or take over a chapel,
bar or nightclub. If you are interested in writing and
performing sketches and stand-up
Oxford University Dramatic then the Oxford Revue may be for
Society (OUDS) is one of many you. This comedy community has
drama societies here that nurtures spawned some of Britain’s best loved
new talent and encourages writers and comedians, from Alan
involvement. OUDS tour internationally Bennett and Rowan Atkinson to
with a Shakespearean production Stewart Lee and Katy Brand.
every summer, working in major
professional venues and living as part Hosted by St Catherine’s College, the
of a touring company. Cameron Mackintosh Visiting
ouds.org Professor promotes contemporary
theatre. Previous appointments
Tabs Are For Flying (TAFF) is for include Meera Syal, Thelma Holt, Diana
those who work on the technical side Rigg, Sir Ian McKellen, Arthur Miller,
of theatre and theatre design, Kevin Spacey and Stephen Fry.
including stage and production
management, lighting, sound, props,
and costume and set design.
tabsareforflying.co.uk
3031
32
Oxford University Students’ Visit ousu.org/
get-involved/
Union and more
clubs-societies
to explore over 400
clubs and societies
Your Students' Union CHARITY
When you come to the University of Oxford, Oxford offers a wealth of opportunities Whatever your level of
you automatically become a member of for volunteering, many of which can be expertise, you can become
Oxford University Students’ Union (OUSU), found through the Oxford Hub. involved in any club or
society that interests you.
existing to make your journey as an Oxford oxfordhub.org
student the best it can be. By offering a OUSU’s Freshers’ Fair
at the start of your first
MEDIA
diverse range of help, advice, support, term can help you find
events, activities and campaigns your out what is available –
students’ union ensures you get the very Oxide is a student-run radio station and if a society or team
best from your university experience. combining a diverse playlist with talk doesn’t exist, it’s easy
shows and interviews. to set one up.
OUSU is run by a team of officers, elected oxideradio.co.uk
annually by the whole student body, who
work hard to ensure that Oxford’s The Cherwell and Oxford Student
22,000-strong student community is
represented– whether you’re a international
newspapers publish everything from
restaurant reviews and crosswords to READ THE
or home student, undergraduate or investigative journalism and sports reports.
cherwell.org
ALTERNATIVE
PROSPECTUS
postgraduate – OUSU is here to ensure
every student voice is heard. OUSU provides oxfordstudent.com
an opportunity for you to get involved in at apply.ousu.org
Isis Magazine is Britain’s oldest
anything and everything – so whether student publication.
you want to get stuck into our LGBTQ+ isismagazine.org.uk
campaign (page 17), broadcast your
favourite tunes across the airwaves or raise
money for charity – your Students’ Union The Oxford Union Society*
has something for everyone. Established in 1823, the world’s most
ousu.org famous debating society aims to promote
debate and discussion not just in the
OUSU’s Raise and Give (RAG) organises
University, but across the globe. The Union See videos of speakers
fun fundraising activities, all in aid of four
is also a social centre and there are frequent at youtube.com/
charities elected by you, each year, through oxfordunion
lectures by all kinds of figures, from
a University-wide ballot. Each term sees a
Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the Dalai Lama
fantastic series of events, from the RAG Ball
and Tanni Grey-Thompson to Johnny Depp,
to trips up Kilimanjaro, not to mention *Not to be confused
Stephen Hawking, Tracy Emin and Shakira.
Jailbreak to Blind Dates. Find out more at: with the Oxford
www.oxford-union.org University Students’
ousu.org. Union (OUSU).
33You can also read
