Natural sciences
Explore natural phenomena with Oxford University
Short courses in Oxford and online
Our courses in the natural sciences include biology, physics, astronomy and earth science, with some overlap into the medical and environmental sciences. Courses might be hands-on or philosophical, and might address topics as diverse as climate change, particle physics, animal behaviour, the universe or the brain.
Many of our short courses can be studied for credit, which means they can count towards a recognised qualification such as our Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education.
Upcoming courses
Online - flexible • Professional development
Part-time over five weeks, this tutor-led training course can be taken from anywhere in the world. It will appeal to students and practitioners who want to improve their ability to conduct mammal and reptile surveys.
- Wed 07 Jan 2026 – 11 Feb 2026
- 5 meetings
Online - flexible • Short courses
Why do animals behave the way they do? In this course we will look at the full range of behaviours found in the animal kingdom, from simple escape behaviours to complex tool use and their evolution.
- Mon 12 Jan 2026 – 27 Mar 2026
Short intensive • Short courses • Professional development
A ten-week course taken entirely online. It explains the mathematical foundations for nanoscale phenomena, as well as their effects and applications including quantum dots, nanotubes and fullerenes.
- Mon 12 Jan 2026 – 22 Mar 2026
- 10 meetings
Online - live • Short courses
A person’s body requires the ingestion of food components to fulfil its basic functions. This is referred to as Nutrition. You will learn about the main food groups and the methods for determining if a Diet provides enough nutrients and promotes health.
- Wed 14 Jan 2026 – 25 Mar 2026
- 10 meetings
- 10:00 – 11:00am
Online - flexible • Short courses
Investigate the power of maps and spatial data to document and illustrate local and global issues. Learn how to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to explore the world around you and share ideas.
- Wed 14 Jan 2026 – 27 Mar 2026
Online - live • Short courses
Introduction to the Energy Transition is a course that covers an increasingly important issue with respect to climate change, ecology, energy policies, supply disruption, and competition for energy.
- Fri 16 Jan 2026 – 27 Mar 2026
- 10 meetings
- 3:00 – 4:00pm
Environment and sustainability
Courses in the environment, sustainability, urbanism, wildlife conservation and ecology - whether your interest is professional or personal.Ecological survey techniques
Flexible postgraduate and online courses in ecological survey techniques for professionals working in field surveysMedical and health sciences
Postgraduate qualifications, short courses, part-time study and online courses in medical and health sciences at Oxford University.