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 - live • Short courses
What happens when a virus enters the human body? This course explains all, focusing particularly on how viral diseases develop at a molecular level, exploring cellular biology, genetics, the body’s defences and anti-viral therapeutics.
- Wed 15 Apr 2026 – 24 Jun 2026
- 10 meetings
- 3:30 – 4:30pm
Online - live • Short courses
What made our planet habitable? This course uses physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, and biology, to narrate Earth's story, from the synthesis of chemical elements in the stars to today’s global environmental challenges and human activities in space.
- Fri 17 Apr 2026 – 26 Jun 2026
- 10 meetings
- 4:00 – 5:00pm
In-person day/weekend • Short courses
Join us for a celebration of human progress in understanding “The Enigmatic Universe”, using the latest advances in astronomy and planetary science. All are welcome at this weekend event, directed by leading researchers and experienced lecturers.
- Sat 18 Apr 2026 – 19 Apr 2026
- 9.45am Sat - 5.00pm Sun
In-person weekly • Short courses
What kind of wildlife can you find on your doorstep? How can you support local nature and alleviate the ongoing biodiversity crisis? Learn how to notice and identify wildlife, and gain hands-on experience to monitor biodiversity in your area.
- Tue 21 Apr 2026 – Tue 19 May 2026
- 5 meetings
- 10:30am – 12:30pm
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.
- Wed 22 Apr 2026 – 03 Jul 2026
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 22 Apr 2026 – 03 Jul 2026
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.