We are excited to introduce this year’s offerings of Oxford Academia programs, created by Putney Student Travel, now in its 72nd year, in collaboration with Professor James Basker, a Barnard College/Columbia University professor and Rhodes Scholar. Professor Basker brings to Oxford Academia his 35 years of experience introducing high school students to the wonders of learning at Oxford. Collectively, Putney and Professor Basker have welcomed to Oxford thousands of bright, motivated students from all over the world.
What makes Oxford Academia different and special is the truly outstanding faculty that Professor Basker and Putney have assembled. They are Rhodes, Marshall, Gates, and British Academy scholars, with teaching posts at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Columbia, and other top institutions. They have earned awards for excellence in the arts and sciences, in scholarship and in teaching, and they bring unparalleled expertise and passion for their subjects to the classroom.
Ultimately, though, the magic of Oxford Academia stems from the students themselves, their interests, and the energy they contribute. Some students come to Oxford Academia to pursue a subject they love, others to explore new possibilities; some to build a background for college, others to escape the pressures of GPA and class rank; and still others to indulge their curiosity for different cultures, and experience living and breathing the traditions of these storied universities.
Whether in Oxford, Paris, or Siena, students on our programs thrive in a community of academically ambitious and intellectually curious peers. We hope to see you at Oxford Academia this summer!
Professor James Basker has taught at Harvard, Cambridge, and for the past 30 years at Barnard College, Columbia University, where he is Richard Gilder Professor of Literary History. Jim did his doctorate at Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, and has directed and taught on summer programs and teacher seminars at Oxford for more than 30 years. In addition to directing the program, Jim offers plenary talks and private tours of Oxford.
Oxford Academia sets itself apart with its academic resources, unparalleled access, and decades of experience in providing transformative summer programs for students. The full breadth of the student experience—from seminars and workshops to community activities and extracurriculars—provides students the opportunity to further themselves academically, connect with peers, and set themselves on a course for future success and exploration.
Our programs are a collaboration between Professor James Basker, an Oxford graduate with 30+ years of experience with the university, and Putney Student Travel, a family-run organization with seven decades of experience developing innovative and educational summer programs.
A wide range of seminar offerings enables students to pursue their academic interests—from business and medicine to the arts, and everything in between. Seminars are designed to encompass foundational and promising fields, and are curated to take advantage of all that each university and destination have to offer.
Students gain inspiration from distinguished educators and academics, featured scholars, keynote lecturers, and meetings with industry experts and thought leaders, who bring to the program diverse backgrounds with high-level, real-world experiences and insights.
Oxford Academia programs invite intellectually driven high school students to learn from the finest teachers, scholars, and industry professionals at three of the world’s most esteemed universities: Oxford University, University of Siena in Italy, and The American University of Paris. Choose an academic major and minor, pursue your subjects in the company of motivated peers, and engage with course material under the guidance of distinguished faculty, developing crucial skills to help you excel in future studies, and fostering lifelong friendships along the way.
Oxford University
July 1-14, 2023 | July 15-28, 2023
Immerse yourself in the traditions and legacy of Oxford, following in the footsteps of history’s greatest minds, finding inspiration in the hallowed halls and modern life, and charting your own future course.
The American University of Paris
July 1-14, 2023 | July 15-28, 2023
Experience one of the world’s most intellectually stimulating cities through the lens of your chosen seminar, taking advantage of the wealth of resources and inspiration woven into the fabric of this cultural hub.
University of Siena
July 1-14, 2023 | July 15-28, 2023
Discover the rich academic and cultural traditions of Italy imbued in this iconic medieval city, where university life blends with civic life and the Gothic architecture of the city itself blends into the surrounding Tuscan landscapes.
We are proud of the truly outstanding faculty members who join students each summer in Oxford, Paris, and Siena. They are Rhodes, Marshall, Gates, and British Academy scholars, with teaching posts at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Columbia, and other top institutions. They have earned awards for excellence in the arts and sciences, in scholarship and in teaching, and they bring unparalleled energy and passion for their subjects to the classroom. Meet a few of our featured faculty members below.
University of Oxford, MSc, Social Anthropology (in progress); MSt, Comparative Literature & Critical Translation (with Distinction); Harvard University, Master’s, Dramaturgy & Theater Studies; Nanjing University, B.A., English Language and Literature; Rhodes Scholar
University of Oxford, DPhil, Engineering Science (candidate); University of Queensland, BE/ME, Chemical Engineering, Hons 1st Class; Rhodes Scholar
University of Oxford, DPhil scholar, Faculty of Law; BCL, Faculty of Law; National Law School of India University, B.A., LL.B.; Queens College, University of Oxford, Lecturer in Law
University of Oxford, DPhil, Education (candidate); MSc, Comparative and International Education; University of Cape Town, B.Ed. (Hons), Education; Chuka University, B.Ed., Education; Rhodes Scholar
University of California, Irvine, Ph.D., Visual Studies (candidate); University of Colorado Boulder, M.A., Art History; San Francisco Art Institute, M.F.A., Painting; Stanford University, B.A., Art Practice
University of Sorbonne Nouvelle, Ph.D., English Literature; Paris-Sorbonne University - Paris IV, M.A., Art History; University of Poitiers, Professor of British Art & Literature
University of London, M.Sc., Histopathology; University of Belgrade, M.D.; The University of St. Andrews School of Medicine, Senior Lecturer
“The program offered an excellent, immersive experience with an ideal mix of structure and independence.”
— Sharon Z., Alumni Parent
Immerse yourself in the full Oxford experience this summer, living and learning at a constituent college of Oxford University, one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed institutions. Pursue your chosen major and minor subjects amid Oxford’s iconic architecture, historic halls, and storied streets. With the guidance and insights of faculty, scholars, and guest speakers, find your place in Oxford’s renowned academic tradition.
As one of the oldest universities in the world, Oxford remains the epicenter of scholarship and learning. Live and take courses in one of its most historic colleges, immersing yourself in British academic life, with full access to the college’s beautiful facilities. Find intellectual inspiration in the museums and lecture halls, on the cobbled streets, and in the picturesque countryside—an environment that has inspired some of the greatest minds in history.
For centuries Oxford has drawn scholars and leaders from around the world, making it an ideal location for the curious, globally minded students of today, eager to expand their intellectual horizons and explore university life. This summer, marvel at the architecture of the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, the Pitt Rivers and Ashmolean museums (Great Britain’s oldest), and the Sheldonian Theatre, and follow in the footsteps of world leaders, scientists, medical researchers, business leaders, and artists.
After breakfast at their residential college, students dive into their major seminar, which begins in classrooms, labs, or meeting spaces. After lunch taken independently in small peer groups, students head to their minor seminars, often at another college. Afternoons and evenings offer opportunities for students to explore Oxford, pursue their interests beyond seminar topics through elective workshops, take part in exciting extracurricular activities, or work on their independent projects.
After dinner in the college’s portrait-lined dining hall, students and faculty from all seminars convene for evening activities, which may include hearing a special guest speaker, taking in a play or concert, or strolling through the quiet streets of Oxford with a small group of friends. On the final days of the program, students focus on completing their independent projects within their seminar groups.
In addition to in-depth major and minor seminars, explore other interests and topics in elective lectures and workshops offered by instructors and visiting guests alike. Try your hand at botanical illustration during a sketching session at the Botanical Gardens; join a walking tour on “Oxford’s Secret Places” with Professor Basker; spend an afternoon punting from the Cherwell boathouse; or enjoy a gastronomic experience during a course on British cheeses, complete with visits to the cheesemonger and ample taste tests.
Oxford Academia is designed for intellectually curious students to pursue an academic interest at one of the world’s most prestigious universities, without the pressure of grades or exams. Students choose a major seminar and a minor seminar, taught by academic faculty and active professionals, and engage with course material through lectures from guest speakers and scholars, small group projects, classroom discussion, and experiential learning.
From the holdings of its world-class libraries and museums to the influential figures who have walked its cobblestone streets; from the voices that echo here still to the reverberations they have sent around the globe, Oxford University exudes inspiration, tradition, and pioneering thought. Delve into International Relations or War & World History in the context of England, Europe, and beyond; experiment with new modes of Creative Writing in the place that inspired great writers like Shelley and Wordsworth; study Law & Society, Medicine, or Criminology & Justice in the epicenter of innovative research and scholarship.
Archaeology & Anthropology
Architecture, Design, & Sustainability
Bioethics
Business, Banking, & Markets
Creative Writing
Criminology & Justice
Debate & Public Speaking Engineering
Evolutionary Biology & the World Today History’s Secrets
International Relations & Diplomacy
Journalism Law & Society
Media in Human History Medicine
Philosophy
Psychology & AI Shakespeare
War & World History
“Noah gained a love for Oxford and its rich history, connections with other students, and wonderful experiences that he will treasure.”
— Sarah L. & Daniel S., Alumni Parents
Experience the full scope of one of the world’s most intellectually stimulating cities. Located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, Paris Academia at The American University of Paris offers students an unparalleled Parisian university experience. Delve into your major and minor seminars with the city as your classroom. Together with peers and esteemed faculty, take advantage of all on offer in this global hub of arts, fashion, finance, cuisine, and diplomacy.
The American University of Paris is a vibrant urban campus, nestled in the heart of the city. Some buildings overlook the Seine on the Quai d’Orsay, while others are tucked into the quiet St. Dominique neighborhood a few blocks away, between the Invalides and the Champ de Mars and Eiffel Tower. A mix of elegant historic structures and modern, state-of-the-art facilities, students are immersed in university life and inspired by the Parisian experience.
As one of the oldest American educational institutions in Europe, and the first in France, The American University of Paris is the ideal location to pursue academics and the arts. This summer, students will find inspiration in Paris’ vibrant social and cultural scene, following in the footsteps of world leaders, scientists, artists, and researchers—on the banks of the Seine, in the Musée d’Orsay up the street, at La Bourse, the French stock exchange, and more.
Students and faculty live in university apartments in a beautifully renovated hôtel particulier on the Champs-Élysées, a short walk or Métro ride from campus, immersing students in urban life in the charming heart of Paris. After a French breakfast on campus, seminar learning begins in classrooms, labs, or meeting spaces.
Following lunch in a café or a picnic, seminars continue. Afternoons and evenings offer opportunities for students to explore Paris, pursue interests beyond seminar topics through elective workshops, take part in extracurricular activities, or work on independent projects.
After dinner in local restaurants, students and faculty from all seminars convene for evening activities, which may include programming such as a keynote address, taking in a local play, or an activity such as strolling the streets of Paris or a night visit to a museum. On the final days of the program, students focus on completing their independent projects in their seminar groups.
In addition to in-depth major and minor seminars, explore other interests and topics in elective lectures and workshops offered by faculty and visiting guests alike. Spend a day appreciating the architectural diversity of Paris, from the medieval alleyways of the Marais to the modern National Library and the towers of La Défense. Take a workshop in the art of traditional breadmaking as you learn about the history of Paris through the lens of a Parisian boulanger Workshops range from a single afternoon to multi-series events. Our base at the university is the perfect jumping-off point for visits to Montmartre, the Notre Dame restoration site, the Île Saint-Louis, le Marais, and les Jardins du Luxembourg.
Paris Academia is designed for intellectually curious students to pursue an academic interest while immersed in a vibrant cultural hub. Students choose a major seminar and a minor seminar, taught by academic faculty and expert professionals, and engage with course material through lectures from guest speakers and scholars, small group projects, classroom discussion, and field-based learning.
Nestled in the heart of the city, The American University of Paris is the perfect home base to use the city as your classroom. Delve into Art History, tracing artists and movements through the blockbuster galleries of the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay; improve your fluency in a cuisine seminar taught entirely in French; or study Business, Banking, & Markets, exploring France’s role in the global economy and financial system.
Art History Business, Banking, & Markets
Creative Writing
French Conversation (Beginning French)
French Cuisine
French Language: French Cuisine
French Language: Streets of Paris
Law & Society Medicine
Paris & the Creative Imagination
War & World History
“I truly enjoyed getting to absorb French culture and experience France as a local, rather than as a tourist.” — Logan H., Paris Academia Alum
Discover the academic and cultural traditions of Italy as a student in Siena Academia at the University of Siena. Based in the heart of Tuscany, pursue your major and minor seminars in a stunning, walled medieval city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for how the city itself blends into the surrounding Tuscan landscape. With peers and distinguished faculty, explore the stomping grounds of Renaissance artists, iconic Gothic architecture, and historic center of banking and finance.
Founded in 1240, the University of Siena is a prominent part of civic life. Housed all across the city in structures both medieval and modern, it blends a history as one of the oldest universities in the world with cuttingedge research, scholarship, and facilities. Students in Siena Academia are immersed in university and city life, and find inspiration in the global, inclusive educational community that welcomes them.
For centuries the University of Siena has attracted brilliant scholars and minds, particularly in the fields of law, medicine, and economics. The student body composes a large part of this medieval city’s population, making the university itself an integral part of the fabric of Sienese life. This summer, students will weave themselves into this rich fabric of Italian culture and follow in the footsteps of world leaders, scientists, economists, researchers, and artists.
Students and faculty live in a small hotel or historic residence, where they take breakfast each morning. Seminar learning then begins in classrooms, museums, or meeting spaces. After lunch at an unparalleled array of restaurants, cafés, and markets along the cobblestoned streets, seminars continue or, depending on the day, students have the opportunity to explore Siena and surrounding communities in Tuscany, expanding their interests beyond seminar topics through elective workshops and exciting extracurricular activities.
After dinner in a university dining hall, students and faculty from all seminars convene for evening activities, which may include programming such as a keynote address, taking in a local play or concert, dances, coffee houses, or experiencing the streets of Siena on the evening stroll—la passeggiata—with locals. On the final days of the program, students focus on completing independent projects in their seminar groups.
In addition to in-depth major and minor seminars, explore other interests and topics in elective lectures and workshops offered by faculty and visiting guests. Examine the history of medieval cityscapes and the Palio de Siena horse race. Spend a day appreciating the iconic landscapes of Tuscany, from a hike or bike ride through the rolling Chianti hills to a swim at the breathtaking Mediterranean coast. Take a workshop in the art of homemade pasta as you learn about the history of Siena through the lens of its traditional pappardelle. Hop on the local train to explore nearby Florence. Workshops range from a single afternoon to multi-series events.
Siena Academia is designed for intellectually adventurous students to pursue an academic interest in an iconic Tuscan city. Students enroll in a major seminar and a minor seminar, taught by academic faculty and active professionals, and engage with course material through lectures from guest speakers and scholars, small group projects, classroom discussion, and field-based learning.
Folded into the fabric of historic Siena, the University of Siena provides students the opportunity to pursue their seminars at the intersection of history and modern life. Meet local producers and delve into Italian food culture in a Farm to Table seminar; study Fashion Design & Culture, participating in hands-on workshops with designers and artisans; or study International Relations & Diplomacy as you draw on the university’s strong tradition of scholarship in the field.
Art History Business, Banking, & Markets
Creative Writing
Drawing & Sketching
Farm to Table
Fashion Design & Culture
International Relations & Diplomacy
Italian Language & Culture Law & Society
“Bella was fascinated by the culture, the various seminars, and the opportunity to live daily life in a different country.”
— Brian C., Alumni Parent
Join us on an Oxford Academia 2023 summer program and connect with an inspiring academic community of student peers and distinguished educators. Begin your application today at oxfordacademia.com or call 802.387.5000 to speak with our admissions team.
Students completing 9th through 12th grades are eligible to participate in Oxford Academia programs. Motivated rising 9th graders will also be considered.
Students who attend two sessions receive a tuition reduction. Study Business in Oxford, then Art History in Paris; Farm to Table in Siena and Architecture in Oxford. Choose your own path!
The Putney Open Door Fund, a nonprofit foundation whose purpose is to provide support for young people seeking educational summer experiences, considers scholarship applications from students applying to Oxford Academia programs. Learn more at goputney.com/podf
Begin your application today!
oxfordacademia.com
Archaeology & Anthropology
Architecture, Design, & Sustainability
Art History
Bioethics
Business, Banking, & Markets
Creative Writing
Criminology & Justice
Debate & Public Speaking
Drawing & Sketching
Engineering
Evolutionary Biology & the World Today
Farm to Table
Fashion Design & Culture
French Conversation (Beginning French)
French Cuisine
French Language: French Cuisine
French Language: Streets of Paris
History’s Secrets
International Relations & Diplomacy
Italian Language & Culture
Journalism
Law & Society
Media in Human History
Medicine
Paris & the Creative Imagination
Philosophy
Psychology & AI
Shakespeare
War & World History
full list of seminars
