The Oxford University Alternative Prospectus by Oxford University Student Union

Oxford University The

Alternative Prospectus 2012-2014

Acknowledgements The Admissions Office, The OUSU sabbatical team, Imogen Richardson, Hannah Cusworth, Jonny Medland, college representatives and JCR presidents. Project Manager Imogen Richardson Design Taylor Leonard Print Stephens & George

The Alternative Prospectus 2012-2014

Published by Oxford University Student Union. Copyright 2012 Oxford University Student Union. Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Sreet, Oxford OX1 2BX T (01865) 288 452, F (01865) 288 453 www.ousu.org publisher@ousu.org All information is believed to be correct at the time of going to print (February 2012). Although every effort has been made to verify details, most of the content has been supplied by individual students and we cannot guarantee its accuracy.

Foreword W

elcome to Oxford’s Alternative Prospectus 2012-2014. Since you’ve picked it up and are flicking through it, you’re probably wondering whether you ought to apply to Oxford this year (or next, or sometime in the future). Well, take it from me, it’s definitely worth thinking about. Personally, I can’t imagine a better place to live and study. For a start, Oxford city is a student’s dream location. Full of parks, shops, restaurants, amazing little coffee shops and cafes, enchanting attractions and a few secret hide-aways - in term time, students rule the streets and medieval alleys. By the second week of your first term you’ll feel right at home. Then there’s the actual university itself. Yes, yes, it’s one of the best in the world, is terribly famous and incredibly old and everything, but the point is that you get fantastic libraries, world experts to teach you and the opportunity to explore your passion for whatever subject(s) you want to study. The chance to grow intellectually here is second to none and it doesn’t matter one bit what part of the country, or indeed the world, you come from, or what colour your skin is, or what school you’ve been to, or how rich or poor you are - Oxford will accept or reject you based on one crucial criterion: your ability to think. And that’s something which only you can determine,

through your enthusiasm for a given subject and your intellectual ambition. Oxford allowed me to do things that I never imagined doing before I arrived here. I have shaken hands with the Prime Minister and debated with members of the cabinet; worked for an HIV/Aids charity in South Africa and given speeches to a room of academics. If you had told me when I was little that I would do any of those things I would have laughed you out the room. Next year I’m joining the Teach First graduate scheme, so from September I’ll be a secondary school teacher in one of London’s most disadvantaged and challenging schools. Being here has made me realised how education can open up opportunities to people from backgrounds where there aren’t that many. So, put away any prejudice you might have, and get reading this prospectus. It’s written entirely by students and you’ll soon see from their candid accounts of colleges, courses, student life and diversity that Oxford is one hell of a place to live and learn. Hannah Cusworth VP Access and Academic Affairs Oxford University Student Union

Intro

Colleges

Intro Why Oxford? Access Oxford: A View from the Inside Myths Visiting Oxford Applying Interviews Finance & Fees Cost of Living Careers

6 8 11 11 14 16 18 22 24 26

The Collegiate System

Choosing a College

PPHs Explained

Colleges A-Z Balliol Brasenose Christ Church Corpus Christi Exeter Harris Manchester Hertford Jesus Keble Lady Margaret Hall Lincoln Magdalen Mansfield Merton New Oriel Pembroke Queen’s Regent’s Park St Anne’s St Benet’s St Catherine’s St Edmund Hall St Hilda’s St Hugh’s St John’s St Peter’s Somerville Trinity University Wadham Worcester Blackfriars St Stephen’s House Wycliffe Hall

36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 100 100 100

Contents Student Life Courses Which Course?

104

Courses A-Z Archaeology & Anthropology Biochemistry Biological Sciences Biomedical Sciences Chemistry Classical Archaeology & Ancient History Classics Computer Science Earth Sciences Economics & Management Engineering Engineering, Economics & Management English Experimental Psychology Fine Art Geography History History of Art Human Sciences Law Materials Science Mathematics Medicine Modern Languages Music Oriental Studies Philosophy, Politics & Economics Philosophy & Modern Languages Physics Psychology, Philosophy & Linguistics Theology

106 108 110 112 114 116 118 124 128 130 132 134 136 140 142 144 146 154 156 158 160 162 168 170 174 176 178 180 182 186 188

A Day in the Life

192

Oxford the City Traditions & Events Nightlife

194 198 200

Oxford University Student Union

202

Clubs & Societies Music Drama Journalism Politics Odd Ones Out

204 206 208 210 212

Volunteering

214

Sport

216

Religion

220

Student Support Health & Welfare Disabilities Student Parents International Students Mature Students LGBTQ

224 226 228 230 230 231

Directory Glossary Map Transport Contacts

234

Intro

Why Oxford?

sking why people apply to Oxford is an odd question in a lot of ways. Oxford has been one of the leading universities in the world for hundreds of years. It has top quality facilities and an internationally-renowned reputation. And in case that wasn’t enough, Oxford as a city is vibrant and exciting, as this prospectus will hopefully show you. But while that’s the reality of Oxford, a lot of potential applicants still see it in very different terms. Too many people look at Oxford and think that alongside academic excellence goes an impenetrable old boy’s network and an admissions system rife with public school snobbery. Don’t believe a word of it. Regardless of what was the case in decades gone by, applications to Oxford today depend only on your potential to succeed and your willingness to work hard to get there. What school you go to, whether your family went to university and how much money you have don’t matter – Oxford admits people only on the basis of academic potential. You may think that to come to Oxford you have to be an ‘Oxford type’ or a ‘genius’. Too many talented students in your position think that way and don’t give Oxford enough consideration. If you’re passionate about your subject and could do well at university, then you’re in the same boat as many other applicants who get into Oxford every year. If you need more convincing then read on. This section outlines some of the many reasons you may want to apply, which go far beyond academic excellence.

Tutorials Oxford’s style of teaching is different from that of most universities in that it is built around tutorials. These are meetings with your tutor, which typically last an hour and take place either individually or with one or two other students. They involve discussion of your week’s work, normally centred either around an essay or problem sheets you have produced or on reading which you have done. This may sound a bit daunting, but people quickly get used to the in-depth style of teaching which it allows. Your tutor will often have literally written the books which you’re studying, so being able to discuss topics with them in depth every week is an opportunity available at few other universities.

Libraries It may not sound exciting, but you’ll quickly learn to appreciate the importance of easily being able to access books and not having to buy your own. Every Oxford student has access to the Bodleian Library. This is a copyright library, which means that it has a copy of every book, pamphlet, journal and magazine ever published in the UK. With over 11 million items and 153 miles of shelving, you’ll be able to find more or less any book you could want there. In addition to the Bodleian, there are over one hundred other libraries in Oxford, including at least one for every faculty and college. Although late-night working hours are something which happen to most university students at one point, at Oxford it certainly won’t be due to not being able to get your hands on the books.

People

The College System

If you’re going to be spending years of your life somewhere, you’ll probably want to know something about the people who you’ll meet. Oxford students are a hugely diverse group in terms of background, interests and personality. You’ll meet people who are hugely into sport, music, debating, staying in, going out, working hard, playing hard and even some who don’t seem to do much at all. Contrary to what gets spread, there really is no accurate stereotype of who an Oxford student is or what they’re interested in. Whoever you are and whatever you’re into, there will be people like you here.

Along with the tutorial system, Oxford’s collegiate system is something which makes us different to most other universities. Explained in more detail on pages 30-31, the college system gives new students a smaller community than the entire University, making it easier to settle in and meet people. If you’ve ever seen the ‘That’s Why I Chose Yale’ video, colleges are pretty much like the residential colleges, but with less singing.

Surroundings and City If you come to Oxford, you’ll quickly develop high levels of frustration with how many tourists congregate in the city centre. But there’s a reason why they do – put simply, Oxford is a beautiful place. Much of the city centre is built around college buildings which are literally centuries old. Whether you’re into ancient architecture or modern designs, buildings in Oxford are very well-designed and provide a great set of surroundings in which to live and work. At the same time, Oxford isn’t just a university with a town attached – it is a thriving city in its own right. For more information see the ‘Student Life’ section. There’s no shortage of new parts of town to explore, all of which have their own atmosphere.

Employment It’s not exactly a secret that having a good degree from Oxford will improve your employment prospects. Employers are impressed by Oxford degrees not only because of the University’s reputation, but also because that, in studying for it, you’ll have gained skills which aren’t taught at other universities. Oxford graduates typically have the confidence, intellect and drive that employers are looking for. No matter what field you want to go into, companies actively recruit at Oxford, creating many opportunities for students seeking to get jobs after leaving University.

Finance One of the leading reasons many people give for not wishing to apply to Oxford is a belief that they won’t be able to afford it. This won’t be the case – Oxford has some of the most generous financial support schemes in the country. See pages 22-23 for more information.

Intro

Widening Access to Oxford Oxford’s approach to outreach and access and why it’s good news for potential applicants like you

xford wants the brightest students with the most academic potential to study here to apply and get in; this means it actively scours the country to inform, guide and advise students and invites thousands of students every year to visit Oxford. Alongside this, the University increasingly recognises that students from some family and educational backgrounds might face bigger challenges when applying to Oxford than others. But Oxford isn’t just talking about widening access, University representatives are doing something about it to. The University uses a range of information provided by applicants to give admissions tutors the best possible picture about a student’s achievement and the context within which they achieved their grades. One of the aims of using such contextual data is that all applicants will compete on a more level playing field- good news for everyone! To find out more go to www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate_courses/finding_out_more/ contextual_data.html. Alongside this Oxford runs lots of activities designed to encourage and support people from non-traditional backgrounds to make competitive applications. The University’s current flagship widening access scheme is the UNIQ summer schools. Details are on the University admissions website (www.ox.ac. uk/uniq) – the summer schools are open to any year 12 student at a state school who has achieved certain grades in their GCSEs. Preference is given to students from schools with little history of sending their students

to Oxford, but it’s well worth applying for the programme. Each summer school lasts for a week and is entirely free of charge – you’ll be staying at one of Oxford’s colleges, have the chance to get a feel for the city and see for yourself what studying at the University might be like. The summer schools are perhaps the best way of directly seeing what life as an Oxford student might be like before you apply. The Student Union runs its own access scheme called Target Schools, which focuses on getting current students to visit schools and encouraging people to apply. The Target Schools campaign also runs a Shadowing Scheme every year, which enables Year 12 students to visit Oxford and spend a day shadowing a current undergraduate. This scheme runs in Hilary term (January-March) every year and is targeted at students from schools that don’t regularly send students to Oxford. Places are limited, but the scheme is always expanding. Email access@ousu.org for more information. Oxford colleges also run hundreds of events every year for bright students who have the potential to study at Oxford, many of which are advertised through schools so ask your teachers if they know of any upcoming opportunities. Every region in England, Wales and Northen Ireland is linked to a College. To find out more and which College to contact go to www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_ courses/working_with_schools_and_colleges/ information_for_teachers_and_advisers/ regional_outreach/.

Every year Oxford runs conferences around website (http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/). the country where prospective applicants The website also has a huge amount of can come to speak to University officials information about the application process. and students. Bookings are made by Oxford staff participate in programs schools on behalf of students, but if you designed to spread information about higher can’t make it to Oxford, then ask your education in general and attend dozens of school to book you a ticket (free of charge) Higher Education Fairs around the country via www.regionalconferences.org.uk. It’s every year. If you’re interested in any of recommended that you encourage your these programs, then contact the relevant teachers to book early as the conferences people mentioned on the website to find out are typically oversubscribed and have a strict more about the individual programs. maximum capacity. These conferences If you want to find out Even if you decide that you include information more about Oxford to would rather go to university on interviews, student help you decide whether finance and the courses elsewhere, it’s worth visiting or not you want to apply, which are available. Oxford or hearing from current then these are just some You’ll also have the students in advance so that you of the ways that you can chance to meet current get that information. can make that decision based students and chat Even if you decide that to them about what on facts, not myths, about what you would rather go to student life in Oxford life as an Oxford student is like. university elsewhere, is like. it’s worth visiting Oxford or hearing from current Your teachers can also students in advance attend teacher conferences, which are put so that you can make that decision based on by Oxford specifically to inform teachers on facts, not myths, about what life as an about what applying to Oxford involves. Oxford student is like. Although information These take place around the country in in this and the official University Prospectus recognition of how important teachers can will hopefully be useful to you, at the end be in helping you decide where to apply and of the day, there’s really no substitute for what sort of subject could be best for you. having the chance to ask questions of students already at Oxford. There are a range of other outreach activities that are open to everyone which you Turn to page 14 for more information about can look at on the university admissions visiting Oxford.

Intro

Oxford: A View from the Inside

Myths

While there are many unique aspects to Oxford as a city, some of the most widelycirculated stories about the University are untrue. Here we run down eight of the most popular:

1 Everyone’s posh and rich.

Statistics show that Oxford has a disproportionate number of privately educated students. However, thousands of students at the University were educated at state schools and people have no way of knowing where you were educated unless you tell them. There’s no trend of private school snobbery outside of tiny cliques who you would probably rather not hang around anyway.

2 My interview will involve odd challenges and rituals.

The myths about Oxford interviews probably come about from the fact that our admissions process is different to that of most other universities. But you won’t have a rugby ball thrown at you, it doesn’t matter which seat you sit in and the students helping with interviews won’t be reporting on you to tutors. You may get unexpected questions about your subject, but just stay calm and take your time to give answers.

Oxford is constantly in the media. Every time you open a newspaper there will be some story or other about Oxford and often, especially if the story is about admissions, it will be negative and include several misinterpretations of the facts. So these pages are designed to dispel some of those myths and to give you a view of Oxford from the inside.

f you come to Oxford and look hard enough, you’ll see traces of the stereotypes which the media love to emphasise. Although there are students who choose to wear boaters and do their best to live up to a ridiculous eighteenth century image of what an Oxford student should be, that’s not what regular life in Oxford is like unless you actively seek it out. And, although you might not believe in now, by the time you’ve settled in, you may well find that some of Oxford’s ongoing traditions, such as rowing, punting and wearing gowns aren’t so bad after all. It is true that there are lots of privately educated students here but the overwhelming majority of them are actually very normal and nice and come from normal and nice families. In fact, of the students currently coming to Oxford with household incomes under £25k over 30% are from private schools. You’ll find that many of the people you meet who went to private schools were only able to because they received a big bursary or scholarship that paid the fees.

3 Oxford discriminates against people in the admissions process.

This simply isn’t true – Oxford tutors are looking for academic potential. The tutors who interview you may well end up teaching you and will not discriminate for or against applicants on the basis of their background, gender or any other factors.

4 No one does anything in Oxford except work.

Oxford’s workload is heavier than that of most other universities, but typically it’s sleep that gets squeezed rather than having fun. There are a few students who spend all their time working, but the vast majority of undergraduates manage to balance their academic commitments with an active social life.

5 Oxford isn’t for people like me.

Contrary to established ‘wisdom’, Oxford students really are a fairly normal bunch of people. If you come here, you’ll make talented and interesting friends, but that’s true at other universities too. People who are the first from their school to come to Oxford get in every year and settle in just fine along with everyone else.

Intro

Oxford: A View from the Inside

When you walk down the street it’s clear to see Oxford is nowhere near as diverse as Lewisham or Leicester, but it’s categorically untrue that there is only 1 black student in Oxford. That becomes very clear the minute you walk into a library, go clubbing or just walk around a college. One of the reasons Oxford isn’t as diverse as big cities such as London is that while London is a very diverse place, lots of other parts of the country aren’t and the statistics show that Oxford’s intake isn’t wildly out of line with what the UK population looks like. Other thing that you notice when you come up to Oxford is the number of different accents you’ll hear. Oxford students currently come from 138 countries around the world and international students make up 14 percent of the undergraduate student body. One thing people often say about Oxford is that no one from the north studies there. Well, while there aren’t Scouse accents everywhere Greater Manchester had more pupils with Oxford offers in 2010 than either Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire or Oxfordshire.

Myths

6 Oxford costs too much for me.

Oxford has the most generous bursary scheme in the country and charges the same level of fees for students from low income backgrounds as other universities. If you’re concerned about the cost of studying at Oxford, then search for ‘student funding’ on the University website (www.ox.ac.uk) for more information. See also pages 22-23 for more information.

7 There’s a curfew.

Much like the idea of daily life being conducted in Latin, does this really sound plausible? Like every other university in Britain, it’s up to you when you go to bed.

8 Everything is done in Latin.

If you do Classics, perhaps. Otherwise, not so much.

Many of these myths stem from a belief that Oxford is fundamentally very different from other universities. The main thing to remember is that Oxford students are a lot like students at other universities all over Britain and that if you think you’d enjoy university, then odds are that you’d enjoy Oxford. If you still think Oxford is too posh, weird, academic or whatever else for you, then log on to www.ox.ac.uk/videowall to see the testimonials of 100 different students.

Lastly, it’s sometimes said that Oxford is a very male dominated place. Although many of Oxford’s most famous alumni are men, many colleges didn’t admit women until the 1970s so that isn’t that surprising! But now all colleges accept both men and women and the gender balance now is almost spot on with many colleges having about a 50/50 split. Some political societies have had a history of male leaders, yet in 2011/12 the President of the student union, OUSU, was female. And the Oxford Union debating society had a female President every term in 2011/12 too. It’s getting increasingly harder to say that Oxford is a male dominated place and long may that continue. Someone later in this Alternative Prospectus sums it up perfectly when they say “I wish I’d known everyone was normal’ before they’d applied to study here. That’s the beauty of Oxford because it is, in some ways, such a diverse place, you can always find people you want to spend time with. If you think Oxford could be for you, then give it your best shot and remember – you definitely can’t get in if you don’t apply in the first place.

13 1

Intro

Visiting Oxford Choosing which universities to apply to will be a decision that you’ll want to take your time over. In order to get a feel for whether you’d like to come to Oxford and which college you may want to apply to, it’s best that you visit Oxford to see for yourself.

Open Days The best way of getting a taste of what Oxford is like comes on Open Days, making them an ideal opportunity for you to take a day or two to see the University. There are typically three University-wide open days every year. The first two take place on consecutive days in June or July, the third at some point in mid-September. Check the admissions website (www. admissions.ox.ac.uk/opendays)for details of which colleges are open on the University-wide open days, but provisional dates for Open Days for 2012 are 27-28 June 2012.

Both colleges and subjects also offer Open Days, details of which are available on the University admissions website, along with whether or not bookings are required. If you’re visiting Oxford for an Open Day, then it’s worth looking at multiple colleges to see which ones feel most suitable for you. Although, remember that no matter which college you end up at, you’re likely to enjoy your time there. If you have any questions about Open Days at a specific college or department, then you should email the admissions secretary there to ask in advance.

Talking to Current Students One of the main goals of the ‘Alternative Prospectus’ is to give you an idea of what students think of the University. Other good ports of call include any friends or relatives who may have been to Oxford recently. If you wish you can contact the Student Union Access Officer on access@ousu.org or a Common Room Access Officer, whose email address will often be on a JCR or college website. Even if they can’t answer your question, they’re likely to point you towards someone who can. Common Rooms also often produce their own ‘Alternative Prospectus’ – you may want to see if they’re available online.

Official Information The University Admissions website at www. admissions.ox.ac.uk is a great resource which lets you look at entry requirements, listen to podcasts from the University admissions team and read student profiles. If you have questions, you can ask the Admissions Office on undergraduate.admissions@admin.ox.ac.uk or call on 01865 288 000. They have copies of the University and subject prospectuses and will be able to answer most questions that you have. If you’re around Oxford, then you can drop in during office hours to the Admissions Information Centre on Little Clarendon Street near the city centre and have your questions answered.

In addition to this Prospectus, the Student Union website contains a great deal of information for prospective applicants – visit www.ousu.org/prospective-students to read interview profiles and find out more about the student experience of applying to Oxford.

Visiting Colleges Outside of designated Open Days, many colleges will be happy to let you have a look around, although it’s always best to ask in advance. The Junior Common Room Access Officer may be able to find a student to show you around, although this will vary by college. Being shown around by a current student allows you to ask them about life at the college as well as information about facilities which might otherwise not be available. If you have specific questions, then you may wish to contact the College Tutor for Admissions who oversees the admissions process and should be able to answer your queries about applying to an individual college.

Visiting Oxford If you’re thinking of visiting Oxford, then you should strongly consider coming by train. Although it’s technically possible to park in the city centre, you’re very likely to end up driving around for much of the day before retreating to a parking lot outside of Oxford. If you do decide to drive, then it’s strongly recommended that you use the Park and Ride. This will save money and preserve your sanity. Oxford’s train station is a 10-minute walk from the centre of town. Remember that during vacations the atmosphere in Oxford is very different, so it may not be representative of what terms here are like.

Intro

The Admissions website www.ox.ac.uk/admissions

Applying As with most other British universities, applications to Oxford are made through UCAS. This means none of your other chosen universities will know where else you’ve applied. However, you cannot apply to both Oxford and Cambridge, and you can’t submit an application for more than one course at Oxford. When you make an application, you can either apply to a specific college or make an open application, in which case you will be interviewed at a randomly selected college.

questions about what work would be suitable to submit, then you should contact the College where you will be interviewed to clarify what they will accept. Applicants typically submit marked work which they feel shows their best ability, but there’s no need to write anything specifically for the admissions process.

Pre-interview tests are specifically designed to test aptitude rather than knowledge, meaning that you can’t prepare for whatever the content of the test will be. Rather than worry about revising for them, it would A key thing to remember Check if you have to register be better to carry on with about applying to Oxford your schoolwork and is that you must submit separately for the tests aside keep reading around the your UCAS form early. from the actual application subject for which you’re This date is typically which you send to the applying. Check if you October 15th, although have to register separately it’s always worth checking University – more details can the tests aside from on the admissions website again be found at www.admis- for the actual application (www.admissions.ox.ac. which you send to the uk). The early date allows sions.ox.ac.uk/tests. University – more details the University to organise can again be found at interviews and request www.admissions.ox.ac. written work. It also uk/tests. Although not means that you’ll need everyone who applies is interviewed, a large to get your personal statement written earlier proportion of applicants in all subjects will be than applicants to non-Oxbridge universities; called for interview. make sure you start early so you’re not editing it shortly before the deadline on the UCAS Whether you are successful in your applicasite. tion or not, you will hear back from Oxford in December or early January. Although offers Increasing numbers of subjects are asking for can vary, they are typically A*A*A to AAA at samples of written work or requiring a preA-Level depending on the course and between interview test as part of their admissions pro38 to 42 points in the International Baccalaucess. Written work is generally required to be reate. submitted by early November; if you have any

Intro

Interviews E

My Oxford Interview Hannah Cusworth Oxford University Student Union Vice President Access and Academic Affairs I remember I had to get up pretty early in order to get the train up for my interview and so I had to leave my work Christmas party early, which I was sad about. On the train I sleepily read through my personal statement, written work I’d submitted and the notes I’d made for the essay. Looking back, I’m so glad I did because half of my first interview was focused on my essay on the English Reformation! In the second half the tutor’s questions were on Europe during the period (something I hadn’t really studied) and so it was clear the tutor wanted to ask me questions on unfamiliar territory. This is where my reading around the topic really came in handy. After the interview I remember calling my mum and saying I probably hadn’t got a place because I didn’t use any big words but that clearly didn’t matter. The one thing to always remember about Oxford interviews is you can’t read much into anything!

very year a lot is written about how to get into Oxford. Myths about the application process have been circulating for years, and there’s little sign of these ever being put to rest.

After you apply The timetable for interviews in your subject is available at www.admissions.ox.ac.uk/interviews. You need to keep this period free of other commitments as the interview period is very heavily compressed and there’s little room for manoeuvre unless you have an exceptionally compelling reason why you couldn’t make the interview dates. You’ll receive a letter or email near the end of November telling you whether you have been short-listed for an interview. If you aren’t offered an interview, then try not to be too disappointed – logistical reasons mean that the University simply cannot interview every applicant, and there are many other excellent universities to which you can apply. If you are invited to interview, you will be told which college you’ll be staying at. This will normally be the college to which you applied, unless you submitted an open application or if your first choice of college is significantly oversubscribed, in which case you’ll be reallocated to another college. If you are reallocated to another college or have interviews at more than one college, then don’t assume that it means anything about your chances of getting in. Many applicants now have interviews at more than one college for a range of reasons, including colleges being oversubscribed and to make sure that all colleges are accepting a similar standard of applicant as part of the process.

Preparing for interview

When you arrive

Oxford tutors do not expect you to know every fact in every textbook you’ve read and they understand that you may well be nervous at your interview. They’re interested in enthusiasm for your subject as well as natural ability. Since they’ll also be teaching you for a few years, they’re naturally also keen on trying to gauge what you’d be like to teach. Rather than wading through facts ahead of your interview, a better use of time would be keeping up with magazine and journal articles, just so you’re familiar with recent developments in your subject.

A lot of applicants enjoy their time at interview more than you might think – the actual time spent in interviews is comparatively brief, and you’ll have a few days in Oxford with other people your age, many of whom have the same interests as you. When you arrive in Oxford, current students will take you to where you’re staying and show you around the college, as well as explain what optional activities have been organised for you, such as film nights and bar quizzes. It’s worth bringing some work from home or something to read as there’ll be a lot of waiting around in between interviews. There’s no need to wear smart clothes to interviews unless you feel comfortable in them – you’re being considered on the basis of your mind, not on what you want to wear!

Although preparing for an Oxford interview will inevitably be difficult, whoever you are, it may be useful for you to practice with a willing teacher or someone similar. The experience in talking about yourself and your work may help you feel more comfortable going into an interview setting. Although some schools and private companies offer intense interview training, there is little proof that they will help your chances – there is no ‘Oxford type’ that you can learn how to become, and you shouldn’t put yourself under extra stress as part of the interview preparation. Ahead of the actual interviews, you should reread any written work you submitted, along with your personal statement, and consider how you might respond to questions about them. They may come up in your interview and you’ll feel more comfortable if you can remember what you wrote and have anything extra to say about those things. Finally, think of responses to the obvious questions you may get asked about why you want to come to Oxford and study your subject.

While interviews are challenging and the competition is intense, the process itself is designed to test your academic potential, giving the tutors who interview you a chance to find out how you think and whether they’d enjoy teaching you over the coming years.

Intro

Interviews

Tutors aren’t trying to catch you out, but they are trying to see how you think and what skills you have.

The interview itself No two interviews are the same, but there are some common themes. Tutors aren’t trying to catch you out, but they are trying to see how you think and what skills you have. In Arts subjects you may well be given some time to look at a passage of text ahead of the interview which you then have to discuss. In science subjects you could be asked factual questions. The tutors could also focus on topics which you haven’t studied to see how you respond to new ideas. Don’t panic if you can’t think of answers to everything which you are asked – there are rarely ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers and it’s fine if you take time to answer questions and ask for clarification if you’re unsure what a tutor is asking. You may well have to work through your train of thought towards an answer. This is very similar to what happens in Oxford tutorials, so don’t be surprised if your line of thought changes during the interview itself. Although tutors may ask about any extracurricular activities which you have put on your personal statement, they are primarily interested in your academic potential and it is this area on which your interview will focus.

Although the interview environment can be intense, it’s probably best not to compare notes on interviews with other applicants afterwards – interviews may well not have gone in the way which you think they did. Try not to secondguess everything that’s happened as ultimately neither you nor your fellow applicants will know how you did until you receive letters from your tutors.

What’s next? All interviewed applicants are contacted in December or January to be told whether or not they have been successful. Offers are typically conditional on certain grades being achieved in your final exams at school, although you may be accepted by a college different than that to which you applied. The similarities between colleges are far greater than the differences between them, so don’t worry if this ultimately happens to you. Every year many thousands of applicants are not offered places. These inevitably include many talented individuals who would have thrived at Oxford. Many people reapply to Oxford after a gap year or apply for graduate study after going to a different university. If you don’t ultimately get into Oxford, then remember that there are many other excellent universities where you will have a fantastic time.

Gap Years If you want to apply but defer the year in which you hopefully come to Oxford, or if you’re planning on taking a gap year before applying, it’s worth checking with the department to which you’re applying about whether it may hinder your chances. Colleges may also wish to see evidence that you’ve spent or are planning to spend a gap year doing something. This doesn’t mean that it needs to be strictly related to your course, but it’s probably not a great idea to spend six months working your way through back episodes of Neighbours before your application. There are no firm University policies on gap years and applications – attitudes vary depending on which subject you’re applying for. If you have questions, then both colleges and departments will be able to steer you in the right direction. The important thing to remember, though, is that if you are going to take a gap year, then it’s best to ensure that you can explain why you wanted to take one and what you aim to get out of it.

Intro

Finance & Fees Useful links and tools Government support for students: directgov.co.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/ UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/index.htm

£9,000 is a lot of money but it doesn’t make studying at Oxford unaffordable for anyone. Hannah Cusworth VP Access and Academic Affairs is here to tell you why.

If you are a UK or EU citizen you won’t have to pay any tuition fees upfront. This means that you don’t have to have thousands in the bank to apply to Oxford because the Student Loans Company will loan you the money.

It’s true that by studying at university (if you take out a tuitition fee loan or maintenance loan) you will be in debt after your leave. BUT how much you pay off is related to how much you earn AND you don’t pay back anything until after you’ve graduated. In fact you don’t pay anything back until you’re earning a salary of over £21,000.

The amount that you pay back each month is likely to be very small, unless you have a massive salary after graduating. Currently the amount I pay back each month is less than my mobile phone bill…!

Alongside tuition fee loans the government will provide a basic rate of loan for living costs for all UK/EU students. This means that you won’t have to worry about finding all your living costs upfront. For students from families on low or middle incomes the government and Oxford provides bursaries and grants for living costs which you’ll never have to pay back.

Living Costs Calculator (this will help you calculate the loans and grants to which you are entitled, and the costs you can expect to face): www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate_courses/student_funding/ index.html Information on sources of funding (information for both UK and non-UK students, and advice on other sources of funding): www.admin.ox.ac.uk/studentfunding/undergraduate/ Student Maintenance Loan: www.admin.ox.ac.uk/studentfunding/undergraduate/gov_england.shtml Oxford Funding Search (find out about additional funding and awards which may be applicable to you): www2.admin.ox.ac.uk/studentfunding/ awards/search.php5

If you’re from a low-income background you’ll be better off studying at Oxford than almost any other university in the country because of the financial support Oxford will give you. Oxford is giving away huge amounts of money in financial support, which is targeted at students from poorer backgrounds. To find out all the details go to www.ox.ac.uk/ admissions/undergraduate_courses/student_ funding/

Facts Factsand andFigures Figures Fees UK/EU Students: No matter which higher education institution you apply to in England, it will probably be charging tuition fees around the national average of £8,509. Tuition fees may be waived or reduced depending on your financial circumstances. Payment for the fees can be deferred until after your complete your degree. Overseas Students: If you are not from the UK or EU, your fees will be higher, and vary according to subject. To see the full list, go to www.admin.ox.ac.uk/studentfunding/ fees. These range from £13,200 (for English Literature) to £18,550 (for Physics).

Financial Support UK Students: If you are from the UK, you will be eligible for government support in the form of a student loan and, possibly, a maintenance grant. The student loans cover the full cost tuition fees (which are provided through the Student Loans Company) and help with living costs (called the Student Maintenance Loan or SML). The size of the SML varies according to your location and family income. You may also qualify for non-repayable grants, namely the government’s maintenance grant and the Oxford Opportunity Bursary (OOB). Depending on your family circumstances, the maintenance grant can be up to £3,250 and the OOB can be up to £3,225. You do not need to apply separately for the OOB – it will be calculated from the information used to assess your maintenance grant. The most up-to-date information on government support and funding can be found on www. directgov.co.uk.

EU Students: Most students from the EU will be eligible to apply for a loan to cover your tuition fees. This is provided by the Student Loans Company. Depending on your country of origin, you may also be eligible for funding and awards – check the Funding Search on the University’s website for more details. Overseas Students: You will not be eligible for grants or loans from the UK government, but you may be eligible for other awards and funding - check the Funding Search for more details. If you are from the USA, you may be eligible for a US loan: for more details, check www.admin.ox.ac.uk/studentfunding/us_loans/index.shtml

Bursaries Every college has some sort of student support scheme which can supplement University financial support. If you want to know more, it’s best to ask individual colleges about what help is available.

Repayment If you are funding your time at Oxford through government loans (including those from the Student Loans Company), you will not have to make any repayments until after you graduate. Furthermore, interest is charged at the rate of inflation (meaning that, in real terms, the cost of your loan does not increase) and is only charged as a proportion of your income when you are earning over £21,000. Therefore, you will only be repaying it when you can afford to do so, and should not have unmanageable debt. Any grants which you receive do not have to be repaid.

Intro

Cost of Living

etween generous subsidies for accommodation and food and savings on books and transport, Oxford needn’t be an expensive place to live if you are a student.

Accommodation Unlike most universities, at Oxford every college will provide accommodation for your first year, with some providing it for every year of your degree. You will only be charged for college accommodation for the time that you are there (i.e. six months of the year), which is a big selling point compared to other universities. Many colleges also subsidise their accommodation, and it comes with perks such as a cleaner, internet access and possibly an internal phone, a fridge or your sheets being washed for you! Rent typically works out at around £3,300 for the year, but this varies depending on the college (more specifics in the ‘Colleges’ section).

Food College halls provide food, typically three meals a day, which are also subsidised. In many colleges, the price of hall food is just the cost of the ingredients (so it’s as cheap as making it yourself, and you won’t have to do the dishes). However, both quality and price can vary across colleges; going to an Open Day is a good way to taste it for yourself. All colleges also provide formal hall at least once a week, which is a (usually) delicious sit-down meal. Some colleges provide kitchen facilities for students, but the capacity and quality of these depend on the college (more details on this in the ‘Colleges’ section or get in touch with individual colleges for the most up-todate information). Outside of hall, there is an abundance of cheap cafes and restaurants in the city, many of which offer discounts for students or members of particular clubs and societies. Oxford’s diverse population ensures that you’ll have plenty of choice, whatever your taste in food. All colleges have a bar, with prices typically cheaper than at the pub (and some branding themselves as ‘ridiculously cheap’). All bars serve soft drinks, and many colleges choose to provide these at cost price. College bars provide a friendly and safe atmosphere, and are an excellent place for getting to know the other members of your college. Varsity Events also run regular club nights in the city centre, with reasonable prices on the door and two or three drinks deals on any given night.

Books

Jobs

Oxford has some of the best library provision in the country. Every college has its own library (or two!) and there is a library for every faculty (department). The main library, the Bodleian, is a copyright library. This means that it is has a copy of everything published in the UK, from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cosmopolitanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to sociology journals. The sheer volume of books in Oxford means that you will rarely have to buy any, which is a significant advantage over other universities. Many colleges also offer funds and grants to those who do have to buy books, which helps to ease the costs.

At only eight weeks, Oxfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terms are the shortest in the country. As a result, it is very difficult to find the time for part-time work during the term without compromising your study and social life. In addition to this, many colleges have explicit rules to stop undergraduates from taking work during term-time. Many do, however, offer shifts in the library or bar, or the opportunity to be a tour guide.

Transport As Oxford is a relatively small city, and all the colleges are in the centre, it is rare that you will ever have to travel for more than a mile to get anywhere. As a result, significant savings can be made compared to other universities because you will rarely need to pay for a bus or a taxi. Cycling in Oxford is also very popular. Having a bike will ensure that you can get around quickly, and there are restrictions on car traffic in the city centre.

There is a plus-side to the short terms: it leaves more time for paid work during the holidays. During the summer many students take internships, which are usually well-paid and offer valuable work experience. The Careers Service is an excellent resource, and the advisors can assist you in securing suitable work. Colleges are also especially good at helping you find work during the holidays.

Intro

Careers

hese days career prospects are becoming an increasingly important aspect to many students who decide to attend university. Although an Oxford degree won’t guarantee you an immediate job after graduation or determine what sort of career you go into, it opens many options for you to consider. No matter what field you may be interested in, employers will value the ability to manage your time, meet tight deadlines and work both individually and as part of a team. All of these skills will (hopefully) have been picked up during your time at Oxford.

letins and an information repository. They also help organise events with graduate employers where you can find out what it’s like to work in a range of careers, often with free food and drink thrown into the bargain. It’s easy but nevertheless inaccurate to portray Oxford as a hotbed of investment bankers inwaiting; there’s a thriving culture of volunteering and charitable work in Oxford, and every year graduates go on into a whole range of careers, rather than just those most commonly associated with the University.

Regardless of what career you ultimately want, Oxford graduates have In 2011, the Careers Service Oxford graduates have an gone on to lead counfound that 88.8% of recent excellent record of getting tries, win Nobel Prizes, graduates were employed or jobs. In 2011, the Cabe best-selling authors, head charities and FTSE in further study with just 5.9% reers Service found that 88.8% of recent gradu100 companies and being unemployed. ates were employed or much more besides. Every in further study with just year companies descend 5.9% being unemployed. on Oxford to attempt Graduates who opt for further study can have to recruit students for internships and jobs, the opportunity to enter some of the world’s meaning that studying here can lead to many leading postgraduate institutions, including opportunities. Ivy League universities in the USA, Cambridge For every student who arrives knowing what or even continuing their education here in career they ultimately want, there are many Oxford. more who are less certain of their eventual destination. The Oxford University Careers Ser- Whatever your long term plans, Oxford will help you get there. Even if you aren’t immedivice is available for all students and will seek ately sure what you want to do post-university, to help you evaluate your skills and motivathe skills and experiences which you pick up tions so that you can make informed decisions here will increase the choices that are open to about what careers you may wish to consider. you. The Careers Service offers individual discussions with Careers Advisers who can help with interview and application training, as well as more general services, such as vacancy bul-

The Careers Service www.careers.ox.ac.uk

Colleges

Colleges The Collegiate System

Choosing a College

Permanent Private Halls Explained

Colleges and PPHs A-Z Balliol Brasenose Christ Church Corpus Christi Exeter Harris Manchester Hertford Jesus Keble Lady Margaret Hall Lincoln Magdalen Mansfield Merton New Oriel Pembroke Queen’s Regent’s Park St Anne’s St Benet’s St Catherine’s St Edmund Hall St Hilda’s St Hugh’s St John’s St Peter’s Somerville Trinity University Wadham Worcester

36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98

Smaller Permanent Private Halls Blackfriars St Stephen’s House Wycliffe Hall

100 100 100

Colleges

The Collegiate System

xford is made up of many colleges, 30 of which accept undergraduates. In addition to these 30 colleges, there are also five Permanent Private Halls which accept students and are very similar to colleges in most ways except their historical roots. Colleges vary greatly in shape and size – they range from those which have 200 undergraduates, to those which have nearly 400. Your college will play a major role in your time at Oxford, offering you far more than just accommodation and tuition. A constant bemusement to tourists who ask, ‘but where is the actual University itself?’. The college system undoubtedly makes Oxford what it is - and by that we mean, it’s a varied place. There is no central, standard university. It’s made up of a lot of different colleges, departments, laboratories, parks, libraries and other facilities. But for students on the ground, there are enough of these places to choose from and colonise that everyone soon finds the area in which they feel most comfortable. Remember, this may not even be in their own college. It’s quite possible that student societies or other groups will provide your true ‘home’ at university, so don’t get too hung up on the web of colleges alone. That said, it’s important to understand what colleges offer - so we put together these pages to explain.

Living and Eating Every Oxford college offers accommodation for first year undergraduates, so you don’t need to worry before you arrive about finding somewhere to live. Typically, colleges offer accommodation for at least two years, although you may wish to check which colleges offer rooms for the full three years. Rooms vary in quality both between colleges and within them. Some colleges also charge different rates for different rooms, with refurbishment programs meaning that some rooms in colleges are significantly nicer than others. As well as providing housing, your college also feeds you. Each one has a hall which caters for students at various prices and quality depending on which college you go to. The extent to which you eat there will depend both on access to kitchen facilities, and how good you consider hall food to be. However, food provided in hall is typically reasonably priced and provides a good social hub, as many undergraduates eat two or three meals a day there. Although provision of facilities varies greatly between colleges, some also provide a range of services you may find useful. These can include music rooms, gyms, and – particularly if you’re an international student – storage

space. Details of some of these are included later on in this section, but for full details of college facilities, you should contact colleges to which you’re considering applying.

Socialising One of the most important functions which colleges fulfill is that of a social hub, with each having their own bar and Junior Common Room. The Junior Common Room (JCR) refers both to a literal room which undergraduates use and the undergraduate body. Involvement in college life can vary hugely – some students spend a lot of time in their college bar or JCR, while others spend more time with people from other colleges and get more involved in University-wide activities. However, initially you’re quite likely to spend a fair amount of time in your college. Each college is a small community in and of itself, which can really ease the settling-in process when you arrive. Each undergraduate intake typically ranges from 50 to 150 students depending on which college you attend, so you won’t get lost in a sea of faces. This is one of the best things about the college system; while the community feel is there when you need it, particularly early on in your time as a student, it’s by no means the only way to live. If you begin to find your college claustrophobic, there are thousands of other students in Oxford for you to meet. Colleges have their own sports teams, orchestras and film societies, but all these activities can be pursued at a University-wide level if you so choose.

Tutorials Although lectures, laboratory work and exams are all administered by the University, the tutorial system is organised by your college. Most of your tutors will be based in colleges and work will be submitted to them. Although some of your tutorials are likely to take place out of your college, you’re likely to have at least some in your own college, giving you a chance to get to know subject tutors and other people doing your course. Your tutors have a responsibility for your welfare and can be a good first port of call with regards to career advice, exam tips and any other issues you may have.

Welfare and Pastoral Welfare services are offered by the college, the Student Union and the University, but your college may be the first place to seek advice if you have any difficulties. (See more on welfare provision in the ‘Student Support’ section.) Many colleges have a ‘parenting scheme’ where every new student is given a volunteer college parent in the year above who’ll look out for you until you’ve settled in. They may do the same subject as you, giving you a good chance to find out a bit more about how exactly your subject works in your first weeks. College families often grow into lasting friendships, and help you settle into Oxford.

JCRs also put on ‘bops’, themed fancy dress parties in college which typically take place several times a term. They give you the opportunity to enjoy loud cheesy music while dressed as something suitably ridiculous and typically attract large numbers of people, but if that’s not your scene, then don’t worry as you won’t be alone.

Colleges

Choosing a College

ith 30 colleges to compare, making a choice about which one to apply to can be a bit daunting. While there are differences between colleges, it’s important to remember that these are vastly outweighed by the similarities. The differences aren’t so great that you’d be disadvantaged by picking one college over another, and regardless of where you end up, you’ll meet people you like. Around 25% of people who get offers each year get them from colleges to which they didn’t apply, so college choice may not ultimately matter. If you can’t decide which college you want to apply to, then you can also make an open application, which allows you to be allocated a college at random. Your chances of getting in are exactly the same, and the tutors by whom you’re interviewed won’t know that you didn’t choose their college. Incidentally, you’ll never be asked in an interview why you wanted to come to the college in question. Although it can be tempting to apply tactically to colleges based on the numbers of applications it typically gets and the success of your school at sending students there, neither of these factors will impact your application. Colleges judge all applicants on their own merit,

not on which school they come from. Numbers of applications to individual colleges also fluctuate each year, meaning that guessing which colleges will be vastly oversubscribed isn’t an easy task. If a college is oversubscribed, then it will send some applicants to other colleges before interview – combined with the increasing tendency for applicants to be interviewed at more than one college, tactical applications won’t make a difference to your chances of getting in. It’s more important to apply to whichever college you think you’ll be happiest at for the duration of your course. The following section gives a brief overview of each college. All information has been supplied by college JCRs and other college members, and we can’t guarantee its accuracy, though every attempt has been made to ensure it. If you’d like to find out more about an individual college, then contact the college in question. College accommodation and facilities are regularly overhauled, so college-specific information may have changed between when you read this Prospectus and when you take up a place at a college. You may want to consider a few points when deciding on a college:

Size and Shape

Location

Oxford colleges range from those which have been around for 700 years to those which have been built in the last 50. Whether you’d rather be at a modern college or one which has existed since the time of Henry VIII, you’ve got plenty of options. Colleges also vary in terms of how many students they have and in terms of physical size.

You may want to apply to a college based partially on how close it is to your department building and anywhere in Oxford where you may want to spend time (sports grounds, music venues, etc). Remember that Oxford is quite small, so even the furthest colleges are only 15 minutes away on foot from the city centre.

Accommodation

Cost

All Oxford colleges offer accommodation to their students for part of their course, although only some offer it for the entire duration. Basic facilities such as Internet in your room and laundry are always provided. But some colleges are better equipped with music and sporting facilities, and provisions for disabled access also vary across colleges. If you want to know more about levels of provision for disabled students, then either contact the college in question or the Disability Advisory Service on disability@admin.ox.ac.uk

Not all colleges cost the same to live in, with variation between rent, food charges and other costs. We’ve included rent figures on college pages, but check with colleges for details – some of our figures are approximate, and colleges change levels of rent every year. Colleges also offer differing levels of financial support, including book and travel grants, bursaries and scholarships. The only way to get full details of these is to speak directly to colleges.

Overall Don’t worry too much about college choice. While colleges are different, you’ll find friends wherever you end up and your closest friends may well come from out of college anyway. So long as key needs (such as disabled access, or storage for international students) are met, the rest isn’t so important. To find out more, you can always contact colleges directly, as well as visit Oxford to look around. A lot of people ultimately pick colleges simply by visiting a few that meet their key criteria and going with the one which feels best for them. You’re unlikely to be able to look round all of them, so hopefully the details in this section will give you a flavour of what different colleges offer which you can then work from.

Colleges

PPHs Explained I

n the same way as differences between colleges are often overstated, so too are the differences between colleges and Permanent Private Halls (PPHs). Students at PPHs go through a stringent selection process, graduate with an Oxford degree and are part of the University community in the same way as students at colleges are. The differences between PPHs and the colleges can (unsurprisingly) be largely found in centuries-old history. PPHs were initially set up as private houses of education in the sixteenth century when Christians who weren’t part of the Church of England were banned from studying at Oxford. These days, PPHs are no longer exclusively for the religious, although they do retain their religious heritage. While there are

Most people don’t put down PPHs as a choice on their UCAS form. In part this is because PPHs aren’t very well-known. It’s also worth remembering that this stems from the students who PPHs choose to admit. St Benet’s Hall is Oxford’s only all-male constituent organization, while Blackfriars, St Stephen’s House and Wycliffe Hall only admit students who are 21 or above at the start of their course.

Although friars and ministers eat with the students every day at most PPHs, they aren’t just for religious people. The comparatively small numbers of students at PPHs is one of their strengths. Most have a close-knit community of students who study arts-based subjects, making it incredibly easy for friendships to be dedifferences veloped. They also feature between Permanent Private a very close level of inteHalls and the colleges, the gration between Fellows and students, owing again most important thing to to the small numbers of remember is that they’re all people at each PPH.

The PPHs of Oxford today consist of the larger St Benet’s Hall and Regent’s Park, along with the smaller Blackfriars, part of the University. St Stephen’s House and Wycliffe Hall. Until While there are differrecently, Mansfield and ences between PermaHarris Manchester colleges were also PPHs. nent Private Halls and the colleges, the most important thing to remember is that they’re If you are considering applying to a PPH, it is all part of the University. Students at PPHs worth being aware that PPHs typically offer overwhelmingly enjoy their time here, and fewer subjects than many colleges do; some have access to all the facilities that other offer only courses associated with Theology, members of the University do. They’re often while others have a broader range of subjects described as ‘Oxford’s best kept secret’. If available. Similarly, some PPHs include stuyou’re considering applying to a PPH, then it’s dents who are training to be priests alongside well worth scheduling a visit to one to see for undergraduates studying for a full range of yourself whether you may be interested in the degrees, while others have very few – if any – benefits that they offer. undergraduates training for the priesthood.

Colleges

IY Balliol

“The JCR runs its own laundry!”

“The financial aid is really good.”

Balliol Broad Street, OX1 3BJ www.balliol.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 777

ne of the oldest colleges in the University, Balliol combines a long history with a tradition of political activism. Since an abortive coup in the 1960s, which saw the College seized and renamed ‘the People’s Republic of Balliol’, the College has been able to add strong lefty-liberal student activism to its list of raisons d’etre (with admittedly notable exceptions including Boris Johnson and Chris Patten). Unlike most Oxford colleges, gowns are never worn at Balliol and students can walk on most of the grass. Even the College’s tortoise was named after a German Marxist until she (the tortoise, not the Marxist) disappeared in 2004. But in spite of its political traditions, Balliol is in many other ways a normal – if very well-resourced – Oxford college. If you’re musical, Balliol has a practice room, a non-auditioning chapel choir and regular Sunday concerts. Sport at Balliol is also prominent, with the rowing squads regularly finishing in leading positions on the river, while students can also make use of football pitches, squash courts, netball courts and a cricket pitch. In recent years Balliol has consistently finished in the upper echelons of the ‘Norrington Table’, the league table of academic performance in finals at Oxford. While this table should be

Undergraduates 400 Rent £900-1500 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Adam Smith, Graham Greene, Herbert Asquith

taken with a pinch of salt, there is a culture of hard work at the College which is supported by a well-stocked college library and easy proximity to the Bodleian Library, which is within two minutes’ walk from the College. In terms of student life, Balliol has one of the few remaining student-run bars in the University, with the bar manager being elected on an annual basis by current students. The JCR-run Pantry is another service which few other JCRs provide. It serves breakfast from 8am to 11:30am and also serves lunch, tea and dinner, making it easy to get away from work at any time of the day. The JCR also runs its own laundry and has a TV room with arcade games attached to the main JCR itself. Although some second years choose to live out, most students spend their time in Oxford living in Balliol-provided accommodation. Although it’s a large college, a combination of an active JCR and excellent facilities means that you definitely won’t find coming here overwhelming. If you do end up at Balliol, then you’ll be in for a time which will leave you with a lot of memories as well as new opportunities.

Food

Lunch and dinner are available in hall with breakfast served in the JCR Pantry. There is at least one vegetarian option per meal, which is sometimes vegan.

Facilities

Guaranteed two years living in. Freshers get shared kitchenettes and bathroooms, though ensuites are available 37 in later years.

Colleges

IY BNC

“One of the best college bars in Oxford.”

“There’s something for everyone right on the doorstep.”

Brasenose Radcliffe Square, OX1 4AJ www.bnc.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 830

rasenose College, known to many simply as ‘BNC’, was officially founded in 1509 and sits right in the heart of Oxford in Radcliffe Square. The name comes from a brass (or ‘brazen’) door-knocker which now takes pride of place in the college hall, along with an impressively-endowed unicorn. Brasenose is relatively small in size, but its lively student population certainly punches above its weight! Brasenose members generally don’t hesitate to get involved with the wider University, whether as part of sports teams and societies or just through being sociable outside the college walls. Brasenose’s central location makes being involved in University life really easy. With the shops of the High Street on one side and the famous King’s Arms and Turf pubs only a stone’s throw from the college, there’s something for everyone right on the doorstep. One of the best things about Brasenose is the accommodation, as the college guarantees residence right in the centre of Oxford for the entire duration of your degree should you want it. First years live on the historic college site and second years live in the Frewin Annexe which is a five-minute walk away right in the commercial centre of the town. Third and fourth years can live in either site.

Undergraduates 360 Rent £900-1400 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Michael Palin, David Cameron, William Golding

Brasenose is renowned for having a relaxed, homely atmosphere where everyone knows everyone. Almost the first thing that strikes everyone in Freshers’ Week is just how friendly the College is, and as a result there are wellattended bops (college parties), a lively bar and JCR, and active societies within the College. The bar and common room have also been completely refurbished recently as part of the College’s 500 year anniversary, making these facilities arguably the best in Oxford. Next door to the swanky new bar is undoubtedly one of Brasenose’s best kept secrets: Gertie’s, the out-of-hours servery. Gertie’s offers cooked breakfasts until 11.30am, and baguettes, paninis, salads and smoothies for a late lunch. It’s essentially like having your own café in college but for half the price. Brasenose’s quirkiness lies not only in the name, but in the fun traditions. The students celebrate Burns night with a traditional Scottish ceilidh and every year at ‘ale verses’ they write songs about the College and its people sung to the tune of popular music as a giant flagon of ale is passed up and down the benches. These, amongst many other things, make Brasenose truly unique.

Food

Breakfast and lunch weekdays only, but the weekend brunch is excellent. Reasonably priced formal hall three nights per week.

Facilities

Laundry and bicycle storage. No kitchens on main site, but there is a snack bar (Gertie’s).

Colleges

IY CHCH

“There’s a very generous book grant.”

“You get the biggest back garden - Christ Church meadow!”

Christ Church St Aldates, OX1 1DP www.chch.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 150

hrist Church is an impressive survivor of the English reformation, having passed from St Frideswide’s Abbey to Wolsey’s ‘Cardinal College’ to ‘King Henry VIII’s College’, emerging in 1546 as both a college and the cathedral of the diocese of Oxford. With an active JCR, a huge number of undergraduates (around 450) and a strong enthusiasm for drama, politics and journalism amongst its members, multiple societies and sports clubs, Christ Church is an exciting, challenging and creative college in which to live and to work. As the largest college in Oxford, Christ Church is able to provide accommodation for every undergraduate for the duration of their course. It’s renowned for having top-quality accommodation – the majority of rooms are oak-panelled and in ‘sets’, where two bedrooms join to a sitting room, shared with a friend. Generally when living in these old rooms, bathrooms are shared with four or five others. However, there is the option to live in recently renovated accommodation, in which en-suite rooms are guaranteed. Rent is reasonably priced at £948 per term and food in Hall (college catered) is

Undergraduates 450 Rent £948 per term Library 9am - midnight Famous Alumni William Gladstone, Lewis Carroll

the cheapest available in Oxford, costing £2.05 for a three-course dinner every night. Unfortunately, there are no cooking facilities in college (there are a few microwaves around, and only toasters and kettles are permitted in rooms). However, with college food so cheap, it’s much more economical to eat in hall. Christ Church library is one of the largest college libraries, and boasts particularly impressive sections for History and Classics, and is currently open until midnight. Academic focus is key to Christ Church and it manages to remain in the top five of the Norrington Table, while still maintaining a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for Christ Church undergraduates. The list of famous Christ Church alumni reflects the intellectual ability and extracurricular enthusiasm typical among the College’s student body, including names such as William Ewart Gladstone, Sir Robert Peel, Richard Curtis, W. H. Auden, John Locke, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Anthony Eden, Rowan Williams, Albert Einstein and Charles Dodgson (Lewis Carroll). But don’t be put off by this slightly overwhelming list, as behind its imposing grandeur, Christ Church is an accessible college and an easy-going and vibrant place to learn.

Food

All meals served in hall. Reasonably priced.

Facilities

Guaranteed living in for undergraduates. Many en-suite rooms, others shared between four to five. There aren’t many kitchens, but kettles and toasters are allowed.

Colleges

IY CCC

“Erasmus said the library is a ‘wonder of the world.’”

“Small and friendly.”

Corpus Christi Merton Street, OX1 4JF www.ccc.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 700

idden between Merton and Christ Church, Corpus Christi is one of the older and smaller colleges. With its beautiful quad, lovely gardens, welcoming porters, a friendly student body and a central location, Corpus very quickly becomes home. Location-wise Corpus has the best of all worlds. Being just off High Street, its right in the centre of Oxford, but with Christ Church Meadows on the other side, it is impossible to feel hemmed in by the city. Corpuscles go out of their way to welcome new students. Because there are only just over 240 undergraduates, it is very easy to get to know people and make friends across all years. Its small size makes Corpus very informal and laid-back; Corpuscles walk on the grass, rarely wear gowns and there’s always a friendly face nearby, especially at four o’clock when free tea and coffee is provided in the JCR. There is always something going on at Corpus, whatever you like to do. There are regular college bops (parties) as well as the pub quiz, formal hall and Corpus Symposium (an informal debating society) once a week. There’s an active drama society and music scene with open mic nights, lunchtime concerts and sung services by the Chapel Choir. Sport is popular there too. The College has squash, table tennis

Undergraduates 240 Rent £1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni David Milliband, Ed Milliband, John Ruskin

and pool facilities, a dedicated boat club and basketball, football, hockey and netball teams. Corpus is also famed for the annual Tortoise Race, where the two Corpus tortoises race tortoises from other colleges to get the lettuce (and the glory)! Accommodation is affordable and provided by the College for all three years. It ranges from the beautiful on-site quad rooms, to modern flats at the Liddell site on Iffley Road, to houses for groups dotted around the city. This not only saves you money, but also the hassle and stress of finding housing for yourself. Most accommodation has a kitchen shared between five to ten people, and about forty people get en-suite facilities, with others typically sharing a bathroom between six. For more information, please go to the official Corpus website, www.ccc.ox.ac.uk. To see what the undergraduate body (the ‘JCR’) organise by themselves, such as societies and social events, please refer to www.corpusjcr.org. Here you will also find details of Corpus’ student Subject Ambassadors, who you can contact for information on your particular subject. Alternatively, come and have a look for yourself!

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner with vegetarian options. No service Saturday night or Sunday morning.

Facilities

All rooms in college are en-suite, rooms in annexes share between two to six. Shared kitchens also available in college.

Colleges

IY Exeter

“It’s quiet and secluded, but we’re in the centre of it all.”

“Home of the best view in the city.”

Exeter Turl Street, OX1 3DP www.exeter.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 600

xeter is the oldest of the Turl Street colleges, set right in the centre of Oxford near every shop, pub or convenience you could possibly want.

popular and competition-winning sports teams, from rugby to ice-hockey. Exeter also has one of Oxford’s largest college ski trips for novices and experts alike.

But walk through the College lodge and it’s another world! Exeter has one of the larger main quads in Oxford, and it is always full of Exonians eating lunch, chatting or just procrastinating. Carry on through Exeter College and you’ll see the gothic chapel, one of Oxford’s finest, and then Fellows Garden, where students can be found sunbathing, playing croquet or having a picnic.

There are frequent open mic nights, variety shows and music evenings, and the choir is one of the most famous in Oxford, frequently touring all over the world. Exeter also runs the Turl Streets Arts Festival with Jesus and Lincoln colleges - a weeklong festival of music, drama and art.

Exeter has its own JCR-run charity, ExVac, which involves undergrads taking underprivileged children on a two-week holiday near Windsor. The scheme is adored by students and children alike and is a source of great pride for the College. Exeter is one of the few colleges to have an annual ball. It’s known as one of the best in Oxford, but is also one of the cheapest. Sport is an integral part of college life, and Exeter’s success belies the College’s average size. The Boat Club is one of the largest and most successful on the river, and there is a range of

Undergraduates 350 Rent £1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Philip Pullman, Imogen Stubbs, Will Self

Great food is always on offer – Exeter has won the Oxford college ‘Chef of the Year’ award for the food, and there is a range of food available from the sandwich bar from 12pm to 9pm. While rent may be above average, Exeter has one of the most generous financial support schemes in the University and any student can apply. Moreover, although not everyone can live in, most students really enjoy the opportunity to live out in a house. With the majority of college inhabited by firstyears, the atmosphere changes from year to year, though what always remains is an active, close-knit community where all are welcomed.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner every day of the week at reasonable prices. Sandwiches also available from the snack bar.

Facilities

JCR kitchen and kitchens in annexes shared between 15. Mostly shared bathrooms.

Colleges

IY HMC

“Arguably the best food of all the colleges”

“There’s a fantastic sense of community.”

Harris Manchester Mansfield Road, OX1 3TD www.hmc.ox.ac.uk 01865 271 006

ust a stone’s throw away from the centre of Oxford, Harris Manchester is the only college in Oxford that caters solely for mature students, meaning that everyone here is at least 21 (and in some cases a lot older) when they start their course.

players. The HMC pool team also offers opportunities for you to compete in Oxford’s inter-college league. To satisfy your epicurean desires, the recently established gourmet society and wine society are definitely the ones to be in.

One consequence of its status as a college for mature students is that HMC has what is probably the most diverse undergraduate body of any college. Although the majority of students are in the 21-30 age bracket, there have at times been students as old as their late 70s.

The social events have been thriving in recent years, with college ‘bops’ being as sweaty and fuelled by cheesy music as those at other colleges (this is, somewhat surprisingly, nearuniversally considered to be a good thing). Students have free access to LA fitness (at St Ebbe’s Street) as well as the gym, pool and spa facilities at the Four Pillars hotel on Abingdon Road, and can also take advantage of the well-stocked college library that is run by the friendliest and most helpful librarians around (Do check out the HMC Library Facebook page).

Contrary to popular belief, there are considerable advantages to being small. Harris Manchester is the smallest Oxford college in terms of the size of its undergraduate population, meaning that it can at times feel more like a family than a college. It also means that college life itself is very flexible – events and activities change year on year in response to the interests of the existing student body. While the HMC boat club is affiliated with Wadham, the football and other sports teams do well in spite of the limited number of

Undergraduates 110 Rent £1400 per term Library 8:30am - 11pm Famous Alumni Joseph Priestly

Although the nature of life in Harris Manchester is obviously a bit different to that in other colleges, owing to the age and small numbers of the student body, Harris Manchester manages to successfully walk the fine line between conformity with the rest of the University and keeping its individuality – the hallmark of an Oxford college.

Food

17 meals per week. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements catered for. Self-catering not allowed.

Facilities

Guaranteed two years living in. Mostly no kitchens, but majority en-suite with some shared between two.

Colleges

IY d r o f t r e H

“Simpkins the cat always makes you feel at home.”

“All the history of Oxford, but with loads of friendly people.”

Hertford Catte Street, OX1 3BW www.hertford.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 400

ocated in the centre of Oxford, right next to such famous landmarks as the Bodleian library and the beautiful Radcliffe Camera, as well as actually having the Bridge of Sighs, Hertford College has the unofficial motto ‘small but friendly’! Hertford has a reputation for being a particularly forward-thinking and progressive college, being one of the first to become co-ed, and is also at the frontier in terms of providing access opportunities. The inclusive undergraduate population has one of the highest intakes of pupils from state schools, and a large (and vocal) contingent from the North! In terms of housing, students at Hertford are provided with a room for each year of study, which is infinitely easier (and cheaper) than finding a place in Oxford on your own. Being particularly well represented in music, Hertford has an excellent orchestra, reputedly the best non-auditioning chapel choir in Oxford, as well as termly open mic nights in the college bar, which are open for all Hertfordians to share their musical talents, whatever form and level they may be. The bar

Undergraduates 380 Rent £900 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Evelyn Waugh, Natasha Kaplinsky

is underground and divided into five separate rooms, including one complete with street signs ‘permanently borrowed’ from around Oxford. Sport at Hertford is one of the most broad and varied parts of college life, and though it tends towards the casual end of the performance spectrum, this is not to say that Hertford is without its sporting stars. Hertford’s Sports Pavilion boasts squash, football, rugby and hockey facilities available for college members to use, and there’s also a brand new gym on the College site. The range of activities that Hertford students get involved with might make it sound as though life at Hertford is frantic – however, Hertford cherishes its relaxed atmosphere with lots of chilled-out events hosted by the strong welfare network. The newly refurbished JCR also boasts leather sofas, a pool table, Xbox, vending machines, internet access and a 47” telly with surround sound, not to mention Sky Plus HD.

Food

All meals available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Facilities

Guaranteed living in for undergraduates. Bathrooms share between four and kitchens shared between more.

Colleges

IY Jesus

“It’s the most central of all the colleges.”

“The JCR has free pool.”

Jesus Turl Street, OX1 3DW www.jesus.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 700

s one of the smaller undergraduate colleges, friendships in Jesus extend both within and across all different year groups. It’s this sort of atmosphere which has given the college a reputation as being one of the friendliest colleges in Oxford. The social atmosphere in college is strongly promoted by the range of very active societies. These include the predictable football and rugby teams, but also those which you might not expect to exist. The ‘Arty Farty’ society promotes the artistic talent of the College, which is particularly displayed annually in the Turl Street Arts Festival. This event takes place with Exeter and Lincoln, and is a great inter-college bonding experience, as well as providing an exciting week of concerts, plays and parties. Jesus’ location on Turl Street means that the college is ideally situated next to the Covered Market and the main shopping areas within Oxford. Although this allows for easy access to sandwich shops and supermarkets, Jesus also provides three meals a day in Hall, providing great opportunities to socialize within the college. While there’s a wide variety of food on offer it’s not compulsory, so there’s always scope for cooking yourself if you’re in the second or third year (or know people in these years).

Undergraduates 340 Rent £950 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni T. E. Lawrence, Hilary Lister, Magnus Magnusson

The college has also got very good sports facilities near the accommodation on Cowley Road, including a football and rugby pitch. In summer these are converted into cricket and tennis pitches, meaning that there are opportunities to play college sport all year around. Jesus has squash courts close to the centre of town – unsurprisingly there have been recent triumphs by Jesus in sports including Gaelic football, rugby, fencing and hockey. Regardless of what activities you want to take up in your time here, you’ll be able to take advantage of our JCR, which includes a free pool table, a flat screen TV, free newspapers, a ping-pong table and XBOX 360. The JCR also has the infamous ‘hatch’ where you can enjoy drinks and snacks throughout the day, all paid for with your university card. All in all, Jesus is well worth looking at – with accommodation available for the entirety of your course, a 24-hour library and free access to the Iffley Road gym, the combination of our facilities and the atmosphere in college makes it an amazing place to spend a few years.

Food

All meals available in hall except Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast. Hot options start at £2 to £3.

Facilities

Guaranteed all years living in, though some accommodation is off-site. Shared kitchens available for second and third years. Some ensuites for first 51 years.

Colleges

IY Keble

“Probably the only college bar with proper cocktails”

“There are loads of active clubs and societies.”

Keble Parks Road, OX1 3PG www.keble.ox.ac.uk 01865 272 727

espite being one of the biggest undergraduate colleges, Keble offers a close-knit community to all students within its distinctive red brick walls. Regardless of your interests or background, there will always be like-minded people to be found only a few doors away. It’s only a five-minute walk north from the city centre, so you can avoid the bustle of living right in the centre without having to walk far in order to get into town. Keble can accommodate nearly all of its students for three years. The rooms are spacious and well designed – some of them are Victorian, although refurbished and en suite, while others are more modern and slightly bigger, with floor-to-ceiling windows but a shared bathroom (with one other person). In your first year, you may find yourself in either. As far as college life is concerned, Keble has many student societies within college which make getting involved in new activities all the easier. The music society is very active, along with the choir, who have toured Japan and Korea in the past, and have recently been invited to tour South Africa. With one of the most vibrant drama scenes in the University, it’s only fitting that the college’s O’Reilly Theatre should be one of the best in Oxford,

Undergraduates 410 Rent £900-1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Ed Balls, Imran Khan

hosting college and University-wide performances alike. Being a larger college, Keble students are involved in many different sports at various levels. Year after year, Keble boasts an array of impressive sporting achievements, although that’s not to say that novices are excluded. From the more traditional sports such as football or rugby through to more unusual activities such as Dancesport or Ultimate Frisbee, you’ll always be able to find a sport and level to suit you. Skible, the college Snowsports trip which in 2010 is going to Alpe d’Huez, is always very popular. Keble’s JCR is large and active, with 15 elected committee positions. Free food is provided at JCR meetings, the twice termly BOPs are great fun and always well attended, and the JCR welfare team hold drop-in sessions regularly. Keble Arts Week, run by the JCR, is a highlight in Hilary Term. Keble is a large college that’s extremely active in all areas of university life. From the ‘littlest gym in Oxford’ to Café Keble, from the biggest college bar to the bustling JCR, there’s always something to do in Keble, and an extremely friendly, welcoming group of people to do it with.

Food

All meals are available in hall on a pay-as-you-go basis. Three courses cost around £4, two courses available for less.

Facilities

Guaranteed two years living in. No kitchens, but there are some microwaves on corridors. Most rooms are 53 ensuite.

Colleges

IY LMH

“There are some amazing rooms garden views, a bathtub...”

“Choir members get free formal hall.”

Lady Margaret Hall Norham Gardens, OX2 6QA www.lmh.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 300

MH is one of Oxford’s most progressive colleges, pioneering women’s education in 1879 we continue with a tradition of equality and diversity. The college boasts both a 1:1 male-female ratio as well as equal state to independent school students. Both teaching staff and students share a committed approach to academic excellence, but moreover a supportive one, which reflects the famously friendly reputation across the University, allowing LMH-ers to work hard and play hard! LMH doesn’t have one distinctive label but many distinctive talents. Students’ artistic endeavours range from directors receiving rave reviews to thought-provoking journalism or art installations, to name a few. There have also been a number of Union and Law Society presidents in recent years. From Blues Captains and champions, to team players, from short film directors to national stage musicians, the college truly has a varied group of students. LMH is nestled on the edge of the beautiful university parks (a 10 minute walk or 5 minute cycle into town). The location provides an escape from a sometimes claustrophobic tourist hub and puts the college in good proximity to Jericho with alternative areas to eat, drink and listen to live music. LMH’s Georgian style

Undergraduates 424 Rent £1200 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Nigella Lawson, Benazir Bhutto

buildings are set against 12 acres of some of the prettiest gardens in Oxford. You’ll find benches and deckchairs spotted across the grounds which play host to netball and tennis courts, a football pitch and the college’s very own punt house looking over the winding river Cherwell. If sport isn’t your thing then there are several exhibition and theatre spaces as well as music practice and performance halls. LMH is the ultimate summer college whether it’s the garden party with gourmet foods, live music and bouncy castles or a simple BBQ or picnic, it’s Pimm’s all ‘round. Despite the College’s involved and hardworking JCR, they manage to maintain a close-knit community. The JCR bar is well-equipped with a flat-screen TV, games, a pool and foozball table with comfortable leather booths opening onto the garden. Whether it’s X-Factor, the rugby, an acoustic or open mike night the bar is a lively meeting place. Bops are also a great success and usually more fun than the porters would like. Luckily for LMHers, there is a generous welfare team that cooks a hot post-bop brunch in the JCR. LMH’s personality can be characterized as friendly, involved and committed to an enriched university experience.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner available in hall except on Saturdays, when lunch only is available.

Facilities

All years guaranteed living in. Ensuites are available, but most Freshers have to share. Kitchens shared on every floor.

Colleges

IY Linc

“The kitchens cater for dietary requirements just ask!”

“Expect ensuite rooms with fabulous views.”

Lincoln Turl Street, OX1 3BJ www.linc.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 800

incoln is a small, friendly college, ideally located in central Oxford. The college is yards away from Radcliffe Square, as well as the Covered Market and Cornmarket Street and is also within easy walking distance of most faculty buildings. Lincoln is relatively unusual in guaranteeing accommodation for three years (you’ll most likely get four if you want it) and has a range of centrally located accommodation. Most first-years live in college (all rooms actually in college are en-suite) while most third-years live in recently refurbished houses on Museum Road, with en-suite bedrooms and shared kitchens, and happily for scientists, this site is just across the road from the science area. The college itself was founded in 1427, and has a front quad that is special because it hasn’t changed very much since then. Some other colleges had unfortunate periods during the twentieth century where they extended their medieval colleges using concrete. Lincoln didn’t, and as a consequence retains much of its medieval character. The college library is also on the main college site and is housed in a spectacular eighteenth century converted church. The library is open from 8.30am to 2.30am daily, so there’s plenty of

Undergraduates 281 Rent £1100 per term Library open 8:30am-2am Famous Alumni Dr Seuss, John Le Carre

time to work when you’ve finished admiring the building! Meals are served in the 15th century hall (which again, hasn’t changed much) and breakfast, lunch and dinner are available very reasonably. Lincoln is renowned for the quality of its food, and has a formal sitting every night after its normal sitting. This means you get nice food, but with candles and if you miss first hall for whatever reason, it’s ideal. There is a JCR kitchen that provides free tea, coffee and bread adjacent to the common room, and in the third year you’ll generally share a kitchen with about five other friends. Lincoln’s alumni vary from Lord Florey (figured out the therapeutic properties of penicillin) to Dr Seuss (yep, that one) to the novelist John le Carre, and this diversity and individuality is mirrored in the current student population, which is in turn reflected in the wide range of activities they undertake. From the Lincoln Players, to our outstanding choir, to the bops in our underground bar (Deep Hall) and then through the broad range of sporting teams, Lincoln punches well above its weight in all spheres and is a fantastic place to live and study.

Food

All meals are available in hall. Breakfast and lunch are just over £1 and £2, respectively. Dinner costs around £4.30. Lunch is also available in the college bar.

Facilities

First years and finalist usually have ensuites. Finalists share kitchens 57 between six.

Colleges

IY Magd

“The rooms are amongst the best in Oxford.”

“Prime seating for May Day”

Magdalen High Street, OX1 4AU www.magd.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 000

egarded as one of the most beautiful of the Oxford colleges, Magdalen is lucky enough to have a deer park and a breath-taking 44m high tower. The grounds are immaculate and the gardens ever-blossoming, but Magdalen has more to offer than just meets the eye. The first thing that strikes you at Magdalen is just how nice the inhabitants are. Though this is one of the larger colleges, there is a strong feeling of community and friendship throughout the traditional surroundings. The JCR welfare team work hard to put on events that allow everyone to come together: from the weekly welfare doughnuts event to the new baking and jogging sessions, the team ensure that there is something for everyone. There are many big events in the Magdalen calendar. The transition into May is celebrated in style. The world-famous Magdalen College choir sing from the top of the tower at sunrise to an audience of thousands. This aweinspiring sight is one of the College’s proudest moments and students stay up all night to watch the choir from the grand cloisters or ‘Great Quad’. The summer term brings not only punting and Pimm’s, but also Batwillow – a massive party where everyone can have a go at sumo wrestling or choose their song at

Undergraduates 400 Rent £1000 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni William Hague, Ian Hislop

the silent disco whilst taking their pick of the delicious barbecue. As for more day-to-day life, there are so many societies and clubs here; everyone can find something for themselves, and if they can’t? Well just set something up! The College is very supportive and so alongside the more traditional aspects of college life such as rowing and the various debating groups, the college proudly boasts one of the best ultimate Frisbee teams in the city. All undergraduates are guaranteed College accommodation throughout their degree, and all accommodation is very close to the College. Every room here has a telephone, mini-fridge and internet access. The rooms are certainly varied, but the unique character of each room is what makes Magdalen so special; whether you are in the en-suite rooms of Grove, or the quite frankly massive two room sets in New buildings, finding an amazing place to live is not difficult here. Magdalen is a top college academically consistently high up in the Norrington table – with an extremely well-stocked, 24-hour library. However, the consensus of the students is that they work hard, but play hard too.

Food

All meals available in hall. Lunch is also available in the college bar.

Facilities

Accommodation is guaranteed for all undergraduates. Most first and some second years have ensuites. One kitchen shared per staircase.

Colleges

IY d l e fi s n Ma

“We’re tight-knit. “Near University Parks You get to and the Sports Club.” know everyone.”

Mansfield Mansfield Road, OX1 3TF www.mansfield.ox.ac.uk 01865 270 999

ansfield College is small but perfectly formed, with only about 70 people in each undergraduate year, so being here means knowing lots of friendly faces. The College’s open quad and youthful roots welcome one and all.

less busy. Socialising often happens in the large JCR with its plentiful games and magazines, or in the cosy, student-staffed basement bar. A pint of Carlsberg is £1.50, while Blackthorn is just £1.20, plus many other alcoholic and soft drinks at low prices.

In Oxford terms, Mansfield is young – the college was set up here in 1886 to train Nonconformist ministers and it retains that knack for not adhering to stuffy traditions. Mansfield students do like to celebrate what they’re good at though, which recently has included rowing, cricket, rugby and football success at the top levels. Mansfield is also well-represented in different University-wide areas: student journalism, drama, international relations and charity involvement, to name a few.

There’s always lots of choice in hall when it comes to food, including the Friday favourite of fish and chips. Optional formals, twice a week on Wednesday and Friday, are also good examples of the college’s culinary attractions. Many would agree that Mansfield food deserves a 5* rating.

Visit Mansfield and it’s likely you’ll come across the friendly adopted cat, Erasmus, wandering into the buildings. If it’s the summer term, you’ll probably find students playing croquet (with varying levels of success) on the quad, and distracting themselves from exam revision. Studying can take place in any of the beautiful libraries; the main library with its distractingly pretty painted ceiling, or the smaller theology, law and history libraries, which you may find

Undergraduates 220 Rent £950 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Guy Hands, Stephanie Holland

The JCR bench currently consists of a good mix of male and female contributors, and the Men’s, Women’s and LGBTQ reps ensure there is always someone to approach with concerns. The ratio of male to female recently saw its first female dominated Fresher year, but the average changes regularly with the College’s small size. There is always a good social mix between year groups and inclusiveness of the visiting students from the US, who you will likely forge life-long friendships with. There is also a very high percentage of students who went to state school, so there’s certainly no snobbery – just friendly faces and a black and white cat.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available on weekdays with brunch on Saturday and dinner also available on Sunday.

Facilities

Ensuites available to first years, others shared between a maximum of five. Three kitchens are available to all students.

Colleges

IY Merton

“Joint MCR/JCR bops makes for a great social scene.”

“Formal hall is amongst the cheapest in the University.”

Merton Merton Road, OX1 4JD www.merton.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 310

n Oxford, Merton is generally famed for its consistently strong academic performance. But inside the college, Mertonians are proud of being part of a small, warm community where all your needs - from entz to welfare - are well catered for. Reputedly the oldest college in Oxford, Merton is also the only college which has the peculiar task of keeping the universe going! Every Michaelmas the Time Ceremony takes place where students walk backwards round Fellows Quad drinking for an hour. If you think that this sounds both wacky and fun, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be spot on. Mertonians certainly know how to have a good time, and there is a good helping of clubs and bars nearby. However, if you want a relaxing night in then Merton is ideal. At the heart of the college social scene, the bar and games room both form part of an easy-going and welcoming environment with legendary barmen who are always up for banter. Bar quizzes, outstanding bops (college parties) until the early hours of the morning, karaoke, film nights - you name it, Merton will have something for you. The college also boasts some of the lowest accommodation charges in the University along

Undergraduates 270 Rent ÂŁ800 per term Library 8:30am-midnight Famous Alumni Sir Roger Bannister, TS Eliot, JRR Tolkein, Mark Thompson

with very generous hardship grants available to all students. In addition, the welfare team includes undergrads who are trained to listen to any worries that might be playing on your mind. Welfare Tea is a regular event where there are free cakes and biscuits on offer every Sunday. The college has many exciting societies including a flourishing Chapel Choir. The politics society is also very successful, with many famed personalities addressing students in recent years. For the more artistic, there is an Art Society and Merton Floats, the drama society. On the sports field, Merton offers a wide variety of sports at almost any level of participation. Last year, the Merton-Mansfield cricket team won the league, this year the 1st football team came top of Premier League of JCR teams and the rowers (both men and women) continue to go from strength to strength. Additionally, Merton has a great reputation for bar sports such as pool and darts. In short, everything at Merton is conducive to an environment where students are really able to make the most of their short but memorable time at University.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available every day. Formal hall is served Sunday to Monday.

Facilities

There is a JCR kitchen available to all members, a kitchen for Freshers and some other available for those in third or fourth year.

Colleges

IY New

“If you love music, this is the place to be.”

“The JCR is so diverse!”

New Holywell Street, OX1 3BN www.new.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 555

elcome to New College – ironically, one of the oldest colleges in Oxford (a source of amusement for many). As well as being a fantastic place to learn, New has some of the most beautiful buildings and distinctive features in Oxford – take a look at the Cloisters, where Harry Potter was filmed, or try clapping in front of the ‘squeaky’ garden mound steps. New College prides itself on its welcoming, friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Being a big college, it’s home to over 400 students of all backgrounds, beliefs and cultures, who work hard, but also know how to enjoy themselves. Regular social events, garden parties and even lavish commemorative Balls are hosted within the College’s old stone walls, and being a college which spends a lot of money on its students, New can afford to have fun. The College coffers are among the fullest in Oxford, which means the College can afford to support its students, whether this be academically, with well-stocked libraries and tuition grants, or in their personal pursuits, with travel and sporting awards. New offers high quality accommodation and meals at very affordable prices, and the hall meals are top-rated amongst Oxford colleges.

Undergraduates 420 Rent £1000 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Hugh Grant, Tony Benn, Angus Deayton

New College has a keen enthusiasm for sport, as well as a fine reputation for rowing; but there’s no pressure to be sporty, or even exercise at all (the common room’s Wii is just as popular a pastime). The College’s musical reputation is also widely renowned, with the classical orchestras, student-initiated bands and jazz groups. New College Choir is particularly renowned – known as arguably the best mixed voice choir in Oxford, it provides a great opportunity for the more musically gifted students at New. There’s even a college newspaper that’s entirely student-written and produced. Facilities include the library, which has a massively popular DVD collection, and generally good accommodation, around half of the rooms are en suite and shared bathrooms are not excessively crowded. There is no stereotypical ‘New College’ student – the atmosphere of the large college means that it’s easy to find like-minded people and make close friends, but still small and cosy enough that you can know nearly everyone. For many, the college becomes a home away from home. If you want to know more, come to one of the many Open Days throughout the year, or find out more online.

Food

All meals are available in hall on a payas-you-go basis. To eat three times a day will cost you in the region of £10.

Facilities

Accommodation guaranteed for Freshers, third and fourth years. Bathrooms are share between three to ten. Access to kitchens in available.

Colleges

IY Oriel

“We’re not a college - we’re a family.”

“Expect formal hall six nights a week.”

Oriel Merton Road, OX1 4EW www.oriel.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 555

xford’s fifth-oldest college, Oriel was founded in the fourteenth century by the infamous Edward II and is located in a prime position just off the High Street. There are three quads, a chapel, a traditional dining hall featuring the largest painted portrait of the Queen, and well-equipped library which is open 24 hours a day. Accommodation is provided for all students, either on the main site, the adjacent ‘Island’ site, or at James Mellon Hall, a short walk away in Cowley. Many of the rooms are en-suite, and some flats are available for second- and thirdyears. Rent costs vary, and the rooms are ranked on a scale of D to A* so that each student can choose a type of room based on their preferences and budget. All meals are available in hall, but there are also a number of kitchens located throughout the college. Formal Hall, a three course dinner, is held six times a week, a rarity in Oxford. Both the meal and wine are heavily subsidised and of good quality, making this a highlight of Oriel life. The bar is open every night and acts as a focal point of the college social scene. Bops take place here, and there is a pool table, dart board,

Undergraduates 304 Rent £800-1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Thomas Arundel, Dan Hannan, Sir Walter Raleigh

and ever popular quiz machine. The JCR is a quiet and comfortable space for relaxing, and has an annexe often used for play rehearsals, parties and other meetings. Oriel also has a sizeable TV room with a Sky subscription, which is in high demand for big sporting events, but available to everyone. On the extra-curricular side Oriel offers a number of varied opportunities. Musicians enjoy a well-equipped music room, and the choir and orchestras are extremely active. An annual highlight is the Christmas concert in the University church. Many Orielenses enjoy drama, and a play, usually directed by a member of college, is held in the beautiful second quad each summer. Speakers frequent the college societies each year, Phillip Pullman being a notable example in 2009, and there are enthusiastic philosophy, history and literature groups. The latter, the Ralegh society, is named after Oriel’s most famous alumnus, Sir Walter Raleigh, although Rachel Riley, the new Carol Vorderman on ‘Countdown’ is currently giving him a run for his money. Oriel covers all the bases, from academic achievement to activities, and social stuff to sports and societies. There’s even plans in the next year to reintroduce a college tortoise.

Food

All meals are available in hall. Breakfast and lunch cost around £2, and dinner costs about £3.50.

Facilities

First and second years guaranteed accommodation on site, third years housed in off site college accommodation. Ensuites are available in most 67 rooms.

Colleges

IY PMB

“We’ve got the friendliest staff and porters.”

“Optimal location for Oxford-famous G&Ds ice cream.”

Pembroke St Aldate’s, OX1 1DW www.pmb.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 444

embroke’s colour is pink, a shade which is loud enough to drown out all the bells in Oxford. However, the pink sports shirts strike fear into the heart’s of our opponents, the bar’s pink cocktail energizes a night out like nothing else, and the pink panther mascot costume all go to show that pink is an appropriate college colour. Yup. Pembrokians are as proud of their colour as they are of their college. So what inspires Pembroke pride? There are too many reasons to list, really, but here are a few: The location is awesome. Right on St Aldates, it’s seconds from the Westgate Centre, Cornmarket Street and High Street. Founded in 1624, the College itself is also a beautiful place to spend time. Chapel quad, with its breathtaking hall, is a hidden gem of the University. The active and progressive JCR provides a hub of community life and inspires an atmosphere of inclusiveness and friendliness, as do traditions such as ‘Three Kings’ in which hundreds of Pembrokians descend on other colleges during the festive season to fill their bars with carol singing. The JCR committee does a grand job of organizing events from the religiously-attended

Undergraduates 400 Rent £1100-1600 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Samuel Johnson, Michael Heseltine, Roger Bannister

fortnightly JCR meetings to the annual college ski trip. Pembroke provides a great environment in which to pursue academic interests and studies. The College offers a wide range of subjects, including minority choices such as Oriental studies, Economics and Management and Arabic. At Pembroke, time spent outside the library is as important as time spent inside it. The legendary bar, Len’s, run by the equally legendary barman Len, is a fantastic place to hang out. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with art, music and drama via the choir or the annual college musical and play. Pembroke boasts an impressive collection of post-war British art housed in Oxford’s only student-run gallery. Sport plays a big part of college life. The boat club has established itself at the heart of Oxford rowing. Success on the river is matched on the field by the rugby, football, cricket and netball teams. Casual sporting pursuits run alongside competitive efforts with the infamous 3rds football team and the beer and bikini boats. So, as you can see, Pembroke gives its students a reason to wear pink with pride.

Food

Breakfast and lunch available on a payas-you-go basis. Dinner costs around £5 and is pre-paid for Freshers.

Facilities

Freshers live in college, second years live out, and third years live in a collegeowned annex. Half the rooms are ensuite and half share bathrooms 69 between six.

Colleges

IY Queens

“Most people have a more relaxed attitude.”

“Great food - at least three options at lunch.”

Queen’s High Street, OX1 3BJ 4AW www.queens.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 120

ueen’s used to be a home for Northern students at Oxford. These days, the college retains a vague association with the North, but Queen’s is probably better known for its stunning Baroque buildings and friendly, socially welcoming atmosphere. Accommodation is provided for the duration of your course. Unlike most colleges, here you start in the annexes and work inwards, eventually upgrading to the best bedrooms in college with en-suites and reception rooms. The first year accommodation looks like a giant spaceship, but every bedroom has a glass wall and faces inwards which means you always know what’s going on, which creates a fantastic social environment. Most of the accommodation doesn’t have kitchens. They’re working on that, but this means that mealtimes in college are really fun and busy, and for a relatively cheap price, too. Eating and sleeping, then, are sorted. The social life, however, is also integral to Queen’s. The beer cellar is very popular with students as a social hub and offers some of the cheapest drinks in Oxford. JCR Tea, tabletennis after lunch, and pool and darts in the beer cellar are all essential fixtures of the day.

Undergraduates 350 Rent £1050 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Henry V, Rowan Atkinson

The stunning, well-stocked, 24-hour library is also a much-appreciated facility. Sport is well-catered for too as the college has every sort of pitch or court you can imagine, as well as a boat house, squash courts, and a gym. Everyone can get involved with the prestigious Eglesfield Music Society, which regularly puts on choral and instrumental concerts. On top of this, Queen’s rightfully boasts one of the best chapel choirs in Oxford. Despite all of the above, it’s very easy to get involved in university-wide stuff, and the brilliant location of the college means lots of its members do so. Queen’s is situated bang on the High Street and is hard to miss, sticking out thanks to its striking frontage and giant columns. It’s therefore really well positioned, directly opposite the Exams Schools and right next to the city’s commercial centre. The college’s ideal location, buzzing social scene and fantastic facilities mean it’s popular amongst the students who make it their home.

Food

All meals are available in hall on a payas-you-go basis. Breakfast and lunch cost between £1 and £3, while dinner is £3.50.

Facilities

Accommodation guaranteed for all undergraduates either on site or in annexes. Half the rooms are 71 ensuite.

Colleges

IY RPC

“Cheap bar, cheap rent.”

“We’re definitely the friendliest.”

Regent’s Park Pusey Street, OX1 2LB www.rpc.ox.ac.uk 01865 288 120

egent’s Park? Isn’t that in London? Actually, Oxford’s best kept secret is tucked behind J.R.R. Tolkien’s favourite pub, the Eagle and Child - except our bar’s considerably cheaper at only £1.40 a beer.

Regent’s students have represented the University winning the prestigious Oxford Blue, most recently in Athletics, Rugby and Fencing. There is a strong boat club too, men’s and women’s football teams and a women’s netball team.

Regent’s isn’t a college but what’s known as a Permanent Private Hall (or PPH for short) which basically means that Regent’s is the same as a college apart from small differences in the way that it is governed. Originally the college taught Theology to students training to become Baptist ministers but these days, while still continuing this tradition, it is a far more eclectic place, offering various subjects including, but not only, Geography, Classics, PPE and History. Its English, Theology and Philosophy departments are particular strong with a number of students achieving First class degrees in 2011. The undergraduate body is entirely secular.

All first-year and finalist students live in college accommodation, most of which is on-site. Accommodation comes in various shapes and sizes, from individual rooms to shared flats, and costs £1025 a term. The college library is open 24 hours too, useful for late night cramming, and lunch and dinner are both waiterserved, not bad considering at only £3.50, a three-course dinner is the most expensive meal on offer. However, Regent’s is far from being a stuffy place: staff sit with students and in the summer term you can walk (or lie, or drink Pimm’s) on the grass in the Main Quad.

Regent’s has a close knit atmosphere, with only 100 undergraduates and free tea and biscuits twice a day. The college also welcomes about forty American visiting students each year and has a vibrant MCR. And, of course, not forgetting Oxford’s oldest JCR member, the college tortoise Emmanuelle who competes annually in the University tortoise race. She’s not alone in her sporting success. Over the years, dozens of

Undergraduates 100 Rent £1000 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Michael Symmons Roberts, R. T. Kendall

When not partying on the Quad, Regents students are found all around the Uni. In fact being a smaller college offers the best of both worlds: an intimate, friendly atmosphere which allows you to get out and about. Regents students are particularly active in the Oxford Union, the Christian Union and student journalism, but also in more surprising areas like Gaelic football and a cappella singing. Surprising, but then again Regents is Oxford’s best kept secret.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in hall Monday to Friday. Every Friday is formal hall and there are two JCR guest dinners per term.

Facilities

Most students live on site. All years have shared bathrooms and access to kitchen facilities.

Colleges

IY s e n n A t S

“You can pay with your Bod card at the cafe.”

“There’s a general absence of stuffiness.”

St Anne’s Woodstock Rd, OX2 6HS www.st-annes.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 800

ounded in 1879 as the Society of Home Students, initially as a place to provide affordable education for women, St Anne’s was granted a university charter in 1952 as a women-only college. In 2009, St Anne’s celebrates 30 since it became co-educational, having first admitted men in 1979. The college now has a roughly even gender split. Today, St Anne’s is one of the largest undergraduate colleges in the university, but fortunately for its undergrads, it can house almost all of its students on-site. Particularly sought-after rooms are to be found in the newly built (2005) Ruth Deech Building, where every room is en-suite! Among undergrads, the college is known for its lively socials, its strong sense of community spirit and 1960s architecture, which is best represented by the former entrance to college, and current Freshers’ building, The Gatehouse. The college is also proud of its college mascot, the irrepressible beaver, which holds legendary status with undergrads, and is immortalised in the name of the termly bog-sheet! St Anne’s students are blessed with a satisfyingly well-stocked library – it’s one of the largest college libraries in the University and, since Hilary 2009, is open 24/7. Students also enjoy

Undergraduates 425 Rent £1050 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Polly Toynbee, Helen Fielding, Edwina Currie

24/7 access to the college IT room. Both these facilities are used constantly, especially when there’s an outbreak of essay crises! As one of the most modern colleges in Oxford, St Anne’s considers itself one of the most forward-looking, and in the coming years it intends to expand its on-site facilities significantly with plans to build a new library and IT resource centre. This project is even more significant given that St Anne’s is situated opposite the site of the new Humanities centre which is being built in the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, just across Woodstock Road. The college’s lively student body is home to many college-based societies, ranging from the St Anne’s Film Society, to the typical assortment of sports teams (both male and female), including Football, Cricket, Hockey, Ultimate Frisbee and many more! Although about 5-10 minutes from the city centre, ‘Stanners’ (as they’re known) are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating and drinking out. The nearby district of Jericho is home to a wide range of restaurants, pubs and trendy cocktail bars- many of which are situated on the renowned Little Clarendon Street, which is only a two-minute walk from college.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in hall Monday to Friday with brunch available at the weekends. Meals cost around £2.50.

Facilities

Accommodation is available to almost all undergraduates. Half the rooms are ensuite. Kitchens are shared 75 between eight at most.

Colleges

IY s t e n e B St

“A true PPH ...close-knit.”

“Get free beer in the JCR”

St Benet’s St Giles’, OX1 3LN www.st-benets.ox.ac.uk 01865 280 556

t is the atmosphere of warmth, hospitality and academia that seeps through the door of 38 St Giles’. More than any other institution within Oxford, St Benet’s Hall resembles the old traditional Halls of study which were first set up when the University was founded. As well as being small and homely, St Benet’s is the tallest building on St Giles’, giving it one of the finest views in Oxford. The Hall is proud of its ethos of generosity and hospitality, with the JCR providing beer to its members and hosting a large party at the end of each term – all for free. Students here soon become accustomed to fine dining and good company; guests are frequently invited to one of the three formal meals every week. These are preceded by sherry and canapés and followed by coffee which, in summer, is served in the beautiful garden with a round of croquet to accompany. As well as breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Hall provides tea from 3pm every day. As an institution that is funded by the Benedictine community, there are several monks studying at St Benet’s. The community is certainly strengthened by living with the monks who play a key role in the life of the Hall. It may seem odd at first, but you’ll quickly find that they’re

Undergraduates 50 Rent varies Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Anthony Kenny, Damian Collins, Basil Hume

not only very normal people, but are also incredibly interesting, kind and accommodating. Despite the small number of undergraduates, St Benet’s is far from indolent. The student experience is very successful, both academically and throughout the extra-curricular activities on offer in the University. In recent years the rowing team has consistently punched above its weight, bumping boats from colleges with ten times the number of students. Current undergraduates include elected officials in OUSU, the Oxford Union, the University Labour Club, station manager of the student radio and writers for the student newspapers, among other achievements. The Hall also boasts members who have represented the University in rugby, karate, football and golf. One of St Benet’s particular strengths is its common table. There is no high table, which means that first year undergraduates often find themselves sitting next to esteemed academics. This ensures a closer relationship with the Senior members of the Hall, and particularly one’s tutors, than in many other colleges. St Benet’s will not just be your Hall for three years – it will be your home.

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in hall, as well as afternoon tea. There are three formal halls per week.

Facilities

All first years and most finalists live on site. Second years live out. About half the rooms are ensuite.

Colleges

IY StCatz

“Between extra meal times and the Buttery, you’ll never starve.”

“Notoriously down-to-earth.”

St Catherine’s Manor Road, OX1 3UJ www.stcatz.ox.ac.uk 01865 271 700

t Catherine’s College – known affectionately around the city as ‘Catz’ – breaks the Oxford mould like no other. You will be taken aback on your first encounter. The architecture is not traditional, romantic Oxford – that is if your vision of ‘romantic’ is stone walls and gargoyles. That said, St Catz is entirely Grade I listed as all the buildings, including the dining hall and even the cutlery, were designed by innovative Danish architect Arne Jacobsen. It is a light, airy college with plenty of glass and grass. Its history is brief, but a story of idealism: the college was established largely as a place for bright workingclass boys, but has since grown and is now one of the most diverse student bodies in the University. Catz has had more Nobel Prize winners than any other college, and among our alumni is rowing legend Matthew Pinsent.

new college Music Society has taken off in the past year and already has a reputation for being one of the best of its kind in Oxford – the much-loved Master even appeared on stage in a Catz musical showcase singing Gilbert and Sullivan! Moreover Catz students are known for their spirit of fun: college bops have been described as the best in Oxford, and club nights are typically filled with Catz students. However, if the students ever seem reluctant to leave their little piece of heaven down Manor Road, it’s easy to understand why. Catz students talk about the college as though it were a big family. There is a great deal of talent there, but none of the inflated egos you might find elsewhere. The typical Catz student tends to be fairly down-to-earth and easygoing, and people get on very well. The bar is always vibrant, and visitors frequently say just how good the atmosphere is in the JCR.

Catz has traditionally been labelled a quite insular, apathetic college, with its students failing to get involved in the wider university life. However these days the College is making great leaps in the life of Oxford. Many of the current students play important roles in University sport, drama, music and politics. The

Undergraduates 469 Rent £1050 per term Library 8am-midnight Famous Alumni Benazir Bhutto, Peter Mandelson, Sir Matthew Pinset

Food

Breakfast cost around £2, while lunch costs £3. Dinner in hall costs just over £3, but dinner in the canteen can cost around £2.50.

Facilities

Guaranteed accommodation on site for all undergraduates. Ensuites are available to second years; others 79 share among ten.

Colleges

IY SEH

“You get to relax in a graveyard.”

“One word Haaaalllll!”

St Edmund Hall Queens Lane, OX1 4AR www.seh.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 700

etter known by its nickname, Teddy Hall (you’ll have trouble finding someone who refers to it by its full name) is a proudly buzzing College. Its students enjoy a reputation for getting out and about - making the most of their university experience without worrying too much about those college league table scores. Having said that, year upon year Teddy Hall easily falls mid-table, not sweating it too much except on the sports pitches, the river, the stage or just the dance floor at the legendary bops. Teddy Hall isn’t just a party college, though - it’s arty too. In fact, it’s got the largest intake of fine art students across the University and as a result there are some stunning exhibitions to see and a very lively arts and culture scene. A college not scared to make noise - you might hear Teddies coming out with their simple but effective ‘HAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLL!’ chanting, guaranteed to silence all rival sports spectators. Whilst at the annual Christmas Dinner, a slightly inebriated rendition of The Teddy Bear’s Picnic is likely to take priority. The smallness of the Teddy Hall site, in contrast to its large number of undergraduates

Undergraduates 400 Rent £1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Terry Jones, Al Murray, Emma Kennedy

– the second highest in the University – means that it’s impossible not to be familiar with most of your fellow Teddies. Nipping out for a coffee, dashing to the pub in time for last orders or to Ahmed’s kebab van in the middle of an all-nighter are all possible due to the College’s enviable location on the High Street. The Norman church (which houses the library) and beautiful front quad are both reminders of the College’s past as a medieval Hall, allowing Teddies the rightful claim that, being founded in 1262, it is the University’s oldest seat of learning, despite not gaining official collegiate status till more recently in 1957. The summer term always sees the graveyard fill up nicely with picnickers, Pimm’s drinkers and those wanting to sunbathe or simply revise against headstone headrests. As an outdoor space, it’s much more practical and conducive to relaxation than others – you won’t see many colleges with students sitting around strumming guitars in the middle of big front quads! Fortunately the graveyard feels more an extension of the common room than anything else, albeit a prettier, sunnier, grassier extension. So you can see, Teddy Hall is clearly the best college in Oxford.

Food

All meals are available including brunch at the weekends and formal hall on Wednesday evenings. Breakfast and lunch cost around £2, while dinner costs about £4.

Facilities

Bathrooms and kitchens shared amongst ten. Some finalists have 81 ensuites.

Colleges

IY s a d l i H t S

“Sandwiched between the shops in town and the nightlife in Cowley.”

“Relaxed, there’s less academic pressure”

St Hilda’s Cowley Place, OX4 1DY www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 884

t Hilda’s is unique amongst the Oxford colleges. It was the last of the all-female colleges to go mixed, opening its doors to male students in 2008. This shouldn’t scare you off though; it’s friendly, welcoming and probably one of the most relaxed of all the colleges in Oxford. It’s not ugly, either. The College consists of several beautiful Victorian buildings on a spacious site away from the bustle of town, with well-kept grounds which run right down onto the River Cherwell. College punts are available to hire for free, offering students a spot of relaxation in the summer term. Hilda’s is also right next to the vibrant Cowley Road area of Oxford, where there’s a huge range of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs that are cheaper and more diverse than those in other areas of town. Because women were originally barred from using the Bodleian, the College library is very well-developed, especially in English, Politics and Philosophy, and there are book grants available for all first years. The College is also able to support students with grants for extracurricular activities and study-related travel. There are several important events in the social calendar of a St Hilda’s student, including an

Undergraduates 400 Rent £900 per term Library 8am-12:45am Famous Alumni Wendy Cope, Kate Millett

annual Arts Festival,‘Queer Cabaret’ evening and the week-long ‘St Hilda’s Festival’ which features noted speakers and entertainment nights, all aimed at celebrating gender equality and honouring the heritage of the College. The College Choir regularly performs at the fantastic on-site Jacqueline Du Pre Music centre. This modern building gives all students the use of practice rooms and a large auditorium. With a tennis court on-site, and the closest college to the University sports ground (where Hilda’s students receive free membership), the College can also cater for all your fitness needs. The bar, which is one of the very few remaining student-run ones, serves some of the cheapest drinks in Oxford, and has a pool table, table football and quiz machine. It hosts termly events too, from the infamous End-ofTerm Party (formerly known as ‘Drink the Bar Dry’) to jazz and cocktail nights. It’s regularly packed with students from outside of college – for obvious reasons! Friendly, vibrant, individualistic and diverse, most of our members confidently say they couldn’t imagine being happier at any other college.

Food

All meals available in hall along with snacks.

Facilities

Accommodation guaranteed for first and third years. Some ensuites, some rooms have shared bathrooms. Kitchens are shared among 14.

Colleges

IY s h g u H St

“One of the prettiest libraries in Oxford”

“Large, but friendly”

St Hugh’s St Margaret’s Rd, OX2 6LE www.sthughs.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 900

t Hugh’s was once an all-female college and is huge, with accommodation for every undergraduate on site, large gardens, and one of the largest college libraries in Oxford. The fact that everyone lives together means that you become friends with people in all the year groups, rather than just your own. It also means that you make new friends throughout your time in Oxford, rather than deciding who your friends are in first-year and then moving out with them. The gardens at St. Hugh’s are amazing, and more than make up for the buildings not quite hitting the ‘Oxford college used for Harry Potter’ standard, and are entirely open to students. You can walk, run, play croquet, and (if you must) study on the lawns: this is actually quite rare, as most Oxford colleges have a ‘not on the grass’ policy. It also reflects the general atmosphere of Hugh’s as the College is your home, and sees itself as such, rather than just your school.

a little more energetic, there are tennis/ basketball/netball courts and a gym on site while use of squash courts at Wolfson College is allowed and there’s beautiful Port Meadow just up the road if you want somewhere to run. When it comes to work, St Hugh’s is fairly relaxed (by Oxford standards), though Hugh’s has recently jumped quite high in the Norrington table, and is clearly a very good college academically. You can push yourself and find the support to be academically brilliant here, but you’re not made to feel that your other activities are inferior; people in college are very active in student politics, drama, music, sport and drinking tea! Not sold yet? Hugh’s also has a great social life, with bops (college parties) every fortnight, a RAG ball at the end of Michaelmas, open mic nights and more - there’s something on every week, and we have the best brunch in town every weekend to help you recover from your week’s activities!

Hugh’s is further out of town than most other colleges, but is still only a 15min walk or 5min bike ride into the town centre, which means that going to a lecture also counts as your daily exercise! If you’re someone who’s

Undergraduates 360 Rent £1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Barbara Castle, Joanna Trollope, Joe Goddard

Food

Available on a pay-as-you-go basis. All meals are served on weekdays with brunch available at weekends.

Facilities

Accommodation for all undergraduates available on site. Kitchen access is available. Half the rooms are ensuite, but Freshers generally share.

Colleges

IY SJC

“They’re always willing to offer financial help.”

“Everyone’s so nice!”

St John’s St Giles’, OX1 3JP www.sjc.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 318

he first thing most students tell you when you ask about St John’s College is that it is the richest of the Oxford Colleges. If that’s all you’re told, though, then you’ll be missing a lot.

rooms with table tennis and pool tables, an ear-warming jukebox, one of the best-stocked college libraries, music practice rooms and a TV room with a large plasma screen (complete with a total home entertainment system).

Founded in the 15th Century, St John’s provides a rich variety of facilities, experiences and atmosphere for students. It is one of the few colleges that can offer undergrads housing in the city centre, in college, for every year of their course, and it offers the widest range of undergraduate courses. With a fantastic access scheme, students come from many diverse backgrounds, and it has one of the highest proportions of state school students of the colleges here in Oxford.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served every day in a beautiful dining hall at some of the lowest prices in Oxford. On Sundays you can enjoy three delicious courses for as little as £3.50, with the choir singing a Latin grace beforehand. The gardens are gorgeous - perfect for a relaxing stroll, and if chess is your thing, there’s a giant set to entertain you.

St John’s features prominently in academic league tables but don’t go thinking that it is full of bookworms! College members get involved in a whole array of activities, from sports and journalism to Oxford’s social scene and student politics. The college is the only one in Oxford to have their own TV station – SJCTV! There is a fine array of facilities: three computer rooms with free printing (one of very few colleges to offer this), two games

Undergraduates 370 Rent £1000 per term Library 9am-12am Famous Alumni A.E. Housman, Tony Blair, Philip Larkin

The sports facilities are also first class: there are two spacious well-equipped gyms and squash courts right on site. The sports ground is just a ten minute walk up the road with football, rugby, tennis and netball facilities. With the University Parks even closer, it is ideal for a quick game of five-a-side or a picnic in summer. And while the fact that we’re loaded isn’t the most important thing, it does mean that there’s plenty of support for you – grants are offered for trips abroad, welfare provisions, academic excellence and pretty much anything else you can think of!

Food

Breakfast costs about £1, lunch about £2 and formal hall from £3. All are available every day.

Facilities

All undergraduates are guaranteed on site accommodation. Bathrooms and kitchens shared between five. Finalists share bathrooms between two.

Colleges

IY SPC

“There’s foosball, ping-pong, pool and a quiz machine in the JCR”

“It’s small, sociable and unpretentious.”

St Peter’s New Inn Hall St, OX1 2DL www.spc.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 900

t Peter’s College is the laid-back teenager of the Oxford college family. As one of the youngest colleges in Oxford, there is a more relaxed and care-free atmosphere than in many others. You will notice that everyone at St Peter’s college is down-to-earth and friendly; from the Porters to the furry squirrel mascots. Students at St Peter’s (Peterites) love to have fun and make the most of life. College bops will get you dressed up in everything from your favourite TV cartoon characters to anything but clothes… There are many dedicated sports teams ranging across all major and minor sports. Peterites are active in the majority of Oxford societies and all college members are encouraged to get involved with something they enjoy. You can get involved with the student newspaper (the ‘Peterphile’), Open Mic nights showcase the best in musical and vocal talent, there is an annual play for drama cuppers, the you-tube channel, an alternative choir and much more! The social facilities at St Peter’s are among the best in the University. There is a common room kitted out with sofas, a 3D TV, pool table, table tennis table, quiz machines, games machine… the list is endless! The

Undergraduates 346 Rent varies Library 24/7 Famous Alumni The Revd. Wilbert Vere Awdry, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine

student bar is one of the few student run bars in Oxford and is a fantastic place for social gatherings and sampling the infamous college drink, ‘The Crosskeys’. Peterites are also active outside of college and you’re always likely to spot a contingent of St Peter’s students in local clubs, pubs and bars. When you finally get down to work you won’t be disappointed either. Unlike many colleges in Oxford, St Peter’s offers 24hr access to our college library and has enough public computers to cater to the needs of students 24 hours a day. While some colleges may seem intimidating because of their size and age, you will notice the warmth that comes with the relatively smaller and younger St Peter’s. Finally, the college has one of the most diverse student bodies within the University. It was founded with the purpose of allowing the best students from whatever background to have an Oxford University education. On a practical note we can guarantee accommodation for 2 years and the sense of community within the college means that meals and college events are always well attended.

Food

All meals are available on a pay-as-yougo basis.

Facilities

Accommodation is available for most students for three to four years. Kitchens sometimes shared, a large communal kitchen is available to all. Bathrooms normally shared among 89 three to four.

Colleges

IY SOME

“We’ve got some of the nicest tutors in the University.”

“The college cat is the best!”

Somerville Woodstock Rd, OX2 6HD www.some.ox.ac.uk 01865 270 600

omerville, hidden away behind an unassuming entrance on a main road, the huge grass quad and surrounding red brick buildings is one of Oxford’s best hidden treasures. The town centre is only a few minutes’ walk away, but if the hustle and bustle ever gets you down, its laidback atmosphere provides a welcome retreat. The College is well situated for Oxford’s main nightclubs, and at the heart of the bohemian Jericho, which is packed full of bars, pubs, cafes and its own independent cinema, Phoenix Picturehouse. The accommodation inside the College is extremely comfortable and while some of the first year accommodation is not the most beautiful, it is very social. Also there is a brand new, state-of-the-art housing block, all with en-suite rooms. Those who live out in second year mostly take up residence in student properties in Jericho or the more northerly Summertown area. This makes for a very good balance between a close-knit college community and broader integration with the rest of the town and University. The dining hall in college is cheap and very well attended. Though, for those who like to

Undergraduates 396 Rent £1000 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Margaret Thatcher, Iris Murdoch, Indira Gandhi

cook, there are kitchens at the end of almost every corridor. Furthermore, the College is well equipped with its own on-site gym. Somerville has one of the best college libraries in Oxford, with an enormous collection of books for every subject. The library is open 24/7 with very generous borrowing rights and a book request system, by which students can ask the library to buy a book they want. Apart from the bar and JCR rooms the main social hub of college is the enormous quad, which lacks the ‘Please Keep Off The Grass’ signs found in other colleges, and becomes a hive of activity as soon as the sun comes out. Somerville is many things but above all it is friendly, liberal and tolerant, based on its original founding ethos as a women’s college. Despite a large student population, there is a definite sense that everyone knows each other, regardless of which social group they belong to. College staff and tutors are just as warm and supportive as the students, and every member of the college really does contribute towards the unique and special atmosphere of Somerville.

Food

All meals are available in hall on a payas-you-go basis. To eat three meals a day would cost about £10.

Facilities

Accommodation is available to first and third years, as well as some second years. Bathrooms are shared among ten at most. Kitchen access is 91 available.

Colleges

IY Trinity

“There’s nothing better than relaxing on the lawn in summer.”

“Proper formal hall two nights a week”

Trinity Broad Street, OX1 3BH www.trinity.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 900

rinity College, founded in 1555 by Sir Thomas Pope, is well-known throughout the University for its beauty and sense of space right in the heart of Oxford: idyllic lawns provide the perfect summer haunt for Trinitarians to sprawl in the sunshine surrounded by magnificent, golden, stone buildings, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. However, the college doesn’t feel at all pretentious. Students get the chance to make these beautiful architectural examples their home for three years and it is the friendly atmosphere and community spirit that make Trinity what it is, as much as its history. Formal hall happens five times a week and if that isn’t enough to satisfy your expectant taste buds, there is also a sumptuous, four-course guestnight every Friday cooked by the awardwinning kitchen. All students can usually live on-site for the first two years and in college-owned accommodation for the entire length of your course. This fosters a real bond between the years, making the Trinity student community a tight-knit one which you’ll settle into from day one. With its own sports ground and great team spirit, getting involved is never too difficult at

Undergraduates 294 Rent £1200 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Lord North, Peter Stothard, Henry Ireton

Trinity, whether you’re going for a Blue or trying a sport you’ve never had the chance to play before. The rowing club is also very active both on and off the water; it welcomes all standards of rowers. Cuppers football matches always draw a big crowd down at our sports field and we’re lucky enough to have squash courts on site. Off the sports field, Trinity has a strong choir and its own orchestra. The Broadsheet, Trinity’s student paper is an institution in college and the place to find out all the college gossip as well as read some really thought-provoking articles. The Trinity Players stages two plays a year, including the Trinity term ‘Lawns Play’. Outside college, Trinitarians are active in The Oxford Union, on the stage and in the Blues teams, providing plenty of opportunities to meet students from other colleges. Oxford is about achieving academically. Trinity ensures its students do this by being involved, well rounded people with a great support network of friends and college staff, who are able to have fun and so approach their work in a positive frame of mind. University is a life experience and Trinity certainly has all the elements to ensure that yours is a happy one.

Food

All meals available in hall. Breakfast costs around £2, lunch around £3 and dinner around £3.50.

Facilities

Accommodation is available on and off-site. Most rooms share bathrooms. Kitchen facilities are available.

Colleges

IY Univ

“The bursaries are amongst the most generous in the country.”

“You can store your bikes safe and secure in a cellar.”

University High Street, OX1 4BH www.univ.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 602

niv is a medium sized college, so we are a close community and support each other more at every level than perhaps they do at some bigger colleges. However, we’re big enough to avoid a claustrophobic “everyone knows everything about everyone” feel! Both first and second years live in college, meaning we have more interaction and friendships between year groups than some colleges.

£900 per term. In second-year you can choose to live in shared rooms where you get your own bedroom but share a living area. Every room has a sink, fridge, a fast internet connection and a telephone and bathrooms are usually shared between three to five people.

Univ is beautiful! You get the Oxford thing, living and studying in stunning quads and buildings, but it’s not as imposing as some colleges in Oxford; you’re not going to feel like a tourist in your own home. The college, although peaceful, is right on the High Street and close to anywhere you might need to be, including the University libraries, exam schools and science buildings. It’s a two-minute walk from Christ Church meadow where you can relax in the sunshine, get away from the crowds of the centre and clear your head.

There are a few kitchens dotted around college but most students eat their meals in Hall. This year saw the opening of our new buttery and the chefs are very responsive to our suggestions, meaning the food at Univ is of a very high standard. Brunch at the weekends is especially popular; maybe it’s the waffles or the scrambled eggs with salmon! For a more traditional experience there’s formal hall six nights a week which is three courses, waiterserved and gowns are compulsory. It’s great as a special but good-value evening for birthdays or visitors, and also a chance to get involved with Oxford tradition, which is a lot more fun than it is stuffy!

Univ provides all students with accommodation for the duration of their course, in college for the first two years and afterwards in ‘Stavertonia’ in North Oxford. Rooms in college are spacious and comfortable compared to student accommodation at other colleges or universities and rent is reasonable for Oxford at around

Meals are paid for with your university card on a pay-as-you-go basis and are very good value considering the variety and quantity - £2.30 for a vegetarian main course and just 50p for soup. The staff in Hall and the buttery get along with everyone and cater for all dietary needs.

Undergraduates 400 Rent £900 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Bill Clinton, Clement Attlee, Stephen Hawking

Food

Formal hall is available six nights a week. You can also eat at the Buttery. All meals available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Facilities

Bathrooms are shared among three to five and kitchen facilities are available.

Colleges

IY Wadham

“Queer Bop and Wadstock are legendary.”

“One of the most diverse and inclusive colleges.”

Wadham Parks Road, OX1 3PN www.wadham.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 900

n 1984, Wadham’s SU passed a motion to end every bop (messy college parties) with The Specials’s song ‘Free Nelson Mandela’, in solidarity with the then-imprisoned liberty legend. To this day, at one am on the dot every fortnight, students can be found in a frenzy, with girls clambering onto the shoulders of the boys, shunting and shuffling to the stompin’ ska sounds for what feels like an eternity. This commitment to energy, enthusiasm and ‘political activism’ makes sure that Wadham is jam-packed with students who are always up for getting involved and having a go.

University. Much to the envy of other colleges, Wadham is also home to the queen of all student festivities, ‘Queerfest’ (an annual glitterstrewn, sequin-clad, debauched celebration in the gardens, complete with burlesque dancers and lady gaga tribute acts). In the summer, Wadham hosts its very own music festival in the college gardens. ‘Wadstock’ is a twelve-hour extravaganza of live music, barbeques, bungee cords and sumo suits.

Wadham’s reputation in Oxford is one of a liberal, open-minded and progressive place that embraces students of all colours, creeds, backgrounds and beliefs - far from the tweed of the Brideshead brigade. Instead, Wadham has developed a reputation for being crammed with communist homosexual hipsters (which we have to say is not entirely true).

But it’s not all partay partay partay at Wadham; the college is notorious for getting its teeth into just about everything. Politically the students are unrivalled in their activism, with more attending the 2010 fees protests than any other college. Sports-wise, the football team is a constant presence in the top division, Wadham is home to the only female college darts team and, with eight boats in the rowing club, the College is a pretty big fish when it comes to the river.

While Wadham is a far cry from the trappings and traditions of other colleges, it has some unorthodox habits of its own. There are no formal halls, robes and latin graces, just dinner. Whereas the highlight of the social calendar at other colleges is a fancy formal hall, at Wadham there are more bops than anywhere else in the

Wadham also have the only college SU in the University, with grads and undergrads coming together as one united ‘voice of the people’. Despite this flurry of frolicsome activity, Wadham is also surprisingly high on the Norrington table – the students work hard, and they play hard too.

Undergraduates 460 Rent £1050 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Melvyn Bragg, Rowan Williams

Food

There’s no formal hall, but dinner is available for under £4. Lunch is available in the canteen for about £3.

Facilities

Accommodation on site is available to first and final years, while others live out. Bathrooms are usually shared amongst four.

Colleges

IY Worc

“The architecture never fails to inspire.”

“There’s a lake with ducks!”

Worcester Walton Street, OX1 2HB www.worc.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 602

orcester College has a well-deserved reputation as one of Oxford’s best-kept secrets. Tucked behind a rather uninspiring façade, many people walk past Worcester without a second glance. However, venture through its gates and you’ll find one of the most beautiful quads in Oxford, set in extensive parkland and spacious grounds all inhabited by a student body as fun-loving and enthusiastic as they are friendly. Although some may consider Worcester a little out of the way given that it is not part of the main cluster of colleges, it’s a mere 5-minute walk from the centre, is the closest undergradate college to the bus and train stations, and is conveniently situated by the very cream of Oxford’s nightlife. Worcester has fantastic facilities. There are three libraries, two computer rooms and a large hall serving some of the best and most reasonably priced food in Oxford. Worcester’s JCR is comparable to a huge living room with plenty of comfy seats, a television and DVD player, and is often the venue for raucous JCR meetings, groups watching a big sports match, pizza nights or anyone just hanging out with friends.

Undergraduates 411 Rent £900-1100 per term Library 24/7 Famous Alumni Rupert Murdoch, Anton Oliver, Lord Sainsbury

The bar itself is the true social hub of college, and comes alive at night, hosting everything from bops, to karaoke and quiz evenings, while there is a pool table and games room located next to it. Additionally, the infamous Buttery lures us students in with its warm fire, chocolate and coffee and becomes a haven for those avoiding work. There really is something for everyone at Worcester, whatever your interests may be. From Buskins Drama Society for those budding actors, poetry for Wordsworth wannabes, choral groups, the Christian Union, Ultimate Frisbee and fair trade endeavours you name it - Worcester has it. The College also has an excellent reputation for sport, a status helped by being the only college with playing fields on site. Worcester has outstanding sport facilities including squash courts, tennis courts (grass and hardcourt), a netball court, cricket nets and a gym which college members can use for free. While the combination of facilities, enthusiasm and involvement has given Worcester the reputation as the most sporting college in Oxford, there’s something for everyone whatever you want to get involved in!

Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner served seven days a week. All hover around the £2 price point.

Facilities

Accommodation is available for all undergraduates. Most rooms are ensuite and kitchen facilities are available.

Colleges

Blackfriars St Gilesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, OX1 3LY www.bfriars.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 400

lackfriars is run by Dominican friars and admits students for Theology, Theology & Philosophy, PPE and Classics. It has existed in several forms since its founding but originally dates from 1221, making it one of the oldest bodies in Oxford. Blackfriars currently has seven undergraduates, some of whom have accommodation provided for

them. Those that do also have self-catering facilities and all students also have the option of taking meals at St. Benetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall. Like all Oxford colleges, Blackfriars has its own library, consisting of 35,000 volumes on theology and philosophy. It has also recently become the home of a new institute on ethics, governance and social justice.

St Stephen’s House

16 Marston Street, OX1 3BJ www.ssho.ox.ac.uk 01865 613 500

t. Stephen’s House is an Anglican establishment, which admits students for Theology and its associated courses. Founded in 1876, it was given its current status as a PPH in 2003, making it one of the newest recognized bodies within the university. It currently has five undergraduates and 31 postgraduate students, with undergraduates offered accommodation for all three years of their course.

All students have access to catering facilities in addition to the meals which are provided in Hall. For those students who are sportinglyinclined, St. Stephen’s House is also ideally situated – it’s directly opposite the University sports centre on Iffley Road. Its location also places it near the more multicultural Cowley Road, making it ideal for students wishing to live out of central Oxford for their entire course.

Wycliffe Hall 54 Banbury Rd, OX2 6PW www.wycliffe.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 200

ycliffe Hall is an Evangelical establishment, which offers Theology and Philosophy & Theology to its students. Accommodation is provided to all first-year undergraduates, with the option of a second year depending on whether rooms are available. Although accepting only students who will be over the age of 21 at the beginning of their course, it has a larger undergraduate

community than the other two ‘smaller’ PPHs, currently 21 undergraduates. An arrangement with The Queen’s College means that many students at Wycliffe play sport for Queen’s, providing another opportunity for participation within university life on top of those which are typically available. Famous alumni include former Conservative MP Jonathan Aitken.

101

Courses

Courses Courses Which Course?

104

Courses A-Z Archaeology & Anthropology Biochemistry Biological Sciences Biomedical Sciences Chemistry Classical Archaeology & Anthropology Classics with Modern Languages with Oriental Studies with English Computer Science with Philosophy Earth Sciences Economics & Management Engineering Engineering, Economics & Management Materials, Economics & Management English Language & Literature with Modern Languages Experimental Psychology Fine Art Geography History (Modern) Ancient & Modern with Economics with English with Modern Languages with Politics History of Art Human Sciences Law Materials Science Mathematics with Computer Science with Statistics with Philosophy Medicine

106 108 110 112 114 116 118 120 120 122 124 126 128 130 132 134 134 136 138 140 142 144 146 148 148 150 150 152 154 156 158 160 162 164 165 166 168

Modern Languages European & Middle Eastern Modern Languages & Linguistics Music Oriental Studies Philosophy, Politics & Economics Philosophy & Modern Languages Philosophy & Theology Physics with Philosophy Psychology, Philosophy & Linguistics Theology

170 171 172 174 176 178 180 180 182 184 186 188

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Which Course?

Courses

12,000 undergraduates 30 colleges 51 courses

side from deciding whether or not to apply in the first place, the most important decision you make about applying to Oxford will be what course you want to study here. The admissions system is designed to test your interest and potential in the subject. Once you’re here you’ll be studying the course you choose intensively for at least three years. Put simply, it’s worth spending some time considering your choice of subject.

Decisions Although opinions of parents and teachers can be useful, make sure you apply for something that you find interesting. Many degrees at Oxford don’t have obvious A-Level equivalents (Archaeology and Anthropology, anyone?) so it’s worth checking on requirements for individual courses, as well as thinking outside the box on what your options are. For example, you don’t actually need Latin or Greek A-Level to do Classics.

Choice of Career With the exception of subjects such as Medicine and Law, few of the degrees offered at Oxford are vocational. Even if you decide while at university that you want to be a doctor or a lawyer, remember that there are still options – law conversion and medical conversion courses are intense, but you can do them after your undergraduate degree in any other subject. Employers are also increasingly interested in whether you have a good degree rather than what subject it is in; it’s perfectly possible to do History and Languages at university and still go on to a job in a completely different sector if you want to do so.

Joint Honours If you’re thinking of applying for a joint schools course, then remember that while they involve studying two complementary subjects, they don’t involve double the workload. The courses are produced by the relevant departments co-operating and, as they have existed in most cases for many years, this process tends to run smoothly. Joint honours courses require good time management skills owing to their interdisciplinary nature, but they provide a great opportunity for increasing your understanding of two subjects. It can be possible to change course once you arrive in Oxford, but it’s not easy. While starting to think about what you’d like to study in advance of the application deadline is important when applying to any university, it’s particularly relevant if you’re considering applying here. The University admissions website explains what the requirements for individual courses are and department homepages include more details on what you’ll actually be studying – it’s well worth taking a look at these before finalising your decision about subject choice.

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Archaeology & Anthopology I

nterested in people? Then Archaeology and Anthropology is for you! It’s essentially the study of people, past and present: how civilizations lived, developed cultures and interacted.

Courses

Human existence is a large subject area but that’s what’s great about the course, its diversity. It incorporates bits of philosophy, psychology, sociology, geography, history, linguistics, physiology and more besides. The balance between Archaeology and Anthropology is fairly even within study. There are two archaeological and two anthropological papers in the first year. The second and third years have four core papers divided equally between Archaeology and Anthropology, though overlap between the two is the aim of the course. There are also three option papers which can be used to give bias to one subject or keep things even. There are loads of options and new ones often crop up with tutors’ interests – for example: Environmental Archaeology, Culture and Society of West Africa, Medical Anthropology, Greek Archaeology and Art. The workload for Arch and Anth in first year is typically four lectures a week with occasional practical classes and three tutorials with essays every fortnight. The lecture load is relatively light due to the focus on reading, which is especially important as you more or less begin this

subject from scratch at the beginning of the course. First years also do five weeks of fieldwork in the summer vacation - usually a two-week archaeological dig organised by the department that everyone attends, and then three weeks chosen by you. Most people pick another archaeological dig (these are easier to get on) at sites varying from a Pleistocene cave in France to a shipwreck in the Caribbean. Others do anthropological fieldwork like primate studies in South Africa. Money for the trips is available from colleges and the Institute. ‘Arch & Anth’ is a fantastic course offering diversity of knowledge and options allowing you to tailor it to your interests. It’s a course that opens up the world and its people to you and it provides invaluable skills for a range of employers.

Sophie Flynn Third year Hertford College I wanted to do something a little different, that brought together my interests in the humanities. I’d got four As in my A levels, which were English Lit, History, Geography and Film studies, and the great thing about Arch and Anth is that there are no specific subject requirements. I chose the subject mostly because of my interest in archaeology, but the combination with anthropology is really useful because the two compliment each other so well. I’d done a bit of reading around the subject and had taken part in a few digs before applying but didn’t really know what to expect from the degree. Within a week, I realised I’d made a good decision. The subject gives you an extremely large breadth

of knowledge of human history and culture, with plenty of opportunities to specialize in the areas that interest you. Of course, the compulsory excavations/fieldwork in second year are amazing too. I went to Pompeii to dig, and other people have gone as far as Borneo, Peru, and Iceland to dig or carry out anthropological fieldwork. My advice to anyone thinking of applying would be to do a little bit of research into the course; email tutors, they’re really helpful and are always interested in encouraging capable people to apply! Arch and Anth isn’t offered at all of the colleges, and it’s quite a small subject group, with about 23 to 25 students per year, though this makes it great for getting to know the people on your course. It’s definitely the most interesting subject on offer, and the fact that the workload isn’t really as heavy as most other subjects helps!

The First Year Lectures c. five per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Introduction to World Archaeology Introduction to Anthropological Theory Perspective on Human Evolution The Nature of Archaeological Enquiry 107

Courses

Biochemistry

our first year is split up into Organic Chemistry (focuses on carbonyl compounds), Maths (not really beyond A-level), Biophysical Chemistry (thermodynamics and radioactivity), Biological Chemistry (enzyme mechanisms) and Molecular Cell Biology (protein synthesis and genes). Then for next two years you prepare for Part I finals, which you take at the end of your third year. Here the course is split into six sections, which include learning about techniques such as X-ray crystallography and how to analyse experimental data. There is a whole paper devoted to transcription, translation and DNA rep-

lication, while another focuses more on energetics and metabolism, such as the importance of glycolysis (which was actually a finals question!) At this level, you are expected to read relevant articles in scientific publications, such as Cell. This is because lots of details in science are constantly changing so textbooks quickly become out of date! The work is different to A-levels, but you get lots of scheduled contact time like lectures, labs, classes and tutorials, which help you make the transition into the university level work load. Normally you will have the afternoons to yourself except for when labs are timetabled.

Reena Virdee Fourth year Brasenose College I chose the course because I enjoyed both Biology and Chemistry at A-level but looking at the molecular basis of biological processes is what really interested me and the Biochemistry course seemed to fit that perfectly. The course is great if you want a broad understanding of Biochemistry. You cover a huge range of topics in your first three years, which are taught by some of the best scientists in the world. This gives you a good basis on which to decide what you’re really interested in and what you want to pursue for Part II.

to do a PhD but if that’s not for you then you’ll be well equipped with a whole host of transferable skills that you can use in a number of different industries. My top tip is to make sure you manage your time properly. It can be hectic and challenging trying to juggle lectures, labs and tutorials but if you make sure you’re organised, you will have plenty of time to enjoy university life outside of the work. During my time in Oxford I’ve been president of the University’s women in business society, been marketing manager of a theatre production company, been part of the Brasenose admissions team and I’ve also done some tutoring - there are so many societies and teams, you’ll have no problem finding something to get involved in.

When it comes to deciding what to do after you graduate you’ll obviously be well placed

In first year, you have labs every Friday afternoon; in the second and third years, you have only a few days of labs per term but they are much more in depth. And in fourth year, you do your Part II project for a couple of months, which really allows you to see if you are cut out for being a proper scientist! You get to choose what area you would like to work in so most people tend to prefer this part of the course to the previous years were you have no choice in what you study. Some of the work is challenging and can be overwhelming when you have to revise it all but you should remember that everyone struggles with something! Good luck with the application process!

The First Year Lectures c. nine per week Practicals Between seven and eight hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Molecular Cell Biology Biological Chemistry Biophysical Chemistry Organic Chemistry

109

Biological Sciences T

Courses

he first year of the Oxford Biology course is broken into three: Organisms is a quick tour of life, covering microbiology, invertebrates, vertebrates and plants. Cells and Genes looks at enzymes, genetics and other topics familiar from A-level Biology, while Populations zooms out to look at interactions between organisms. Expect two lectures a morning, two practical afternoons and one tutorial a week – lots, but manageable, especially with the departmental cafe serving wonderful tea and toast to hungover undergrads. The highlight of the first year is the week-long jaunt to Wales featuring bug-hoovers, sand dunes and pubs with scant regard for closing time laws. This trip, plus the trauma of dissections, brings biologists together much more than other large subjects and strong bonds are formed across the University. Since supergeniuses tend to opt for medicine and science-geeks for Biochemistry, biologists tend to be remarkably normal. In your second year, you’ll study Evolution, along with Quantitative Methods and three further options from animals, plants, disease, cells and environment. Statistics is the only course everyone must do for three years and involves a weekly lecture and computer practical. At the end of this year you sit finals in Evolution and one of your options.

In the summer of your second year, you produce a dissertation on the topic of your choice. About half the year don their white coats for lab placements in Oxford; others do exciting field studies like butterflies in Madagascar or Bahaman sea life. In third year you study pretty specialized stuff. It’s exciting to study cutting edge science, with tutors explaining new discoveries or inviting you into their lab for practicals. You’ll produce an extended essay for each course, and this plus the dissertation and second-year finals mean 50% of your degree is done before ‘proper’ finals at the end of Year three. What’s different about an Oxford biology degree? In many ways it’s more traditional than others, focusing on whole beings and their interactions rather than cellular biology more familiar from A-level. The relaxed department and very social year group help keep your feet on the ground and your head above water when it gets tough. If you love the natural world, then Biology at Oxford could end up being three years of thoroughly good fun.

The First Year Lectures c. eight per week Practicals Between six and nine hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Cells and Genes Organisms Computing and Data Handling

James Grundy Just finished St Peter’s College Being brought up in Norfolk I’ve always taken an interest in wildlife, and it was this that drove me to study Biological Sciences. As anyone who knows me will tell you, my main interest is birds – when I’m not working or socialising I am invariably out birdwatching, and prefer doing all three together! I chose to study biology at Oxford in part because of the prestige attached to any Oxford degree, but I was also attracted by the course structure. The broad set of compulsory modules in first year ensures a firm grounding across the subject (essential given the level of crossover between disciplines), but come third year there is plenty

of freedom to focus on your personal interests. As a birdwatcher there was the added draw of several big names in ornithology, and access to one of the best ornithological libraries in the world! My favourite thing about the course is the Orielton field course. Many others would say the same, and I challenge you to find someone who didn’t enjoy it. We worked hard but had great fun at the same time, and made lasting friendships with people who shared the same interests. My top tip: exploit your faculty outside of the course. Get to know researchers working on your area of interest from the start, as it may well open up opportunities to work with them. My biggest regret is not having taken full advantage of this.

111

Biomedical Sciences T

Courses

his is a new course that evolved from Psychology and Physiology. It aims to focus on how cells, organs and systems function in the human body, leading to a better understanding and treatment of human diseases. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to note that this course is not a replacement for Medicine, but will allow you to specialise in the subjects of Neuroscience or Cells and Systems Biology. The first year is divided between lectures, a mathematics class, a practical class and a weekly tutorial. The firs two terms of second year also consist of lectures, tutorials and practical classes, while the last term is reserved for a research project. In the third year students specialise in either Neuroscience of Cell and Systems Biology, attending lectures, seminars and tutorials. Although there is a practical element to this structure, assessments are primarily written papers.

Biomedical Sciences students are wellequipped to have careers in research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology or psychology. There is also the option for further study, such as a course in Medicine. Two A-levels are highly recommended in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. This course ideal if you enjoyed science in school and are interested in its application in research and clinical practice.

Rachael Cross First year St Edmund Hall As a brand new course to Oxford, biomedical sciences is still changing and developing as we’re reading it and being continually tuned to what we want to learn, but so far I love the course. The first year everyone does the same modules – cells, molecules, genes, body, brain, behaviour, maths, stats, chemistry and physics – and then you get to specialise and choose five modules from a wide variety that you’ll learn about in the “options fair” at the end of Hilary term. I chose biomedical sciences because I really wanted to understand the science behind medicine, what is actually happening in all aspects of the body. The end goal of the course is to understand about the body

and to be able implement that knowledge, not simply diagnosis and treatment which is what I felt medicine had to offer. Considering I’m planning on going into research, this course suited me much better. There is also a lot of emphasis on neuroscience with this course, in comparison to courses in other universities, and I’m really enjoying learning about the sensory systems, which have been the focus of my neuroscience tutorials so far. The practical classes for the course are also lots of fun; so far we’ve collecting blood samples to measure our blood sugar levels, electrocuted ourselves with electrodes to study nerve velocity and muscle contractions, and studied the effects of drugs on different muscle types. So I hope you’re not squeamish!

The First Year Lectures Between six and ten per week Practicals Three hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Molecules and Cells Numerical Skills Systems

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Chemistry

hemistry is a varied, exciting and challenging degree with many of the transferable skills that employers are looking for in today’s job market. The course itself is split along three main divisions: Organic, Physical and Inorganic. Each of these is studied generally over the first three years and as you progress opportunities arise to specialise into the areas you find most appealing. These could be anything from looking at organic reactions used every day to produce pharmaceuticals (Organic), state-of-the art catalysis using transition metal complexes (Inorganic) or getting down to the nitty-gritty of hardcore Quantum Theory (Physical).

However, the breadth of the course means you can always find areas of interest. In the first year there is also a compulsory Maths course which you are examined on along with the three areas of “pure” Chemistry. Teaching is divided between lectures and tutorials. Lectures rigorously cover the syllabus requirements, often with ten to 12 per week. Tutorials with your college tutors iron out any individual problems. Exam wise, ‘Prelims’ must be passed in first-year (virtually everyone passes, don’t worry), and there are ‘Finals’ in both second- and third-years.

Tim Barendt Fourth year Christ Church I chose Chemistry at Oxford because it was my favourite subject at school and although it is quite different at degree level (less about learning the pretty colours of flame tests!) I still wouldn’t have studied anything else. In fact, I’m currently applying to stay on for a DPhil (an Oxford PhD) in Inorganic Chemistry. One of the best things about the course at Oxford is the 4th year. Its unique because you are ‘let loose’ in one of the research labs working on a project that you will become an expert on. The other major advantage (and I know a lot of people say this – but it really is true) is the tutorial system. This means that topics are covered twice, once in lectures and then again in tutori-

Chemistry is not just lectures, but labs too. Two afternoons each week are spent in labs in first year, while in second- and third-years there’s more flexibility about when to go and which experiments to attempt. However, the main attraction of the Oxford Chemistry course is the fourth year project. Here you join a real, working research group and do real, genuine research. Again the variety is huge, from cancer research (one of the groups has the largest ever grant for Cancer Research UK) to Hydrogen storage in fuel cells to looking into how birds navigate when they fly south for winter! At the end of the year you write a report on your findings and there is every chance of making a unique discovery!

als, giving you two bites to get to grips with it. Something I really needed for Physical Chemistry! The best advice I can give for interviews is to treat them like a tutorial. It’s a way for the tutors to see how you think on your feet and cope with new concepts (it won’t just be testing you on A-level material). So, if an interview goes badly because you didn’t get the answer this does not mean it’s the end of the road. With a bit of time management the course leaves enough time to do other things like sport, music or being out with friends. For example I have played badminton, tennis and squash the whole time I’ve been here at varying levels from college to university.

The First Year Lectures c. eight per week Practicals Between seven and ten hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Inorganic Chemistry Physical Chemistry 115 Organic Chemistry Mathematics for Chemistry

Classical Archaeology & Ancient History A

relatively new course to be offered at Oxford, Classical Archaeology and Ancient History (CAAH) is a really interesting alternative to Classics for those interested in the Ancient World.

Courses

Unlike Classics, CAAH places no emphasis on the relentless study of the Ancient languages or of philology and philosophy. Instead, you’ll be offered a perspective of the ancient world entirely balanced between an historical and an archaeological approach. In the first year you’ll take four courses, two taught in classes of six to ten, two in tutorials. Study in the first year is divided equally between Roman and Greek, and history and archaeology, and gives you a really good general interdisciplinary understanding of all aspects of the classical world so that at the end of the year you’re able to choose six courses in which you’re really interested for your final two years of study. In the first summer of the course, students are required to participate in a dig and do some field work. The Classics and Archaeology departments have links with lots of digs in Britain, as well as in Greece, Italy and the Med, so it’s an opportunity to participate on really interesting digs at important sites. You’ll usually be with a friend or two from Oxford as well.

The other requirement outside of tutorials and classes for the course is the completion of a site or museum report, which is submitted halfway through the third year. Lying somewhere between a dissertation and a research paper, the site/museum report gives you the opportunity to write on a subject of your own choosing and, of course, to visit the museum or site in question. Faculty, University and College travel grants enable students to do whatever interests them for both the excavation and the site/museum report, regardless of cost. Aside from the obvious advantage of offering no shortage of travel and adventuring opportunities, the strength of the CAAH course is that it was custom designed by some of the world’s leading Classical scholars. As such, students of the ancient world can analyse and consider it objectively, without the archaeological or historical bias that is the affliction of any study of the past.

The First Year Lectures c. four to six per week Classes One to two per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Papers Aristocracy and Democracy in the Greek World 550-450 BC Republic to Empire in Rome 50 BC to 50 AD

Laura Aitken-Burt First year Lady Margaret Hall Contrary to what many people may think, Classics is certainly not an irrelevant topic for the modern world! It gives you invaluable skills such as analysing limited evidence, extracting relevant material and clearly expressing arguments and opinions. CAAH at Oxford is a particularly good course because it combines literary evidence with material artefacts, both of which are fundamental to understand ancient history. It is also a pretty flexible degree to pursue the areas you are most interested in, with options for studying a historical period of over 1600 years, scientific methods in archaeology or even Latin or Ancient Greek, if you would like to have a basis in the languages. Most importantly, I did not have any prior

knowledge of ancient history but this was not a disadvantage, rather I think it makes the degree an even more rewarding experience. Coming from a non-selective comprehensive school in North London I know the apprehensive feeling about what Oxford life is really like, but since coming here any myths have been totally dispelled. Although we work hard, we most definitely play hard as well! My advice for anyone applying to Oxford would be to remember that tutors are just looking for potential to succeed and genuine enthusiasm for your subject. It is an amazing place to be a student and although it is tough, it is also so much fun and I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change it for the world!

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Classics C

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lassics is one of the most interesting, varied and challenging degrees at Oxford, and unlike Classics at many other universities, the subject is open to all, whether you have studied Latin and Greek to A-level or not. If you’re interested in literature, language, history, philosophy, art, archaeology, politics or linguistics (or any combination of the above!), Classics offers a fascinating and unparalleled insight into the worlds of Classical Greece and Rome, studying everything from the pots they painted to the wars they waged. The course comes in two forms. For those that have done ancient languages, there is Course I: the language work is far less arduous, but you have to read many more texts. Course II candidates, those who didn’t have the chance to learn Latin or Greek, start the course with two terms of intensive language classes (in groups of ten to 15) in your chosen first language. The volume of text that you study in Classics can seem daunting, but with a little application it’s both manageable and the best possible way to immerse yourself in the ancient world. Plus, there’s lots of help and support available from both college and faculty. The four year course is divided into two halves. In the first five terms, you’ll be studying for Moderations (Oxford lingo for your first set of exams). These are made up of compulsory literature and language papers, plus one philosophy paper and

one special subject that you can choose. Classics ‘Mods’ are probably the hardest exams in the University (not least because of the sheer number of them) but nothing beats the feeling of having finished them, and the pride you gain in having survived! Uniquely, Classics gives you three exam-free summers in Oxford, a bonus when your friends are revising and you can take the afternoon off to go punting. After Mods come Greats (or ‘Finals’), and at this point the degree becomes your own. With very few restrictions, you can choose from a huge variety of papers; you can specialise in literature and linguistics, or branch out into political philosophy and papyri; you can focus all your energies on Roman history, or delve into the intricacies of Greek literature. There really is something for everybody.

Helen Austin Third year St John’s College Having never studied Greek or Latin, Classics wasn’t an obvious subject option for me, but since starting the course I’ve never looked back or regretted it. The course has given me the opportunity to study languages, literature, art, history and philosophy: a mix of subjects I knew I’d enjoy, and others I was keen to try out for the first time.

The course has certainly been a challenge, but it is both highly respected and genuinely fascinating. We have the freedom to choose all our options for finals and so can specialise in whatever area we choose. The best part of the course for me has been getting to grips with Greek and Roman art, and discovering what it can tell us that has been lost from literature and history. My top tip would be to have a look at everything you think you might be interested in when choosing options, you might be surprised what you find fascinating.

The First Year Lectures c. seven per week Classes Between one and two hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Your first exams are taken in the second year with Classics, and the course structure is extremely variable, so it’s best to check with the faculty to find out what options are available. 119

Classics

Joint Schools Classics and Modern Languages

ith this joint school you can take original directions in exploring the rich and fascinating cultures of the ancient world, and the dynamism of its still living descendants.

Courses

The scope for choice is there right from the start, with two alternative versions of the degree. In the longer, five-year course, the first five terms are the same as for Classics, which allows plenty of time to expand your study of the ancient world before applying what you’ve learned to more modern literature. Overall, though, the four-year option tends to prove more popular. The course is quite literature-focused, though ongoing translations and grammar make sure language doesn’t get forgotten. Later there’s the possibility of combining the two disciplines in a special bridge paper (such as Ancient and French Classical Tragedy) or an extended essay of your own making. The year abroad provides a fantastic opportunity to hone your language skills to perfection, as well as being free from any formal assignment to explore what really interests you.

Classics and Oriental Studies

ith this option, you get to explore areas of the ancient world not normally open to classicists – and will always have one up, therefore, on the full-timers. However, you’ll also have access to cultures that frequently get left out of Oriental Studies degrees. Double bonus. Hooked yet? Go read the Oriental Studies section. The first five terms of this four year course are the same as the first five terms of the four year Classics course, and the same rules apply – you don’t have to have done Latin or Greek before, but you do have to satisfy a Language Aptitude Test. Unsurprisingly, then, you don’t need to have studied the Oriental language you intend to read either. Tutors will look for your linguistic ability and commitment (yes, the course is pretty tough) at interview. After your first five terms, you can combine subjects taken from the Classics options with one of eleven Oriental languages – from Persian, to Hebrew, via Egyptian, Akkadian, Arabic, Aramaic and Syriac, Armenian, Coptic, Old Iranian, Pali, Prakrit or Sanskrit.

The First Year Lectures c. seven per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Eight written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Homerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Iliad Texts and Contexts Arabic Old Iranian Turkish 121

Classics

Joint Schools Classics and English

C Courses

lassics and English students are a rare breed. Although the course is primarily literary, there’s the opportunity to do some history and philosophy; also, you learn how to apply the two disciplines’ radically different academic methodologies to each other, which is great fun and very stimulating. You’ll follow a different course from the Single honours English and Classics people, which can be lonely at times: this makes going to the (semi-optional) Critical Commentary classes a good idea, because there you get to meet other C&E students. However, the first-year course (which is basically Renaissance literature minus Shakespeare, and set books in Greek or Latin) is very coherent because it allows for some crossover between your essays in each discipline. After your first year exams, you choose options freely – only two of the papers are compulsory. At this point it’s really up to you, and your tutors should help you to decide.

The First Year Lectures c. three to four per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Literature in English 1550-1660 Greek and Latin Literature Unseen Translations for Classics Introduction to English Language and Literature

Robert Williams Fourth year Brasenose College Classics and English is the best course at Oxford: scratch that, in the world. That needs some caveats, sure, but get this: where else can you study 2700 years of human literature, through the best works people have ever dreamed up, and read them in their original language? And although that could make the course quite canonical in nature – and it’s certainly harder to squeeze in something which isn’t strictly literary - actually almost all the options of singlehonours Classics or English are still open to you. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you need to have done Latin or Greek for A-Level, either. I started Greek from scratch when I got here: now I’m reading Homer

with the pros (sort of). Learning two dead languages with less than half the exposure of a normal Classicist can get trying, and you still have to read at least some of the literary criticism that English students do. But we’re a rare breed, us C&E students, and that usually means more contact time with tutors and a tailor made course. My nan always said that studying literature, and dead languages, would be pointless. Trust me – it isn’t. I want to be doing something international when I leave, and something where I can learn a new language. After swallowing large tracts of Virgil or Homer, Arabic and Japanese suddenly don’t look that daunting. More than that, the study of literature from three different ages forces you to think differently about cultures that might seem alien to us today.

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Computer Science C

Courses

omputer Science degrees vary a lot between universities. It’s a relatively new field and can be approached in many ways. At Oxford work focuses on a lower lever; you won’t learn the best ways to program in the latest and greatest programming language, but you’ll learn the foundations of the subject and how to apply it to various situations. It’s a three-year-long course, with exams every year, and an optional masters year at the end. The first year is completely made up of core modules, so there is no choice in what you can take! These modules will contain courses that introduce you to logic and programming, as well as some maths programmes. All the work in your first year will be tutorial-based which means you will enter the 2nd year with a solid understanding of the base material. At the end of the year you sit exams which won’t have any effect on your final grade, but you’ll need to be pass to continue into the 2nd year. Things start to loosen up in the second year and you get some choice on what you study. The core modules will still be tutorial based, but the additional ones will be supplemented with classes instead. These are like large tutorials, containing between 5 and 15 students, depending on the popularity of the course. Like the 1st year you sit exams in everything you studied, but the results will make up around 40% of your final degree classification.

The 3rd year is where everything opens up. There are no compulsory courses, so every module you take will be class-based, and you will also undertake a project. This will account for about one third of your third year, and so is expected to take about a term’s worth of work. Projects can be on anything and everything, though discussing it with your tutor is a must to make sure it has the potential to get a decent grade. Sample projects are advertised by members of the department, so you won’t be stuck if you can’t think of one. The project’s mark is then combined with the 2nd and 3rd-year exam results. The optional 4th-year masters course comprises of four advanced courses, which are usually examined as take-home projects, and another main project which should be more advanced then those taken up by 3rd-years.

Tom Perry Just finished St John’s College I was good at maths at school but I didn’t really enjoy the theory. I also loved logic problems and started to ‘mod’ (change) computer games using simple programming. For these reasons Computer Science at Oxford was perfect and I highly recommend it. For me computer science was the perfect choice; it was maths without the maths! Of course it isn’t as simple as this, and there is still some mathematics involved, but the emphasis is on logic and applied mathematics, such as algorithm complexity

and Fourier transforms. This course is still very new to Oxford and it changes a lot as it is still being tweaked. So the course offers a lot of choice, which is great. My favourite field is Artificial Intelligence and I was able to base my project, and the majority of my options, around this subject. Courses in databases, security and graphics are also available, as well as more research oriented ones. This choice means you can go into many different jobs, or research, with a solid knowledge of the field. A-level Maths is a must for ComSci, and if you have it, Further Maths is a also huge help. Your third subject can be anything really, though Electronics or Computing could be beneficial.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Practicals Usually two sessions per week Tutorials Normally two per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Functional Programming Design and Analysis of Algorithms Imperative Programming 125 Digital Hardware

Computer Science & Philosophy A

Courses

rtificial intelligence (AI), robotics, virtual reality: fascinating areas where Computer Science and Philosophy meet. But there are also many others, since the two disciplines share a broad focus on the representation of information and rational inference, embracing common interests in algorithms, cognition, intelligence and language. This course also offers the chance to study within two academic departments, both recognised to be internationally leading in their respective fields.

Although students need not have studied Computer Science or Philosophy, a Maths, Further Maths, Physics or Computing A-level is highly recommended. The first year introduced both subjects and one bridging course, while later years focus more on the overlap between the two. Assessments include written paper and Computer Science practicals. There is an optional fourth year to study for a Master of Computer Science and Philosophy, which gives you the opportunity to study advanced topics and complete a research project. Both Computer Science and Philosophy are intellectually exciting and creative right from the start: in Computing, through the design of computer programs, and in Philosophy, through the working out of arguments and systems of thought.

Students who enjoy logical puzzles (such as thinking through paradoxes, or codebreaking) or playing analytical games like chess, are likely to enjoy both Computer Science and Philosophy.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Tutorials Normally two to three per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year and Computer Science practicals Courses Functional Programming Design and Analysis of Algorithms Discrete Mathematics General Philosophy Elements of Deductive Logic

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Earth Sciences

arth Sciences at Oxford is the perfect subject for anyone interested in the anatomy of planet Earth, and in discovering how it has changed through time. The first two years of the course cover a broad and interesting range of subjects, many of which will be reinforced by practicals. Students can then begin to specialise in their third and fourth year. There are also a number of field trips, including Pembroke, Arran and Oxfordshire quarries in the first year alone. In the first year, everyone will have a tutorial in maths once a week, and at least one other tutorial. In general, your

college tutors will be accommodating to your requirements, and are happy to organize tutorials in the subjects that you may not be so confident in. Tutorials themselves will be conducted in many different styles, from essay writing to question papers, to discussion, but all of them allow contact with those people in the department who are working at the cutting edge of modern Geology. On the subject of Geology A-Level; if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have it, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be put off. On average less than half the people on the course have studied Geology at A-Level, and the first year course is designed to make sure that everyone is catered for,

Victoria Honour Third year University College I never knew what I wanted to study at university; I knew I wanted to continue with science (wasn’t sure which!) and I loved spending time outdoors and travelling...Geology (now Earth Sciences) seemed perfect! The Geology course is so varied, meaning there’s something for everyone no matter what you’re interested in, and you’re not just narrowed to continually writing essays or trying to complete never ending problem sheets – you get the best of both worlds! As a small department and a subject with quite a lot of contact hours, you soon get to know everyone in your year (and the lecturers) which is such a nice novelty within

regardless of what they have studied before. Although it’s quite a lecture- and practical-intensive course, there is still plenty of time to socialize and get involved in other areas of the University. Oxford offers opportunities to take part in all areas of the subject, not only in the lecture theatre but also in the field. For example, recent students have gone to Canada to do their undergraduate mapping projects with the Canadian Geological Survey. No article on Earth Sciences at Oxford would be complete without mentioning the Oxford University Geological Society; everyone from the department gets involved for the many events in the calendar including a Christmas and a summer meal, field trips, talks, and other social events.

Oxford, where everything can become quite college centred, and gives the department a really friendly feel. Field trips twice a year are another bonus of Geology...and I’m currently beginning to plan my second-year 6 week mapping project, a group of us will hopefully be going to the Italian Riviera. There are so many different opportunities which Geology gives you, both for internships all over the world and future careers, whether you want to carry on with Geology in industry or just go and earn money in the city. Oh and don’t let any of the cheesy geology puns put you off...you soon become immune to them all! ...Geology rocks

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Practicals Between ten and 14 hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Chemistry and Physics of the Earth Geological Materials 129 Earth Surface Processes Maths for Earth Sciences

Economics & Management A

Courses

nyone with a love for Economics and a desire to live under the dreaming spires quickly arrives at a crossroads. Oxford, rightly, refuses to teach the subject by itself, offering PPE or its younger cousin, E&M. Both put economic theory into perspective, in different ways. Management is broad, eclectic and theoretical, giving you tools to understand organisations ranging from anthropological surveys to profit-and-loss statements. You spend most of your time reading academic papers or books, discussing them, and writing 2,000word essays.

Economics, on the other hand, mixes shorter, technical questions with longer essays that require you to defend a viewpoint. Unlike other major undergraduate Economics courses, the emphasis is more on the critical, intuitive understanding of the subject than on analytic mathematical tools. The E&M course is set apart by its flexibility. You get no choices in your first year, surveying instead the vast area covered by the course in basic detail. Afterwards, you study Micro and Macroeconomics, plus six options. Your choices can make your own personal course almost a pure Economics degree, one focused on practical development issues, an “MBA on steroids”, a theoretical, academic degree… it’s your call.

E&M-ists are certainly not slackers, though! The workload is countered by the dynamism of the student body. To truly make the most of your degree, you must understand how organisations work in the real world. This calls for summer internships, leadership roles in student bodies, and innovative projects like Idea Idol, an entrepreneurship initiative. E&Mists tend to be involved, engage in teamwork, and love to socialise and network. The more academically inclined, or solitary, also enjoy themselves a lot though. Prepare to graduate with a lot of caché from E&M. Year after year, The Times ranks the Saïd Business School as giving the best undergraduate management education of the UK. Moreover, E&M is fun, academically challenging, and makes you as employable as any degree could.

Dan Stone Just finished St Peter’s College I came to Oxford from a state school in inner city Birmingham. I am interested in politics, enjoy listening to hip-hop and r’n’b and am confident that at whatever time you’re reading this, Manchester United is still the greatest football team in the country! Economics and Management, also known as ‘Easy and Manageable’ (very much tongue-incheek) is one of the most competitive courses to apply for primarily because it offers the most direct route into the promised land of investment banks, management consultants and accountancy firms. However the skills you gain during your degree will mean that if like me, you decide to shun the City, there are countless opportunities to apply your knowledge to a range of fields and disciplines.

The great strength of the course is its breadth and flexibility. The economics modules tend to be more mathematical, but provide the opportunity to understand contemporary and historical events in much greater depth. Management modules will allow you to express your opinion a lot more in that there are fewer ‘right’ answers in marketing and strategy, although modules like accounting and finance are a lot more technical. The flexibility offered by the course meant that we were taught about the causes and possible solutions to the financial crisis as it unfolded. The support offered by my tutors at St Peters College was fantastic and if you don’t understand a model, there will always be people on hand to help you through. If you plan your time well there is more than enough time to excel in Economics and Management and get fully involved in University life.

The First Year Lectures c. six per week Tutorials Normally two per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Introductory Economics Introduction to Management Financial Management

131

Engineering Science E

Courses

ngineering at Oxford is a four year course leading to a Masters degree, accredited by the major engineering institutions (depending on your module options). Throughout the course, the lectures given on the core material are supplemented by practical work and tutorials. The first year is geared towards giving you a good grounding in the fundamentals and making sure everyone, including those who didn’t take Further Maths at A-level, is on the same level.

The first year exams (Prelims), don’t count towards your final degree class but you do need to pass them to stay on the course. In many colleges, subject to your Prelims results, you can decide to take up Engineering, Economics and Management (see page 135) at the end of your first year. In your first two terms you’ll have two lectures each day (first year lectures often start at 9am unfortunately) and six full days of practicals spread across the term. You can get away with skipping a few lectures since attendance isn’t taken, but you’ll find the tutorial work a lot more difficult unless you’re prepared to spend time in the library doing your own research. In the second and third years, all Engineers study core papers in Maths, Electrical Systems, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Structures, Materials, Dynam-

ics and Control. You’ll continue having two lectures a day, albeit with much fewer early ones. There are no exams in your second year, only a couple of extended coursework essays and week-long assessed practicals which are pretty fun – for example, you can spend a week in a brewery learning about Chemical Engineering or even make a solar-powered car. You start to specialise in the third year when you choose two options from Mechanical, Civil, Information, Chemical, Electrical and Biomedical Engineering. You also undertake a group design project, which can involve anything from offshore wind farms to wireless communication systems. This prepares you for your fourth year, when you work on an individual project worth four papers. On the whole, the Oxford Engineering course is quite theoretical. The lectures provide a strong basis for learning new topics and it’s possible (though not very efficient) to get through the course without ever taking any books out of the library.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Practicals c. five hours per week Tutorials Normally two per week Exams Written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Mathematics Electrical and Information Engineering Structures and Mechanics

Anne Bailey Fourth year Balliol College I guess I chose the course because I knew I wanted to do something technical, but not as ‘mathsy’ or ‘physicsy’ as pure maths and physics. Also, I like getting to find out how things work – from how iPhones can tell when you’re lying down to why the largest skyscrapers are built around giant pendulums. My favourite thing about the course is how varied you can make it. After spending the first two years finding out which parts of the

course you never want to study again (in my case, electronics) and discovering parts of engineering you never knew existed, you can choose options that really interest you. While daily lectures/labs can be a bit of a pain, seeing others from your course every day makes it easy to make friends in different colleges. I’d like to work in renewable energy, and after I graduate this year I’m off to Columbia to improve my Spanish and maybe start working out there. One of the bonuses of the Engineering degree is that the problemsolving skills you gain make you employable in lots of different fields – it opens lots of doors.

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Engineering,

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Economics & Management

EM is highly regarded for the flexibility of the programme, the unquestionable advantage it gives you in the job market and the opportunity to carry out a fourthyear placement.

Engineering-dominated with over 75% in the second and third year exams. Many tutorials and lectures are still taken with your fellow Engineers, however you gain a couple of lectures a week and have the option to escape a couple of labs.

As an EEM-ist, the first year follows the same syllabus as that of a first year Engineer with ten lectures a week, a few hours of labs and a couple of tutorials. The first year aims to give students a broad base of knowledge and covers several disciplines of Engineering. From the second year onwards, Economics and Management begin to play a part in the course, replacing a few modules from the Engineering areas. Despite this, the course is still very much

Fourth year is where the course distinguishes itself from many others at Oxford. Not only is there complete flexibility to take a range of options across the whole spectrum of EEM, there is also the fourth year placement. The fourth year placement is a widely popular option that replaces the alternative of a fourth year engineering project (see Engineering). The placement lasts 24 weeks (replac-

Jacob Haddad Second year Wadham College I get bored quite easily and so I chose a course that would ensure constant variety, both within Engineering, where we develop an understanding in all disciplines, and in E&M where we look at really topical examples and counterexamples in a broad range of areas. I’m taught with other students studying the separate subjects but sometimes this means I’ll get loads of work all at once. It does take up a lot of time but if you’re organised, there is still plenty of room for the allimportant extracurricular activities. This year I’m living out with six friends from college, about a five-minute cycle from Wadham. We have a lot of fun and they all study arts or humanities, which lets me take my mind of work in the evenings.

ing the summer following third-year and the first term of fourth-year) and can be organised with any company a student is interested in working with. The downside of having to write a 20,000 word management report on the placement is offset by the unparalleled experience of working in industry, gaining skills and contacts and possibly even securing a graduate job if you impress.

Materials, Economics and Management As with EEM, you can apply to read MEM either on entry or after your first year, and the first year is common to Materials Science. The relationship between MEM and Materials is analogous to that of EEM and Engineering, and MEM suits ambitious, hard working Materials applicants who’d like a more vocational, business-orientated degree.

For the first year you only study engineering, so quite a few people reading EEM choose to switch from Engineering once they’re here. At the start of second year you get to drop your least favourite area of engineering, at the same time as getting access to the business school, which boasts some of the best facilities (and lunches) in Oxford. The first two years of engineering are heavily theoretical. I prefer more applied or even practical topics so I’m looking forward to the next two years. In fourth year I’ll complete a research project or placement, which I can do in either Engineering or Management. Whilst it is hard work, a lot of people describe EEM as incredibly employable. I’m not yet sure what I want to do after university but luckily my options will be very open – whether I want to work in Engineering, Consulting, Finance, start up my own business or do TeachFirst, I’ll have a degree that lets me.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Practicals c. five hours per week Tutorials Normally two per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Mathematics Electrical and Information Engineering Structures and Mechanics

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English Courses

So you like reading. That’s a good start, and if you decide to study English at Oxford you’ll get to do a whole lot of reading from a ridiculously wide range of periods and authors. The thing which makes studying English at this level so rewarding is the Oxford course’s combination of set periods for study – and a real freedom to focus on the texts and topics which interest you most. Plus, the analytically-rigorous standard expected from tutors and lecturers (which they lovingly encourage) will be something you begin to hone from your very first essay and continue to develop until your last – and beyond.

So yes, you’ll be reading and writing essays. You probably expected that, but there are many important things about the Oxford English course which we think you should know about which go beyond the obvious. For a start, studying literature in a city where men and women like Evelyn Waugh, Graham Greene, Iris Murdoch, JRR Tolkien, Philip Pullman and others also studied gives the atmosphere a unique and gratifying edge. Oxford is a very literary city, especially since it’s featured in so many novels and film scripts. The place is awash with this tradition and it’s accessible to everyone and very stimulating. Don’t let anyone tell you that Arts courses are a doss – you’ll be expected to write at least one if not two essays every week during term. However, unlike many subjects, English tends to be flexible and therefore

enjoyable. Plus, you don’t have to spend hours and hours in labs and there are far fewer lectures than in science subjects. Some of the highlights of the Oxford course are the opportunities to write extended essays (coursework) on individual authors and topics. Also, there is an entire exam paper devoted entirely to Shakespeare which, though difficult at first, is one of the most immersive and imaginative areas of study you could probably conceive of. Don’t worry about Old English and Middle English either. You’ll have to study both of these, but they’re both very rewarding aspects of English which teach you about the origins of the language we use today and there are some pretty cool texts like the blood-and-gore-filled Beowulf or the philosophically spiritual Cloud of Unknowing.

Harriet Green Third year St Catherine’s College Predictably, I’ve always loved reading, and my struggle of whether to do English or History at university came to an end when I found a course which kind of let me do both. English at Oxford means a really comprehensive grounding in all periods, whilst also giving you freedom in what you study. The tutorial system means working on a one-to-one basis with world class authorities, in an environment where thoughtful and thorough thinking is encouraged, giving you the opportunity to work through your own ideas. There’s a brilliant subject camaraderie in English - as you work your way through the

terms everyone branches out into their own interests but, far from separating, it’s a great way to ‘read around’ what you’re studying, without anything more than a nice chat. English at Oxford is demanding, but no more so than any other course. Being surrounded by like-minded people in the same position not only makes it manageable, but really enjoyable. I didn’t realise until I got here that the majority of the examination I’d undergo would be at the end of my third year. Now I’m there, I actually feel well prepared and, for want of a better expression, ‘on top of my game’! Don’t be put off by systems which may seem a little archaic. And regarding interviews: just keep reading what you love, and try to enjoy explaining why!

The First Year Lectures c. five per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Introduction to English Language and Literature Early Medieval Literature Literature in English 1830-1910 Literature in English 1910present day 137

English & Modern Languages English and Modern Languages

Courses

English and modern languages does exactly what it says on the tin, you can combine English literature with one of a range modern languages – French, German, Italian, or Russian to name but a few. The course gives you the chance to pick a more personalised path through the English literature course while doing continuing language work and studying a selection of literature in your chosen language, with the opportunity to study some linguistics too. One of the great things about this course is the range of stuff you can cover and the level of choice you have in your papers compared to modern languages or English students. The number of compulsory papers is smaller and you can pick and choose between periods of literature in a way that just isn’t possible for other people. The course can be very rewarding, especially when you find crossovers between the two subjects which give you a different perspective from someone without the variety of your course. Another bonus is the Year Abroad in your third year, which lets you do a variety of interesting things like teaching in a school, studying in a foreign university, or working abroad. It’s a great opportunity to fully experience the culture of the country whose language you study. The main downside is a lack of communication between the two faculties that often leaves you with lecture and class clashes

and unevenly distributed workloads which can be frustrating. Don’t be put off by this though, tutors are understanding if you tell them when you’re having difficulties balancing your schedule and will help sort things out. As for course structure, in first year you study two English papers – the compulsory ‘Introduction to Literary Studies’ giving you a basis in literary theory and either ‘Victorian’, ‘Modern’, ‘Old English’, or ‘Middle English’ Literature – and five modern language papers. These are divided into two Language and three Literature papers, the make up of which varies from language to language (check the faculty website www.mod-langs.ox.ac.uk), but generally cover comprehension, writing, and translation skills in the language papers and a mixture of poetry and prose in the literature ones. In second and fourth years you can choose three or four of the English finals options (check www.english.ox.ac.uk) (some of which are exams, some coursework) and two or three modern language options as well as three compulsory language papers which vary between languages.

The First Year Lectures c. three to four per week Tutorials Normally one to two per week Exams Six written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Introduction to English Language and Literature Practical language work Single language option Study of the literature of each language

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Courses

Experimental Psychology

he first thing that you might notice that sets this course apart from other universities is that curious word ‘experimental’ tacked onto the front. Far from anything sinister involving putting people in boxes full of snakes and electrocuting them until they say they hate their mother, what this means is that Oxford treats psychology as a scientific discipline and as such puts a great deal of emphasis on studying, criticizing and formulating experiments. This may seem a bit daunting at first (especially when your neurophysiology lecturer shows you a picture of a microscopic roll of protein and tells you that it’s the basis of every single thought and feeling

you’ve ever experienced), but it’s a really excellent way of making you think about what you’re studying: evaluating everything as you go along and taking nothing for granted. Accordingly, the University suggests that you take some sort of science at A-level and while this isn’t essential, it will probably be very helpful. Psychology, Biology and Maths should basically cover any background you could want for first year work, but in all honesty, psychology students come from so many different backgrounds of subjects that you shouldn’t worry too much about your A-level choices.

Melissa Freeman Third year The Queen’s College I studied English Literature, Biology, German and Critical Thinking at A-Level, but wasn’t sure whether to choose English or Biology. In a flash of inspiration, I realised that what I found interesting about those subjects was understanding people and how they worked, mentally and physically. Experimental Psychology seemed to me like a cross between English and Biology, focusing on the interesting parts. It was also appealing that it was a new subject for me (it didn’t make any difference at all that I hadn’t done A-level Psychology). First year gives you a good grounding in Psychology, Neurophysiology and Statistics. Biology helped for some parts of Neurophysiology, but plenty of people hadn’t done it

The course structure also takes the wide range of applicants into account, meaning that your first ‘year’ is really a twoterm crash course in psychology, neurophysiology and statistics geared towards sitting first year exams known as Prelims.

and were fine. I was worried about Statistics, having dropped Maths like a hot coal after GCSE, but my tutor was amazing and I did well in the exams. Second year goes into things in much greater depth, in topics from neuroscience (Oxford loves neuroscience!) to developmental psychology, to help you decide what you want to specialise in in third year. You also do a research project in third year, which is a great opportunity to experience the practical side of psychology and contribute to the field yourself! My favourite thing about the course is the tutorials, which is basically a chance to argue with someone who really knows what they’re talking about, and get all your difficult questions answered. I’ve found that I’m really interested in education and how psychology can inform the processes, so I’m planning on going into primary school teaching and hopefully getting involved in policy-making in the future.

The First Year Lectures c. six per week

Though this means that your exams this year are a term earlier than pretty much any other subject, it does afford an entirely exam-free summer term, during which time you can press your nose against library windows and leer at all the suckers who didn’t take psychology.

Tutorials Normally two to three per week

After Prelims, there are three terms of the ‘Part 1’ course, which focuses exclusively on Psychology in all its wonderful forms, from social to perceptual. The final four terms of the course are taken up with ‘Part 2’, which allows for more focus on whatever specific areas you’re interested in, as well designing and running your own research project.

Courses Psychology Philosophy Neurophysiology Statistics Physiology

Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year

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Fine Art T

hinking this could be the dossy way to get an Oxford degree? Forget it. The course is identical to other BA Fine Arts courses in demanding time, motivation, and commitment.

Courses

The Ruskin School of Fine Art and Drawing is a department of the University. While students studying other courses will attend tutorials within their college, Fine Art students do all their work within the School. Your college will, however, provide you with accommodation and a materials grant, whilst the Oxford University reputation gains you access to otherwise closed parts of most museums and art galleries. Most colleges only accept one or two Fine Artists per year, which can make you something of a celebrity. You have virtually no contact with your college during the day, which you spend either at the Ruskin on the High Street, or in the workshops. This might mean that you feel you are leading a ‘double life’, mixing with people from the Ruskin during the day and having another social life back at college – but this is no bad thing. Most students work hardest on their studio work, and meet regularly with visiting tutors and artists who are always on hand around the studios, working parttime while they pursue their own careers. There is room for experimentation in the first year, and in fact the beauty of this course is that you never need specialise if you do not want to.

It is possible to work in all three areas – painting, printing and sculpture – up until the third year and mixing two disciplines is very popular. The Ruskin school itself is relatively small, with about twenty people in each year, but this is beneficial in many ways. The school has many practical advantages – large working spaces, good tutors, a lot of visiting tutors, places to exhibit, college assistance and of course many galleries to visit in Oxford and nearby London. The school has a friendly atmosphere, and no particular style. In fact, the emphasis is more on the individual to develop their own style, so everyone produces very different work and there’s less antagonistic competition.

The First Year Tuition This takes the form of lectures, workshops, group discussions of student work as well as tutorials Assessment Practical studio-based work Human Anatomy Three submitted essays One written paper in the history and theory of visual culture since 1900

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Geography T

he emphasis at Oxford is very much on independent learning, so rather than being frog-marched around on field trips with clipboards, you’re given information and left to explore and discover things by yourself.

Courses

People study Geography from a wide range of academic backgrounds, almost any of which can be useful; for example, Biology can be helpful in studying Ecology, Maths helps with Statistics while English makes it easier to plan and structure your essays. A-level work is often covered again in more depth and detail and no particular combination of subjects at school will put you at a disadvantage.

Depending on your college and the arrangement of your course you can expect one or two tutorials a week, with one essay set for each, and around ten hours of weekly lectures in your first year. Most of the afternoons are left free with the exception of one, usually dedicated to a practical class in mapping or statistics. This places the onus firmly on you to structure your workload and allows you to study at whatever times suit you best. Tutors within the Department are at the very top of their field with consistently excellent levels of teaching, and are willing to go out of their way to help you develop both academically and personally within your degree.

The first year covers a broad range of both physical and human geography, which makes the workload particularly varied. This also includes studies on ideas within geography based around famous theorists in the subject and the chance to explore spaces in science, which involves museum trips both within and around Oxford. The second and third years allow you to specialise further by selecting an option to be studied each year, and can include anything from ‘Spaces of Capitalism’ to ‘Forensic Geography’, ‘Social Segregation’ and ecology. After first year, you continue to study core options that provide a solid base for your degree, but the lecture load falls considerably. You expand on this by undertaking a dissertation in the summer between your second and third years. Many students choose to go abroad for their research, which is an excellent opportunity to get your hands on a University travel grant and experience a new culture. Paris, Nepal, Mexico and China are just a few of the places visited by Geography students as part of their research.

The First Year Lectures c. seven to nine per week Classes c. four to six hours per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Earth Systems Processes Human Geography Critical Thinking for Geographers Geographical Techniques

Joshua Coulson Third year St Edmund Hall One of the best things about studying Geography is that there are relatively few contact hours and far more focus on independent work. I’m a third year at Teddy Hall and I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to play hours and hours of football, get involved with the JCR and the Christian Union and just about everything else going on in the College without falling being with academic work. I had always enjoyed studying Geography at school, largely because it seemed to include so many aspects of different subjects, and in many ways it’s the same here at Oxford

just with more independence to look at the subjects that interest you. Geography is in many ways the ultimate degree, dabbling in most other disciplines along the way and bridging both the Arts and the Sciences. The Oxford course focuses on humanenvironment interactions and examines contemporary challenges the world faces today, which is far more interesting than most other subjects. I have just finished writing my dissertation, which was on the role of football in creating social unity in South-East London, which shows that you can do pretty much anything you like under the heading of ‘Geography’! With great tutors, interesting lectures and plenty of time to make the most of University life, there really is no reason not to study Geography at Oxford!

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Courses

History

istory is one of the most independent courses at Oxford, in more than one way. There is a choice about every paper you take which gives you the opportunity to study what really interests you. The only requirement is that over the course of your first two years, your choices must include one medieval, one early modern and one modern paper. Within this there is a considerable range across different periods and even places. In the first year, you take four papers, including ‘British History’ and ‘General History’ (looking at themes in events

across Europe in a given period). There is also a skills paper, where you study either a foreign text (requiring an A-level in French, German or Italian), ‘Quantification’, ‘Approaches to History or Historiography’; and an optional subject, which is the first opportunity to draw directly on primary sources. These four papers are examined at the end of the first year, although your marks do not count towards your final degree. The seven papers which do determine your degree result are then taken over the course of the second and third years. You will do one more British and one more General History paper, as well as a Further

Tunde Sowande First year Wadham College Applying to Oxford, felt like the most daunting thing I ever did, since I didn’t know anyone going there or who had gone. However attending the summer school event dispelled alot of stereotypes and myths for me surrounding the University and gave me the confidence in the end, to take the gamble. History always seemed like the natural choice for me; with both the flexibility of independent work as well as the diverse nature of the course making it an excellent choice to study at Oxford. Honestly, it feels like a massive relief to no longer feel restricted in scope to a few topics at GCSE and A-level. Instead university has given me the platform to look at as well as specialize

Subject, where you choose one of around 20 topics to study in further depth with primary sources. In the third year, you will take a Special Subject, which is driven by a list of set texts and assessed by both a long essay and an exam. All History undergraduates then write a thesis. You will have one or two one-hour tutorials a week, possibly a class, and a few lectures. Therefore most of your study time is spent reading and researching independently. In this respect, Oxford is one of the best places to study history, because its libraries and resources are so fantastic. This might all sound daunting but it really gives you a chance to spread your wings and develop your own interests, which is important in a subject as diverse and wide-ranging as History. It is this which makes Oxford so distinct and such a special place to study it.

in periods of history which I feel genuinely passionate about. As a result I have become a far more able and polished student over the last term. My favourite part of the course so far, has been the lectures. It’s really great to hear leading experts (many of whose books you are likely to end up reading) offer quick, concise summaries of major topics and yet still offer new, refreshing perspectives on particular events you’ve just studied in the past week. Any tips I could offer, is to try to read around the subject and make sure the essays you write are on areas you feel most confident talking about. Regardless of your background, the tutors are mainly interested in your passion for the subject and academic potential.

The First Year Lectures c. five per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses History of the British Isles General History Historical Methods Quantification (one of a choice of foreign texts) Optional Subject 147

History

Joint Schools Ancient and Modern

with Economics

Courses

he Ancient and Modern History course is pretty much the same as straight History. In the first year, however, instead of studying a period of British history, an Ancient paper is taken, and there are further Ancient options when choosing other papers. By the time you reach finals, anywhere between a third and a half of what you have studied will have been Ancient History. AMH has an investigative flavour due to the at times fragmented nature of the evidence, and unlike when studying Modern History, the Ancient Historian must often stop to consider when a potentially crucial event happened. A focus at all times on the primary sources fosters technical and comprehensive skills that are applicable in many other areas, not least of all the modern papers, a considerable advantage when it comes to second year and the sourcebased Special and Further subjects. The comparative element is also unique, as the themes of Ancient History are repeated, and the language and imagery of the ancients are (often quite nakedly) reiterated by more modern states – ancient history helps you look at modern history in a whole new way. Ancient and Modern History is also an attractive choice because the limitations that Modern Historians have on the papers that they can choose do not exist for Ancient and Modernists picking their options. Specialisation or diversity on an impressive scale are both valid options.

istory and Economics is the ultimate wide-ranging social studies course. It looks at societies at every stage in their development, from the ‘birth of a nation’ to modern state, sometimes peering in closely to study the individual acts of great historical figures, sometimes taking a bird’s eye view of how entire societies are shaped by economic theory. But the course offers more than diversity and social studies. ‘Bridge papers’ in social and economic history help integrate what you learn in the specialist history or economics papers, and you quickly find yourself applying knowledge across subject boundaries. The course also leaves plenty of room for pursuing individual interests. You can choose one or two further subjects from a choice of almost 50 papers and write a thesis on any subject you like. Because there are no labs, and just three lectures a week, there’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to working hours – you’ll have three essays a fortnight, but you can work when it suits you, not a lecturer. There is also a social element to the course: because you share papers with more people than anyone in Oxford – History, PPE and E&M, 700 people in total – you meet lots of new people each term.

David Messling Third year St John’s College I applied to university looking for a course with breadth and History and Economics hasn’t disappointed! It’s a great chance to combine historical study with mathematical and economic approaches, applying them both to gain a better understanding of the world in both the past and present.

variety throughout your course. During the course I’ve been able to combine Chinese history with Development economics, and in the same term study monetary policy and the fall of the Roman empire. Oxford’s full of amazing opportunities, both academically and in extra-curricular life. History and Economics complements this with the chance to take in a broad combination of interests and methods, and not only deepen but broaden your understanding of the world around you!

The scope of the course enables you to steer towards one of the two disciplines, to focus on economic history, or keep a wide

149

History

Joint Schools with English

with Modern Languages

Courses

ENG students have an almost outrageously wide choice in modules. You can drop Shakespeare for Salman Rushdie, and the Tudors for late nineteenth century Latin America. Scandalous, but very liberating! Both faculties are becoming increasingly international in scope, and you can connect your course choices as much or as little as you want. You can avoid medieval literature, for example, while still taking in the history of the period.

However, the real strength of Oxford HENG that few other universities offer is the infamous Bridge Papers, where you study the subjects simultaneously. This is really enriching, and often the most cutting-edge teaching you’ll get. Currently, you can choose between ‘Writing the (Indian) Nation, c. 1800 - 2000’, ‘Literature and the Public, c. 1350- 1430’, and ‘Representing the City, 1588 -1640’, and options are changing all the time. A good way to work out whether, and why you want to study both English and History is through theory: something you can find in meaty books, of course, but most importantly in challenging your assumptions, asking yourself ‘simple’ questions such as ‘what makes a historical novel different to historical writing?’

istory and Modern Languages at Oxford combines two of the University’s oldest and most traditional areas of study. Choice is limited by the requirement to take certain language papers and the first year set texts. However, these have been well chosen and they also provide an excellent basis for later years. Here the literature side of the course (the most significant) becomes far more elastic, with period papers and set texts ranging from Medieval French troubadours to modern Italian cinema. The two subjects are studied alongside each other and combinations can come in structured ways; such as the foreign text options in first year History, or they can be personal and informal; taking an historian’s view of a work of literature and its context, or reading something in your chosen language for a History essay. The only time you have to combine the two subjects is for the Bridge Essay, which you will write during your Year Abroad. This extended essay must, as you may have guessed, ‘bridge’ elements of History and the literature of your chosen language. This is a fairly intimidating brief but an exciting one. Because of the focus on literature, this is not a course to take because you want to study History but don’t want to give up your language. However, it is a course that can be very rewarding as you see more and more links between the two subjects.

Yosola Olorunshola Fourth year Jesus College Applying for History and French was the best decision I never made. If I could, I would have continued all my A Levels (English Literature, History, French and Politics) at university, and so a joint honours degree that combined all of these was the only solution. My indecision has not closed any doors for me, and I’ve discovered that variety really is the spice of life. Although you can choose to specialise in certain periods or movements over the four years, my papers have actually had very little overlap. I’ve studied political theory, art history, Enlightenment literature, print culture, and francophone writing in a

range of options dating from Antiquity to the twentieth century. To top it all off, I got to spend an incredible year living in Paris. Before applying I was apprehensive that I was setting myself up for double the pressure during interviews and double the workload if I got in, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this was not the case. Most linguists study two languages totally independently of each other, and so you don’t feel as if your workload is that different to other linguists. You also get a whole year away from tutorials where the main aim is to speak the language and write an extended essay exploring the links between history and literature. It’s a totally independent year and so guarantees time to breathe whilst you try and make sense of your degree. It was such a rewarding experience that I’m hoping to head back to Paris as soon as I finish.

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Courses

History & Politics

istory and Politics is a course where you find out what events and social trends created the world in which we now live and you explore what can be done to solve the political problems that confront us today; from the fact that almost one in three children in Britain live in poverty to the AIDS epidemic in Africa. There is a huge variety of papers on offer and excellent resources are at your fingertips for this subject; from hardened world-expert tutors to a bewildering array of libraries. A significant number of people take the course without having studied Politics before, so don’t think you need Politics for A-Level to get in. The first year Politics

course is intended as an introduction and those who have studied it for A-Level don’t necessarily have any advantage over those that didn’t. Both sides of the degree are taught in a similar way, there is a set of lectures for each paper and you normally have one or two tutorials a week each term. There’s a lot of reading to do, but tutors rarely expect you to finish the reading list - that’s probably one of the biggest differences from A-Level - so don’t be overwhelmed by the long lists you’re given. Another big change is that essays aren’t intended to be perfectly crafted pieces of work, they’re generally a starting point for the tutorial

Nathan Akehurst First year Lincoln College I chose History and Politics because one discipline wasn’t enough for me. An understanding of political science and theory complements history beautifully, and the fusion of both help us understand the challenges of the modern world and future that much better. One of the best things about the unit I just finished was the lack of an endpoint; an essay could feature the events of a hundred years ago alongside something I’d read in a newspaper the day before. The work is intensive and tiring but if you have a passion for the subject you’ll get so much out of it, and there’s no shortage of extra-curricular things to do. I always say you could be busy every day at Oxford even

discussion; you shouldn’t worry if your write-ups don’t come out great every week, especially in first-year. The structure of the first-year course changes slightly from college to college, with some colleges having a set course they want you to follow, but most people find that the joint honours formula provides more freedom of choice, for example, you aren’t required to sit a mediaeval history paper; and for finals there’ll probably be more options that you want to take than space to take them. Since only around 50 students are accepted each year to read History & Politics, you soon get to know people on your course from different colleges and being part of both the History department and Politics faculty means you get the benefits of doing two degrees but only do the work of one.

if you weren’t doing a degree! I’m involved in political activism, the student union and debating amongst other things, which often fits in quite well with my course – for academic study is at its best in my opinion when applied to real life issues. At the risk of sounding clichéd, we do have fun as well! The independence is great as well; you feel so much more in charge of your own learning and have much more of a partnership with your tutors than at school or college. Oxford life is exhausting and exhilarating in equal measure, and I’d like to end by saying that it’s not closed to anyone. Don’t let anything put you off applying (well, apart from A-Level grades, but you know what I mean.)

The First Year Lectures c. five per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Selection from History of the British Isles Theories of the State Tacticus to Weber or another optional subject 153

History of Art H

istory of Art is one of those courses that combines different disciplines in a uniquely fascinating way. This Oxford degree allows you to get to grips with visual material while also digesting conceptual ideas and critical theory: from Pliny the Elder in the second century to Ernst Gombrich in the twentieth.

Courses

In the first year the Antiquity module leaves you with a thorough grounding in the Classical tradition, but goes beyond Ancient Greece by exploring the many re-appropriations of the antique throughout time. Picasso’s Cubist aesthetic may seem to be a world away from the Apollonian ideals of fourthcentury BC Athens, but the course explores the myriad visual and contextual connections that nevertheless exist between the modern and the classical. Meanwhile the ‘Approaches to Visual Culture’ module engages with scholarly theories such as style and semiotics through to the philosophy of photography. From the Ashmolean to Modern Art Oxford to the Pitt-Rivers Museum, the variety of resources in Oxford is remarkable, and range from the traditional to the contemporary to the anthropological. The first year extended essay is a chance to utilize these amazing private and public art collections, and research and write about any object in Oxford you wish. Beginning the project will be daunting but ultimately you should find it a rewarding and revealing experience. While you undertake research like this, you’ll have the chance to meet with, work

with, and learn from world experts and use world-class libraries and resources. It doesn’t get much better than this. The year group is small, usually only 12 people take the course each year. Weekly lectures, then, are more like seminars – discussion, debate and questions continue with speakers over a cup of tea after their talk. The relationship you have with tutors is more personal and direct than in many other courses, and the atmosphere more informal. You’ll take trips as cohorts around the colleges and architecture of Oxford, as well as to exhibitions in London. All in all, History of Art is a very special subject, and Oxford an extraordinary place to study it. The city never fails to surprise and delight, and the course only gets better and better.

Dina Akhmadeeva Second year St John’s College History of Art at Oxford combines the study of visual material and conceptual ideas from a vast range of disciplines, from Philosophy to Anthropology. The entire year group ranges from 12 to 15 students- a set-up that means we get the opportunity to study with and get to know all the tutors within the department. Likewise we get to know our peers in other colleges. The atmosphere within the department is far more informal as a result; lectures feel more like seminars and we get to know each other well enough for discussions to continue after talks. Oxford has a vast number of resources available to the art historian; the Ashmolean, the Pitt Rivers and the Christ Church Picture Gallery amongst others. Engaging with the

material ‘stuff’ of art history is indispensable, so during the first year we have classes with experts from these collections, as well as tutorials in front of artworks. The first year extended essay is a chance to take on some in-depth research on any object in Oxford, and write about it having acquired a level of theoretical knowledge. The object can be one with which you are not at all familiar, so this experience of discovery is incredibly rewarding. Oxford is accommodating to its students’ interests; we have the option of choosing modules as varied as China in the 20th century and Court Culture and Art in Early Modern Europe during the next two years. The diversity of the course and the opportunities offered by the city and its collections make Oxford a unique place to study such an exciting subject.

The First Year Tuition This takes the form of a combination of lectures, classes or discussions as well as tutorials. There are also frequent trips to museums and exhibitions. Courses Approaches to Visual Culture in World Art Antiquity after Antiquity European Art 1400-1800 Supervised extended essay on an image, object or building in Oxford 155

Human Sciences T

Courses

he course title ‘Human Sciences’ does not reflect the diverse nature and breadth of disciplines incorporated into the course. Tutorials and essays are quite varied in both style and content which makes for a very satisfying academic experience but hard work! Expect to develop many different skills ranging from biological to sociological to statistical. Sixth form Biology, Geography and Maths (Statistics in particular) are useful but none are prerequisites to study Human Sciences. If you haven’t studied any of these subjects in the past don’t worry – the course is taken by students who have often studied totally different subjects to each other and by the end of the first year everybody becomes ‘on par’ with each other. The course at Oxford begins with the Preliminary year where you study for five papers that provide the knowledge basis for the following two years. As a fresher you study Animal Behaviour and Physiology, Genetics and Evolution, Anthropology and Geography, Sociology and Demography and Statistical Analysis. The course is quite heavily lecture loaded especially in the first two years but gets lighter towards the end. Arguably the most enjoyable aspect of the course is the opportunity to write a dissertation on almost anything you like while applying at least two of the various disciplines covered over the years. In addition to

that, the second and third years are spent studying five core modules and two option courses. The choices for the option papers are very broad, giving you the opportunity to specialize in something interesting. In general, expect on average three tutorials (and therefore essays) every two weeks and about eight to 12 lectures a week for the first two years. In the final year it will vary depending on what options you pick but expect approximately three tutorials/ classes and some lectures on average every fortnight. In addition, there are a few afternoons of non-examined laboratory work in the first year and a visit to the Natural History Museum in the second year. Due to the broad nature of the course, Human Scientists end up doing an unimaginable range of different things upon completing their undergraduate degree ranging from further research, to being civil servants to working with NGOs.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Tutorials Normally one to two per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year Courses The Biology of Organisms Genetics and Evolution Society, Culture and Environment Sociology and Demography Quantitative Methods for the Human Sciences

Maija Sequeira Just finished St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Human Sciences is a truly multi-disciplinary degree, and is therefore great for anyone not wanting to narrow what they study down too much. As well as giving students a solid scientific grounding in human physiology and genetics, and in what these suggest about our evolutionary history, it focuses on understanding humans as the hugely social beings that we are. We are taught to consider the place of humans in the global eco-

system, and to compare humans to other organisms, and primates in particular. The further you progress through the course, the more interesting it becomes as you discover how the different areas of study link together. Choosing from the huge range of options available in third year is hard, but allows HumSciâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to specialise a bit more and study something they find especially exciting. If you are an inquisitive person who is intrigued by the differences and similarities across different human groups (and who loved the BBC series Human Planet.) then Human Sciences could be the perfect course for you.

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Law

he first thing you notice when you come to study law at Oxford is how varied the subject is. Unlike most subjects, you take your firstyear exams at the end of the second term, meaning there’s very little time to acclimatise to the work schedule. You begin by studying Criminal, Constitutional and Roman law so in any one week you may be writing about the importance of an independent judiciary, just how many times you have to hit someone before it stops being self defence or whether Quintus or Primus owns a particular swarm of bees.

Other subjects you study include Administrative Law (less boring than it sounds, it’s about Public bodies, rather than accountancy), Land Law (useful for when you start living out), Contract, Torts (personal injury and negligence, i.e. ‘have you been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault?), Jurisprudence (philosophy), European, Trusts (wills, that sort of thing) and two other options. The options available come from a wide range of topics, you could find yourself taking Public International and exploring the validity of the State of Kosovo, Environmental, Family, Tax or even Medical Law and Ethics to name a few.

Lauren Kreamer Second year Magdalen College I knew from quite an early stage that I wanted to become a barrister, but originally planned to do a Modern Languages degree, followed by a law conversion course. This decision stemmed from my love of French and German, both of which I did at A-level, and the desire to continue the study of one or both of them. Upon doing some research, however, I discovered the Law with Law Studies in Europe course and thought that it would be perfect for me. Two years on, I know that I made the right decision. Studying law is incredibly challenging, but alongside the heavy workload and complicated concepts comes a real sense of achievement and the awareness that what you’re learning is not only very relevant but really makes a difference. It’s a remarkably

You’ll quickly realise that Law is an intensely relevant subjecty. If you’re lucky enough to study Land Law early, then you’ll be well-prepared for tenancy negotiations with pesky landlords if you have to live out during second year. Also European, Administrative and Constitutional Law give you a really thorough grounding in politics and public policy. So when the PPEists start nattering off about the US constitution, you won’t feel isolated, though possibly not interested. The last thing that’s important to say about law is that you don’t have to become a lawyer after the degree. Many graduates have gone into teaching, the civil service and the stage. Nevertheless, within the law, the variety of practice areas is huge, so no matter what your interest, graduate opportunities are superb.

varied and interesting course, made all the more so by the opportunity to spend a year abroad. I do the same degree as those on the straight Law course, with the addition of French language classes in first year and French Law classes in second year. Third year, however, is when the LSE aspect of my degree will really come into play, as I’ll be spending it studying French Law in Paris, an amazing opportunity about which I’m ridiculously excited. There is also the option to apply for Law with German, Spanish, Italian or European law. If the year abroad alone doesn’t convince you, it’s worth mentioning that Law with LSE is a very small course and you really get to know the others studying it. This means that you have a broader circle of ‘law friends’ than just those in your college, which is a real advantage – if only to reassure you that nobody else understands Quistclose trusts or the Roman Law of Delict either!

The First Year Lectures c. eight per week Tutorials Normally one to two per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Criminal Law Constitutional Law A Roman Introduction to Private Law Research skills programme 159

Materials Science M

aterials Science is obviously different to any subjects you’re likely to have studied before university, so it can initially be challenging to understand all the concepts you’re taught in your first term at Oxford.

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Most people, however, soon find their understanding of the subject grows quickly – students aren’t expected to have any knowledge of Materials Science before they arrive so your tutors won’t hold it against you. The first year course is organised to provide a foundation in topics such as mathematics, crystallography and mechanical properties of materials. You’ll also study processes used to alter the properties of materials (sadly not including alchemy), meaning that by the end of the first year you’ll have covered a lot which you won’t have come across at school. Second year largely involves studying these subjects in depth, which go on to form the four core papers which are tested in Finals at the end of the third year of the course. During the third year you can also attend lectures on different advanced topics – while they’ll be tested via two separate advanced papers, questions are limited to different topics and only a few must be answered. While there is little choice in what you can study, there is some flexibility in ad-

vanced papers meaning that you have the chance to branch out into areas of specific interests. One of the strongest points of the course is the opportunity to do a research project in your final year. The fact that the project takes place over a prolonged period of time is a real opportunity to develop your own research technique, particularly if you’re keen on further study after an undergraduate degree. Experimental work makes up a big part of the course regardless of what stage you’re at. Two or three afternoons per week are typically spent on practical work, with topics usually co-ordinated with the lecture schedule. Students also get to go on industrial visits during the term, giving you the chance to network as well as see the social relevance of Materials Science for yourself.

Sarah Connolly Second year Mansfield College I chose Materials Science, initially because it was my favourite aspect of Physics, and allowed me to continue learning about both Maths and Physics principles, in an applied way. I swayed at the time between Engineering and Materials, as they are very similar, and subjects not really studied at school, but am really glad I picked Materials. It is however definitely one of the more ‘wordy’ sciences, something to think about if you were trying to escape having to write in sentences. The department is really small, about 30 students per year, and really friendly. Everyone knows each other, works together, and there are regular socials – from Christmas dinner to sports day. There is also a lot

of support on things like getting summer placement and work experience. Although the course is quite intense; you’ll usually have lectures every morning and 3 afternoons out for labs and classes; the work load isn’t unmanageable and you still have plenty of time to make the most of being in Oxford. Since Freshers’ week of my first year I’ve rowed for Mansfield, and although the early mornings in torrential rain isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, the boat spirit and club socials mean I haven’t looked back! At the moment I also do a lot of access work both for my college and the University, and am on the college ball committee, helping organise our next ball. Materials is a really varied degree, with a lot of current work going on within the department itself, making Oxford the perfect place to study it.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Tutorials/Classes Normally two per week Practicals Two or three afternoons per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Structure of Materials Properties of Materials Transforming Materials Maths for Materials

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Mathematics I

Courses

f you had a passion for Mathematics at A-level, and like the idea of spending three years sweating away doing problem sheets and brainstorming with the most elite tutors in the world, then Maths might be for you. There are three pillars of support that make it all worthwhile and that nowhere else could offer apart from Oxford: the comical lecturers, the crazy smart tutors and the sheer size of books stored in every library just for you. Lectures are attended by Mathematicians from every college. Depending on the optional subjects they take, most students will have a different lecture timetable from second year on. But in the first year, the schedule is 11am to 1pm for everyone. You will most likely take notes, although softcopy is also provided later on the web. Don’t expect to understand everything in the lecture, there’s always time to revise the notes a few hours before the deadline when you have to start doing your problem sheets. The problem sheets are designed to compliment the course, thus the notes should cover the questions on the sheet (although it may not be obvious at first). You may find borrowing some of the books on the recommended reading list helpful. Remember, if there are not enough in the college library, there’s always the Bodleian, which holds the most obscene

amount of books that cover every branch of Maths. After all the work, tutorials are the most crucial part of the course. There are normally two or three tutorials a week (with one or two other students), depending on how many sheets you have done. Tutorials are where all your queries, confusions and misunderstandings get cleared up. Mathematicians have exams every year. However, first year’s result doesn’t count (towards your final result), it is more like a test-run. Second and third year count for 40% and 60% respectively. It is a rather steady progress compared to Biochemistry, which has all its exams in thirs year. Maths at Oxford is a lot of work, but don’t let that put you off. What most students remember most are the brilliant times: dressing up for bops, attending formals and getting Ali’s kebab on their way back from a night out. So if you enjoy a challenge, but don’t want to miss out on all the fun that university has to offer, then give Maths a go!

The First Year Lectures c. eight to ten per week Tutorials Normally two to three per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Algebra Geometry Analysis Probability and Statistics Mathematical Methods and Applications

Jamie Beacom Second year Hertford College Coming from Northern Ireland where places like Oxford seems so mysterious, I wasn’t really sure what to expect before coming here. However, Oxford has completely surpassed and exceeded all my expectations. I decided to study Maths because I really enjoyed the buzz I got out of solving a challenging problem (sad, I know, but I love it!) and of seeing how complicated and seemingly disparate ideas came together in beautiful patterns and ways. A-level Further Maths was a useful stepping stone to University Maths, but I would say that it doesn’t really matter if you don’t have it – what matters is your enthusiasm, passion and potential. My favourite

thing about the course so far has definitely been complex analysis, simply because it’s been so much fun! What I really love about the course is that after your fourth term you get to choose every course you do, so you really get to make the degree you want. One thing I wish I’d known was that I needn’t have worried about everyone here being a super genius or really posh – having been here, I’ve realised that people here come from all over the UK, from every background, and they’re all just normal, awesome people with a deep enthusiasm and love for their subject! After I finish here, I’m not entirely sure what I want to do. I want to do something that involves using the maths I’ve learnt, so I’m flirting with the idea of doing a post-graduate qualification. I’m planning to use the next few years of the degree to find out if that’s something I want to do, or otherwise.

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Mathematics

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Joint Schools

Mathematics and Computer Science

aths and Computer Science at Oxford is a little-known but rigorous course with roughly 30 students in a year. We divide our time between the two disciplines almost equally for the first year and then for the following years are free to choose a bias towards one. The mathematical side of the course is a subset of the course done by the mathematics students, as is the computing side. In terms of workload, each week you may have eight to 12 hours of lectures (mostly mornings or mostly afternoons depending on which year of study you are in) and

four to five tutorials of varying lengths. Normally all teaching in the first year is done in college tutorials. In the second year this changes slightly towards departmental tutorials and classes and by the third year most teaching is done departmentally. This does however vary widely by college. There are also practicals to be done for computing courses as well as the normal tutorial sheets to be handed in. The optional fourth year poses a slightly new system of working and has more emphasis on self-study and research. There is the opportunity to undertake either a Mathematical or Computing Project on a field of your choice.

Francis Goodburn First year St John’s College I had always enjoyed the challenge of maths at school, but even when studying the applied modules at A-level, the subject didn’t feel particularly relevant to everyday life. Conversely, the increasing impact of computers in our lives is very visible – one day they will rule the world! The joint course was the perfect choice. I hadn’t studied any computer science and had only a tiny amount of programming experience before I came, but fortunately the course (and the interviews to get in!) assume no knowledge of specifics of computing, just a good grounding in maths. Saying that, some knowledge of any programming will come in useful, even though many of the most experienced programmers have never come across the weird and wonderful languages we use in first year!

Mathematics and Statistics

o you’re thinking about Maths and Stats? Just like the other Mathematicians, Maths-and-Stats-ers fall into the gap between the Sciences and Arts. You won’t find whole days of our week spent sweating away in labs, nor will you be lugging a suitcase of books around. What you will find is that there are plenty of lectures to attend throughout the week - usually two or three per day. These are pretty daunting at first, but you soon get used to just rushing to copy everything down and (if you’re a good student!) thinking about it later. You’ll also get set problem sheets, which will test your understanding of the material delivered, and these will form the body of your work. What makes Maths and Stats special then? For the first four terms, nothing really! The course is identical to the straight

The maths is a very different style to school – I was shocked to be proving things like -(-a) = a in third week! Also, computer science is taught differently here in comparison with some other universities: it is much more theoretical and this suits some (those who love logical thinking and maths) and suits others less (those who are in it for the programming). For me, this is the best thing about the course – you learn a way of thinking, rather than just facts, in both maths and computer science: it’s a course in having the ultimate analytic and logical mind. The joint degree, rather than straight maths or CS, is not a compromise on level of knowledge or depth though. You simply do a smaller volume of both (I think the hardest/ most interesting bits) but still to the same level as the straight courses. I’d definitely recommend it!

Maths course, which consequently makes it easy to switch between the two courses. After the fourth term, the courses start to diverge slightly. Maths-and-Stats-ers must study some Probability and Statistics throughout their degree, but are offered additional options in Statistical subjects, on top of all or most of the options available to Maths students. In the third and fourth years, there’s a huge variety of options with the opportunity to do a dissertation or your own Statistics project in final year. Because Maths and Stats is a relatively small course (around 30 people per year), you can also expect to get to know some of your fellow students - and that’s when you realise, even though there can, at times, be a fair amount of work, you’ll find Mathsand-Stats-ers getting involved in sport and drama, student politics, journalism, and more, right across the University.

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Mathematics & Philosophy M

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aths and Philosophy offers genuine variety, as they span the arts/sciences divide, although you’ll find the two subjects have much in common. You must be able to do mathematics (admissions tutors will base most of their decision on this). If you are happy researching and writing essays, and find yourself talking about life, the universe and all that after a glass of wine, then more likely than not the philosophy will take care of itself. Many of the people who do this course will not have done any philosophy before, which can make it difficult to decide whether it is likely to be for you. Philosophy tends not to be emotive or metaphorical, since it is a precise venture where much turns on subtle shades of meaning – but there is still much scope to be creative and imaginative within philosophy. It is a good idea to be interested in the overlap between the two subjects: which includes the philosophy of mathematics, and a hefty slice of mathematical logic. Questions such as ‘What is a number?’, ‘Do mathematical truths have a special status?’, and, ‘Is there any way to get out of Russell’s paradox?’ lie at the heart of mathematical philosophy. The workload between the two subjects is divided fairly evenly. Sometimes you will need to be proactive to ensure co-ordination between both sides of the course – but this gives you extra flexibility. If you think you would like to do a fourth year or

postgraduate studies in maths, then be sure to pick your options carefully: you will get the chance to do any of the pure maths options available in the straight maths course, but you will not do any applied maths at all. In your first year you will get a general introduction to philosophy and logic, and from there the full spectrum of philosophy options is available to you. You will be well equipped to tackle some of the more technical courses such as Logic and Language, or the thematic options such as Ethics or Political Theory, or indeed anything else that you dare to try! Philosophy finals exams are all sat at the end of third year, although Maths finals are split over the second and third, which means that (unlike the Arts students) you have to suffer exams every summer.

Charlotte Potter First year Jesus College I decided to apply to Oxford after taking part in a shadowing scheme run by the Student Union. This allowed me to shadow a Maths student for the day, attend their lectures and a tutorial. It was a fantastic scheme which helped me gain the confidence to apply, especially as no one from my school had ever been to Oxford or Cambridge. At school Maths was always my strongest subject, but I also loved English and writing essays. Although I had never studied philosophy before (it is not necessary) I was very interested in the ideas behind it and started to read some philosophical books. It is the perfect subject for people who just canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make up their mind!

My favourite thing about my course is its diversity. I am constantly doing something new and exciting and I never ever feel bored! My top tip for applying is to make sure that you choose a course that you are truly passionate about. After all you are going to have to spend your next three years studying your subject! If there is one thing I wish I had known before I applied it is how normal everyone is at Oxford! I was concerned that everyone would be boring and spend all their time in the library. This is not the case. Obviously people here work hard, but they also know how to have fun. It is all about getting the right balance. At the moment I am not sure what I want to do after I leave university, but with a good degree there will (hopefully!) be a whole range of opportunities open to me.

The First Year Lectures c. eight to ten per week Tutorials/Classes Normally one to two per week Exams Four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Algebra Analysis Elements of Deductive Logic Introduction to Philosophy 167

Medicine S

tudying Medicine at Oxford is a unique experience. Unlike a lot of medical degrees, the Oxford degree is split into three clear divisions: the first two years, known as First BM, consisting of the scientific basis to medicine; the third year research degree; and three years of clinical school at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

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Years one and two provide an insight into the scientific basis behind medicine which most people find incredibly interesting, and although First BM involves far less patient contact than the first two years of most other medical courses, it is a brilliant foundation to the three years of clinical study. The Medical Sciences degree taken in the third year involves a research project and the study of a chosen aspect of science. The scope of this part of the course is far less broad than the first two years, allowing medics to study their area of interest in a lot more depth. During third year, medics have to apply to the Oxford, Cambridge and London clinical schools. Although no Oxford student is guaranteed a place at the clinical school, around 85% of applicants are usually successful, and others are allocated a place in Cambridge or London. For some people, this is a much appreciated opportunity to go and experience life at another medical school, and the group of medics who join the Oxford clinical school from Cambridge are always a welcome addition! Unlike the preclinical course, most of the clinical years are spent at the John Rad-

cliffe and other District General Hospitals, learning via rotations in various specialisms. Although studying medicine often comes across as quite a daunting prospect – both due to the length of the course and the amount of work required – most medics would agree that it’s not as bad as you think it’s going to be! The level of contact time is much higher than that required for many other degrees, usually a mixture of lectures and practicals between 9am and 2pm combined with a couple of tutorials a week. However, this still leaves you with a fair amount of free time, and medics always manage to be well represented in every sports team, musical group, drama production and extra-curricular activity, and also have very healthy social lives. The Medical Society is one of the most popular subject societies in the university, with its own welfare provision, sports teams and even an annual ball. Overall, medics tend to subscribe to the ‘work hard, play hard’ philosophy, something which generally leads to an absolutely unforgettable six years.

The First Year Lectures c. ten to 12 per week Tutorials/Classes Normally two to three per week Exams Four written papers (and three computer-based assessments) taken at the end of the year Courses Organisation of the body Physiology and Pharmacology Biochemistry and Medical Genetics Patient/Doctor

Layla Guscoth Second year St John’s College I chose to come to Oxford because I thought it would be such an amazing experience and I’ve not been disappointed at all. I found it a tough decision to choose what medical school, as each one seemed to offer such varied ways of learning, but the amount of small-group teaching that you get at Oxford from top professionals around the world, plus the scientific basis of the course stood out to me as something unique that not many other places can even compare to. Oxford stands at the top of most of the university guides for medicine, so I knew I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to come to Oxford.

I really enjoy medicine, we have lots of varied methods of teaching: lectures, tutorials, labs etc. My favourite aspect of the course is the Patient-doctor component that we do a couple of times a term where we go into GP surgeries and sit and talk to patients. It’s a really nice way to be eased in to developing your communication skills and its really fun. One thing I wish I had known before I came here, is do not buy any books! Oxford has the most well-stocked libraries and every single medicine book I have needed so far, I’ve found here. After this I don’t know what speciality I will undertake, but I definitely know that Oxford will have prepared me well for whatever I chose.

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Modern Languages

tudying Modern Languages at Oxford is about so much more than just learning how to speak them. Instead, the main focus for the first two years of the course is on literature. The Modern Languages course at Oxford is therefore ideal for students who love speaking different languages and also love reading and discussing literature. Tutors often say that it’s only by reading the literature of a foreign language that you will gain a true understanding of that language. There’s nothing like a novel for giving you an insight into how people at a certain point in history felt, acted and lived. In the first year the course is quite strict

and you don’t have much choice in terms of options, but in the years after that there are loads of options ranging from European cinema to Linguistics and there’s the chance to write an extended essay and focus on an area that particularly interests you. The libraries are excellent, stocking every kind of book you could want. As well as newspapers and magazines in foreign languages, there’s a foreign film library, and there’s also a very modern Language Centre where you can practise grammar and your listening skills on the computers. Your year abroad is up to you to organise and can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding time. Most linguists will do a

Lizzie Porter Third year St John’s College Languages at Oxford…there is a huge emphasis on literature, which means if you find novels and poetry a bore, this degree probably isn’t for you. That said, you discover an amazing amount about the history and culture of a country through its writings. If poems leave you cold then imagine you are reading a purely historical or philosophical text, to make things seem a bit less superfluous! I chose French because I knew a modern language would be a genuinely useful skill – which other degree automatically doubles the number of countries in which you can apply for jobs? Any language makes employers’ eyeballs stick out on stalks when they read your CV, and graduates go and work in

teaching assistantship or go to university abroad, but some also do internships and work placements. It’s a unique opportunity when compared to other courses, and gives you a fantastic insight into the countries where your language is spoken.

European and Middle Eastern EMEL offers the chance to study two often very different languages, as well as different cultures, literary and historical traditions, art and architecture from two separate continents. In the first year, the Middle Eastern language is taught from scratch through regular, intensive language classes. The European language follows a similar pattern to the Modern Languages course. The year abroad may be taken in the second or third year and usually involves the academic year in one country and two summers in the other.

a vast range of industries, from publishing to politics to consulting. Tutors are brilliantly risqué in the topics they choose to teach. Easily the best bit of the course is the translation element – you’ll find yourself looking at language in a completely new way. Of course, the year abroad is a huge plus – not many degrees oblige you to go and spend nine months swanning around Paris (or Madrid, or Munich etc). Modern languages are heavier than most other Arts degrees in terms of contact hours, but a 9am start every day is still unheard of. I’ve spent a lot of time editing the newspaper The Oxford Student, which has been one of the best things I’ve done at university and has opened hundreds of doors. Afterwards, I’m hoping to combine my degree and extra-curricular activities in a job in journalism or media consulting across the Channel.

The First Year Lectures c. three to six per week Tutorials/Classes Normally two to three per week Exams Seven or eight written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Practical language work Linguistics options (Phonetics, General Linguistics, Grammar) or Single language options (Introduction to Film Studies, Literary Theory, etc.) 171

Modern Languages & Linguistics L

inguistics is the study of language, and you’ll find that anyone you speak to about the subject can’t really help but be fascinated by it. At Oxford, you can study Linguistics alongside any of the languages offered by the Modern Language Faculty.

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In first year, the degree is split quite distinctly between the language you’re learning and Linguistics – the Linguistics element is divided into the study of Syntax (which is essentially word order and grammar), Phonetics and Phonology (the biology of the vocal tract, the study of the sounds of speech and how they become meaningful in a language) and General Linguistics (the theory behind language), which tackles questions such as how language is acquired and where it’s stored in the brain. It’s important to note that Linguistics is taught from scratch – you aren’t expected to have any prior knowledge of the subject other than anything you’ve read for fun or found interesting. The Modern Language element is very similar to the full Modern Languages degree in that it is split between language and literature, but is obviously only half the workload – you’ll find that you do the same amount of language work as the full Modern Languages degree but only half of the literature-based work. As Linguistics is such a broad subject with so many diverse fields, you get a lot of opportunity to branch out in second year to study what you’re particularly

interested in, whilst you also learn about the historical development of the Modern Language you’re studying, as well as its current linguistic structure. Because Linguistics will be a completely new subject for most people, it’s important to see whether you’re genuinely interested in the field before applying – there are lots of fun introductory books to the field that will give you an idea as to whether you’ll enjoy it or not. There is an aptitude test at interview, but no prior in depth knowledge of the subject is required whatsoever. All in all, although the Linguistics faculty is quite small at Oxford, it’s extremely buzzing due to the ever-evolving, contemporary aspect of the subject, and you’ll be taught by some of the world’s greatest linguists.

The First Year Lectures c. five to six per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Seven written papers taken at the end of the year, including translation and literature Courses General Linguistics Phonetics and Phonology Grammatical Analysis Practical language work 173

Music T

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o be a musician at Oxford is to be infinitely special: students from other disciplines are awe-struck by your supposed performing ability, your grasp of complex musical terms, and the fact that you get to study a subject where art, and high art at that, is its principal focus. Fuelled on such praise, the musician type – confident, self-obsessed, cliquey – may at first seem to embody the music students here, but you soon realise they aren’t many of them and that they calm down after the first year. The music course, like most other university music courses, is set for the first year, which you have to pass with 40% to get on to the BA Hons course. Unlike many other first year music courses, the syllabus is at once expectedly traditional and surprisingly forward looking. Keyboard skills and techniques of composition form part of the former description. Although difficult, these disciplines help you to approach music from a different angle, to both appreciate it and to treat it critically. Ethnomusicology, the study of the musics of other cultures, is also compulsory in the first year, and, as above, trains the critical academic voice and helps you to see music in a different light. I personally think it’s wonderful that Oxford incorporates this discipline into its course with such fervency: what other Russell Group university does the same? The uniqueness of Oxford also comes from the tutorial system. Every music

student gets at least two tutorials a week, where a three-, two- or one-on-one meeting with a tutor allows you to debate and ponder. At most colleges, every music student gets a piano (electric or upright) in their room too. If following the performance options, each student gets £220 a term for instrumental lessons. Although performing doesn’t form a huge part of the degree, Oxford is an intensely musical city, and students perform outside of the degree all the time: in choirs, orchestras and chamber ensembles. After the first year, four compulsory modules and four optional modules make up the BA Hons course. Interesting compulsory history modules, analysis, musical thought and scholarship, extended projects and optional modules ranging from such things as the history of jazz to the psychology of music form a typical profile. This year there was even a course on the Beatles! So, whether traditionalist or adventurist, throw aside any pre-judgements you may have – Oxford has heaps to offer for the musically-minded.

The First Year Lectures c. four to six per week Tutorials/Classes Normally one to two per week Exams Three written papers, a ‘takeaway’ paper and a practical exam taken at the end of the year Courses Issues in the Study of Music Special Topics Musical Analysis Techniques of Composition Keyboard Skills

Jasper Minton-Taylor Just finished St John’s College I have been surprised by the forward-looking aspects of the course at Oxford and by the diversity of subjects on offer to study. Also, Oxford is great for all the extra-curricular things that you can take part in outside your degree. I’ve taken French classes, have started learning German and have got involved with LGBT things going on in the University. Applying was the most daunting thing I ever did, but that’s because I didn’t know anyone going there or who had gone, and

didn’t read such things as The Alternative Prospectus. Yet Oxford is such a diverse place and most of the stereotypes and myths surrounding Oxford are false. Don’t be put off, the only thing tutors care about is your passion for the subject and your academic potential. If you enjoy your subject and do well academically, that is more than enough reason to apply. Try and do further listening (which you probably do anyway), read around the subject if you can, and make sure that the essays you write to give in are on areas of music you feel confident talking about. Usually those subjects are ones which you find interesting. Good luck!

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Courses

Oriental Studies

t’s a faculty with an admittedly arcane name, but don’t think Oriental Studies is an obscure choice. It encompasses degrees in a diverse range of Middle and Far Eastern languages – and just because you didn’t do any of these at school doesn’t mean choosing them for university is a crazy idea. Anyone with an interest in languages and a desire to develop a more global outlook should consider Oriental Studies. All of these degrees (which include Turkish, Arabic, Persian, Egyptology, Hebrew and Jewish Studies, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Sanskrit, Chinese and Japanese) offer great language skills and the chance to explore many aspects of a culture.

While the various degrees offered in Oriental Studies differ substantially from each other, they typically start in the first year with intensive language study and some introduction to a region’s history and society. Starting from scratch in a language with little resemblance to your own is certainly a challenge, but the intensity of study (with perhaps 10 hours a week of language classes as well as homework) will pay off. Classes are always small, with less than 10 students, which means plenty of opportunity to ask questions or get help. Degrees in modern languages also include a substantial period of studying abroad time. It’s definitely one of the most excit-

Natalie Firth Fourth year St Anne’s College I come from a Catholic state school in the NorthWest and was the first person to get into Oxbridge for quite a few years (and the first girl for ages!) so I was a bit nervous about coming here. With hindsight, there was absolutely no need to be since most of the stories I heard before I came turned out to be completely false. There is no ‘typical’ student who studies Chinese. I did French, Spanish, English Lit and General Studies at A-level and AS Level Maths, but I have friends on the same course who did three sciences and no languages at all. What really counts is your passion for the subject. I was intrigued by the thought of studying Chinese after watching the Beijing Olympics.

ing parts of an Oriental Studies course. Despite the challenges which will inevitably crop up it’s some of the most fun you’ll have at university, with great opportunities to travel and explore the country you’re studying in and to make friends you’ll never forget. Being immersed in a language is an incredibly effective learning method, and the knowledge you gain from your year abroad can be applied to more in-depth study of the culture. It is possible to tailor your degree towards your particular interests through writing an undergraduate dissertation on a topic of your choice. For many students an undergraduate degree in Oriental Studies can feel like it’s only the beginning. But whether you develop a life-long passion or turn your attention elsewhere once you graduate, a degree in Oriental Studies is a fantastic choice which will give you a great university experience and a degree that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Chinese is actually a four year course with the second year spent studying at Peking University. It’s a very small course within the University which means you get to know nearly everybody in the department. The course at Oxford is quite unique because we all have to study Classical Chinese from the very first term and we also have to learn traditional characters (like those used in Taiwan and Hong Kong and not just the modern, simplified characters they use in Mainland China today). At present, I split my study time between modern language work, Classical Chinese and studying history and culture. I’m not sure what I want to do after I graduate, but studying Chinese has equipped me with a lot of transferable skills. My friends are looking at teaching abroad, studying law, working in a museum or going into the civil service; so who knows? The variety involved in studying Chinese can prepare you for almost anything!’

The First Year Lectures c. five per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Three to four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Elementary Language History and Culture Intensive Lanuage Teaching Introduction to Ancient and Modern History Survey of Civilisations 177

Philosophy, Politics & Economics P

Courses

PE at Oxford has a reputation for being a tough nut to crack. There is some truth to that. The course structure is as flexible as it is wide. In your first year you will devote equal time to each of the course’s three branches; when you pass your Prelims (for which you either get a Distinction, Pass or Fail), you may choose to drop one of the three branches or continue with all. The workload remains the same either way, and everyone still graduates with a PPE degree. A love for reading is certainly handy, to put it mildly. With an average of two essays (and tutorials) a week, the volume of work is demanding but always manageable. While a background in any of the three subjects (or Mathematics) is certainly useful it is by no means a prerequisite. The Social Science Library and Philosophy Library have all the materials you could possibly want and these are complemented by Oxford’s brilliant online catalogue of journals and other electronic resources. As Oxford’s biggest and most popular course, the sheer number of PPEists means that there is never anyone too far away who shares the joys, and sympathises with the challenges, of the course. Social butterflies out there will be delighted to know that the many lectures and classes you can choose to attend (or not) present countless opportunities to meet fellow PPEists from across the University. Most lectures in your first year take place

in the hallowed Examination Schools on the High Street, where the acoustics and setup provide for a conducive learning environment. Not all PPEists are aspiring politicians (though admittedly those with such ambitions are in no short supply). The opportunities go far beyond Westminster, Wapping or Whitehall. Generations of PPEists have gone on to excel in business, charity, medicine, art, finance, and of course, academia. Indeed, there is even a Wikipedia article dedicated to listing notable Oxford PPEists. There is genuinely no template or mould for a ‘typical’ PPEist; everyone, from the nerdy to the cool (with the caveat that they are not mutually exclusive, in true PPE style), is welcome.

Annie Hollister Just finished Hertford College I grew up in New York and came to the UK to study Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Hertford College. I chose PPE because I wanted to understand how the world works. I thought the PPE course, and Philosophy in particular, would help me develop the critical thinking skills and theoretical background needed to make sense of some of the most pressing ethical and social problems facing the world today. In fact, however, what I enjoyed most about Philosophy had nothing to do with ethics! I loved Logic (which I realise is not for everyone), and the way it allowed me to understand what people are really saying when they make arguments. Philosophy has a reputation in the world for being a bit fluffy, but what I love most about Philosophy is the precision it demands; Philosophy requires us to know exactly what we intend to say, to have good reasons to say it,

and to say it in a manner that is completely unambiguous. This way, we are guaranteed strong foundations for any other discourse we hope to pursue. The tutorial system is the lifeblood of an Oxford education, but the opportunity to engage two-(or fewer!)-onone with tutors is particularly important for a subject as discussion-oriented as Philosophy. I just wish I had spent more time discussing Philosophy – it didn’t occur to me until my Finals year how useful it can be to engage in student-led discussion groups outside the classroom. I also learned that, contrary to what you might hear, revising for Philosophy exams can be deeply rewarding and – dare I say? – fun, as it gives you the chance to finally read what you like on the subject at hand. I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Sociology at Oxford, and hope to move back to the States next year to work with a non-profit organisation promoting women’s access to health care, a job that will certainly require that critical thinking skills that I gained through my PPE degree.

The First Year Lectures c. six to eight per week Tutorials Normally two to three per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses General Philosophy Moral Philosophy Elementary Logic Theorising the Democratic State Analysis of Democratic Institutions 179 Microeconomics

Philosophy Philosophy and Modern Languages

P Courses

hilosophy and Modern Languages is the perfect choice for anyone who has multiple and varied interests and not willing to compromise between them. The language aspect of the course consists of language and translation classes where you get to work in small groups; this is perfect for meeting people studying the same course as you from across the colleges.

The literature and philosophy aspects of the course are both based on lectures and weekly tutorials. Tutorials become discussions with peers, where you can choose what to read next, or, perhaps you’d prefer to watch the film adaptation of the book? As with the other languages taught at Oxford, the departments are hives of activity, often host to lectures from the most distinguished poets, authors and critics in the world. As for philosophy, you’ll often be taught by those who have written the very books you’re quoting from. The year abroad is spent in any country where your respective language of study is spoken. It’s almost completely up to you what you choose to do: from working, to studying at a university abroad, to simply living the gap year you wish you’d taken (while learning the language of course).

Philosophy and Theology

he study of Theology at Oxford certainly isn’t solely targeted at those who believe. One of the best things about it is that your studies challenge faith and provoke debate on many issues. That said, if you really want to challenge orthodoxy, from religious teachings on morality to the intellectual credibility of faith in a god at all, it may be that Philosophy and Theology is more the degree for you. Studying these subjects together helps bring new insights to each. It also allows complementary developments in your analytical and logical skills, along with a huge range of specific skills, all of which are popular with graduate employers. The course is very flexible, which means you have a lot of choice over when to work. Usually you’re given two essays per week, one for Philosophy and one for Theology. Only having a week to do essays means that you need to manage your time effectively, but this doesn’t mean you need to spend all your time working!

The First Year Lectures c. six to eight per week Tutorials Normally one per week Exams Three or four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Introduction to Philosophy The Christian Doctrine of Creation Old Testament set texts Biblical Hebrew Translation

Amy Taylor Third year Oriel College I chose to study Philosophy and Theology at Oxford because it seemed to me to be a hugely varied and challenging degree. In my three years here, this has proven to be true time and time again, not only because I have had the chance to study religion from so many different angles, but also because of the interesting and varied people I have met as a result of this course. My A-Levels were in Philosophy, History and French and this course has allowed me to continue to pursue all three of these interests, as well as discover many others. Despite what some people think, Theology is a modern and relevant subject that has a strong impact on public life as well as our culture. For

me, this has been my favourite thing about the course; realising the profound impact that the thinkers I am studying have had on society. At times I found that the diversity of topics studied by a joint honours student could make the workload quite difficult; switching back and forth between studying the literary qualities of the gospels and analysing the logical properties of proper names can get pretty baffling! But you get so much support in your weekly tutorials and from other students going through the same thing that you never have any reason to feel isolated. Plus, there is so much to do in Oxford that stepping out of the library for a few hours is often a very good idea. I enjoyed my course so much that I have decided to stay on and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m now doing an MPhil in Philosophical Theology.

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Balliol Physics O

Life

Courses

tea and dinner making it easy to get away from work at any time of the day. The JCR also runs its own laundry and has a TV room with arcade games attached to the main JCR itself. Although some second years choose to live out, most students spend their time in Oxford living in Balliol-provided accommodation. Although it’s a large college, a combination of an active JCR and excellent facilities mean that you definitely won’t find coming here overwhelming. If you do end up at Balliol, then you’ll be in for a time which will leave you with a lot of memories as well as new opportunities.

Sport at Balliol is also prominent, with the rowing squads regularly finishing in leading positions on the river, while students can also make use of football pitches, squash courts, netball courts and a cricket pitch.

In he recent years course Balliol has consistently physics in Oxford is unfinished in the upper echelons of the like any other because from the‘Norrington the league tabledirectly of academword goTable’, you study physics ic performance in finals at Oxford. While with world-class researchers. This this table should be taken with a pinch means that straight away you get to of salt, there is a culture of hard work at the know someone who might be working on College which is supported by a well-stocked the Large Hadron Collider at CERN ancollege library and easy proximity to the or Bodlealysing data fromisthe Hubble telescope. ian Library, which within two minutes’ walk from the College.

Receiving feedback on your work on a

weekly in tutorials, and having In termsbasis of student life, Balliol has one ofthe the chance to probe expertsbars withinquestions few remaining student-run the University, with you the bar being elected on on work findmanager difficult, confusing or an annual basis allows by current fascinating youstudents. to advance at an

amazing pace. The first year of the course

The JCR run50% pantry is another service is roughly maths to give you which the few other JCRs provide. It serves breakfast techniques you need for the rest of the from 8am to 11:30am and also serves lunch,

course, but you also get to study electromagnetism and special relativity amongst other subjects, so don’t worry if you’re keen on getting to the more ‘physicsy’ stuff. Another great part of the Oxford first year is a weekly lecture from one of the researchers here, so you learn about cutting-edge topics in physics. In second year the course is similar, but with less maths, allowing you to get to grips with some exciting physics like quantum mechanics, and providing you with a strong knowledge base that allows you to go on into any branch of physics. In the third and fourth years you then get to specialise further and study particle

Hannah Evans Third year St John’s College The Oxford physics course is definitely challenging. There’s a lot to cover and the large number of lectures, tutorials and lab hours reflect that. But that’s because the course is all about making sure you have a thorough understanding of your subject. It’s not a matter of learning topics in isolation; instead you’re always building on your knowledge. So the practicals you do will be linked to the theory you’ve covered in lectures and the things you learnt in earlier years will come up later on. Oxford is a leading research University so the lecturers and tutors who teach you will often be experts in their fields. I’ve seen my tutors quoted in BBC articles about

physics, astrophysics or whatever grabs your attention at a really advanced level. For physics you have to apply to either the three year BA or the four year MPhys course, but don’t worry as you really don’t have to make this decision until the beginning of third year. Along with lectures and tutorials you have practical labs in the first three years and in your final year you might do a research project in your field of interest. Some people love labs and others get through doing the bare minimum, but you do get a choice of experiments, and it’s a great way to sample different fields, using lasers in the optics lab, high field magnets in general physics and solving complicated equations in computing labs. This teaches you essential skills if you hope to carry on in physics research, industry, IT or the huge range of other fields available to Oxford physics grads.

CERN. And one of our second year lecturers was briefly featured in an iPad advert! For most of the degree, there are three types of scheduled sessions you do as a part of your degree: lectures, practical work and tutorials. Those on the three year course also do an extended essay or BA project in third year. Students on the four year course do an MPhys project in which you work with a research team in the University. The hope is that it’ll give you a real insight into what being a professional physicist entails and it’s something that I’m really looking forward to. I think it’s a really great course if you want to know how things work and it might be difficult sometimes but it’s definitely fascinating.

The First Year Lectures c. ten per week Tutorials/Classes Normally two to three per week Practicals Normally one day per week Exams Four written papers, a short paper and satisfactory lab record Courses Classical Mechanics and Special Relativity Mathematical Methods I 105 183 Differential Equations

Physics & Philosophy P

Courses

hysics & Philosophy offers a useful get-out to the terminally indecisive, preventing you from ever needing to make that difficult arts/sciences choice. In first-year physics, you’ll study classical mechanics, special relativity, and a whole bunch of maths. The philosophy side covers logic; a grab-bag of things like free will, mind & body, knowledge and identity; and your first bit of the philosophy of physics, in the shape of a (surprisingly bitchy) 17th-century dispute over the nature of space and time. In second year, the first year maths gets put to good use in quantum physics, thermal physics and electromagnetism; then in third year, you choose your physics from a selection of topics covering atomic physics, condensedmatter physics, general relativity, laser physics and more. The second and third year philosophy is rolled together: you’ll do more philosophy of physics (on special relativity and quantum physics), philosophy of science, and some more general philosophy. There’s also the option to do any random philosophy paper you want. Finally, everything is up to you in fourth year; some physics options and a free pick of the philosophy faculty’s offerings, from which you can do pretty much whatever you like. There’s a fair bit of work involved, and you’ll have the rare joy of experiencing both 9am lectures and late night essay

crises. However, the practical work demon has much less impact on Phys-Phil’s than on their poor straight physics counterparts. Only three days have to be spent underground in the physics labs, and you get that out of the way in your second year (though if you want more, then there’s the option of a practical project later on). Although (and perhaps because) there tends to only be one or two PhysPhil’s per college, there’s a strong sense of community among the Phys-Phil’s across the University. All in all, Physics and Philosophy is a course with a lot of depth to it; if you want to know how the Universe is bolted together, it could be the course for you.

The First Year Lectures c. eight per week Tutorials Normally two to three per week Exams Five written papers taken at the end of the year (three in Physics, two in Philosophy) Courses Mechanics and Special Relativity Differential Equations and Linear Algebra Calculus and Waves Introduction to Philosophy 185

Psychology, Philosophy & Linguistics P

Courses

PL is a new course for 2013, allowing students to combine Psychology and Philosophy, Psychology and Linguistics, Philosophy and Linguistics or all three with college approval. Uniquely, this course allows you to work with both the oldest faculty in the University (Philosophy) and one of the newest (Linguistics, Philology and Phonetics). Students come from a variety of academic backgrounds, including the arts, sciences and a mixture of both. However, one or more Science of Mathematics A-levels are highly recommended.

Year one consists of a mixture of lectures and tutorials, while years two and three introduce the element of practical classes. You also have a choice between completing a research project or a library dissertation. There’s really no limit of career prospects for PPL students. Recent graduates have included a teacher, a clinical psychologist and a museum curator. As you can see, PPL brings together a diverse range of complimentary courses, encouraging students to explore areas they might not have previously thought they’d study. Courses range from logic to statistics and psychobiology. If you’re looking for a challenge and ready to explore different modes of learning, then this course could be for you.

Lectures c. six per week Tutorials Normally two to three per week Exams Three written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Psychology Philosophy Neurophisiology Statistics

Erin Hawkins Just finished St Hugh’s College PPL is a new course, but I studied Experimental Psychology and did a lot of linguistics as part of my course. At the outset of choosing Experimental Psychology at Oxford, I hoped to learn about cognition and the brain and what happens in between. The range of specialities and energetic research in the department meant there was certainly a lot to learn; but along the way, I also had the pleasure of discovering the psychology of language. Learning about the interaction between language and thought, how we use and understand language as adults and how

we acquire it as infants led into reams of interesting questions and ideas. Some areas of study centred on how we understand spoken language, the mental representation of grammar and morphology, and the interface between language and other cognitive processes. The focus on how, as infants, we acquire a linguistic system, and aiming to characterise the properties of this system, was particularly exciting. I’m now beginning a PhD in cognitive neuroscience, investigating how language interacts with other cognitive systems during learning. That is the great thing about Psychology and Linguistics; it is such a diverse and exciting field that there is always more to the story, and something new you want to know.

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Courses

Theology

heology offers a refreshingly wide range of dispositions among its students, be they agnostic, atheist, liberal Christian or ardent proselytiser. The oldest subject in Oxford (and, indeed, the world), Theology covers a lot of ground, from Anglo-Saxon missions to Chinese monasteries. That said, the course here is traditional and you take plenty of classes on the Bible and the history of Christian thought. While this rigorous and compulsory groundwork isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all fun and games, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something there for everyone: after all, it does cover over three thousand years of human devotion alone, and the God-talk could go on forever - literally.

First year work (Prelims) varies college to college, according to the interests of your main tutor. This could include introductory work to the Old and New Testaments, early Church history, or the doctrine of Creation, but also involves a language, and most theologians go through the fast-paced course in Biblical Greek. We take our exams before Easter, so your first summer term in Oxford is spent (weather permitting) lapping up the sunshine by the river, or, for the really keen, learning Hebrew. In the second and third years you specialise in either Biblical studies, Church history or another religion, with additional

Claire Jones Second year Worcester College I chose theology because it’s an incredibly diverse subject which manages to combine the study of literature, language and history, with bits of philosophy and anthropology thrown in too. I love that the course here is traditional, allowing you to get a good grip on Biblical studies and church history without ignoring modern theology. My favourite paper so far has been studying the early church Fathers, tracing the many arguments and exiles that led to orthodoxy and heresy developing. Apparently it all got very heated! I was surprised to find the diversity among theology students, in terms of their backgrounds, interests and approach to the subject, but all are equally valid starting

helpings of whatever else catches your eye. This allows you to concentrate your expertise in one particular field, while also continuing with the more general courses in the Gospels, Old Testament texts, early doctrines, and issues in modern Christian theology. While the course is engineered to provide you with a comprehensive sense of the subject at large, the Oxford system also allows room for you to cultivate your personal interests and angles of approach. So, everyone will have to take the paper on modern thought, but it’s very much up to you whether you focus on doctrinal questions of sin and hell, or historical enquiries into the person of Jesus, or the relevance of liberation theology today. In ‘one’ topic, then, your discipline will re-focus every week, from literature, to philosophy, to history, to anthropology. Theology may be the oldest subject, but it’s far from dusty.

points and helpful to studying theology. The great thing about theology tutors is that they’re not afraid to defend their own firmly held views, but if you can give good reasons for it yours are taken as seriously as those of any academic. Doing first year exams at Easter, before anyone else is stressed, gives you the first summer term free which is amazing – I spent most of it punting and enjoying lazy afternoon picnics. It’s really worth the hard work early on. Studying theology at Oxford has given me a real love of explaining and communicating, so I think I’d like to teach in some capacity afterwards, though that could be to anyone from primary school kids, to university students or even a church congregation!

The First Year Lectures c. four to six per week Tutorials Normally three to four per week Exams Three or four written papers taken at the end of the year Courses Christian Creation Study of Religions Old Testament Texts New Testament Texts Church History Introduction to Philosophy 189 New Testament Greek

Life

Student Life A Day in the Life

192

Oxford the City Traditions & Events Nightlife

194 198 200

Oxford University Student Union

202

Clubs and Societies Music Drama Journalism Politics Odd Ones Out

204 206 208 210 212

Volunteering

214

Sport

216

Religion

220

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A Day in the Life Samantha Shannon-Jones Second Year St Anne’s English Literature

12pm – 1pm

Wake up, shower and read my emails over cereal. Over the next two hours I will consume between four and six cups of coffee, the only remedy for my postessay crisis headache.

Lunch, usually a cheap Cuppa Soup with some fruit. Nobody said student life was luxurious.

Life

7.45am

9.30am Head to the health club for swimming. I swim at least three days a week to keep fit and focused. I’m considering joining the University’s second team, but I think I need a bit more practice.

11am – 12pm Work on my latest essay in my room or in the library. This could involve reading, making notes, or actually writing the essay. English essays have such abstract titles as ‘Discuss the hybridity of early prose fiction.’ I attempt to read as much as possible, but no matter how hard I study, the essay will not be finished until a few minutes before the deadline.

2pm – 3pm Lecture, possibly. Arts students rarely have compulsory lectures; sometimes it’s hard to stay motivated. I’ll go if I like the lecturer and if I feel their style helps me understand the topic. I’ll pick up from books from the English Faculty Library while I’m there.

3.30pm – 4.30pm Quick meeting at the Turl Street Kitchen with some friends from TAFF, or Oxford University Theatre Technicians and Designers. I’m Marketing Manager for several plays and we need to discuss how best to sell tickets. TAFF can be very rewarding if you can make time for lots of mini-meetings, rehearsals, read-throughs and deadlines.

5pm – 6pm

9pm – 11pm

Restoration Literature tutorial for Paper 5, one of the many exams I will sit in 2013. Tutorials involve reading through essays with my tutor, talking about what I wrote and expanding existing ideas. My tutor will give me a reading list for my next essay.

Trip to the pub with friends. We’re trying to visit every pub in Oxford. My personal mission is to find a pub (apart from the Jericho Tavern) that sells strawberry beer.

6pm Run across to the Hall for dinner. Hall food is cheap and frequently edible. After dinner I grab the books on my reading list from the library.

7pm – 9pm Work on some creative writing and more notes for my essay. I also read through my last essay and edit it based on my tutor’s notes; sometimes I will ask her to check it again and comment on the improvements.

11.30pm – 12pm Read for my next essay. I can read quickly when I need to — a skill required by all English Literature students — but it’s good to sit down and read certain passages in detail.

1am Sleep. I promise myself I will go to a lecture tomorrow.

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Oxford the City Here’s a rundown of the city’s major areas and what you can expect to find in each of them.

Jericho

This is the heart of Oxford, and the area you’ll get to know best. The four main streets which converge at Carfax are The High Street, Cornmarket Street, St Aldate’s and Queen Street. As with most city centres, you’ll find the bulk of the shops, pubs and cafes here, as well as the bigger cinemas and the three main theatres. Although the University doesn’t have a central campus, a lot of the most notable buildings and many of the colleges can be found in this neck of the woods, including the Bodleian, Oxford University Studen Union, the Oxford Union, Exam Schools and most of the libraries.

Jericho is the fashionable part of the city known for bohemian boutiques and cocktail bars (Raoul’s and the Duke of Cambridge being the destinations of choice for most students). There are a bunch of great restaurants and a handful of interesting shops as well. There’s also the OUP building, which is stunning and probably the only workplace worth making a trip to see in the entire world. Jericho is where students from most colleges on this side of the city (Somerville, Regent’s, John’s) tend to live out. Recently Jericho has been voted the most fashionable place outside London. Check out the wonderful Pheonix Cinema which shows independent films and has a great bar!

Life

City Centre

This is what Arnold meant by ‘the city of the dreaming spires’, and every other person you bump into is a student, a don or a tourist; unless it’s a Saturday, in which case you won’t be able to get past MacDonalds on Cornmarket for the crowds of weekend shoppers.

East Oxford

Summertown Head along the Banbury Road towards St Hugh’s and you’ll reach Summertown, otherwise known as North Oxford. It’s mainly a residential area, but there are some really nice shops and restaurants so it is well worth a visit. It’s a half hour’s walk from the centre, but the bus service is excellent and offers passes for regular users.

East Oxford consists of The Plain (a roundabout just over the Magdalen Bridge) and the three roads radiating from it: St Clement’s, Cowley Road, and Iffley Road. This is by far the most popular area for students to live out in, so you’ll probably come to know it pretty well. Despite the sizeable student population, it feels more like the real world than the rest of the city – a lot of permanent residents live here and there’s a far more multicultural feel than elsewhere. Most of the interesting stuff – the independant shops, bars and restaurants, some clubs (including the O2 Academy) – can be found around this area. St Clement’s is worth a visit and leads to the beautiful South Parks. Iffley Road is largely residential, but the University Sports Centre can be found there. We haven’t included a detailed map of Oxford in this guide because there’s no way to make it big enough to use and get any useful information on the pages as well. However, there are loads of places to get free, detailed maps of the city including the tourist information centre on Broad Street. One of the most useful online resources is Daily Info (www.dailyinfo.co.uk). This long-established guide to Oxford has pretty much everything you will need to know including maps, a handy ‘What’s on’ events diary, as well as countless classified adverts. There is also a weekly printed version which you will no doubt see plastered all over the city.

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Oxford the City Shopping

Transport

Oxford’s packed full of shops which ought to cater for your every need. It’s not a huge city, and visits to London (an hour away by train) will certainly put things in perspective, but as far as clothing, amenities, household goods and other items go, you really are spoilt for choice.

Need to get around? There is a train station with excellent services to London (going south) and Birmingham and beyond (going north).

Life

Most major fashion brands have outlets in Oxford. From Topshop to River Island and GAP, you won’t be stuck for style. And there are a number of trendy boutiques and independent shoe stores as well as national retailers like Schuh. For groceries and food there is a Sainsbury’s and Tesco in town, and two more in Cowley. Plus, if you want to add more variety to your dinner table, you can make the most of the many delis and specialist food stores (Chinese, Polish, Greek) dotted around the city.

Books are essential ingredients for student life, and this is where Oxford really serves you best. As well as a fairly large branches of Waterstone’s, there is the famous Blackwell’s Book Store, with miles of shelving and millions of books, many of which are in stock to supply Oxford syllabuses, so a tutor’s reccommendation can often be picked up in town.

A bus station right in the city centre lets you travel all over the city and further afield in Oxfordshire. There are also special services (with student discounts) to London and Heathrow airport. Inner city travel is best done by bicycle or on foot. Students tend not to own cars since the compact, medieval layout of Oxford makes it a driver’s nightmare. However, on bicycle the city is a cinch to navigate and the many shortcuts and alleyways off busier routes mean it’s also quite safe to pedal your way around. There are taxis everywhere too if you do fancy a wheeled alternative to getting from A to B, but most students really do find that everything is so close together in Oxford that walking or cycling really is sufficient for everyday transport. Oxford’s a really easy city to navigate once you get your bearings. Oxfam offer free walking tours to get you started.

Students tend not to own cars since the compact, medieval layout of Oxford makes it a driver’s nightmare.

Parks

Attractions

Oxford is a city blessed by green space. If the neatly trimmed college lawns ever get too formal for you, there are plenty of parks and country walks to take your mind off university life and escape the buzz of the city streets.

If all the botanic scenery of Oxford begins to bore you, there are plenty of ‘alternative’ ways of enjoying yourself. Since Oxford is pretty successful at attracting tourists from all over the world through the city gates, students often have fun going on tours of their Port Meadow is a vast area of unown city, which are more insightful than ploughed, beautiful land to the north you might at first think. There’s also west of Jericho. You can walk right up a legendary ‘haunted tour’ of Oxford to the north end of it and grab a drink led by a man in authentic Victorian or lunch at the idylcostume. Catching lic Trout Inn where Oxford’s a really easy city to skyline views from you’re surrounded the University church navigate once you get your by trees, a river and tower or one of the bearings. peacocks on the medieval towers in roof. There’s the the centre also proves University Parks just an enjoyable way to north of the city centre, which provides spend half an hour for many. great spaces for informal sports, cricket matches, walks to lectures or, in the Not far from Oxford lie a host of grand winter, snowball fights. estates open to the public, including the Duke of Marlborough’s opulent home, Christ Church Meadow and the towpath Blenheim Palace. Other Oxfordshire along the Oxford canal both allow for attractions include a go-karting track dreamy waterside strolls, while heading and the dog races, while football fans over to Cowley’s South Parks will nab can always head east to watch Oxford you classic views of the Oxford skyline’s United in their home games. dreaming spires. And you can always bring a picnic if you get hungry. These And of course, we mustn’t neglect to often go down well with cider or mention punting - which is extremely Pimm’s in the summer. good fun with friends, alcohol and sunshine in the summer.

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Traditions & Events Dawn at Magdalen Bridge. Pushing through the crowd of Brookes boys in dinner jackets, bedraggled teens and the odd Green Party councillor in druid garb, you suddenly catch the spine-tingling sound of the Magdalen College choir drifting down towards the water. As boisterous renditions of ‘God Save the Queen’ die down, one fresher leans towards another and exclaims loudly: ‘Isn’t it amusing that Christianity managed to hijack such a deeply pagan festival for its own ends?’ Yes, it is May Day in Oxford.

What better way to resume civilised life than a punting trip? At the height of summer, exuberant first years and yet more ecstatic finalists pack up a basket of sandwiches, strawberries and Tesco’s Finest cava, and head to Magdalen Bridge to hire one of the worlds’ most ineffective modes of transport. To add to the fun, the job of moving and steering the punt is usually given to the person with no previous experience. The learning curve is steep, however: the constant threat of falling into the river sees to that.

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Over the summer, a In the following few new generation of stuTake them all with a pinch of weeks, in fact, most dents ready themselves salt and a light heart. undergraduates will for the heady cocktail spend a little time of Freshers’ Week and down by the Isis, matriculation, which Oxford’s second watercourse, at one introduce them, respectively, to the Oxof the world’s largest amateur rowing ford Union Society and academic dress, competitions. Summer Eights, as it two of Oxford’s longest-endured instituis known, brings out even the least tions. While the former has a reputation sporting of college members to cheer for encouraging debate between Page on their crews from a long line of Three models and the Presidents of small colourfully decked boathouses, lured Pacific island nations, the latter makes by the promise of Pimm’s and overBritain’s toughest exams seem just that priced hot dogs. little bit more uncomfortable. As Trinity Term progresses, the days become longer, the lecture halls emptier, and the frequency of white-tie sightings goes through the roof. Suddenly even less a part of the 21st century, Oxford returns by night to a time when silk scarves and top hats were de rigeur. At the end of term, local tradespeople seethe as students revel in post-exam trashing: a ritual that sees the meeting of sub fusc (and sometimes shop windows) with fast-moving clouds of white, pink and red flowers.

On the other hand, Michaelmas Term also sees some of Oxford’s most exciting traditions loom into view: Christ Church’s networky Cardinal’s Cocktails and Wadham’s colourful Queer Bop together ensure that almost all tastes are catered for (though principally the alcoholic’s). Meanwhile in London, for an event that puts both Oxford and Cambridge on television screens around the world. The varsity Boat Race pits boatfuls of Antipodean Water Science graduates against one another in an awe-

inspiring display of disregard for physical pain. The Merton Time Ceremony converts the otherwise unexciting experience of putting your watch back an hour into a replay of the learner driver’s beloved ‘reverse around a corner’ manoeuvre. On foot. Spring sees yet another trip down to the riverbank, but this time it’s the Thames. Back at University, Ascension Day brings a shower of hot pennies from the roof of Lincoln’s Front Quad, apparently in order to teach passing schoolchildren about the dangers of materialism. So if there’s anything for a newcomer to glean from taking a close look at the panoply of traditions that make Oxford so unique, it’s to take them all with a pinch of salt and a light heart. The most ancient-seeming are often modern, the most solemn frequently comic, and the most formal conducted by participants who make up the rules as they go along. The only tradition Oxford carries on with expert pride is the tutorial. But that’s another story.

18,000 people celebrated May Day at Magdalen Bridge in 2011.

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Nightlife Pubs and Bars

LGBTQ Nightlife

In addition to the college bars, Oxford has an ambundance of watering holes on offer, from the historical to CAMRA diehards, chic cocktails and dingy back rooms. Most students will at some point visit The King’s Arms for a social or take their parents to The Bear on a Sunday.

For a city of its size, Oxford, officially recognised as the ninth gayest city in the UK, has a surprising number of pubs and club nights to cater for the pink pound. Oxford’s answer to Soho can be found on Paradise Street (yes, really!), home to Oxford’s two gay pubs. The Castle Tavern and The Jolly Farmers share a similar clientele, a happy mixture of town (Oxford residents) and gown (students).

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If you’re looking for sophistication, head towards Jericho for cocktails at Raoul’s, The Duke of Cambridge or Freud. Go down Cowley if you’re looking for open mics, live bands or DJs playing into the wee hours.

Clubs

Oxford has it’s fair share of nightclubs, all of which have their student nights with great deals on entry and drinks. The Bridge is a classic, offering three rooms with different DJs, so everyone can dance to their favourite. There are also a number of cool, smaller clubs, such as BabyLove, LolaLo and Roppongi. Most music venues will also have club nights on the weekends and after gigs, often with free entry with your gig ticket (bargain!).

As for club nights, Tuesday nights are huge, with PopTarts at Baby Love Bar on King Edward Street. This boutique club (with boutique drink prices to boot) combines a sophisticated first-floor cocktail bar with an effervescent dance floor down below. For a bigger club experience, take a group down to Plush at the weekend.

Gigs You’ll hear this again and again, but for its size, Oxford’s music scene is ridiculously strong. Those of you downsizing from northern metropolises or the capital can stop worrying about having to resign yourself to choral evensong and piano recitals right now. Be more concerned about bumping into Thom Yorke while queuing for a takeaway or not knowing which of the three great bands playing on the same night you should go and see. Oh, and there’s that degree…

A quick look at history will tell you a lot about why the city’s working so well today. Flagship acts like Radiohead have paved the way for a whole host of more recent bands including Foals, Youthmovies, and Stornoway, not to mention the constant influx of ultra ambitious students, who ensure some of the bloodiest battle of the bands competitions in the country. There’s an amazing local scene – pick up a free copy of Nightshift (available in most venues and record shops) for interviews, features and listings. It’ll tell you pretty much everything you need to know on a monthly basis. There are venues of all sizes all over the city, from the intimate Port Mahon to the recently redeveloped Oxford O2 Academy (previously the Zodiac). The mid-sized Cellar is a good bet for catching bands before they break, as are the Wheatsheaf and Jericho Tavern. College bars are sometimes invaded by bands of varying quality so it’s often worth keeping an eye on what’s going on closer to home, and remember that proximity to London means you’re never more than an hour or so away from the biggest name’s latest tour.

Comedy Oxford has produced the talents of Alan Bennett, Michael Palin, Rowan Atkinson and Dudley Moore, among many others. Of course, the comedy scene at Oxford is an exciting and ever-growing aspect of University life, with plenty of opportunities on offer for keen spectators and participants. The most famous and popular of the University comedy troupes is undoubtedly the Oxford Revue, a sketch group that has created more comic stars than you can wave a stick at (honestly, we’ve tried). Oxford also boasts one of the most outstanding improvised comedy groups in the Oxford Imps. Every Imps show promises to be a brand new, completely unscripted hour of hilarity and high energy, with the cast wowing audiences all over Oxford with their quick wit and fun games. All in all, comedy in Oxford is booming and there’s no excuse not to get involved in one way or another.

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Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester St, OX1 2BX

Students at Oxford are automatically members of the Oxford University Student Union (OUSU). OUSU exists to defend and improve the experience of every student in Oxford. By working directly with students and their elected representatives, OUSU is better able to act on common concerns and win on the issues that matter. Here’s a quick summary of just some of the things that OUSU does:

Representation and Campaigning

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OUSU represents Oxford students to the University, local and national Government, and the wider world. It is through OUSU that students influence the direction and operations of the University and have their say in the big debates. Last year, for example, OUSU pushed the University to create the most generous financial aid package in the country and helped Oxford become the first ever English University in history to pass a motion of No Confidence in the Minister for Higher Education. This year OUSU is working with the University on student employability, with the local Council on student housing in Oxford, and with the Government on making sure access to University is fair for all. There are a range of Student Union campaigns you can get involved in if you

www.ousu.org

01865 288 452

are passionate about making change in the University or the student community. Some of the most successful campaigns include the International Students’ Campaign, who run a huge International Fair every year, and Target Schools, who have created a database of over 600 current Oxford students willing to help go out to schools and break the myths which stop talented school leavers from applying here. Other campaigns include the Women’s Campaign, The Mature Students Campaign, The Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality, The Living Wage Campaign and the Environment and Ethics Campaign.

Support and Welfare OUSU’s Student Advice Service offers free, confidential advice to any student at the University and last year it helped over 400 students. The Service is there to help with everything from information requests, problems with academic discipline or complaints procedures. OUSU also supports College student representatives in their work by providing training, advice and support to help students get lower rent, better food and higher-quality services. OUSU is also very active in supporting Clubs and Societies to do the best they can for their members.

Student Services OUSU runs many of the key services which make student life easier and better in Oxford. It organises the annual OUSU Freshers’ Fair, attended by thousands of new and old students to see all that Oxford extracurricular life has to offer. OUSU also sells NUS Extra cards, the best way to get great deals on everything from travel to food, clothes and holidays! Along with Oxford Brookes, OUSU runs the Safety Bus, the best way to get to anywhere within the Oxford Ring Road for just a pound. Official partners Varsity Events run safe, cheap and fun club nights throughout the year at various locations in the city. OUSU also produces one of the two weekly newspapers, The Oxford Student, as well as Oxford’s only student radio station, Oxide. Students can also get involved in writing, editing or photographing for one of its many publications, including the Freshers’ Guide and this Alternative Prospectus. So wherever you are and whatever you do here, OUSU will be there making a difference to the quality of the student experience in Oxford.

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Music O

xford has a rich and varied music scene, with active societies for both performers and listeners.

Vienna, Delhi, Mumbai, the Montreux Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and the Shanghai World Expo, as well as regularly in London and Cambridge.

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From orchestral to jazz, rock and techno, In addition to running a wide range of enthere’s at least some form of music that sembles, the society also has a free weekly gets you excited, and almost all of it has newsletter, which includes details of all a society dedicated to producing it. The the musical events going on in Oxford, more “traditional” music is organised by whether OUMS is running them or not, the Oxford University Music Society (or which you can sign up for at the Freshers’ OUMS). Founded in 1872, the society Fair, or if you miss it, at any time on the has a membership approaching 2000 website. However, in orand plays concerts to der to play in an OUMS around 6000 students, As well as more ‘traditional’ ensemble, you’ll need alumni and townspeomusic, Oxford has great perfor- to sign up for an audiple a year; it is one of mance and listening opportuni- tion at Freshers’ Fair the oldest and largest University societies. ties in a huge range of genres. - this takes place over the weekend between OUMS’s flagship 0th and 1st week. At ensemble is the your audition you just Oxford University Orchestra (OUO), need to play a piece of music that demwidely considered to be one of - if not onstrates your ability, and to state which the - best student orchestra outside ensemble you’d like to play in. There are of the conservatoires. They perform also a number of non-OUMS ensembles a termly concert in the Sheldonian and college orchestras that are open to the Theatre on Broad Street, always under entire University, and many of these do the baton of a professional, visiting not require auditions. conductor. Recent highlights have includAs well as more ‘traditional’ music, Oxford ed Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring with Benhas great performance and listening opjamin Walfisch, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony portunities in a huge range of genres. One No. 5 with Peter Stark and Dvorak’s Cello of the most thriving of these are the ‘a Concerto with Daniel Harding, featuring cappella’ groups, one of which - Out of the Steven Isserlis as the soloist. In total, OUMS runs eight ensembles (more details Blue - you may have spotted on last year’s Britain’s Got Talent. Other vocal groups of which can be found at www.oums. include In the Pink, The Oxford Gargoyles, org), including two orchestras, a choir, a contemporary music group and a big band, The Alternotives and many more, each offer a vast range of repertoire and great peramongst others. Over the last five years, formance opportunities at Oxford events, OUMS ensembles have performed in including numerous college balls. locations as far afield as Barcelona, Paris,

For more traditional vocal pursuits, most Colleges have a chapel choir, and although some of them are world class, not all of them hold auditions. Chapel choirs sing anything from one to eight services each week, and you can sing in other colleges’ choirs. There are also several high-quality, auditioning, chamber choirs, as well as others that offer a more relaxed sing. The Jazz scene in Oxford is strong and still growing, with a number of exceptional players. JazzSoc runs a weekly jam session, and there are a number of University Jazz and Big Band groups, who play a number of balls and parties each year. The Oxford University Jazz Orchestra (OUJO) hold an annual varsity ‘jazz-off’ with their Cambridge counterparts while the Oxford University Big Band (OUBB) regularly tour and feature professional soloists. Rocksoc is the society for anyone into alternative music such as Rock, Metal, Punk, Goth, Industrial, Emo and Ska. It’s a place to meet other people with the same musical tastes and find out about all the Rock and alternative events in Oxford. They organise gigs and social events, send out a weekly newsletter, provide services for bands and musicians and also help to promote various alternative pubs, club nights and gigs around Oxford. All in all, Oxford University has a diverse music scene and there’s usually something to suit everyone. As well as the more central societies that are discussed here, don’t forget that most colleges have thriving music societies themselves.

The Oxford University Music Society has over 2000 members, nine ensembles and plays to over 6000 concert-goers a year.

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Drama G

etting involved in drama is really quite easy, whether you’re a thespian yourself or just someone who likes to go along and watch. College Cuppers will be your first stop; you’ll write, produce, direct and/or act in your own piece and compete with other troupes and colleges. The drama scene caters for all talent levels and styles, and if you’re not happy with what’s available, there are plenty of ways of starting up your own project.

TAFF (initially founded as Tabs are for Flying – apparently an in-joke of the founders) is where you want to be if you’re a lighting, set or costume designer, stage manager or any other person who invisibly makes the cogs of the business turn (generally branded ‘techie’). You’re the one responsible for making a 19-yearold look 50 and straight out of the Victorian era, the stage like an Amazonian forest and the whole thing bright enough for the audience to be able to tell.

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There are two main societies to watch out for: Oxford University Drama Society For the classicists amongst you, there ex(OUDS) and Oxford University Theatre ists the Classic Drama Society, which proTechnicians and motes classical works Designers (TAFF). You’ll find many around you on stage: look out for the triennial Greek Play from all levels of talent and Get involved in experience, and plenty of ways (performed in Ancient OUDS if you act, Greek!) on at the Oxproduce, direct or to express your inner thesp. ford Playhouse. aspire to any of the above. You’ll find Auditions and availmany around you from all levels of ability for all shows are advertised via talent and experience, and plenty of Facebook and the Drama Officer’s mailing ways to express your inner thesp. Dependlist, as well as on the respective societing on how big a production is, rehearsals ies’ websites. Another great way of getting take place for a varying number of weeks involved is to become a theatre reviewer: before the opening night, and directors write for the Oxford Theatre Review generally manage some amazing feat of (OTR), ‘The Oxford Student’ drama sectimetabling which allows ten or so people tion or the ‘Cherwell’ stage section and who are currently doing a degree to be in get free tickets to previews and opening the same place at the same time for a few nights in exchange for a few hundred hours a week. If you’re seriously considercritical words. ing a career in the arts (or just have loads of talent) you have promising precedent: both Anna Popplewell and Hugh Grant were members of OUDS in their time.

There can be six or seven student productions every week during term-time.

If you’re a theatre-lover, look in any given week’s student papers to find out what’s on, sign up to the Drama Officer’s mailing list or just keep an eye out on Facebook for the events you’ll undoubtedly be invited to by a friendly thesp. Venue-wise, you have the choice: the Burton Taylor Studio (BT) offers a tight-knit atmosphere with 50 seats, the O’Reilly is set in Keble College with 180 seats in varying designs, while the Oxford Playhouse can fill 250 seats for each night they run (often Weds-Sat, with Thursday and Saturday matinees). Other shows take place in smaller rooms in colleges or other college-based theatres, and in warmer months many colleges produce their own garden show; these are often pretty cheap. Do bring a blanket to the outdoor ones as it can get pretty chilly.

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Journalism I

f journalists are unreliable, this city is to be trusted less than certain detectives once employed by a now-defunct Sunday paper. But the budding writers that are everywhere in Oxford are a decent bunch. Joining them will open up a wonderful world and put you in touch with incredible journalists in Oxford and beyond.

album reviews, interviews and gossip columns - and, of course, the all-important news stories that keep students informed. Both papers have active websites, including blogs, podcasts and videos, so if you’ve ever fancied yourself as the new Wossy (or Andrew Marr or, ahem, Davina McCall) now’s your chance…

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‘The Oxford Student’ – or ‘OxStu’ for short Student journalism often gets a bad rap, – has a strong news section, with in-depth but in Oxford you’ll be working amongst investigations and original photography. the media movers and shakers of the fuIt frequently breaks exclusive stories and ture (and possibly become one of them). many former staff are The opportunities stunow hired on national dent journalism opens The opportunities student papers or doing MAs up here are immense, journalism opens up here are encompassing newsimmense, encompassing news- at the best journalism nationwide. papers, magazines and papers, magazines and online colleges Staff memorabilia online content. content. include a White House There are two main press pass, a former papers: ‘The Oxford staff member’s ‘Sunday Student’ and ‘Cherwell’. Both are Times’ front cover byline, and a collecwholly written and edited by students. tion of killer political cartoons, which will Each is designed on professional probably be worth a fortune in 30 years’ software and prints over 15,000 time. And the office is famous for being copies a week. The staff structure full of cake and sweets. varies slightly on each paper, but the teams on both change every term, and ‘Cherwell’ is famous for its lifestyle section, with features like ‘Fit College’ and positions include everything from photog‘Blind Date’. Read a copy and all will be raphers and graphic designers to writers revealed. One Editor describes the proand editors. You can get as involved as cess of putting the paper together: ‘The you like – writers may contribute a few thrill of seeing your name in print never hours a term, whereas the Editors can gets old. Lovingly coaxing a few leads and work 60 hour weeks! ideas on a white board into a fully-fledged Last year alone, across the papers, news paper each week is an exhilarating experiteams have covered Michelle Obama’s ence; sharing it with everyone else on the visit to Oxford, music writers have interteam creates friendships you won’t find viewed Tinie Tempah and film sections anywhere else.’ have spoken to Jaime Winstone and David Walliams. Writing includes play and

Two student-run newspapers distribute over 15,000 copies every week.

There is a friendly rivalry between the papers – things can get heated when both parties are chasing a story, but in general each respects the other’s practices. Student journalism is a friendlier place than the stereotypes of Fleet Street newsrooms. Working for a newspaper – on any section – will teach you the skills necessary to write concisely and clearly. Some have said more so than tutorial essays! Oh, and in case you need any more persuasion, journalists are traditionally boozy – both papers hold legendary socials. And if that’s not an excuse to get stuck in…. But, if the world of newspapers seems a bit deadline-heavy, Oxford also supports several student magazines. The ‘Isis’ is everything you want from an arty student publication – a luscious layout and that thick paper normally only used for quirky art house publications designed somewhere in East London. Contents include culture, fashion and arts writing, and the best content is picked up by the national media. The fashion shoots are exotic by any description, and the illustrators could give Royal College of Art folk a run for their money. ‘Isis’ is published once a term, so the deadlines are longer than for the papers. Although, in a similar vein, the staff change termly, so the opportunity to get involved comes around often. If you like working deeply on one project, this could be for you. Working in the student media is a great CV point. Writers at the various publications have secured work experience at ‘The Sunday Times’, ‘The Guardian’, ‘NME’, ‘Vogue’ and the BBC. But for the moment, forget any notions of careerism and enjoy getting stuck into student journalism. You won’t regret a minute of it. To contact any of the publications, give them a Google and drop the Editors a message via their websites. They’ll be keen to hear from you.

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Politics E

d Miliband, Margaret Thatcher, Boris Johnson, Nick Robinson… They all began their political careers in Oxford’s student political societies. Which goes to show that whilst the grounding in politics you get here may not turn you into a better person, it may well take you places!

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While it’s always worth joining in the political discussions and campaigns that relate to your college through your Common Room, or joining Universitywide discussions and campaigns through OUSU, plenty of you will be eager to join societies that debate national and international issues. Oxford’s political societies offer the chance to meet like-minded people, campaign on issues you believe in, pick up valuable skills, as well as just make friends and have a good time.

The Oxford University Labour Club has a long and proud history. It has established itself as one of the most powerful forums in the University for the exchange of ideas and campaigning. Instrumental in the success of Labour’s Andrew Smith in the Oxford East Constituency, OULC combines drinks events and policy forums with pounding the pavements of Oxford canvassing voters. If you are of the Labour persuasion (or even if you’re not – Rupert Murdoch and Chris Huhne were both Officers of OULC), OULC offers a unique opportunity. The Oxford University Conservative Association also has a long history. OUCA proudly claims to be one of the largest

student political societies in Europe. Its weekly Port and Policy events are not to be missed – they combine socialising and hearty debate with ample quantities of Port, making for a lively combination. Port aside, OUCA welcomes Conservatives of all stripes. OUCA are also not to be outdone on the Campaigning front, traveling around the country to spread the Conservative message to voters. Oxford University Liberal Democrats provide a vibrant forum for all things Liberal. Whilst the party nationally is going through some interesting times, OULD continue to provide a space where it’s ok to be yellowy-orange. Nick Clegg may have cancelled his trip to Oxford due to fear of students but the regal Shirley Williams did not, and OULD can always be counted on to host the most interesting Liberal Democrat speakers. OULD includes people from all walks of Liberal life, from orange-book free(ish) marketeers to social democrats to devotees of Community Politics. Rest assured though, it’s not all party-political societies. There are also plenty of societies dedicated to political discussion and political action that are not affiliated to a party. International Relations Society goes from strength to strength, holding debates and speaker events with leading world figures and academics in the field. Oxford Women in Politics promotes and supports aspirant political women, holding trainings, drinks and discussions. Its annual garden party is a fixture on the Oxford political calendar.

For those that way inclined, Oxford Model United Nations provides a great opportunity to meet people from around the world and try your hand at the practical skills of negotiating and diplomacy. The Oxford Forum for International Development is the UK’s largest student-led development conference. Organised entirely by students, OxFID is a huge annual event encompassing speaker meetings, discussion groups, debates and other fringe events – well worth getting involved. The PPE Society is a place for all things PPE – you don’t have to be a PPEist to join or to go along to their events, you just have to be interested. There’s also the Oxford Radical Forum, for those of you who like their politics on the rare side of radical. If you’re interested in how religion and politics interact, or if you’re particularly interested in community action, the Jellicoe Society at Magdalen offers talks and seminars as well as summer internships in Community Organising. There is also a thriving branch of Amnesty International, allowing students to campaign to free political prisoners and make the case for state transparency worldwide. Finally, don’t forget that as far as student politics in Oxford is concerned, the biggest annual event is arguably the OUSU elections in 6th Week of Michaelmas. If you want to shape your Student Union, or even if you just like running a war room stuffed with phones and laptops and co-ordinating a small army of activists, get involved!

Oxford’s political societies offer the chance to meet like minded people, campaign on issues you believe in, pick up valuable skills, as well as just make friends and have a good time.

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Odd Ones Out Ok, so you’ve heard about all the mainstream stuff, but if you’re after something a bit different, off the wall or just plain weird, then Oxford knows how to cater for you too.

Extreme Sports

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Irregular sports like Gliding, Korfball and Zorbing are all represented by their own student societies and are a lot of fun to boot. Nothing beats throwing yourself off clifffaces attached to a hang-glider or bouncing over mountainous terrain in a huge inflatable beach ball. Unless, of course, you’re a bit of a wuss and would rather bat a cricket ball about the park for hours. Other high-octane adventures can be had by the students who go kayaking or on some of the more challenging climbing expeditions – even to places as daunting as Everest and K2.

Knitting

Bit of a contrast, here, from all that adrenalin-fuelled fun. A lot of colleges have knitting societies, a phenomenon which has taken off in America and the UK recently among young women who like to sit around, gossip and knit scarves and the like. Well, it doesn’t sound like you need much adrenalin, but we’re sure they give it all they’ve got. To be fair,quite a few men have had a go recently, too, so this isn’t a gender-specific pursuit either.

Cultural Awakening Fancy getting to know a foreign culture better while studying among the medieval cloisters and passageways of deepest England? Well, with so many international students at

Oxford and connection with other nations, its no wonder that the Japan Society, Thai Society, Brazilian Society, Polish Society and many others attract such high numbers from the student body. Anyone who’s interested in these cultures can join and go to events which often take the form of cookery evenings or trips to local restaurants specialising in the given culture’s traditional cuisine.

Fun and Games The Board Games Society, Role Playing Games Society or the Juggling Society all help provide ways to immerse yourself in worlds totally alien to the studious Oxford environment and are great ways to meet people, too.

Fandomery If you’re a big fan of TV shows or films like Harry Potter, Star Trek, Doctor Who and other cult classics, you’re sure to find a student society which shares your passion. All of the above are great ways to meet people, develop your interest in something new or something you’re already enthusiastic about and the existence of so many societies like these is proof that Oxford is a university full of people with a satisfyingly varied degree of personal interests.

Nothing beats throwing yourself off cliff faces attached to a hang-glider.

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Volunteering I Archaeology & Anthopology

n the city in which Oxfam was founded there’s no better place to get involved in charity work and volunteering. Oxford offers so many different ways get involved no matter what your cause you’ll be able to find a way to help.

Those of you that want to campaign to make a difference in the wider world have a whole group of organisations that welcome new members all the time. Environmental groups such as OUSU’s Environment & Ethics Campaign rub shoulders with student groups of NGOs such as Amnesty International, UNICEF and Oxfam. Oxford students have also set up their own campaigning groups on topics such as HIV/AIDS, human rights in the developing world, international relations and public health.

For those of you that haven’t had the chance to do something good for others yet now is the perfect chance. Everyone can work in one or two hours a week to teach an older person how to use email for the first time, write a letter objecting to a human rights abuse or harvest the Hands-on volunteers carrots from a studentare spoilt for choice. run allotment. Not only For those of you that haven’t Local schools take in is it good for others to had the chance to do somevolunteers for maths, volunteer, warm Then Archaeology different methodological approaches; ‘An nterestedthe in people? thingIt’s good for others yet nowtoisanthropological science, geography fuzzy feeling it is for you! introduction theory’ is and Anthropology the perfect chance. literature tuition gives you top of pretty much what itand says on the tin; and essentially theonstudy of people, past and in addition to helping the CV points and present: how civilizations lived, developed ‘Perspectives on Human Evolution’ covers children to read who the amazing friends the evolution through Australopithecus cultures and interacted. don’tHomo speakerectus Englishetasalatofirst language. you’ll make along the way mean that and Homo Sapiens, The also elderly aren’t forgotten either with the time you spend volunteering Human existence is a large subject is and looks at specific evolutionary a handful of student-run volunteering of thewhat’s most worthwhile areasome but that’s great aboutyou’ll the aspects such as bipedalism and the start groups working in the local community. spend.The opportunities are diverse course, its diversity. It incorporates bits of ‘modern behaviour.’ Oxfordshire Conservation Volunteers, and this page won’t be sociology, able to list of philosophy, psychology, OxGrow andinthe OxfordThen Green Project them all, but here’slinguistics, a quick blitz geography, history, nterested people? Archaeology allow green fingered grow through theand sorts of things on offer. physiology more besides. and the Anthropology is forto you! It’stheir own vegetables the and study help with the upkeep of essentially of people, past and If fundraising is what Archaeology gets you out The balance between nature conservations. There are developed also oppresent: how civilizations lived, of bed in the morning RAGeven is the and Anthropology is fairly within portunities youth work, music making cultures andforinteracted. place to go. Last yeararchaeological it gave over study. There are two and performing arts to be used as a tool £120,000 to charity! RAG raises and two anthropological papers in Human for socialexistence change. is a large subject money social events, sponsorthe firstthrough year. ‘An Introduction to area but that’s what’s great about the A varietyitsofdiversity. It volunteering projects work ship challenges andcovers street topics collections World Archaeology’ course, incorporates bits with children and adults with special and the gives its moneyand to four charities like beginning spread of philosophy, psychology, sociology, educationalhistory, needs. linguistics, Volunteers teach chileach year chosen by the on student of farming, and theories the body geography, physiology drenmore how to cook, run activity evenings in February. find out to www. creation and To collapse ofmore statesgoand cities and besides. for young adults and also get involved in oxfordrag.co.uk. while ‘The nature of Archaeological The balance Archaeology and teaching andbetween education. Enquiry’ covers topics ranging from Anthropology is fairly even within study. dating techniques to conflicts between

Life

Support

There are two archaeological and two anthropological papers in the first year. ‘An Introduction to World Archaeology’ covers topics like the beginning and spread of farming, and theories on the creation and collapse of states and cities while ‘The nature of Archaeological Enquiry’ covers topics ranging from dating techniques to conflicts between different methodological approaches; ‘An introduction to anthropological theory’ is pretty much what it says on the tin; and ‘Perspectives on Human Evolution’ covers the evolution through Australopithecus and Homo erectus et al to Homo Sapiens, and also looks at specific evolutionary aspects such as bipedalism and the start of ‘modern behaviour.’

Oxford Hub has over 60 member groups, contributing to volunteer initiatives across the Unviersity and the city. oxfordhub.org

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t only takes a quick glance at the billin regional or national leagues, whilst boards at Iffley Road to see that Oxford BUCS, Regional and National Championhas a proud sporting history - both on ship events are prominent fixtures for and off the river! Larger-than-life images sports such as Athletics and Swimming. of Olympians Roger Bannister (AthletAdventurous types may be attracted ics), Stephanie Cook (Modern Pentathlon) to the Mountaineering, Caving or Surf and Matthew Pinsent (Rowing) reflect clubs, who run regular trips at weekends just a few the achievements of Oxford’s throughout term, whilst those who fancy sportsmen and women over the years, trying something new may be interested while historic fixtures such as the Boat in Gaelic Games, Octopush, or the DancRace and Rugby Varsity Match attract esport beginner’s team. Meanwhile, for media attention worldwide. However, those less keen on competition, activities our prowess is by no such as Gliding or Tai means restricted to the For most sports, the Varsity Chi may be of interest, ‘traditional’ sports - in and pool/gym memberMatch forms the pinnacle of fact, Oxford is consistships are available at ently placed in the top the competition season for the Iffley Road Sports ten universities for Oxford and Cambridge alike. Complex. And even sport according to if your sport does not the BUCS (Britappear on the list ish Universities & Colleges Sport) below, the Sports Federation can provide league table, which compiles league guidance and support to students wishing and championships results from 50 to set up new clubs, such as the recent different sports – and we are proud to additions of Clay Pigeon Shooting and support our numerous elite performAmerican Football clubs. ers and teams across a wide range of For most sports, the Varsity Match forms disciplines. the pinnacle of the competition season Sport forms an integral part of student for Oxford and Cambridge alike, and life in Oxford. Participation rates are participation in this event remains the exceptionally high thanks to the wide official prerequisite for the awarding of spectrum of sporting opportunities of‘Blues’ – a prestigious and historic award fered by our 84 student-run sports clubs that carries a high status within the Uniand countless college sides. Mainstream versity and beyond. From the internationsports such as hockey, football and rugby ally renowned Boat Race, to the longest operate multiple University-level teams running Track and Field fixture in the as well as successful inter-collegiate world, Varsity competition attracts supleagues. During term time, most team port from many thousands of spectators sports will play weekly in Wednesday each year. Oxford will often host the maafternoon BUCS fixtures and at weekends jority of Varsity matches, most of which

will come together for the Varsity Games at the end of Hilary term. For the non-sporting types among us, it’s an excellent opportunity to come and support our peers and the University against our rivals! If University sport seems a little too serious, then all students have the opportunity to play for their college. Participation rates in college sport are exceptionally high - during any one week in term, there can be up to 500 students competing in one college sport alone! Almost all of the University clubs run ‘Cuppers’ competitions, providing an opportunity to play a wide range of sports at varying levels of commitment. Training is generally infrequent and low-key, with a focus on friendly competition. Some of the most popular college sports include football, rugby, basketball, tennis, netball, hockey, rowing and athletics. A common concern amongst new students is whether they will have time to commit to a sports team (or several!) alongside their academic studies, but many students do manage their time sufficiently well to enable them to participate in multiple extracurriculars and excel in their degree. There is no reason why being involved in sport should detract from your academic studies, and the lifelong friendships and memories that you’ll form will far outlast those of libraries and exam-related stress.

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It can be a delicate juggling act at times, but at the end of the day, everyone needs a break from the library! Naturally sport is also a great way to socialise, and the sportsmen and women of Oxford are noted for their enthusiastic approach to extracurricular team building! As well as the ever prevalent ‘crew dates’, a wide range of social events are arranged within individual colleges and clubs. At the University level, sport is a great way to meet people from different colleges, subjects, and years, and most clubs will have a social secretary in charge of ensuring that it’s not all work-out and no play! Of particular note are Wednesday nights at clubs in town – which will usually be filled with teams out celebrating BUCS success - and also the annual Sports Federation Ball, held at the end of Michaelmas Term. In addition, University level sportswomen may be interested to join Atalanta’s Society, which exists to promote women’s sport and create opportunities for sportswomen to mix socially. Similarly, successful sportsmen may one day be invited to join Vincent’s club, where membership is based on all-round sporting, social and intellectual qualities. The club owns a premise in the centre of Oxford which hosts dinners and social events to celebrate Oxford sport. Wherever your talents or interests lie, Oxford’s sporting provision can cater for you. If you have any further queries about Oxford Sport, take time to visit the Sports Federation website, www.sport. ox.ac.uk.

List of Sport Clubs Aikido Alternative Pick-up Ice Hockey Amateur Boxing American Football (provisional new club) Archery Athletics Aussie Rules Badminton Baseball Basketball Boat Boat - Women’s Bujinkan Ninjitsu Canoe & Kayak Caving Cheerleading Clay Pigeon Shooting (provisional new club) Cricket Croquet Cross Country Cycling Dancesport Eton Fives Fencing Floorball Football Gaelic Games

Gliding Golf Gymnastics Handball Hockey Ice Hockey Jitsu Judo Karate Karate-Do Shotokai Kendo Kickboxing Kitesurfing Korfball Kung Fu Lacrosse Lifesaving Lightweight Rowing Modern Pentathlon Motor Drivers Mountaineering Netball Octopush Olympic Wrestling (provisional new club) Orienteering Pistol Polo Pool Powerlifting

Rackets Riding Rifle Rugby Fives Rugby League Rugby Union Rugby Union - Women’s Shorinji Kempo Ski & Snowboard Squash Sulkido Surf Swimming Table Tennis Taekwon Do Tai Chi Tennis - Lawn Tennis - Real Trampolining Triathlon Ultimate Frisbee Underwater Exploration Volleyball Walking Waterpolo Windsurfing Yachting

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Despite Oxford’s Christian roots, the University offers a whole variety of ways for students to explore their faiths. It’s definitely not the case that all Oxford students are religious or that you have to be a religious person to fit in here. However, many students get involved in religious societies and/or worship regularly in various sites across the city. Here’s a rough guide to religion in Oxford:

Buddhism The Oxford University Buddhist Society (Budsoc) offers weekly Samatha meditation classes (free of charge) throughout all three Oxford terms, as well as speaker events on areas relating to meditation and Buddhist theory. All are welcome, regardless of their level of experience, or whether or not they attend Oxford University. There is a Centre for Buddhist Studies, and Thrangu House on Magdalen Road has a large shrine room that holds up to 100 people.

Catholicism For Catholic students, there are the Catholic Society (CathSoc) and the Catholic Chaplaincy (located in the city centre), where there is a daily Mass for students followed by lunch. The Newman Society is arguably Oxford University’s oldest student society, and certainly its oldest Catholic society. It exists to promote Catholic faith and culture within the University, and has served as the model for Catholic student societies throughout the English speaking world. For Orthodox students, there are both Eastern and Russian Orthodox Churches in the city, located on Canterbury Road.

Christianity There are various Christian communities in Oxford, with many churches in the city encompassing many traditions. In addition, almost all colleges have a chapel and a Christian Union (CU). Chapel services, which all students are welcome

to attend, are held regularly and are often well-attended.The CU provides a space where Christians can come together to bear witness to their faith and explore it through discussions and Bible study. All CUs are affiliated to the central InterCollegiate Christian Union (OICCU), an evangelical body that is a hub for Bible study and social activity. They meet together regularly for fellowship, prayer, worship and time studying the Bible.

Hinduism HUM, the Hindu Society, provides religious, social and cultural events for Hindus and Asian students in Oxford. HUM aims to cater for the needs of the Hindu, and by extension Indian, population in Oxford by providing a range of religious, social and cultural activities, from the Diwali Ball to Holi celebrations to carrom competitions. Their standing goal is to ensure that all events are of the highest quality and tailored to the needs of their members. HUM also tries to educate Hindus and non-Hindus alike in the main teachings and philosophy of Hinduism.

Islam The Islamic Society (I-Soc) provides a focal point for Muslim students and staff. Activities and events range from Friday prayer and learning circles to football and dhikr, as well as socials, lectures and charity fundraisers. There is a dynamic and integrated Muslim community in Oxford city, with a beautiful, recently-built mosque and Asian cultural centre just outside the city centre and many restaurants and shops selling halal food. There is also a Bangladeshi mosque and a Madinah mosque. All colleges provide vegetarian food, and most accommodate students who wish to cater for themselves. During Ramadan, daily meals are provided so that students can eat together. MuJewz

is an apolitical student interfaith dialogue group which aims to bring together Muslim and Jewish students in Oxford to celebrate the common ground the two faiths share. Their aim is to promote cultural and religious understanding through constructive and meaningful debate and activities.

Jainism Young Jains Students Oxford is an organisation that encourages the discussion and exploration of Jain philosophy, spirituality and its practical importance to life in an open and friendly environment. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion based around the principles of non-violence, harmlessness and reincarnation.

Judaism J-Soc is the representative body for Jewish students in Oxford and Oxford Brookes. Along with the OJC (a synagogue and community centre), meals are provided every night, which is especially helpful for those keeping kosher. A Shabat dinner is held every week including a speaker (and chicken soup!) There is a Jewish chaplaincy couple in Oxford, who can help with any question, be it spiritual or practical. The University is accommodating during festivals and shabas (e.g. when there is a clash with exams), and most colleges will support students in catering for their dietary requirements.

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Student Support Health & Welfare Disabilities Student Parents International Students Mature Students LGBTQ

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Health & Welfare

ost students enjoy their time at Oxford; it is a university filled with unrivalled academic, social and extracurricular opportunities. However, many students experience difficulties and there is plenty of help and support out there. The paragraphs below are not intended to be exhaustive, but cover the essential aspects of welfare provision across Oxford. For more information feel free either to contact the college you’re considering applying to, the Disability Advisory Service or the Student Union’s free and confidential advice service. Contact details are given below. Colleges take welfare seriously and have a whole host of different people you can turn to. Every college has a tutor who is responsible for the welfare of students (this could be a ‘a ‘Welfare Dean’ or a ‘Welfare Tutor’ or ‘Chaplain’), who can listen impartially and in confidence to anyone of any faith or none. All common rooms will have at least one student

Contacts Student Advice Service

Welfare Officer, whose role is to provide information, sexual health resources and referrals. Most colleges also have a group of students who have undergone a 30hour listening skills training course if you need someone to lend an ear. Colleges will also have a nurse or a doctor (or both) who hold regular surgery hours and can provide confidential advice about your mental or physical health. If you have a long-term health problems, don’t let this put you off studying at Oxford. You will be able to find support from NHS services in Oxford or from the University’s Disability Advisory Service (for more information turn to page 227). The University also has its own Counselling Service staffed by professionally trained counsellors, which is free for students to use. They can help with any sort of emotional or psychological difficulties you are facing that are affecting your quality of life as a student, and they are familiar with the pressures of studying in Oxford.

Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 466 www.ousu.org advice@ousu.org

Disability Advisory Service 3 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 280 459 http://www.ox.ac.uk/students/shw/das/ disability@admin.ox.ac.uk

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Contacts Student Advice Service

Support

Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 466 www.ousu.org advice@ousu.org

Disability Advisory Service 3 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 280 459 http://www.ox.ac.uk/students/shw/das/ disability@admin.ox.ac.uk

eing a student with a disability adds a whole new aspect to choosing a university, and can make deciding where you’re going to spend the next three years of your life even more daunting. Fortunately, there is a strong and effective support network at Oxford, which can make the whole process much easier. Physical accessibility can differ significantly from college to college and department to department, meaning that choices of college and course are particularly important. Three colleges (St John’s, Wadham and St Catherine’s) are completely wheelchair accessible, and several other colleges have specially adapted accommodation and lecture rooms. The more recently built faculties have ramps, automatic doors and lifts, but older buildings may be more difficult to access. The city as a whole is also becoming increasingly accessible. Driving around the city can be slow, but the parking bays in the town centre are currently free to those with Blue badges. People with mobility impairments are also entitled to free bus travel in and around Oxford through the Oxford City council. To aid with getting around the city, electric scooters and manual and electric wheelchairs can also be borrowed for free from the Shopmobility centre in the city centre. The Disability Advisory Service can be very helpful in arranging note-takers, library assistants and other study aids, and may be able to recommend other useful provisions that are more specific to individual disabilities, such as study skills support sessions. The new Oxford University Assessment Centre provides study needs assessments in a central and convenient location to determine what sort of support or assistive technology you might need.

It is always useful to speak to colleges, departments and even your tutors about individual requirements, as they will often be able to be more helpful on a oneto-one level. Oxford University Student Union has several schemes designed to address the welfare issues of students with disabilities. Some examples are the buddying system for new students with Asperger’s Syndrome and the mental health mentoring scheme, both of which have been very helpful to current students. There are also the Students with Disabilities Campaign and the Mind Your Head Campaign, which aim to raise awareness of physical and mental disabilities in and around the University. The Student Union also produces a guide for Students with Disabilities, which can be requested by emailing publisher@ ousu.org. In terms of the university as a whole, the Disability Advisory Service is a fantastic resource. They are familiarw with most forms of disability, and can help you arrange anything from exam concessions to Braille printing. If you are eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (which you apply for through your LEA) the Disability Advisory Service can help you obtain any equipment that is deemed necessary, and make arrangements for non-medical assistants such as note takers or library assistants. They also publish an access guide for all the colleges and departments and can be contacted with any questions by emailing disability@admin.ox.ac.uk.

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Student Parents

aising a child while at University is no easy task, but support is in place to help you along the way. If you’re starting at Oxford with a child, you may feel as though nobody else is in your situation. However, you’re not alone – Oxford is home to a number of students with dependents, both graduates and undergraduates, and lots of support is available. Whether you’re a mother or a father, a good first point of call as a student parent would be the section on the OUSU website for student parents (www.ousu. org/welfare/student-parents-and-childcare) where a PDF of the Student Parent Handbook is available. The University website (www.ox.ac.uk/students/shw/ childcare) also has lots of information regarding childcare and funding. As well as this, the OUSU Student Advice Service (advice@ousu.org) is happy to answer any queries applicants with children may have and if they can’t answer your question, they’ll be able to direct you to someone who can. For example, they can point you in the right direction for information on funding, childcare services and accommodation, and can help students deal with their colleges.

Contacts Student Advice Service

The University and a number of colleges have their own schemes to ensure students with children have a worthwhile experience at Oxford. For example, some help is available from the University for meeting the costs of childcare. Information on funding is available in the Student Parent Handbook. St Anne’s, Wolfson, Balliol and Somerville have their own nurseries; college websites will have more information. The University has recently opened a new nursery, so there are more spaces available for children of students and staff, and OUSU recently worked with the University to give students with children in the University nurseries extra financial support. There have also been changes recently in students’ entitlement to maternity, paternity and adoption leave, ensuring that students get the time off and support getting back that they need after they have a baby. More information is available on the University website.

Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 466 www.ousu.org advice@ousu.org

OUSU Student Parent Handbook 2 Worcester Street Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 458 http://www.ousu.org/welfare/ousuwelfare-publications-1/text.pdf/view women@ousu.org

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International Students Being an international student adds a whole new dimension to the task of settling in. Luckily, there is a fantastic international atmosphere both within and around Oxford University, which extends from the myriad national and cultural societies (there are about 140 nationalities represented in the student body) to the wide range of restaurants, music venues and theatres around the city. For much more information check out the university’s website: www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/international_students.

Support

Mature Students Technically, mature students are classified as a student who is at least 21 at the start of their course. This includes everyone from those who are taking a second undergrad degree to those studying for their first BA in their 80s. There is clearly no standard mature student experience. That said, many mature students, whatever age bracket they’re in, will want to meet eachother and socialize as a group, so there are several events run each term. Harris Manchester College is also a dedicated mature students college where everyone, even the undergraduates, are all over 21. With almost half of the Oxford student body now made up of graduates, don’t worry that if you don’t fancy reliving your late teens you won’t fit in at Oxford. For more information go to www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_ courses/why_oxford/mature_students/.

LGBTQ For many LGBTQ students, university provides an important space where they feel able to ‘be themselves’ and establish an independent adult identity. For other students university may be the first time they’ve even thought about their sexuality. Whether you’re L,G,B,T or just questioning, rest assured that Oxford is a very supportive environment. Oxford has a thriving gay community with a prominent, yet wholly optional LGBTQ scene. Oxford University’s Lesbian and Gay society was founded in 1969 and since then has added two more initials: B for bisexual and T for transgender. The LGBTQsoc is now one of the largest student societies in the University, organising over twenty five events every term. LGBTQsoc exists primarily in a social and welfare capacity: a way for

LGBTQ students to socialise in a safe and entertaining environment. Events include weekly drinks, film nights, pizza and wine parties, Sunday brunch, trips to London, club nights and the list continues. With three welfare officers on the LGBTQsoc committee (male, female and graduate), help and support is easily accessible; they even offer an anonymous MSN Messenger service. A huge Queer Parenting scheme matches Freshers with a ‘parent’ (an existing student) who aims to introduce their ‘child’ to queer life in Oxford. Welfare services are also provided at a college level, from the LGBT(Q) rep and from peer supporters, and by such community services as Oxford Friend and Broken Rainbow or the University Counselling Service.

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Glossary

Academic dress (n): A combination of sub fusc (see below), gown and cap (known as ‘mortorboard). Worn for matriculation (see below), university exams and graduation - i.e. very rarely. Battels (n):

name comes from the guy who founded it: Sir Thomas Bodley. Bop (n): Sweaty, boozy, cheesy college party where fancy dress comes as standard and every photo taken is one you’re going to want to hide from your mum.

College bills, usually issued termly, for accommodation, meals, carpets you’ve burned cigarette holes in, cleaning up your mess; that kind of thing.

Brookes (n):

Blue (n):

Buttery (n):

Award given to sporty types who’ve represented the University in a Varsity match. Also used to refer to the players themselves.

Casual eatery found in some colleges. Usually with exquisitely cheap food.

Boatie (n):

Mock exams set by tutors at the start of term (you “collect” what you learned the term before, get it?) They don’t count towards your degree at all, but some colleges will insist you take them seriously anyway.

Person who spends roughly 50% of their time rowing and the other 50% talking about rowing. Avoid if possible. Bod Card (n): Your student card, otherwise known as your passport to Oxford. Unquestionably the most useful piece of plastic you’ve ever owned. It’s an I.D, a library card, a credit card for meals in college… Be warned, you will need this pretty much every day for the duration of your degree, and you’re not allowed to change the picture – so resist the urge to get a comedy photo. Bodleian (n): This is the main university library. It’s got a copy of pretty much every book published in the UK for the last 400 years or so. The

Oxford Brookes University - the other university in Oxford; situated in Headington.

Collections (n):

Cowley Road (n): A long, vibrant stretch of the city which takes you east. Known for great nightlife, moderatelypriced restaurants and affordable housing. Cuppers (n): Inter-collegiate competitions, from drama to croquet. A good way of trying something out without making a huge commitment. Dean (n): College official in charge of discipline. If you get called to

come see them you’ve probably done something wrong. So get your apology hat on. AKA: rector, provost and various other things, depending on your college. Entz (n): Organised fun (the best kind of fun). Usually run by your Common Room committee – film nights, bops, that kind of thing. Essay Crisis (n): Your essay is due in at 10 am. It’s 4am, and you’re drunk. You haven’t got the books you need out of the library; you’re sure you know what all the words in the question mean individually, but they don’t seem to make sense in this order; everyone sane went to bed at least two hours ago. For some reason this is an eerily familiar situation. Exam schools (n): A big, scary-looking univesity building where exams, lectures and the much more exciting Freshers’ Fair take place. Faculty (n): Refers to the department building of a particular subject. E.g. ‘the Engineering Faculty on Parks Road’. Fellow (n): A member of any college’s Senior Common Room. Basically what you need to know is that they’ve got more letters after their name than you have in your entire name, and they’re probably asking you a question you can’t answer. Don’t worry, they’re used to it.

Finals (n):

Matriculation (n):

Porters (n):

Technically any exam or assessment that actually counts towards your degree. Usually used to refer to the two weeks or so at the end of your course. Now is not the time to worry about them, but be nice to people who’re in their clutches – otherwise Karma’ll come for you in a couple of years.

Ceremony held a couple of weeks after coming up (regardless of geography, you always “come up” to Oxford) for the first time. This is the official moment of induction, congratulations, you’re now a member of the University.

College staff who inhabit the lodge (see above) and fill various roles from receptionist to security guard.

Formal Hall (n): Dinner in college, but posher and with (at least nominally) better food. Make friends in other colleges and see how many you can collect while you’re here. Hack (v & n): Used to describe both the solicitation of votes and the type of person that does it. If you manage to survive your degree without being hacked you might want to check that you actually came to Oxford. Hall (n): A big room where everyone eats - in most cases it’s pretty impressive. JCR/MCR//GCR/SCR (n):

Michaelmas/Hilary/Trinity (n): The names of the terms. Michaelmas is October to December (cold, but occasionally quite nice); Hilary is January to March (grey, wet and thoroughly miserable); Trinity is April to June (remember why you wanted to come to Oxford? This is why). Cambridge call their Spring term “Lent”, and we hate them for it. Mods/Prelims (n): Your first public (ie: not college) exams, usu. at the end of first year. They don’t count towards your degree, but you do need to pass them to continue with the course. Nobody seems to know why some subjects call them mods and others prelims, it’s just one of those things. OUSU (n):

“CR” means “Common Room”; “J” is for “Junior” (undergrad), “M” is middle (grads), “G” is “Graduate” (take a wild guess) and “S” is for “Senior” (fellows and tutors). Can refer to both the physical space and the constituent members.

‘Oxford University Student Union’. Doesn’t (yet) refer to a central venue, because there isn’t one. OUSU’s roles are primarily in student representation, welfare, entz and publications. They run the Freshers’ Fair, publish this prospectus (and other guides) and put on clubnights.

Jericho (n):

The Oxford Union (n):

Swanky but vibrant suburb just north of the city centre.

Not to be confused with OUSU (see above). The Oxford Union is a privately-owned debating society and members’ club that students can join.

Living out (tr v): If you’re ‘living out’ then you’re not living in college, but privately rented accomodation. Necessary for one year at some colleges. Lodge (n): The reception area of a college, usually by the main gate.

Proctors (n): Two fellows appointed yearly to oversee student discipline and welfare across the whole University. Punt (v & n): Canoe-like boat propelled with a pole. Provides much fun in the summer. Quad (n): ‘Quadrangle’. The central square bit of a college. Usually grassy and surrounded by buildings. Rusticated/Sent down (n): Being made to leave the University as a punishment. Rustication is a suspension, being sent down means you’re out for good. Best avoided. Scouts (n): College cleaning staff. Staircase (n): Most accommodation in colleges is divided into ‘staircases’ with a few rooms on each floor. Sub fusc (n): For academic dress, ‘sub fusc’ refers to what you wear under your gown. Dark suit, white shirt and white bow-tie for men; black trousers or skirt, white shirt and black ribbon for women. Tute (n): Short for tutorial. Seriously, nobody calls them tutorials.

Pidge (n):

Tutor(s)

Short for “Pigeon Hole”, which in turn is Oxford for “Letter box”. Your internal and external post will be found here. Disappointingly, no part of the Oxford postal service seems to actually involve pigeons.

College academics with whom your tutorials and classes take place. They set work, look after welfare and are generally a good first point of contact for students.

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Transport

Oxford Bus Company Travel Shop, Debenhams, 3rd Floor Magdalen Street, Oxford OX1 3AA 01865 785 400 info@oxfordbus.co.uk www.oxfordbus.co.uk Stagecoach Stagecoach in Oxfordshire Horspath Road, Cowley Oxford OX4 2RY 01865 772 250 oxford.enquiries@stagecoachbus.com www.stagecoachbus.com/localdefault. aspx?Tag=Oxfordshire Thames Travel Thames Travel (Wallingford) Ltd Wyndham House, Lester Way Hithercroft Industrial Estate Wallingford OX10 9TD 01491 837 988 office@thames-travel.co.uk www.thames-travel.co.uk OxonTime Oxontime RTI, Oxfordshire County Council Speedwell House, Speedwell Street Oxford OX1 1NE contact@oxontime.com www.oxontime.com Check bus times via text for ludicrously accurate up-to-the-minute information.

Oxford SmartZone Public Transport Oxfordshire County Council Speedwell House, Speedwell Street Oxford OX1 1NE 01865 815858 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ oxford-smartzone-bus-routes Oxford is home to the first integrated travel system outside of London. Buy online or from the Oxford Bus Company travel shop. There are various price structures, such as per-ride and unlimited for a day, week, etc. Tickets are valid on all three bus companiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; routes throughout the city, as well as Kidlington, Yarnton, Begbroke and Cumnor. Oxford Train Station (First Great Western) Park End Street Oxford OX1 1HS 08457 000 125 www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/oxf.html

Contacts Here are the best ways to get in touch with Oxford. Do note that the websites can be very helpful. Often thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need to call or write (very convenient for those living outside the UK). In particular check out www.admissions.ox.ac.uk for all the factual stuff you need for applying. Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Street, Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 452 enquiries@ousu.org www.ousu.org OUSU publishes this prospectus and can provide the text in alternative formats on request. Additional copies are also available. Contact publisher@ousu.org for more details. Undergraduate Admissions Office University Offices Wellington Square Oxford, OX1 2JD 01865 288 000 undergraduate.admissions@admin.ox.ac.uk www.admissions.ox.ac.uk Target Schools Oxford University Student Union 2 Worcester Street, Oxford OX1 2BX 01865 288 464 access@ousu.org www.targetschoolsoxford.com Target Schools is the OUSU-run campaign dedicated to widening access at Oxford.

College websites

www.balliol.ox.ac.uk www.bfriars.ox.ac.uk www.bnc.ox.ac.uk www.chch.ox.ac.uk www.ccc.ox.ac.uk www.exeter.ox.ac.uk www.hmc.ox.ac.uk www.hertford.ox.ac.uk www.jesus.ox.ac.uk www.keble.ox.ac.uk www.lmh.ox.ac.uk www.linc.ox.ac.uk www.magd.ox.ac.uk www.mansfield.ox.ac.uk www.merton.ox.ac.uk www.new.ox.ac.uk www.oriel.ox.ac.uk www.pmb.ox.ac.uk www.queens.ox.ac.uk www.rpc.ox.ac.uk www.st-annes.ox.ac.uk www.st-benets.ox.ac.uk www.stcatz.ox.ac.uk www.seh.ox.ac.uk www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk www.st-hughs.ox.ac.uk www.sjc.ox.ac.uk www.spc.ox.ac.uk www.ssho.ox.ac.uk www.some.ox.ac.uk www.trinity.ox.ac.uk www.univ.ox.ac.uk www.wadh.ox.ac.uk www.worc.ox.ac.uk www.wycliffe.ox.ac.uk

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Oxford University Student Union www.ousu.org 01865 288 452