Advanced Academic Studies

Course overview

Tutorial Subjects

Students select two topics from the variety of tutorial subjects offered. Students staying for four weeks may study the same subjects for the full duration of the course or may change after two weeks.

Politics & International Relations

With the growth of globalisation few things have a bigger impact on our everyday lives than politics and international relations.

As the University of numerous British Prime Ministers, and also the almae matres of many other world leaders, Cambridge and Oxford (please contact us for more details of the Oxford course at Brasenose College), are the ideal locations for this course.

The course will introduce students to the theoretical background of international relations before examining historical topics and analysing the behaviour of states and international organisations.

International Business Management

In today’s rapidly developing globalised economy, it is imperative that future leaders of their generation learn how to transcend borders and adopt an international outlook.

In this course, students will explore the issues affecting multinational companies in terms of finance, economics, human resources, organisational theory and marketing. It provides an excellent foundation in how such global enterprises run and paves the way for a degree in a similar subject, helping students build the skills they need to manage an international brand.

Macro and Micro Economics

Now more than ever economic matters are crucial to our everyday lives. While microeconomics studies the economic behaviour of the individual unit, such as a person, household or individual firm, macroeconomics focuses on all of the units combined together and is the study of the system as a whole. This course introduces basic concepts and tools used in macroeconomics analysis such as the theory, measurement and determination of national income, budget deficits, national debt and exchange rates.

Marketing & Advertising

As digital and social media merge with traditional communication methods, changing the way businesses operate, there really couldn’t be a more exciting time to study marketing. In today’s highly competitive global economy, effective marketing and advertising lie at the very heart of every successful business. Ranging from global marketing to brand and corporate communications, this course will help you develop essential career skills like critical analysis, creativity and problem-solving.

Introduction to International Law

This course provides an introduction to the rules and functions of international law by exploring the different areas it encompasses.

The history of international law will be examined, to provide some context, before focusing on the more specific topics of the international protection of human rights, recognition, jurisdiction, the use of force, and the United Nations organs. This subject is ideal for those looking to study law at university and those with a general interest in these topics.

Creative Writing

The writer Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “There is creative reading as well as creative writing.”

We have taken these thoughts on board in our tutorial. Looking at the working methods of successful traditional and contemporary authors, students build up a writing ‘tool kit’ of their own. Students produce their own work, both in groups and individually, putting what they have learned into practice with verse, prose or drama. This is the perfect tutorial for students with a passion for literature and a fervid imagination.

Societies & the Natural Environment

Through a combination of economic and cultural geography you will explore the relationships between humans and their natural environment and learn about the broad social, political and economic patterns that shape human societies. You will come to grips with some of the major challenges that face human society in the 21st century – from climate change to inequalities in health, from the growth of world cities to new trends in international trade – and realize the impact that government, corporate, and individual decisions may have on people and places near and far.

Classical Civilisations

The civilisation of the Ancient Mediterranean made tremendous contributions to the development of Western society as a whole.

Whether you want to learn languages, read literature, explore the effect of the past on the present, or learn to apply science to arts, a grounding in Greek and Roman culture can be beneficial to everyone. This tutorial tracks major intellectual and cultural developments in both societies, including philosophy, mythology, science, history and literature.

Applications of Engineering

As Albert Einstein put it, “Scientists investigate that which already is; engineers create that which has never been.” Engineering is an extremely broad field of study, embracing everything from electronics to space exploration. This tutorial will provide students with an overview of the practical applications of engineering in different fields including electrical and mechanical, and will offer the opportunity for some hands-on design and experimentation. This course is the perfect partner to our mathematics and science tutorials.

Cambridge Authors & Poets

The University of Cambridge has produced a whole host of well-known authors in its 800-year history.  From Lord Byron’s Don Juan to Zadie Smith’s White Teeth, the city has provided inspiration to generations of writers and thinkers over the years.  Step into the authors and thinkers’ shoes during your time in Cambridge by selecting this tutorial to appreciate your surroundings even more.  This is a great course for students with a passion for literature or history.

The Physical World

The Physical World Physics is one of the oldest academic disciplines, tracing its origins back two millennia when astrologers tried to explain the world around them by gazing at the stars. Since then classic physicists, including paradigm-shifting Cambridge graduate Isaac Newton, have changed the manner in which we understand the world. This course covers the major breakthroughs in classic physics, beginning with Newton. Students will gain a foundation in areas of modern physics including relativity, quantum mechanics and cosmology.

Chemistry Matters

Chemistry concerns itself with atoms and the ways in which these interact to form chemical bonds. After a comprehensive review of the atomic structure, the amount of substance and bonding principles, students will learn the foundations of organic chemistry and will explore some of the more practical applications of chemistry, including energetics, kinetics and equilibria. This is an ideal course for students looking to study chemistry at degree level, although this is not a pre-requisite.

 

 

Medical Biology

On the course, you will gain an overview of the workings of the nervous and immune systems, both having profound implications for human health. This will help you examine the arguments of nature versus nurture for the causes of some ‘modern’ diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

This is an ideal course for students wishing to study medicine, or for those with an interest in the issues surrounding our future health.

Algebra and Calculus

For those wanting to further their knowledge in the fundamental mathematical subject of Algebra, the course includes polynomials, linear and quadratic equations, irrational and complex numbers, inequalities, problem solving, conic sections, co-ordinate geometry and logarithms. The module follows on from Algebra in Calculus and focuses on functions, curve sketching, inequalities, complex numbers, defining the derivative, the definite integral and a study of differential and integral calculus.

Probability & Statistics

This course aims to give a broad understanding of numerous areas of probability & statistics. Topics include the concept of conditional probability, an analysis of Binomial, Poisson and Normal distributions, regression, correlation and the concept of a statistical test.

Optional SAT and IELTS Preparation

Students may choose to take two hours of either SAT or IELTS preparation each week.

There is no extra cost but students will miss some of the activity program. The size of the group should be between 10 and 12 students, but it depends on the popularity of the options. The maximum class size is 15 students.

High School Credit

Every student will take home a certificate and full report card written by the Course Director and their personal tutors. Reports include an assessment of progress and achievement as well as suggestions for further studies.

Where requested, a transcript of the report and a detailed syllabus can be sent to schools for academic credit. We can liaise as necessary with a student’s school to ensure that the subject material and delivery fit in with specific requirements. Students who wish to receive a credit transfer should consult their school guidance counsellor.

Please note: academic credit is only available to students studying the four-week course. Students attending for only two weeks may not request credit.

Workshops and Masterclasses

Workshops

Entrepreneurship

Students can embrace their entrepreneurial skills by identifying a product or service that they could turn into a business. Students will develop a coherent business plan as well as an elevator pitch.

Journalism

A team of students will compile and edit articles from the student body to create a student magazine. Photos, profiles & cherished memories can all be included in this perfect course memento.

Film Production

Students interested in the different aspects of film making and production are given guidance on the basic methods and techniques involved, working towards the production of short films on topics chosen by the group.

Drama

For those with dramatic flair, this is the ideal workshop to release it. No previous experience is required, although enthusiasm and creativity are essential. Ideal for both novice thespians and matinee idols.

Previous weekly workshops have ranged from Shakespeare to stage combat and improvisation classes.

Debating

Both Cambridge and Oxford University and renowned for their debating pedigree.

A range of public figures from Ronald Reagan to the Dalai Lama have spoken at the world-famous Oxford and Cambridge Unions. Students will be coached in the art of constructing coherent arguments and will partake in a formal debate.

Creative Writing

Do you see yourself as the next J.K. Rowling or William Wordsworth? This workshop is the ideal option for students who love the written word and want to express themselves through poetry, short stories or a stream of consciousness.

In addition to tutorials and workshops, students will also join in a weekly Master Class. These sessions explore vital skills crucial for success in further education and future careers.

Master Classes

Leadership

Leadership comes in many different styles with famed leaders adopting different styles and approaches. This Master Class will examine the different skill sets of successful leaders in order to allow students to see how they can go on to lead in the future.

Problem Solving and Critical Thinking

This Master Class presents students with a series of logical problems which must be calculated and assessed. Blundering into complex problems can be disastrous and undergraduate degrees require all students to have a solid grounding in logical reasoning and critical thinking.

Pitching and Presenting

Public speaking is now an integral part of undergraduate programs. Developing and refining oratorical skills will lead to success in education, business and life in general.

Students will learn about the theories behind the successful pitching of ideas and how to engage your audience. This class gives students the opportunity to practise these techniques in a challenging but secure environment.

Negotiating

Negotiating is both a science and an art. Harold Macmillan once famously said, “Jaw-jaw is better than war-war”. It is a vital skill in all aspects of life from politics and business to everyday tasks. This class provides students with a grounding in negotiation theories, strategies and tactics, building towards a final task taken from leading international business school models.