Oxford Politics & Leadership Online Summer Course

Course Description: Oxford Politics & Leadership Online Summer Course

Our online programmes deliver an academically rigorous curriculum led by tutors from leading universities. We provide a structured, live learning environment where students can interact in real-time with their peers and tutors. Families can feel confident in a trusted organisation known for high teaching standards, small class sizes (maximum 15 students), and a supportive digital community.

Interested in politics, leadership, and the forces that shape our world? The Online Politics & Leadership Academy offers the perfect opportunity to explore key concepts in international relations, governance, and political theory from anywhere in the world.

Through live, interactive tutorials (not pre-recorded), you will explore political theory, practise debating real-world issues, and experience what it is like to be a world leader. Guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, you will develop your public speaking skills, master the art of persuasion, and understand the complexities of the modern political landscape.

Course Content & Learning Objectives

1. Democracy and Elections

• Get to know your international cohort and tutor, establish course norms, and understand the expectations for the two-week programme.

• Core Concepts: Receive a comprehensive overview of democracy and elections. Discuss a variety of political systems globally and compare their fundamental similarities and differences.

2. Powers of Persuasion

• Understand the core principles of political debating and the sophisticated tactics of persuasion used by successful politicians.

• Applied Skills: Learn about British Parliamentary debate, watch video examples of formal debates, and put your skills into practice through interactive exercises.

3. Political Parties

• Outline the main political parties and understand the mechanics of how parties form, evolve, and gain support across the political spectrum.

• Strategy: Create your own political party and identify which specific policies and messaging would appeal most to different demographics.

4. Political Leaders

• Identify various leadership styles and discuss which approaches are most effective in specific historical and modern contexts.

• Leadership Analysis: Examine the careers of prominent political leaders and discuss the fundamental differences between grassroots activists and institutional politicians.

5. Campaign Session

• Take part in a high-energy campaign session where you will deliver persuasive speeches to "elect" your party.

• Interactive Debate: Participate in a moderated Q&A-style debate, defending your party's platform against challenging questions from peers.

6. Citizenship and the State

• Define the concept of the nation state and outline the principles of sovereignty and the evolving role of the citizen.

• Governance: Debate different political systems and explore how the relationship between the individual and the state varies across global cultures.

7. Identity

• Outline the various identity factors—from culture to economics—that relate to modern politics and policy-making.

• Rebuttal Techniques: Debate the growing importance of identity politics and learn high-level techniques for effective verbal rebuttal.

8. Revolutions and Social Movements

• Analyse key revolutions and social movements throughout history to understand how change is achieved outside of traditional institutions.

• Modern Activism: Explore the concept of participatory politics and discuss how political engagement has transformed in our digital world.

9. The Future of Politics

• Explore emerging trends in the political landscape, including relevant careers, degree pathways, and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on governance.

• Discussion: Analyse how new technologies may change the way we vote, lead, and interact with governments in the future.

10. Final Challenge: Balloon Debate

• Defend a chosen political figure in a fast-paced "Balloon Debate," arguing why they should remain safely inside the sinking hot air balloon.

• Final Presentation: Put your public speaking, persuasive techniques, and rebuttal skills to the final test in this high-stakes challenge.

Meet Your Tutor 👩‍🏫

Arushi Sharan BA Hons, Master's Diploma, MA, DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Arushi is currently a DPhil candidate in International Development at the University of Oxford and an Abdul Rauphu Mustafa Scholar. She holds a Master of Arts with Distinction in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Master's Diploma in Conflict Transformation and Peace Building. Arushi has worked as a teaching fellow in Comparative Politics and as a research guide for policy and governance programmes. Her research has been published in several reputed academic journals.

*Please note, our faculty members may be subject to change.

Develop Your Public Speaking Skills

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of politics and debate by tackling real-world challenges, participating in masterclasses, and learning from an inspirational tutor.

Master Fundamental Political Concepts

• Master key concepts such as democracy, citizenship, and participatory politics – all under the guidance of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

Be Mentored by an Expert Academic

• Work closely with an academic mentor on real-world political challenges. Whether defending a political figure, examining manifestos, or preparing for a public debate, you’ll gain invaluable experience, working through problems just like the experts.

Connect with Future Political Professionals

• Join our weekly video socials to meet fellow students from around the world. These casual, fun events feature games, quizzes, and group activities, offering a chance to unwind, socialise, and make lasting connections with others passionate about politics.

Hear From a Graduate 💬

Lauren Brodsky - Online Politics & Debate Course

“Studying the online Politics & Debate course has allowed me to connect with other young people from different cultures and backgrounds. Debating important topics with my classmates has broadened my perspective and increased my understanding of the world around me.”

Practical Information

• Format: Live tutorials (Zoom or similar platform)

• Timings: Tutorials take place from 1pm – 3pm UK Time

• Dates: June – August (1 or 2-week programmes available)

• Class Size: Maximum 15 students to ensure personalised attention

• Requirements: Ages 15-18; Laptop with camera/mic; English level B2/C1

What’s Included in Your Tuition Fee

Academics

• 20 Hours of live teaching (over two weeks)

• 4 Hours of Masterclass sessions

• Preparatory reading list & independent study assignments

• Detailed, personalised feedback on your debating and coursework

Graduation & Beyond

• Formal Online Graduation Ceremony

• Personalised Letter of Recommendation from your tutor

• Official Certificate of Achievement

• Invitation to the Ambassador Programme

• Ongoing academic advice and support