Exceptional Summer Pre-College International Relations Program for High Schoolers at University of Toronto, Canada

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College International Relations Program for High Schoolers at University of Toronto, Canada

The International Relations Programme offers an academically rigorous introduction to global politics, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Designed for students aged 15–18, the programme explores how states, institutions, and non-state actors interact within an increasingly interconnected world.

Set in Toronto, a globally connected city with strong diplomatic, economic, and multicultural ties, the programme introduces students to university-level international relations, encouraging them to analyse global issues critically, engage with competing theoretical perspectives, and develop evidence-based arguments about international affairs.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a university-style academic model, with sessions organised into thematic modules. Students are encouraged to:

• Engage critically with international relations theories and debates

• Analyse historical and contemporary case studies

• Develop structured arguments supported by evidence

The programme is intellectually challenging yet fully supported, with tutors adapting teaching to individual needs and encouraging discussion, debate, and independent thinking.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to International Relations

Students begin by exploring international relations as a field of study, examining:

• The scope and purpose of international relations

• Key actors, including states, international organisations, and non-state groups

• The relationship between international relations and the broader social and political sciences

Students are encouraged to reflect on foundational questions such as what international relations seeks to explain and how global order is maintained.

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Competing Theories: Realism and Liberalism

This module introduces two foundational schools of thought in international relations. Students examine:

• Realism and its focus on power, security, and competition in an anarchic international system

• Liberalism and its emphasis on cooperation, institutions, trade, and international norms

• Historical and contemporary examples that illustrate the strengths and limitations of each theory

Students develop comparative reasoning skills through applied theoretical analysis.

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The Role of Ideas in International Relations

Students explore how ideas, identities, and norms shape global politics, focusing on:

• Constructivist approaches to international relations

• The social dimensions of state behaviour

• The influence of ideas in areas such as human rights, climate policy, and international aid

This module highlights how international politics is shaped not only by material interests but also by shared values and beliefs.

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International Institutions in Practice

This module examines the role of international organisations in global governance, focusing on:

• The origins, structure, and functions of the United Nations

• The challenges faced by international institutions in a state-dominated system

• Criticisms and alternatives to existing global governance frameworks

Students analyse how institutions attempt to manage cooperation, conflict, and collective action.

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Global Governance & International Law

Students investigate how international law and institutions regulate relations between states. Topics include:

• The role of international law in maintaining global order

• Legal frameworks addressing issues such as climate change, trade, and human rights

• The influence of organisations such as the United Nations and World Trade Organization

This module strengthens students’ understanding of rule-based international cooperation.

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Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution

Students explore diplomacy as a key mechanism for managing conflict and promoting cooperation, examining:

• Negotiation and mediation strategies

• Real-world case studies of conflict resolution

• The skills required for effective diplomacy and peacebuilding

The module emphasises practical application of theory through case-based discussion.

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Technology & International Relations

This module examines how technological change is reshaping global politics, focusing on:

• Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital diplomacy

• Technology’s role in global governance and transparency

• Opportunities and risks associated with technological innovation in international affairs

Students consider how emerging technologies affect power, security, and cooperation.

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Global Trade & Economic Interdependence

Students explore the economic dimensions of international relations, studying:

• Global trade systems and supply chains

• Economic interdependence between states

• How economic policy shapes alliances, competition, and global stability

This module connects political and economic analysis within international relations.

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Climate Diplomacy & Environmental Cooperation

Students examine how international actors respond to shared environmental challenges, exploring:

• Climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource security

• International agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement

• The role of international organisations in coordinating environmental action

Case studies highlight the complexity of cooperation on global environmental issues.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, in which they:

• Research an international relations topic of interest

• Apply theoretical perspectives to real-world examples

• Deliver a presentation followed by peer questions and discussion

Tutor feedback is provided, and the project contributes to students’ academic development and confidence.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Some tutors may assign preparatory reading or short research tasks before the programme begins. These activities are strongly encouraged, as they form part of the opening academic discussions and help students engage confidently from the outset.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in global politics, diplomacy, or international affairs

• Enjoy debate, critical thinking, and analytical discussion

• Are considering future study in international relations, politics, law, or economics

• Want early exposure to university-style academic learning

No prior background in international relations is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundational understanding of international relations theory and practice

• Experience with university-style academic study

• Enhanced analytical, research, and communication skills

• A completed personal project suitable for academic portfolios or applications

Where Will I Stay? 🏙️

Participants on the Academic Insights programme in Toronto stay in a college of the University of Toronto, located in downtown Toronto.

The colleges offer a mix of modern and heritage facilities, providing comfortable accommodation used by University of Toronto undergraduates during term time. This creates an authentic university experience, blending immersive academic study with a rich social and cultural programme.

Victoria College 🏛️

Established in 1836, Victoria College is a prominent and historic part of the University of Toronto, known for its strong academic tradition and vibrant student community. The college has nurtured generations of creative and intellectual talent, with alumni who have made significant contributions across cultural and academic fields.

Location Highlights �*

The college is ideally situated for exploring Toronto’s most iconic landmarks, including:

• CN Tower

• Casa Loma

• Centre Island

• Royal Ontario Museum

This central location allows students to experience the best of Toronto’s academic, cultural, and social life.

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Will I Be Sharing a Bedroom? 🛏️

• Bedrooms are single or twin occupancy, allocated at random by the university

• Shared bathroom facilities are provided, typically at a ratio of one bathroom per four participants

• All accommodation and bathroom areas are separated by gender

Can I Stay in a Room Next to My Friend? 🛏️

We always do our best to accommodate rooming requests; however, we are unable to guarantee specific room placements.

In many cases, we can arrange neighbouring rooms if you and your friend are enrolled in the same subject and programme dates. Requests are considered on a best-effort basis and depend on availability at the time of allocation.

Can a Parent or Guardian Stay with Me? 👨‍👩‍�*

Parents or guardians are not permitted to live on-site during the programme.

Many families choose to stay privately in hotels or rented accommodation in the city. While we do not partner with accommodation providers, platforms such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor can be helpful for comparing options.

How Fluent Do I Need to Be in English? 🗣️

Our tutors are experienced in teaching undergraduate-level students from around the world and are highly supportive of participants whose first language is not English.

While students do not need to be native speakers, we recommend a minimum English proficiency level of B2 to ensure participants can fully engage with the academic content, discussions, and project-based learning throughout the programme.

This level allows students to follow lectures confidently, contribute to seminars, and benefit fully from the programme’s academic depth.

Small Class Sizes 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Students benefit from an intimate and highly interactive learning environment, with just 7–10 students per class. This small-group setting allows tutors to provide personalised guidance, encourage active participation, and tailor discussions to each student’s interests and academic goals.

Smaller class sizes ensure every student’s voice is heard, fostering confidence, deeper understanding, and meaningful engagement throughout the programme.

UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

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Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

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Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

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A Day in the Life in Toronto 🇨�*

Weekdays: Academic Learning & Enrichment

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation (07:30–09:30) ☀️

Students begin the day with breakfast, offering time to wake up, socialise, and prepare for a full schedule of academic learning.

Late Morning: Academic Sessions (09:30–11:15) �*

Morning sessions focus on core academic learning, led by expert tutors. Lessons are interactive and discussion-based, encouraging critical thinking and collaboration in small groups.

Midday: Lunch Break (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

Students enjoy a two-hour lunch break, providing time to relax, explore nearby cafés, or recharge before afternoon classes.

Early Afternoon: Continued Learning & Tutorials (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoons include further academic sessions, workshops, and project work. Some students also benefit from 1:1 tutorials, receiving personalised academic guidance and feedback.

Mid-Afternoon: Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break allows students to rest before transitioning into enrichment activities.

Late Afternoon: Enrichment Activities (15:30–17:30) �*

Late afternoons are dedicated to enrichment and co-curricular activities, which may include city walking tours, masterclasses, creative challenges, sports, or personal project supervision.

Evening: Dinner (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Students gather for dinner, a chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and connect with peers and mentors.

Evening Programme: Social & Cultural Events (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings feature a varied programme of social, cultural, and academic activities, such as guest speaker talks, quiz nights, STEAM challenges, talent shows, ghost tours at the University of Toronto, or city experiences like visiting the CN Tower.

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Weekends: Full-Day Excursions & Signature Experiences �*

Weekends are reserved for full-day excursions, giving students the opportunity to explore beyond the classroom.

• Day trip to Niagara Falls, experiencing one of Canada’s most iconic natural landmarks

• Centre Island excursion, offering scenic views and time to relax away from the city

• Guided sightseeing combined with supervised free time

These full-day outings provide a refreshing change of pace while strengthening friendships and cultural understanding.

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Final Days: Presentations & Celebration �*

As the programme comes to an end, students:

• Deliver project presentations, showcasing their academic progress

• Take part in a graduation ceremony

• Celebrate together at a final night party, marking the end of an unforgettable Toronto experience

Do Participants Have Free Time? ⏰

Yes. Students have ample free time built into the programme.

• A two-hour lunch break each day to explore cafés, eateries, and picnic spots

• Additional scheduled free time for private study, sightseeing, relaxation, or socialising

If a participant wishes to schedule time away from the programme (for example, to visit family or friends), this can be arranged in advance.

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Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

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What’s Included in the Programme Fee ✅

The participation fee includes:

• 13 nights’ accommodation in a central college of the University of Toronto

• Breakfast and dinner served in the college dining hall

• Accommodation in an individual or twin bedroom

• 30 hours of academic sessions delivered by expert tutors

• Carefully designed study and lecture materials

• A dedicated mentor programme and access to academic support resources

• All activities, excursions, and day trips, including a visit to Niagara Falls

• Graduation Ceremony and Certificate

• A tutor-written academic assessment

Please note: Travel to and from the programme is not included in the participation fee. Further details regarding airport transfers are available separately.

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How Do I Get to the Campus? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 14:00 and 17:00 on the first Sunday of the programme. Our team will be ready to welcome students, complete registration, and escort them to their accommodation. Please note that rooms may not be ready until 15:00.

Airport Transfers

If arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport, a shared, chaperoned airport transfer service is available.

• Arrival Sunday departures: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Departure Saturday transfers: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers can be booked after enrolment for a fee per journey

Specific travel details, including contact numbers, are shared closer to the programme start date. Participants arriving via another airport or alternative transport will receive full instructions in their Welcome Pack.

Transfers to Toronto are £85 per journey

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Who Will Be My Tutor? 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

All tutors have prior experience teaching at university level and undergo enhanced background checks before joining the programme.

Each year, the programme welcomes expert tutors and leading academics, many of whom have backgrounds from Oxbridge, Ivy League institutions, or the University of Toronto. Tutors are committed to delivering engaging, high-quality teaching while providing personalised academic support.

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What Happens at the End of the Programme? �*

Lessons conclude at 3:00 pm on the final Friday, with students presenting their academic work and projects developed during the programme.

Following this, participants take part in a graduation ceremony, celebrating their achievements alongside peers and tutors. The day concludes with a gala dinner and evening celebration, offering a memorable final opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate friendships formed throughout the programme.

Breakfast is served between 08:00 and 09:00, and participants are required to check out of their accommodation and return room keys by 10:00. Most students depart shortly after check-out; however, programme staff remain available on-site until 15:00. Secure luggage storage can usually be arranged for participants who require it.

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What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

All participants receive a Certificate of Participation, awarded during the graduation ceremony on the final day.

After the programme, tutors provide a written Participant Evaluation, detailing academic progress and offering personalised recommendations on how students can continue to develop their understanding and interest in the subject studied.

Participants also gain access to the alumni community, which offers exclusive benefits.

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Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

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Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

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Do I Need a Visa to Attend the Programme? �*

Most international travellers will require either a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).

• Visa-exempt nationalities may travel to the USA using an ESTA visa waiver

• Nationalities not eligible for ESTA must apply for a US visa

We strongly recommend applying as far in advance of the summer as possible to allow sufficient processing time.

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Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

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What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.