International Relations Summer School at the University of Toronto, Canada

Course Description: International Relations Summer School at the University of Toronto, Canada

*� International Relations Summer School in Toronto

*� Programme Overview

The International Relations Summer School in Toronto offers ambitious learners aged 15–18 an inspiring introduction to global diplomacy, governance, and cooperation. This intellectually rich programme gives participants an authentic experience of studying international relations at university level, developing essential academic and analytical skills to help them navigate the complex world of global affairs.

Participants explore foundational theories, evaluate real-world case studies, and critically examine institutions like the United Nations. Alongside interactive sessions, students complete a personal project and participate in group discussions, equipping them with the tools to form evidence-based opinions and contribute to global conversations.

Students are based at Victoria College, in either single or twin rooms, with shared bathrooms.

• Free laundry access

• Wifi

• Lounge areas

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*� What You’ll Learn

Students will strengthen their academic potential through modules such as: ✔️ Introduction to International Relations – Understand the discipline, its actors, and its role within political and social sciences. ✔️ Realism vs. Liberalism – Compare foundational schools of thought on international behaviour and cooperation. ✔️ Constructivism & the Role of Ideas – Explore how values, identity, and global priorities influence international actors. ✔️ Institutions in Practice: The United Nations – Assess the role and contradictions of international organisations. ✔️ Global Governance & International Law – Learn how law shapes global order, with a focus on climate and human rights. ✔️ Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution – Examine how diplomacy resolves disputes and maintains peace. ✔️ Technology & International Relations – Discover how AI and digital advancements shape global cooperation. ✔️ Global Trade & Economic Interdependence – Analyse trade, globalisation, and their effects on policy and competition. ✔️ Climate Diplomacy & Environmental Cooperation – Study landmark agreements and sustainability partnerships.

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*� Personal Project

Over the course of two weeks, students will research and prepare a presentation based on a chosen topic within international relations. They will showcase their understanding through a structured presentation, followed by class discussion and tutor feedback. This capstone project helps students consolidate their learning and build communication skills.

Sample Immerse Tutors:

Petti Fong: Petti Fong is an educator, journalist, and author. She is the Western correspondent for The Economist and has written for top Canadian newspapers. With a focus on applied communications, her research on loneliness and social isolation led to the creation of Alone Together, a podcast featuring expert interviews that reached hundreds of thousands of listeners across 30+ countries. Her work explores global issues and the impact of social disconnection.

Rangga Dachlan: Rangga is a DPhil candidate in Socio-Legal Studies at the University of Oxford, focusing on "cultural heritage" as a legal construct in Indonesia. He holds an LLB from Universitas Gadjah Mada, where he has lectured since 2013, an LLM in Public International Law from the University of Groningen, and an MPhil in Archaeology from the University of Cambridge, where he was also funded by the Jardine Foundation. He joined Oxford as a Jardine Scholar in 2018.

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*� Location & Accommodation

Students live and study in university accommodation at the University of Toronto. Each of the three Toronto campuses offers a distinctive academic and architectural setting. Rooms are comfortable and secure, with separate facilities for male and female students and 24/7 on-site support from residential staff.

This residential experience provides a true taste of Canadian student life in one of the world’s most multicultural cities.

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A Day in the Life – Toronto Academic Insights

• 8:00–9:30 – Start the day with breakfast and connect with fellow students from around the world.

• 9:30–11:30 – Attend a morning academic session led by expert tutors, covering key subject content and university-level thinking.

• 11:30–13:30 – Enjoy a relaxed lunch break and recharge for the afternoon.

• 13:30–15:30 – Join an afternoon academic session or take part in 1:1 tutorials or independent study time for personalised feedback.

• 15:30–18:00 – Participate in enrichment activities, such as debate workshops, cultural visits (e.g. CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum), or creative sessions.

• 18:00–19:30 – Dinner time, often with themed events like a formal dinner or BBQ.

• 19:30–21:00 / 22:00 – Evenings are filled with social events like guest speakers, talent shows, murder mystery nights, and more.

Weekend Adventures in Toronto

Spend your weekend exploring the natural wonders and vibrant attractions that make Toronto one of Canada’s most exciting cities. Over two days, students will enjoy a dynamic mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation—with plenty of time to take in the sights that matter most to them.

One day features an unforgettable excursion to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks. Experience the breathtaking views, explore the surrounding area, and capture incredible photos of this powerful natural wonder.

The second day offers the choice between two Toronto highlights: take a scenic ferry ride to Centre Island to enjoy beaches, bike trails, and skyline views, or dive into discovery at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to thousands of fascinating sea creatures.

Some activities are optional, ensuring you’ll also have free time to explore the city and check off the tourist attractions that interest you most. Whether you're soaking in the mist of the falls or exploring downtown gems, this weekend promises iconic sights and unforgettable memories.

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*� A Transformative Experience

This pre-university summer programme is ideal for curious minds who want to explore future studies or careers in law, diplomacy, politics, or global development. With a curriculum designed for future changemakers and a setting that sparks inspiration, this is more than just a course—it’s a launchpad for global thinkers.