SSO is designed for students interested in doing intensive scholarship in this historic seat of learning.  Working with academic tutors, students hone their skills and delve into the areas that interest them most.  As Visiting Students of Oxford University and members of Wycliffe Hall, students have the privilege to study and learn in one of university’s historic halls.  SSO students enroll in a Primary and Secondary Tutorial, an Integrative Seminar and the course Christianity and Cultures.  The SSO is designed for students interested in the fields of Classics, English & Literature, Theology & Religious Studies, Philosophy, and History, though all majors may apply.  Applicants are generally honors and other very high-achieving students.  Students earn 17 semester hours of credit.

A university is a place to learn about yourself as well as the world in which you live.  If all you learn is what you grasp from a book, your experience might not challenge you beyond the walls of the library.  So grab a friend and head to the pub.  Have philosophical discussions about Webster's definition of love.  Strategize for marathon games of RISK.  Seize the experience, from the classroom to the tutor's office.  And grab a bite from your favorite kebab van while you are at it.  You'll be glad you did.

The Oxford System
Oxford is renowned for its tutorial style of learning.  Tutorials allow students to work individually with a professor or specialist in a particular field.  As a team, the student and tutor collaborate to tailor the studies to the student’s subject of interest, bearing in mind the student’s strengths and goals.

Grades 
Evaluation of work is based on many factors. These include but are not limited to: participation, written and oral project and examinations. A “C” grade indicates adequate performance, a “B” grade indicates good, competent and complete work, and an “A” grade indicates creative excellence that is integrative, scholarly and exceeds requirements. 

Calendar
The academic year in Oxford is divided into three eight-week terms: Michaelmas (beginning in early October), Hilary (early January), and Trinity (late Spring).  The Scholars’ Semester overlaps with Oxford terms (Michaelmas and Hilary).  The additional weeks of the American semester are devoted to the SSO Lecture Series “Christianity and Culture” and examinations.

Things To Do
Oxford is an ancient city brimming with modern people.  Participate in College activities in the Junior Common Room or join the crew or rugby team.  More artistic?  Attend a concern in Sir Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian Theatre or see Michelangelo’s original pen and ink at the Ashmolean—Britain’s first public museum.  Visit nearby Stratford-upon-Avon to catch the air of the Bard.  With London only an hour away, opportunities are endless.  

Libraries
Students will have access to the world famous Bodleian library, the main research library of the University of Oxford. It is also a copyright deposit library and its collections are used by scholars from around the world.  As Visiting Students, Scholars will also have access to all faculty libraries as well as the library at Wycliffe Hall.  

Housing
Students may be housed at lodging on Pullens Lane (the Vines) or on Crick Road.  Most accommodations are shared rooms.  All housing is within walking distance of Wycliffe Hall (25-30 minutes maximum).

Living Expenses
Room and board expenses are included in the student fees.  Students are individually responsible for their travel to and from Oxford as well as all personal expenses.  With easy access to art, music, and historic venues, students will want to budget for personal trips and visits.  As learning is not limited to the classroom, students will want to bring funds to cover coffee and conversation expenses at the many cafes throughout the city.  Though Scholars have access to needed texts through a variety of libraries, many prefer to obtain their own copies.  Plan your finances with the exchange rate in mind. 

Transportation
Oxford is easily navigated by foot, bicycle and public transport.  Students preferring to cycle are strongly encouraged to purchase a second-hand bike once in Oxford.  Oxford is linked to major airports and London by bus and train.  Discounted student rates may be available.

Oxford Community Life
Though individual study is emphasized, considerable effort is made to bring students together regularly.  This is achieved by teas, meals, movie nights, and other activities organized by programme staff.  More formally, a weekly dinner which all students are expected to attend will follow the Christianity & Cultures course at Wycliffe Hall.  In addition, students join together to support one another is sporting events and academic presentations. 

Safety
Although safety cannot be guaranteed anywhere, the programme makes every effort to ensure the safety of each participant.  If the security of students is ever seriously in question, precautions will be taken to ensure that they are kept out of danger.  The SSO coordinates with the local constabulary and social services to address the needs and concerns of students. 

Medical Services
Medical care in the UK is comprable to that available in North America.  The SSO has relationships with private physicians in Oxford to provide services for its students.  The John Radcliffe Hospital, a major regional medical center, is located in Oxford and would be used in the event of serious medical illness.

PLEASE NOTE: Participants are expected to cover any medical expenses which might be incurred and therefore must be covered by a suitable family or institutional health insurance policy which covers them while they are living abroad. 

For answers to other questions please go to the Frequently Asked Questions page