Oxford University (England)
About the Program
Oxford University is one of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning in the world. Although there is no clear foundation date, teaching and learning has been going on at Oxford since 1096, and it rapidly developed in 1167 when Henry II banned English students from studying at the University of Paris. Oxford has since grown into a university of over 20,000 students in 30 colleges and six private halls. The structure of Oxford varies widely from US universities in that its colleges are independent and self-governing while under the umbrella institution of Oxford. Each college sets its own admissions standards, schedules classes, operates residence halls, funds its libraries and develops its own community. The relatively small size of colleges allows close and supportive personal attention to be given to the induction, academic development and welfare of individual students.
Up to two NYU Law students may study at Oxford University per academic year. The program is open to second and third year students only who have spent at least one full year at NYU School of Law.
Learning at Oxford also differs from typical teaching practices in the United States. The tutorial is at the core of undergraduate teaching and learning at Oxford and offers students a unique learning experience in which they meet regularly with their tutor, either on a one-to-one basis or with one or two other students, to discuss and debate written work or a set of problems prepared in advance.
Oxford’s university community is truly international: 28% of teaching and research staff and 43% of research-only staff are from overseas. A third of the total student body is citizens of foreign countries, 15 percent comprising full-time undergraduates and 61 percent as full-time graduate students. Students come to Oxford from 140 countries and territories, creating a vibrant and diverse student community. For more infomation, please visit Oxford's website.
Oxford is affectionately known as The City of Dreaming Spires and with just cause: its skyline is dominated by the university’s gothic buildings. The sheer beauty of the city's colleges and riverside setting, national and international treasures, literary links and stunning film and TV locations, shops with real character; music, and drama makes Oxford a popular day trip from London. These, mixed with Oxford's lively restaurants, cafés, pubs and theatres, give this historic city its alluring vibrant and cosmopolitan buzz.
Dates
Below are the term dates for the Fall and Spring semesters. Students are expected to arrive the week prior to the start of term. Exam dates are not included.
Fall 2012 Semester: Michaelmas*
Early October: Orientation
October 8 to December 2: Fall semester dates
Spring 2013 Semester: Hilary*
Early January: Orientation
January 18 to March 14: Spring semester dates
* Dates to be confirmed
Courses
The Oxford University Faculty of Law offers a wide variety of degree programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate level. As an exchange student, you will participate in the undergraduate program. Courses available include:
• Criminal Law
• Constitutional Law
• A Roman Introduction to Private Law
• EC Competition Law and Policy
• History of English Law
• European Human Rights Law
• Environmental Law
• European Community Law
Further details about the above courses can be found on their website.
Tuition and Living Expenses
Because this is a revenue-neutral exchange program, participating NYU Law students will pay New York University the normal tuition for a 12 credit-hour semester at NYU Law.
Below is a table that gives you some idea of how much you might spend in Oxford. The cost of living is relative high in the UK. Combined with a strong British pound, you may find living in the UK much more expensive than in New York. Fortunately, there is a wealth of discounts for students at both the university and throughout the UK. £1 is approximately 1.60 USD.
• Personal spending: £300 ($483 USD)
• Oxford housing: £2500 ($4,025 USD)
• Bus ticket: £1.50 ($2.40 USD)
• Haircut: £30 ($48 USD)
• International newspaper: £2 ($3.25 USD)
• Night club entry: £10-£20 ($16-32 USD)
• Cup of coffee: £3 ($4.8 USD)
• Burger meal: £5 ($8 USD)
We estimate that you should budget at least US $1,000 per month for living expenses (in addition to housing costs), taking into account the fact that you are abroad and will therefore potentially spend more money than during a typical semester at NYU. If you are planning to travel around the country and Europe, you will need to budget more.
Housing
Students will be offered a place in the university halls of residence. Oxford’s housing is decentralized and your hall of residence will be based on the college in which you are enrolled. Accommodation assignment will be made after acceptance into the program.
Passport, Visa and Permanent Resident Requirements
Determine whether you need a visa to study in the UK by visiting the UK Border Agency. US students studying in the UK for less than 6 months and do not intend to work can enter as a “student visitor.” If you plan to work while in the UK, you will need to obtain a visa.
Access for Persons with Disabilities
Information about Oxford’s policy and services for students with disabilities can be found here. If you are interested in the program and will need some special assistance due to a disability, please contact Office of Global Programs who will make contact with Oxford to obtain information about the availability of needed services.