Study at St. Catherine's College - London with IES Abroad

Oxford Direct Enrollment - St. Catherine's College

The program evaluation date for this program has passed, and we have determined that this program can run this spring. Learn more about the programmatic details on the Spring 2022 tab.

Tips for Navigating This Page

As you explore the details of this program across the Overview, Field Trips, Daily Life tabs and more, know that these tabs are reflective of our future programming once COVID-19 regulations allow us to resume. If you’re considering studying abroad in the nearer future, look for term-specific tabs like Fall 2021 or Spring 2022 to see how we’ve adjusted program details to give you that IES Abroad experience you’re looking for, while keeping you safe and healthy.

Why Oxford?

Imagine yourself sitting in class, listening to your professor lecturing about Shakespeare’s plays or Winston Churchill’s policies. But you’re not at your home university—you’re learning in England, where these famous figures lived. This is your chance to study at one of the most prestigious universities in the world: the University of Oxford.

What You'll Study

Our program offers you the opportunity to directly enroll in St. Catherine’s College, one of the 38 self-governing colleges that make up the University of Oxford. The University of Oxford consistently ranks as one of the top universities in the world, according to Times Higher Education.

Enjoy studying at one of the oldest universities in the world—teaching existed here in some form as early as 1096. Today, Oxford has a total student population of more than 20,000, with more than 140 nationalities represented in its student body, and is a renowned seat of learning and tradition. The student body at the University of Oxford is diverse, as well as its professors—about 40% of the University’s academic staff are citizens of countries other than the United Kingdom.

You have the opportunity to attend St. Catherine’s College for the fall term, spring/summer term, or the full academic year. Like all Oxford colleges, St. Catherine’s utilizes the tutorial education system. This allows you to select a highly personalized course of study based on previous coursework at your home institution and your academic interests. You meet with a tutor on a regular basis, either alone or with another student, to discuss the written work produced for each meeting. These tutorials are supplemented by lectures.

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Daily Life

The city of Oxford will be your classroom. Enjoy the vibrant intellectual and social life that Oxford has to offer. Explore the city’s stone buildings and classic cloistered colleges that are integrated into the fabric of the town center. Get to know the faculty and students who come from around the world to live and work in this beautiful city.

We want you to feel at home in Oxford, so we do everything we can to help you integrate into life in the city. From housing to cultural events, our job is to make sure you have the best, most authentic study abroad experience possible.

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$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from participating in an IES Abroad Program. This is why we commit more than $6 million to our scholarship and aid programs.

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Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. That is why we partnered with St. Catherine’s College.

Academic Environment & Expectations: The Tutorial System
Education at St. Catherine’s is based on the tutorial system. Typically, you have two lectures per week for each class and one tutorial, or small group meeting, for which you’re expected to prepare a list of readings and topics to discuss. There is a high expectation that you will put in a significant amount of independent study in addition to classroom, laboratory, and tutorial hours.

Because of the high academic rigor of this program, a 3.85 GPA (out of 4.0) is required to participate. St. Catherine’s sometimes considers applicants with a GPA slightly below 3.85 who include an exceptional set of essays or an original and compelling personal statement. St. Catherine’s will not consider applicants with a GPA lower than 3.7.

Using the resources available, you must engage in extensive independent reading and research under the broad guidance of a tutor. Your tutorial sessions require you to discuss your weekly reading and essay. This methodology sharpens the learning skills of critical evaluation and organization of ideas. You are taught by the same tutors, in the same manner, and held to the same standards as matriculated Oxford students.

Courses

Study abroad students usually apply to one or two academic departments and then propose to study topics within those departments. St. Catherine’s offers a wide range of disciplines. Past IES Abroad students have proposed to study the following topics:

Aesthetics in Plato & Aristotle
The American Revolution
Anglo-Norman Literature
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral Genetics
Behavioral Neuroscience
British Politics Since 1945
Cellular Signaling
Computer Architecture
Confessional Latin
Ethical Theory
Global Health Epidemiology
History of Chinese Philosophy & Religion
The Islamic Civilization/Golden Age
James Joyce
Macroeconomic Analysis
Metabolic Biochemistry
Middle Eastern Politics
Neuropathology
Probability
Radical Social Theory
Renaissance, Humanism & the Church 1300-1600
Theological Understandings of Gender

For more details about course options, visit the "CATZ" website.

IES Abroad Pre-Semester Tutorial in London
To ensure fall and academic year students receive the 15 credits per semester required by IES Abroad, we require a 3-credit, pre-semester tutorial in London. You live and study in London for three weeks prior to the start of the term in Oxford.

Designed to prepare you to succeed at the University of Oxford, this independent study tutorial sharpens your skills in oral and written rhetoric. You work one-on-one with IES Abroad London tutors (some of whom also teach at Oxford). The subject for the tutorial is chosen from the standard IES Abroad courses.* While in London, you live in a residence hall.

Partner Institution(s)

St. Catherine’s College
St. Catherine’s College, whose foundation stone was laid by Queen Elizabeth II on November 4, 1960, welcomed its first undergraduates two years later. Although St. Catherine’s is the youngest college in Oxford, it is also one of the largest with almost 500 undergraduates and 400 postgraduates, as well as 70 fellows and lecturers.

In addition to its formal academics, St. Catherine’s is known for its extracurricular opportunities in music, drama, and sports, and is generally regarded as one of the friendliest and most open colleges in Oxford.

Campus & Facilities
St. Catherine’s buildings, located on the east side of Oxford, are modern—the result of an international competition won by renowned Danish architect Arne Jacobson. The college was designed to be a modern reflection of a traditional Oxford college. At the heart of the college lies a rectangular quad, its sides flanked by student rooms built in the conventional Oxford “staircase” format, its ends consisting of the dining hall and library.

The facilities also include a large junior common room with a debating pit, television and game room, small theater, and music house. Squash courts, a weight room, and punt house are also onsite. You can also use a boathouse and playing fields for rugby, soccer, and field hockey nearby.

Advising & Support

In a direct enrollment program, you are enrolled as a full-time student at one of our international partner institutions. Even though your local host institution is where you’ll take your classes, we’re still here to fully support you.

Advising
Choosing and directly enrolling in courses abroad can be confusing and overwhelming—we offer you predeparture advising that’s specific to you. Our goal is to provide support and guidance throughout your application and enrollment process.

On-Site Staff
As an IES Abroad student directly enrolled at St. Catherine’s College, you have access to the IES Abroad London Center and staff who are specifically dedicated to your needs. Our on-site staff work with you and your local institution to answer any questions about academic requirements, housing, or well-being and safety.

Support
Our support services for direct enrollment students are designed to help you achieve your study abroad goals. We know studying abroad is an adventure, and, at times, you may need help or just someone to talk to— that’s why our staff is here for you.

Field Trips & Events

Even though your adventure starts in Oxford, our field trips take you outside the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country and beyond. These trips are partially subsidized by IES Abroad. As these field trips typically depart from and return to London, past Oxford students have also found it convenient to visit some destinations independently as well.

Bath & Stonehenge
2 days | Fall
Visit mysterious Stonehenge and the ancient Roman baths in Bath. Marvel at the collection of world-class couture at the Fashion Museum and explore the Jane Austen Centre.

Cambridge
1 day | Fall
Visit this historic university town, with its picturesque colleges and punt in a gondola on the river.

IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.

Daily Life

Part of making you feel at home in Oxford is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it is an orientation program that makes you feel prepared, housing that is well-located and comfortable, or the field trips that take you places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.

Orientation

Fall and Academic Year Students
Your program begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Orientation continues in London, and is designed specifically for direct enrollment students. The orientation program introduces you to St. Catherine’s, your fellow students, and to London. You also become acquainted with the teaching methods of British professors and begin your 3-credit, pre-semester tutorial.

Following the IES Abroad orientation in London, you participate in an orientation program at St. Catherine’s that covers topics like accommodation, academic policies, registration, student life, travel, and safety.

Spring Students
Your program begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Next, fly into London, stay the night, and continue your orientation in London the next morning. Our orientation program introduces you to your fellow students, IES Abroad staff and support services, and prepares you for the transition to St. Catherine’s. Then travel by bus to Oxford to participate in an orientation program at St. Catherine’s that covers topics like accommodation, academic policies, registration, student life, travel, and safety.

Housing

As part of IES Abroad’s direct enrollment services, we offer well-situated, comfortable housing for all students, since securing housing independently can be challenging. IES Abroad offers housing options that reflect the local student culture and meet our safety and security standards.

Accommodation Blocks/Residence Halls – Live on campus in either single or double rooms with shared facilities. Wherever possible, IES Abroad and St. Catherine’s try to pair a St. Catherine’s student as a roommate if you select a double room. All rooms have internet access.

You have access to basic kitchen facilities, and the college has a dining hall on campus that provides meals throughout the week. When you arrive, you are issued a pay-as-you-go photo ID card, which is debited every time you take a meal and can be added to throughout the term. You are responsible for loading money onto your own card—meals are not included in the program cost.

Like all Oxford colleges, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are cooked onsite and served in the dining hall at set times. Meals are available to all enrolled students, not just to residents living on campus.

Residence Hall (during fall and academic year pre-semester tutorial and spring orientation only) – This student residence hall is located in Central London. You and another student share a room with en-suite bathroom and access to a common kitchen or en-suite kitchenette. There are laundry facilities and WiFi access throughout the building, and you will have access to a fitness facility. Meals are not included.

Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events

University Clubs & Events
While you’re in Oxford, joining a social or sports club is a great way to meet local students. We encourage you to get involved in the many clubs and societies covering almost every interest at St. Catherine’s—from sports and music to drama and art. You can also join the University of Oxford Students Union.

Get to Know Your New City

Discover Blenheim Palace

The birthplace of Winston Churchill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers gardens, state rooms, and more for you to wander to your heart’s content

Picnic in Port Meadow

Grab your friends, your favorite foods, and unwind in this 70+ acre park along the River Thames.

Take a Punt

Climb aboard these iconic boats and cruise down the River Cherwell with your friends.

Lose Yourself in Museums

From the Museum of Natural History to the oldest museum in the UK (Ashmolean Museum), Oxford’s numerous world-class museums offer never-ending opportunities to explore.

Indulge in Afternoon Tea

Experience an authentic English afternoon tea at one of Oxford’s various cafes

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.

Term: Spring 2022
Term	Tuition	Housing	Insurance	Total
Spring 2022	$24,590	$7,310	$230	$32,130

Term: Fall 2021
Term	Tuition	Housing	Insurance	Total
Fall 2021 Academic Year	$19,165 $34,480	$4,677 $13,310	$230 $455	$24,072 $48,245

Scholarships & Aid

Featured Scholarships

Dr. William Louis Gaines Need-Based History or International Relations Scholarship

Up to $1,875; awarded to 4-6 students each year

This scholarship is named in honor of Dr. William Louis Gaines, President of IES Abroad from 1974-1992. Dr. Gaines was dedicated to strengthening IES Abroad's academic framework, broadening the scope of IES Abroad locations, and securing the financial foundation of the organization.

Open to students majoring in History or International Relations.

Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs

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$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid

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Our Center

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gold plaque on building engraved with "IES Abroad The William L Gaines Centre"

The IES Abroad London Center is an 18th-century Georgian building located in thecentral London neighborhood of Bloomsbury and a two-minute walk from the British Museum.

Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad.

Take your IES Abroad courses in the Center’s classrooms
Meet with staff in their offices
Study in the library
Bring your lunch to eat on the outdoor patio
Meet up with friends in the student lounge
Other features include: WiFi, printing facilities, and gender-neutral bathrooms.

The IES Abroad London Center is recognized by The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) for meeting or exceeding UK expectations as a quality higher education provider. Learn more about our recent QAA reports.

Our Staff

John Ockey

Center Director

John brings over 15 years of experience with IES Abroad, including seven years with IES Abroad Milan and nearly three years with IES Abroad Siena before coming to IES Abroad London. Here, he oversees all programs in London and Oxford. During his time in Siena, John developed and implemented a banner program with a strong focus on cultural immersion and academic rigor. In Milan, he played a key role in improving and developing the Milan program, notably in the areas of student housing, student activities, orientation, and supervision of the student services staff. Prior to working for IES Abroad, John received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Italian Literature and Art History from Brigham Young University and worked in Geneva for the United Nations.

IES Abroad London Staff

Zosia Rutkowska
Assistant Director and Head of Customised Programmes

Martin Hannan
Head of Operations

Rohima Ahmed
Academic Coordinator

Beth Lehlbach
Internships Manager

Nicoletta Pazzaglia
Student Affairs & Wellness Manager

exterior of IES Abroad London Center in Bloomsbury, London

another small classroom in London Center

computers, printer, and resources in the student lounge

entry of London Center with bulletin boards

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.

In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.

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student in denim jacket looking over shoulder and smiling

How We Support You

We plan for "what if" so that you don't have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:

International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
And more!

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Health & Safety Resources

You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.

Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:

IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
And more!

BROWSE RESOURCES

Fall 2021

We all know that Fall 2021 is going to look a bit different from other study abroad terms, but that doesn’t mean it still won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!

We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live and learn abroad (and have some fun along the way!). Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Fall 2021 Health & Safety page.