London International Summer School

These classes allow you to experience the liberal arts, with a focus on London. Our classes range from the study of the history of London to an exploration of contemporary culture.

Classes run in both session one and session two: you can choose to study one class in each session or combine a liberal arts class with a different subject area.

5CLST003W Climate, Change and Culture – Session 1

Level 5

Pre-requisite: students must have completed at least one year of University study to be considered for this module.

This module looks at the impact of climate change on cultural expression, but also on how cultural texts – be they films, children’s books, music, theatre, or tv series – have affected our attitudes towards the environment. Students focus on contemporary climate fiction (cli-fi) as well as broader texts, from ancient to modern: theatre, visual art, music and cinema. The module equips students with an ecocritical vocabulary and the ability to master that language across a range of media and forms.

Texts studied include: Juliet Donaldson, The Gruffalo (1999); Moana (Disney, 2016); William Shakespeare, The Tempest (1613); Joni Mitchell, ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ (1970); The Blue Planet and Blue Planet II (BBC, 2001 & 2017); Waubgeshig Rice, Moon of the Crusted Snow (2018).

Site visits: students will explore nature and culture in different urban settings. In addition to going on field walks in London’s parks and waterways, they will be going to Tate Britain; Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre; Barbican.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 5CLST003W Climate, Change and Culture syllabus.

4HUMS001X Black London: Black History in London from Tudors to Today – Session 1

Level 4

Although they are often marginalised, communities of colour are at the very centre of London’s history from the Tudors to today. In this module, students explore the long and rich history of black and brown communities in London, from immigrant communities originating from Africa, South-East Asia and the Caribbean, to colonial and African-American soldiers in the modern period. Questions about race, diversity and multi-culturalism are raised, and students learn how black and brown communities have shaped – and continue to shape – London.

Site visits: students will explore neighbourhoods such as London’s East End, Notting Hill, and Brixton. Visits will include the Black Cultural Archives; the Museum of London Docklands; The Africa Centre in Covent Garden; Hackney Museum.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4HUMS001X Black London syllabus. 

4HIST007X Monarchy: A Royal History of London – Session 2

Level 4

This course examines London as the historical setting for monarchy and national ceremonial. As such the course considers Royalty’s central place in British life and examines how its purpose and function have changed over the centuries. It also investigates Royalty’s influence on British history and society and its impact on government, culture and science. Finally the course will consider how the monarchy has adapted – and continues to adapt – to changing times and how critics react to it.

Site visits: as a part of the module, students will be visiting the British Museum, The British Library, National Portrait Gallery, The Museum of London, Imperial War Museum. The students will also tour important royal sites in London.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4HIST007X Monarchy: A Royal History of London syllabus. 
Go to the Monarchy syllabus

5PSYC001X Psychology of City Life - Session 1

Level 5

This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to engage with a range of topics and issues in psychology that relate to growing up and living in or visiting a large global city such as London, England. It will bring together research and theory from a number of areas of psychology including social psychology, health psychology, cognitive psychology and forensic psychology. Topics include: Stress & Wellbeing; Crime & Aggression; Loneliness, Pro-social Behaviour and Resilience. Lectures will discuss recent research and seminars will provide students with practical activities, visualisation through documentaries and guided discussions related to each topic.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 5PSYC001X Psychology of City Life syllabus. 

5HIST009X A Sexual History of London – Session 2

Level 5

Pre-requisite: students must have completed at least one year of University study to be considered for this module.

In this module, students get an interdisciplinary perspective on sex, sexuality and gender in London from 1880 to the present. Taking approaches from history, sociology, law, politics and literature, it covers topics such as Victorian sex scandals, the gendering of public space; masculinities and femininities; the impact of the law; Queer London; ‘Women’s Work’; the Swinging Sixties’ and ‘sexual liberation’; the making of cultures of sexuality in Soho and policing sexuality in Central London.

Site visits: students will explore the themes of sexuality and gender through a number of sites and mediums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum; Soho field walk; Bishopsgate Institute; Chiswick House.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 5HIST009X A Sexual History of London syllabus. 
Go to the Sexual History of London syllabus

4HISTOO8X Murder, Media and Morality in Victorian London - Session 1

Level 4

The module explores the Ripper murders, social history of the East End, London in the late Victorian era, the representation of the killings in the media, in film and literature, the historiography of the Ripper murders.

Site visits: students will visit the Museum of London, Tate Britain, The Royal London Hospital, The Metropolitan Police Heritage Centre, Sir John Soane’s Museum, The Bishopsgate Institute, the Museum of London Docklands. The students will also go on a walking tour to ‘map’ the Ripper murders and get to grips with the geography of the East End.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4HISTOO8X Murder, Media and Morality in Victorian London syllabus. 

4ELIT007X Art and Society – Session 2

Level 4

This module is an introduction to the visual culture of London, including painting, architecture, photography and contemporary media. Students will visit the major art galleries to examine how art works, exhibitions and cultural organisations can be understood within wider social contexts. The sessions also include museums and historical sites. The classes will explore how these institutions reveal the complex cultural identity and history of London.

Site visits: typical visits include the British Museum, Tate Modern, Victoria and Albert Museum, Museum of London, National Portrait Gallery, Wallace Collection, Tate Britain, Whitechapel Gallery, Serpentine Galleries, Welcome Collection.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4ELIT007X Art and Society syllabus. 

4CRIM005X Crime and the London Underworld - Session 2

Level 4

London and its criminal areas from the earliest times; changing nature of London criminal ‘underworld’ from modernity to late modernity.

Notorious criminal families as well as colourful underworld characters will be explored. Finally, the emergence of specialised law enforcement agencies to deal with this newly discovered threat will also be considered.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4CRIM005X Crime and the London Underworld syllabus. 

The University of Westminster is at the heart of London's business community and has been teaching all areas of business for nearly 80 years. We pride ourselves on having one of the most international business schools in the UK and being a founder member of the International Business School Alliance with a network of international partnerships.

Our staff are at the forefront of innovation in learning and teaching, developing new approaches which are student-centred and focused on preparing you for the real needs of a changing professional workplace.

4MARK003X Fundamentals of Marketing – Session 1

Level 4

This module gives an overview of the marketing function and some insight into its practice and associated ethical issues. Examining the range of uses of marketing in different types of organisations, students become familiar with investigating the overall socio-economic and business contexts in which marketers operate. The module introduces themes that will be developed in subsequent modules, such as consumer and organisational buyer behaviour and some of the ‘tools’ available to marketers.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4MARK003X Fundamentals of Marketing syllabus. 

4MARK005W Understanding consumers - Session 1

Level 4

This module aims to provide a good understanding of consumer behaviour concepts, theories, and how marketing managers utilise them to design their marketing strategies in order to influence consumers’ decision-making process in their product and/or service purchase process. The application of consumer behaviours will be examined in the context of Business to Consumer (B2C) and Business to Business (B2B).

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4MARK005W Understanding consumers syllabus.

4BUSS008X Global Business Environment – Session 2

Level 4 The module offers students the opportunity to learn about business organisations, their purposes, structures and governance in a global context. At the same time students will study the cultural differences within and between business organisations and the ethical constraints facing these organisations. As part of the process of learning about business organisations students will learn effective group and leadership skills and develop the skills necessary to structure a coherent report with conclusions linked to evidence.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4BUSS008X Global Business Environment syllabus. 

4MARK006X The Power of Brands – Session 2

Level 4

Creating and managing successful brands is a source of competitive advantage to modern organizations. This module provides students with the fundamental understanding of brands, brand positioning and brand portfolio management. It engages students by practical demonstration of the effective use of marketing and branding tools. At the heart of an effective brand strategy, is its seamless integration with the marketing mix. A successful brand plan does not only address how the brand will be communicated but also how it will be protected.

Site visits: Students will visit the Museum of Brands and the Peckham Market.

Note: these visits are subject to change.

For detailed information about this module, please refer to the 4MARK006X The Power of Brands syllabus. 

The University of Westminster’s College of Design, Creative and Digital Industries has an impressive reputation, with one of the most varied arts and media portfolios in Europe. Inspired by London, all classes are hands-on and cover areas such as photography, television and culture. During the programme you will have access to the extensive, state-of-the-art facilities at our Harrow Campus, equipped with high-end professional studios, workshops, laboratories, editing suites, industry-standard TV studios and specialist equipment.

Session 1

Session 2

Please note that the tuition fee costs are mandatory and the housing and social programme costs are optional. If you are paying fees directly to Westminster, there is a payment section in the online application form where you can make a transaction via debit or credit card or via bank transfer. The payment instructions are available in the application form. Please note that all payments must be made in GBP.

Tuition fee

One session: £1,970

Both sessions: £3,640

Housing

For detailed information about our summer University halls, please check out the “Housing” dropdown section below.

Social programme

One session only (one or two): £250
Both sessions (one and two): £500

You can choose to stay in the University of Westminster student accommodation at either Alexander Fleming or Harrow Hall of Residence. All our rooms:

• Are single rooms
• Have secure swipe-card entry systems and 24-hour security
• Have wireless internet
• Are located for easy access to our central London teaching facilities and state-of-the-art Media, Arts and Design studios
• Have shared kitchens where students can prepare their meals. Kitchens are stocked with basic utensils for your use
• All linens and bedding (including sheets, a pillow and a blanket) along with a towel are provided. These are changed weekly

Arty and urban vibe: Alexander Fleming Hall

Green and peaceful: Harrow Hall

Please note that spaces are limited and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis – you may not be assigned your first choice and due to high demand we may need to operate a waiting list and/or direct you to external accommodation providers. Students attending both sessions of the Summer School will be given priority regarding choice of accommodation where possible.

For further details of the University of Westminster’s student accommodation, please check out our FAQs section below.

If you would prefer to find your own private accommodation, please visit our private rented accommodation page.

Who is eligible to apply?

We can accept applicants:

• who will have graduated from high school by the time they join the programme
• current university students
• university graduates

To apply for the summer school, you must provide evidence of your academic standing:

• if you have completed high school or equivalent, we require your High School Diploma or IB or your A Level results if you are a UK student
• if you are about to graduate from high school, we require your High School Transcript or IB
• if you are a current university student, we require your current university transcript
• if you are not a current student, we require your last academic record

Please note: evidence must be verified digital official document or either the original or an official certified copy of the original.

What are the English language requirements?

If English is not your first language you need to provide official proof of your English language ability to ensure you can cope with the demands of the course. We accept IELTS level of 6.0 (each section’s score to be at least 5.5.), TOEFL 78 (reading:18, listening:17, speaking:20, writing:17) or equivalent.

We are happy to consider a variety of English language tests (Cambridge, DuoLingo, Pearsons, etc) and other proofs of English language knowledge. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any queries.

What are the academic requirements?

The academic requirements for acceptance onto our summer school depend on the country you currently study in. If you are not sure whether you meet our entry requirements, please feel free to email us at [email protected].

If you have graduated from high school, but are not yet attending University we can also consider an application from you and will advise on a case by case basis.

If you are currently studying at a university, or have graduated from one, we are looking for the following:

USA

2.5 GPA or higher.

Italy

Minimum average grade of 21 on a 30 scale.

Germany

3.5 GPA or lower.

Spain

Minimum average grade of 6 (Aprobado) (on a 1-10 scale)

Denmark

Minimum average grade of 4.

Mexico

Minimum average grade of 70/100 or 7.0/10.0.

Hong Kong

Minimum average grade of 2.5-2.7 GPA out of 4 depending on the University.

Australia

Minimum average grade of 4.5 GPA or least a credit pass (60%+).

India

Minimum overall average of 55% or CGPA 6.0 out of 10.0 depending on the university.

If your country is not on this list please contact us for further information.

The deadlines to apply are as follows:

• Summer Sessions 1 & 2 and Session 1: 23 April 
• Summer Session 2: 1 May

You can apply independently or via one of our partner universities or providers.

If you are applying independently, please complete the application form for the session(s) you are interested in. These will connect you to our online application system. You will be prompted to set up a username and password.

If you are applying via one of our partner universities or providers, please check with them before applying, as you may need approval from them to apply or you may need to apply in a different way. 

Apply now

Applications are open, please apply via one of the following online application forms:

Session 1

Session 1 and 2

Session 2

Studying abroad on the summer school is living the dream. New friends, new city, new you. You are not going to change but you discover so much about yourself when you get out of your own world.

Maia Stasevich, Argentina

The summer school helped me to make a path for my future career.

Tanvi Jain, India

A life changing experience I would trade for no other.

Mark Eskew, USA

A memorable learning experience together with the beauty of London.

Yiu Law, Hong Kong

What will your London Story be?

Acceptance to Study Policy, Withdrawal Policy, and Terms & Conditions

Read detailed information about the Summer School’s Acceptance to Study Policy, Withdrawal Policy and Terms & Conditions.

Free events offered to all students

There is also an option to sign-up for our fee-paying Social Programme which enables the summer school students to experience the best bits of London and England while they are studying with us.

Session 1 social programme 

Session 2 social programme 

Do I need to provide original documents with my application?

If we do not have a partnership with your home institution or you are not joining us through a specialist study abroad provider we partner with, we require either an official transcript uploaded with your application, or an unofficial transcript verified by your home university. If providing us with an unofficial transcript, this can be verified via a verification system or by your home university emailing us a copy of your academic transcript directly.

English language certificates have different verification requirements.  If your test has an option to be shared with us via the relevant verification portal please do so at time of application.

What is the difference between applying directly to Westminster, or through a provider?

Applicants who apply directly to the University of Westminster are responsible for making all travel arrangements to London, including to their accommodation.

The providers that we work with often offer a complete package from the time of application through to the completion and receipt of transcripts. Provider packages vary but may include flights, airport pick-ups, accommodation, transport passes, social events, and the services of an on-site resident director.

Applicants should consider their level of need and comfort and select the route that is best for them.

My home university doesn’t have a partnership with Westminster, can I still apply?

Yes, we welcome applications from independent students.

What English qualifications do you accept?

Students for whom English is not the first language should provide a valid English language certificate with their application. For more details, please check out the Entry requirements section above.

When are tuition fees due?

Students applying through a provider do not need to pay any fees directly to the University of Westminster.

All independent applicants are required to pay their fees prior to submitting their application and proof of payment must be submitted with the application. Payment instructions are given in the application form.

What happens if I withdraw? Will I get a refund?

Read detailed information about the Summer School’s Acceptance to Study Policy, Withdrawal Policy and Terms & Conditions.

What happens if my module is cancelled?

Unfortunately, occasionally modules do not meet their minimum requirement. In this case, we automatically assign students to their alternative module. It is therefore important that prior approval is granted if the modules are needed for transfer back to your home institution. In the exceptional case that both the preferred and alternate module are not running, we will inform you as soon as possible, with the option to withdraw with no penalty prior to 15 May.

Please note that the University of Westminster is not responsible for any travel costs incurred should the student decide to withdraw.

Can I take two modules at once?

All modules run at the same time, so it is only possible to take one module per session. You should expect to be in class for four hours a day, four days a week.

Can I change my module once the Session has begun?

You may, in certain circumstances, change your module after attending the first lecture. Due to the fast-pace of the teaching, it is not possible to make changes beyond this point. If you need to change modules after you have submitted an application, but prior to the start of the Summer School, please email the team at [email protected].

Will I get academic credit for the Summer School?

All Summer School modules are worth 20 UK credits. If you wish to transfer credit back to your home institution may need prior approval for this and should discuss this with your academic advisors prior to application.

When will I receive my transcript?

Results are published in mid-September. Summer School transcripts are normally issued 1-2 weeks after the result publication date. 

Do I have to stay in the University halls of residence?

Each year we reserve a number of places in our halls of residence for Summer School students, which can be selected as part of the application process. Students may also make their own arrangements, especially if they have friends or family in London. We also have a list of private rented accommodation.

Can I arrive early or stay longer than the Session?

The Education Abroad team make reservations on the student’s behalf from the 2pm on the Saturday at the start of each session, to 10am on the Saturday at the end of each session. Students wishing to arrive earlier or extend their stay should contact the Summer Accommodation team for availability, remembering to mention that they are participating in the Summer School.

Do I need to pack bed linen or cooking utensils?

Students choosing to stay in the University halls of residence will be provided with a bedding pack upon arrival. Shared kitchens are equipped with the essentials for meal preparation, including cutlery, crockery, saucepans and cooking utensils.

Does it include a meal plan?

All University of Westminster accommodation has access to a shared kitchen, for students to prepare their own meals. While there are coffee shops and cafeterias on campus, we do not offer a meal plan. The Education Abroad team will provide students with information on local amenities including supermarkets and reasonably priced dining options when they arrive in London.

Do the residences have wifi?

Yes. In addition to wifi throughout the campuses, all University halls of residence have wireless internet access.

Can I sign up to individual events on the Social Programme?

The Social Programme is only offered as a package; it is not currently possible to sign up for individual events. We have selected a great range of events to help you make the most of your time in the UK. If you’re making plans, check the dates of events.