Exploring the Universe and Engineering the Future (Physics, Technology and Engineering)

The University of York's Pre-University Summer School is a residential programme designed for students aged 16-18 to get a taste of what it means to study at a top university in the UK.

The programme combines a chosen academic subject option with co-curricular sessions on academic, intercultural and employability skills and a fun-packed schedule of cultural and social visits and activities.

Exploring the Universe and Engineering the Future:

From the most fundamental building blocks of the universe to cutting edge technologies, physics and engineering help us to both understand the world around us and make positive changes to our environment.

On this short course, you will explore the full scale of the cosmos, from the smallest particles to stars and galaxies. You will learn about cutting edge research that may offer solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing issues, from climate change to healthcare. You will discover how new technologies are changing our everyday lives, from immersive audiovisual experiences to space robotics. You will also have the opportunity to put your learning into action with hands-on lab experiments and engineering challenges, giving you an insight into what studying physics and engineering at university is like.

Course leader

This course is offered by the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, which brings together physicists and engineers to push the frontiers of knowledge, foster innovation and meet the grand challenges facing society.

Target group

The programme is open to all students aged 16-18 who are currently in secondary or further education. Participants must have had their 16th birthday before the programme starts.

Course aim

The programme is designed to help students prepare for university study through:
- an in-depth exploration of the chosen academic subject option and the teaching and learning methods at undergraduate level
- the development of key academic skills needed for success at university
- intercultural training and employability skills
- university preparation sessions and insight from current students

Credits info

This is a non-credit programme however participants will be guaranteed a typical offer for undergraduate study at the University of York upon successful completion of the programme*

*Exclusions and eligibility criteria apply, please see the website for more details.

Fee info

GBP 3750: Apply by the 29th March to take advantage of our early bird programme fee. The programme fee from 30th March is £3,995.

The programme fee includes all tuition and course materials, accommodation for 13 nights, catering, transport and entry fees for trips and visits, free time activities, certificate of completion, Wi-Fi on campus and in York city centre, and 24/7 staffing and support.