Philosophy for 15 – 17 Year Olds
- Level(s) of Study: Short course
- Course Fee:
£580
- Start Date(s): 26 July 2027
- Duration: Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm, one week
- Study Mode(s): Part-time
- Campus: City Campus
- Entry Requirements: More information
Introduction:
What makes a good life? Do we really have free will? Can we ever know what is true? Should technology have limits?
Philosophy is the study of some of humanity's biggest and most fascinating questions, encouraging us to think critically, challenge assumptions and see the world from new perspectives.
This course offers an exciting introduction to philosophy and invites curious minds to explore timeless questions and contemporary issues through discussion, debate and critical thinking.
Whether you're interested in ethics, politics, science, artificial intelligence, psychology, law or simply enjoy asking "why?", this course will help you develop the skills to analyse ideas, construct arguments and engage confidently with complex issues.
Throughout the week, you'll take part in interactive workshops, thought experiments, group discussions and problem-solving activities that demonstrate how philosophical thinking can be applied to real-world challenges. You'll explore ideas that have shaped human history while considering how philosophy continues to influence modern society.
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You’ll be part of a community that promotes discussion and collaboration, and encourages experimentation and the constant swapping of ideas. -
With a limited class size you'll have the one-to-one attention you need to ensure you leave with the skills to continue developing your ideas. -
Benefit from learning with an experienced tutor who has established links to the profession and significant experience working in varied practices. -
On successful completion of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance from a well-respected University
Doing your Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award?
This course can count as your Gold DofE Residential Award and is an amazing opportunity to make new friends and memories.
DofE participants must book both the course and accommodation on campus for this to count towards your Gold Award.
You must also attend the social events that are planned on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and you must plan and attend your own social activities with other participants on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
What you’ll study
This course introduces the key ideas, questions and debates that have shaped philosophical thought, exploring topics such as ethics and moral decision-making, knowledge and truth, free will, identity, consciousness, and justice. You'll also develop your skills in logic, reasoning and critical thinking while examining influential philosophers, contemporary debates, the philosophy of technology and artificial intelligence, and the role of philosophy in everyday life.
During this course, you will:
- understand some of the key questions and concepts in philosophy
- develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- learn how to evaluate arguments and evidence effectively
- gain confidence in discussion, debate and presenting ideas
- explore a range of philosophical perspectives on contemporary issues
- strengthen your reasoning and problem-solving abilities
- experience university-style learning and academic enquiry.
Philosophy is unlike any other subject. Rather than memorising facts or learning set answers, philosophy encourages you to question, investigate and evaluate ideas for yourself. It provides the tools to think more clearly, communicate more persuasively and approach complex problems with confidence.
This summer school offers a unique opportunity to experience how philosophical thinking can be applied to some of the most pressing issues of our time. From the ethics of artificial intelligence and climate change to questions of justice, identity and truth, you'll explore topics that sit at the heart of contemporary society.
One of the most exciting aspects of philosophy is that there are rarely simple answers. Instead, you'll learn how to ask better questions, think more rigorously and engage constructively with differing opinions, skills that are valuable not only at university but throughout life and across a wide range of careers.
Social events
We appoint NTU Student Ambassadors who host social events on Monday and Wednesday evening to help you make friends across the whole of our summer school programme for 15 – 17 year olds, which are free to attend.
How you’re taught
The course reflects the discussion-based and inquiry-led approach that characterises degree-level philosophy. You'll be encouraged to challenge ideas, examine different viewpoints and develop your own well-reasoned conclusions.
Contact hours
You will receive 25 contact hours of quality tuition with an experienced tutor.
Careers and employability
The course is designed to give you a real experience of university life, make new friends who share similar interests and develop your portfolio so that ultimately you can make an informed decision about your future.
On successful completion of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance, which will further enhance your CV.
Campus and facilities
Delivered in the intellectually stimulating environment of Nottingham Trent University's School of Social Sciences, you’ll work in modern teaching spaces and quiet study environments to develop your ideas and writing.
You will receive an email one week before the course starts with joining instructions on where to go for the first day.
You’ll also have access to our library to use outside of your short course; whilst you can’t reserve or take away books, you are welcome to use them as a resource for research and referencing.
Entry requirements
This course is open to anyone with an interest in exploring big ideas, discussing different perspectives and developing their critical thinking skills. Curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to engage in thoughtful discussion are the only requirements.
You must be 15, 16 or 17 years old at the time of the course in order to attend.
For international students
If your parent or carer is not based in the UK, you are required to provide details of a UK-based guardian who can act as a contact in the event of an emergency. The UK-based guardian can be a nominated friend or relative living in the UK, or a guardian appointed through a guardianship organisation that offers such services.
The Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students (AEGIS) runs a programme for the inspection and accreditation of guardianship organisations in the UK. It is recommended that parents/carers of overseas students consult the AEGIS website for details of their recommended guardianship organisations. Nottingham Trent University provides these details for information purposes only. We are not able to recommend or endorse any guardianship organisations available through AEGIS.
Fees and funding
The fee for this course is £580.
Payment is due at the time of booking.
You can pay for this course in two instalments, allowing you to spread the cost while securing your place early.
An initial payment of £290 is taken at the time of booking, with the second instalment due one month before the course begins.
Read the terms and conditions of booking
Need accommodation?
Accommodation can be booked separately to the course; the rooms are only a few minutes’ walk from our studios and classrooms, and cost £280 per week, which is ideal if you're looking to be based in Nottingham's city centre and want an economical place to stay.
These are single rooms with a private bathroom in shared apartments in Nottingham Trent University’s city campus accommodation.
If you're aged 16 or 17 then you can stay unaccompanied with agreement from a parent/guardian (to support safeguarding, all guests aged 16 and 17 will be accommodated together in the same halls of residence and there is a dedicated Warden available).
If you're aged 15 then you can stay as long as you are accompanied by a parent/guardian (you must book two separate rooms and let us know so we can place you in rooms next to each other).
How to apply
You can book this course via the NTU online store:
26 - 30 July 2027, Monday to Friday, 10 am - 4 pm
Browse all our summer courses for 15 – 17 year olds.
Any questions?
Contact the short course team:
- Email: creativeshortcourses@ntu.ac.uk
- Tel: +44 (0)115 848 2813
