International Summer School at UCA

UCA is delighted to host 2 Summer programmes for 2025.  The content of both programmes will be identical in course content and study trips.  Please see the dates below and pick an option that suits you best:

• Programme 1: Saturday 12th - Sunday 27th July.  Ages 16 - 25 years, independent and group applications welcome.

• Programme 2: Saturday 2nd - Sunday 17th August.  Ages 16 - 17 years, group applications only with an appointed chaperone from sending institution.  Ages 18 - 25 years, independent and group applications welcome.

The total cost of UCA’s International Summer School is £2,600.  However, we are pleased to offer an early bird discounted fee of £2,340 to any students who pay their fee in full by Sunday 30th March 2025. Students who pay after 30th March 2025 will be charged the full fee.

Each fee includes a £500 non-refundable deposit to be paid as soon as possible after submitting your application, with the final deadline of 30th March 2025.

The remaining balance must be paid in full by the following dates:

• Early Bird fee: £1840 by Sunday 30th March 2025.
• Full fee: £2100 by Sunday 11th May 2025.  

When you submit your application form, you will receive an instant confirmation email which will contain the link to UCA's online store where you can make your deposit payment.  You can also use the same link to access the store to pay your outstanding balance.

• 2 weeks of specialised academic teaching.  
• Accommodation for the duration of the programme.  
• A full orientation programme. 
• Free airport pick-up and drop-off service between UCA's campus and any London based airport.
• Breakfast (Mon–Fri) and lunch (Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri) in the University’s refectory. 
• Return travel to cultural visits including any pre planned, scheduled entry fees. 
• A full programme of social evening activities.
• UCA welcome pack, International Summer School t-shirt and course materials.  

*Additional costs may apply to certain optional events.  Please note: Travel to the UK, visa costs and other personal travel and living expenses are not included, e.g. evening meals and any food purchased on study trip days.  We suggest that students should allow a budget of approximately £20 - £50 per day for additional food and drink. 

Please note chaperones are welcome to attend both of our summer programmes.  Educational institutions who send a group of 10 or more students will be entitled to send 1 free chaperone to accompany their group.  For programme 2, groups of, or groups that include, under 18s will be required to provide an appointed chaperone from the sending institution regardless of the group size for the application to be accepted.

For both programmes, groups of 9 or less students that require chaperone supervision or for any additional chaperones wishing to attend, please note that due to limited space availability, a fee of £750 is payable.

All refunds will be issued at the discretion of the Summer School team and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  Should you need to withdraw at any point please contact us on [email protected] to advise.

Students who withdraw having made only their deposit payment will not receive a refund.

Students who withdraw after paying their fee in full, will be given a full refund less the £500 nonrefundable deposit.  

Students who are forced to withdraw due to a visa refusal will receive 100% refund, including their deposit, less a £100 admin fee.  If you do apply for a refund due to a visa refusal, this can only be acknowledged where evidence of the visa refusal is provided.

Refunds are available until the start of your chosen programme. 

Please complete your application form by no later than Sunday 30th March 2025 and make your fee payments by the dates outlined above. 

Please ensure that you meet our entry requirements and read, understand and agree to our terms and conditions when you complete the application form.  

Programme 1 - Ages 16 - 25 years - Independent and group bookings welcome.

Programme 2 - Ages 16 - 17 years - Group bookings only with accompanying chaperone.  Ages 18 - 25 years - Independent and group bookings welcome.

Group applications should be submitted by the sending institution on behalf of all students.  Independent and group bookings can both be submitted via the link above.

When you submit your application form, you will receive an instant confirmation email which will include the link to UCA's online store where you can make your deposit payment.  You can also use the same link to pay the outstanding balance.  Please make sure to check your spam/junk inbox for this email.

Please note, your deposit payment will reserve your space but your place on the course is not guaranteed until full payment and requested accompanying documentation is received.

Course Aims 

If you are looking for a boost to take your creative portfolio to the next level or jump start your arts education application process, this course will support you in developing a portfolio that stands out against the rest.  You'll learn about UCA's content requirements for portfolios and how to build your own portfolio as you move forward in your creative career.

You'll explore a broad range of challenging creative activities enabling you to develop an insight into where your personal strengths lie and what you most enjoy.  This is the perfect preparatory course if you're considering further creative art and design study.

Course Overview   

The structure of this course will develop your visual language skills and your ability to turn what you see and think into a cohesive personal visual statement.  The nature of the course will vary slightly for each individual depending on the way in which you explore your own creativity.

Throughout the course you will learn how visual language can be used to tell stories and explain ideas.  You'll be guided in developing your own unique perspective across different creative practices through workshops that range from traditional printmaking to contemporary digital techniques.  This programme is especially designed to develop your practical and creative skills, challenging you to move closer towards your creative goals. 

At the end of the course you will: 

• have explored your potential within a range of art and design disciplines and processes.
• have increased confidence in discussing and presenting your creative practice in a visual format.
• possess the foundations to continue your creative journey beyond the course.

Course Aims 

If you have a sharp mind for strategy and are looking to combine your creative flare with tested industry techniques then this is the course for you.  Perfect for anyone looking to turn their passion into a career in the creative business sector, this course will expand your understanding and provide a foot hold when getting started in this multi-million pound industry.

Over an intensive 2 weeks, this course will enable you to further develop your creative management skills and business acumen, supporting professional development in your preferred creative industry.  It will help you understand the essential link between creativity, business and design.  Through a series of lectures, workshops and creative projects you will develop the core skills of creative business and critical thinking, then apply these to your own reimagined creative business proposal.

Course Overview 

You will explore the creative industries, develop confidence in creative business and your understanding of how trends emerge and are identified.  You will be introduced to the concepts, theories and models utilised in marketing and communications, learning to understand the importance of the consumer relationship, which is the focus of marketing and business strategy, as well as the creative researching and thinking techniques which support these.

To encourage your experimentation, creativity and enterprise, you will take part in creative workshops using our extensive facilities, which are available to all students, supported by our skilled technicians.  At the end of the course, you will have developed your own unique response to specific creative business challenges in line with industry standards.

At the end of the course you will: 

• possess improved marketing and business strategies skills. 
• have developed confidence in creative business and critical thinking. 
• be able to deliver a creative business presentation. 

Course Aims 

During this course you will explore the creative and technical principles of film production for a variety of media platforms.  From concept and planning, to technical lighting, camerawork and post production, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the key skills needed to successfully navigate the world of moving image media. 

On this hands-on 2 week crash course, you will use industry standard techniques and technology whilst learning from our experienced academics and technical tutors to challenge your skills and creative multimedia.   

Course Overview 

You will be introduced to the ideas, processes and skills needed to develop a concept from pre-production, through to the editing and post production process.  While gaining practical experience on a film shoot, you will learn the essential principles of lighting, sound and framing, as well as operating the film and sound equipment yourself.  This will develop your confidence and competence in film production.

Working in a small group, you will be challenged to produce a short film that captures an idea through the visual techniques you have learned and communicates an effective micro narrative.  Resulting in an exciting addition to any show reel!

At the end of the course you will: 

• be able to demonstrate a wide range of multimedia techniques utilising appropriate industry standard equipment. 
• have produced a short film that demonstrates your skill.
• have developed a unique project in your portfolio for future applications. 

Course Aims 

Over this 2 week course you will explore the fundamental principles of interior architecture and design through both 2 and 3 dimensional exploration.  This dynamic programme will enable you to design and construct simple structures, consider the relationship to the human body, materials and physical presence.  During this process your understanding and work will be developed with the support of our talented academic team through intentional feedback and exploration of historical architectural landmarks.  After completion, you will have the opportunity to record your newly designed structures through professional photographic techniques, supported by technical specialist in preparation for presentation at the final exhibition.

Course Overview 

You will be introduced to a range of creative processes and techniques to help you develop your design thinking.  Combining drawing, photography and basic 3D assembly, you will explore scaled ideas for a structure in response to design challenges.  As you progress, you will move up in scale to start testing the detail of your design, including its purpose, stability, material, communication and expression.  These essential tests will support and define your project direction as you move up to full scale.

The finished structure might take the form of an interior element, architectural feature or a small architectural structure.  Once complete, you will capture this in a photoshoot.  The course will culminate in an exhibition of your interior architecture and design project with a portfolio documentation of supporting work.

At the end of the course you will: 

• understand and apply the principles of interior and architectural design. 
• have developed a 3D model. 
• have engaged in practical workshops and themed projects. 
• have developed a unique project in your portfolio for future applications.

Course Aims 

This course is dedicated to the rapid development of early career designers and design students committed to enhancing their knowledge of the fundamentals of design and challenging your perspective on visual communication.  It sees to explore and expand the deign relationship between concept and communication.

Through a series of experimental workshops in making we challenge you to rethink and reimagine flat digital design aesthetics in our authentic printmaking studios, supported by our team of expert technical practitioners.  Explore depth of composition and digitisation in our industry standard studios.  Get professional level feedback from our experienced academic tutors in layering type and image to create dynamic and compelling professional outcomes that will set you apart at any interview.

Course Overview 

You will work with industry level design practitioners from our academic team through a series of hands-on practical workshops.  Explore the relationship between foundational visual language techniques and how these can be intentionally applied to create effective communication through typography, image treatment and layout.

Working with abode creative cloud software, you will discover ways to adapt and enhance traditional print and practical work through sensitive digital processes.  You will receive targeted feedback to support the development of polished professional outcomes, expanding your design knowledge and tuning your aesthetic judgment.   

At the end of the course you will: 

• have enhanced your skills in typography and image production.
• have developed your analogue and digital design skills. 
• have developed an example of interview ready work.

Course Aims 

This course is designed to support the development of your own distinctive visual illustrative style by expanding your understanding of visual language.

It is the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore expressive mark making, building impactful colour palettes and wondering how to present your work more professionally.  Developing your voice as an illustrator is central to defining a visual niche and moving away from replicating existing styles.  This exciting 2 week programme will go beyond drawing to challenge your creative practice and extend your understanding through traditional European printmaking and digital software techniques, hosted in our beautiful workshop and studio spaces, supported by experience and enthusiastic practitioners.

Course Overview 

You will be introduced to a variety of visual considerations, exploring the relationship between image and concept through colour, texture and expressive mark making.  You will develop your own skills and unique stylistic approach through a range of traditional print making techniques, exploring the transformative nature of process.

Through digital layering of different techniques, combining image and type, you will develop your work to produce professionally presented outcomes that showcase your illustrative ability to its best effect. 

At the end of the course you will: 

• have produced an example of your work to a high professional standard.
• have developed your understanding of your own distinctive visual style.
• have explored a variety of different processes and techniques.

Course Aims 

Are you looking for an opportunity to develop a unique and stylised visual perspective across still and moving imagery with the support of expert technicians?  Whether for social media, business applications or creative expression, this is the course for you!

This programme is committed to supporting the development of your individual aesthetic approach to the art-direction of imagery through access to industry standard studio spaces, world class expertise and high-end professional equipment.  Everything you need to learn how to see the world around you through a different lens!

Course Overview 

In this eye opening 2 week programme you will develop a set of still moving image assets with a clear and consistent visual perspective, rooted in creative communication.  You will get a crash course in framing, composition and styling whilst developing your understanding of how they impact your message.  You will experiment with how changing visual style creates and effects mood, explore the power of perception and use both physical and digital techniques to develop your outcomes.

At the end of the course you will: 

• have developed art direction skills that are applicable to image creation at any level.
• have enhanced your practical and technical skills in cinematography. 
• have examples of still and moving imagery in a clear style. 

Course Aims 

This course explores the exciting world of 360ᵒ media through traditional techniques and cutting edge technology.  We invite you to join us in exploring the unique spacial and narrative challenges of designing for and storytelling in this bold new space.  A valuable programme for those interested in game design, film, visual communication or exploring the potential of this technology.

Utilising virtual reality interface alongside multi-directional capture technologies, you will discover the possibilities, limitations and challenges of 3D scanning and working in 360ᵒ, informed by the expertise of practitioners in relevant professional fields.  During the course you will work with our expert technicians to plan, develop and create your own 360ᵒ experience.  Creating an unusual outcome which will stand out in any creative application process.

Course Overview 

360ᵒ media is, at its heart, a multi disciplinary space.  During this compelling 2 week exploration you will develop your understanding of established visual language, narrative and storytelling devices through traditional media workshops with our expert film and media technicians.  This grounding will enable you to effectively design, plan and develop a creatively rich 360ᵒ experience.

You will learn about the scope of 360ᵒ graphics and the differences between outward and inward facing 360ᵒ experiences.  Explore how 2-dimentional film, imagery and design techniques translate to 3D space and experiment with creating 3D visuals through a variety of techniques.  You will develop and execute an engaging professional 360ᵒ outcome that showcases your new knowledge with the support of established practitioners. 

At the end of the course you will: 

• have developed a creative response to 360ᵒ media.
• better understand both traditional and cutting edge techniques. 
• have developed confidence in working with and communicating about 360ᵒ media.

Course Aims 

Interested in traditional craft practice and reconnecting with the making process?  This course might just be for you!  Explore material process and learn to work with the beautiful natural materials of clay and glass under the supervision of our expert technicians in this sensory rich, tactile leaning programme.

On this course you will discover the rewarding creative possibility of collaborating directly with raw materials using all beginner friendly techniques.  Discover the limitations and potential of this fascinating world of 3-dimensional making in our established workshops.  Exploring traditional methods of moulding and shaping before transforming your work though the heat of the kiln into a unique final piece.

Course Overview 

Our skilled practitioners will guide you in learning the basic principles and skills of safely working in glass and ceramics.  Getting hands on experience, you will apply and develop your new knowledge by shaping and layering glass, working with the heat of the kiln in ways you may not have previously considered.

Throwing clay on the wheel you will discover new tools and techniques to move and control the process while getting direct feedback on form to rapidly enhance your technical ability.  You will expand your understanding of materials, shape and process, while developing your own unique final outcome through a multi-step making process.  Supported by experienced tutors every step of the way, you will be guided from first concept through to final finishing to prepare your final piece for exhibition and documentation.

At the end of the course you will: 

• have increased confidence working with glass and ceramics.
• have direct experience of working in studio and workshop spaces. 
• have developed a unique outcome using multi-step glass and ceramics process.

England's vibrant capital and the UK's largest city, London offers dynamic experiences for first-time and returning visitors alike.  Explore iconic museums and galleries, tour historic landmarks like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, catch a West End show, visit Abbey Road or enjoy shopping at Oxford Street, Camden Market or Piccadilly Circus.  With the addition of countless dining options, there's something for every taste!

Our programme includes guided group tours led by UCA staff to help you discover London in the way you want, plus free time to explore on your own.

Brighton blends the charm of a traditional English seaside with a vibrant, quirky city vibe.  Known for its fun and inclusive atmosphere, there's something for everyone!  Enjoy classic fish and chips on the pebble beach, savor an ice cream on the pier and explore 'The Lanes' with unique shops offering art, crafts, antiques and more - we're sure you'll find something special.

Alongside its lively city center and beach, Brighton offers museums, galleries and historic sites all within walking distance.  You can also opt to visit the stunning Seven Sisters cliffs, a short bus ride away in the South Downs National Park, which has been the filming location for many films and tv series'.

Famed for its prestigious University, Oxford is an historic city with striking Gothic and Baroque architecture, emodying classic English culture.  Known as a backdrop for films like Harry Potter and Wonka, and inspiring tales like The Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit, Oxford is steeped in literary and cinematic heritage.

Our visit includes a guided walking tour with a local expert, who will share the city's rich history and take you to iconic filming spots and literary landmarks.  After the tour, you can choose to further explore Oxford independently or head to Bicester Village, a designer outlet just 20 minutes away, for discounted shopping.

We are pleased to welcome all students to our International Summer School.

Our courses assume little, to no, prior knowledge of your chosen subject before you arrive, however if you do have a basic understanding this will also not be a disadvantage to you.

Whilst UCA does not request you to provide evidence of your English Language proficiency as part of your application, please note that all studio sessions, workshops, study trips and evening activities will be delivered 100% in English, therefore to ensure you are able to get the most out of your experience and your time in the UK, we ask that you have a basic proficiency of listening and speaking in English so that you can settle and feel comfortable during your stay.

UCA staff will be on hand and available to you 24/7 whilst you are in the UK and will support you in many aspects.  For example, we offer:

• a contact number for each member of the summer school team, available 24/7 from the moment you land in the UK.
• a security presence on campus, including out of hours for accommodation.
• a free airport pick-up and drop-off service between UCA and any London based airport at the start and end of your programme.
• free wifi available on campus and in your accommodation.
• information pack provided in your accommodation to include information on the onsite laundry facilities, local international food shops, local sites and attractions, local events and activities running during your programme.
• guidance and assistance in planning your personal trips and activities during free time, if required.

Included in your fee is a door to door meet-and-greet service between UCA's Farnham campus and any London based airport.  This service will be available for the duration of each weekend at the start and end of your programme to provide you with the flexibility to arrive and depart either on the Saturday or Sunday to best fit with your travel plans.

Upon arrival to campus you will be met by a member of the summer school team who will welcome you and guide you to your accommodation.

Staff will also be on site upon your departure to ensure you make your transfer on time for your onward journey. 

Specific details about this service will be shared later in the year.  

If you decide to travel outside of the dates and times that we offer the service, you will be required to make and pay for your own arrangements.  The Summer School team can assist you with planning this. 

Visas

Before leaving home, it is your responsibility to research and implement your own visa requirements, make sure you are fully aware of the process involved and allow enough time to make your visa application and to have it approved and in place ready for your departure date. 

Please be advised that UCA summer school team are not permitted to provide any visa advice.  We would recommend that in the first instance you check the UK government website and if you are still unclear, email the summer school team who can forward your enquiry to UCA's visa compliance team.

Flights 

The cost of the International Summer School does not include flights. You are responsible for booking your own flights to and from the UK.  UCA cannot accept responsibility or assist if you miss your flight, if your flight is cancelled or if you are required to cancel your flight.  

Deadlines

As an attendee of UCA's International Summer School, you will be requested to provide various information and documentation as part of the application process.  These will be requested as needed and each request will be accompanied with a deadline by which the information needs to be received by the summer school team.  Please ensure that you meet each given deadline so that no delays are caused to you in the process.  All requested information must be received prior to the start of your chosen programme.

UK laws

The UK has strict laws regarding legal ages.  It is against the law for individuals aged 17 and under to purchase alcohol/cigarettes/ e-cigarettes, to have alcohol/cigarettes/e-cigarettes purchased on their behalf and to drink alcohol in licensed premises.  

It is also against the law for individuals of any age to smoke in indoor and enclosed public spaces.  Most venues, including UCA's campus has designated smoking areas.

Students and chaperones attending UCA's International summer school are expected to fully comply with these laws for the duration of the Summer School.  If the laws in your home country differ to those stated above and state a higher age limit, whilst in the UK students will be held to UK laws only, should a parent wish for their child to still observe their home laws, this must be communicated to the UCA Summer School team prior to the students' arrival.

If you have any questions, please contact us on [email protected] 

Whilst we always hope for a lovely hot summer in the UK, temperatures can vary usually with a high of around 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit).     

When packing, keep in mind that study trips will involve a lot off walking, and the weather in England is changeable day by day so layered clothing is highly recommended.  Below is a list of essential and suggested items for you to include when preparing for your trip.

Essential:

• Towel for showering.  One hand towel will be provided in your bathroom, you will need to bring any other towels that you may require.
• Phone charger.
• UK travel adaptor for electrical items.  The UK uses 3 pronged plugs with a standard voltage of 230v.
• Bag that will be comfortable to carry around on day trips.  We recommend a backpack with padded straps.
• Comfortable shoes.
• Prescribed medications.
• Nonprescription medications.  E.g. for hay fever and travel sickness.  If you have a brand/dosage that you use regularly at home, we suggest bringing it with you as you know it works for you.  Nonprescription medications are available in the UK but may differ in dosage and some cannot be sold to individuals under the age of 18.  UCA staff will not be able to purchase them on your behalf.

Suggested:

• Thin comfortable clothing that you can layer to accommodate changing temperatures.
• Thick jumper/lightweight jacket/coat for evenings and cooler days.
• Waterproof coat/umbrella (just in case!)
• Sunglasses/hat for long periods in the sun.
• Re-usable water bottle.  Tap water in England is drinkable and there are plenty of water stations around campus where you can refill for free.
• Personal toiletries and hairdryer.
• Some cash.  Everywhere in the UK accepts card payments so you will only need a small amount of cash.  Please remember to tell your bank that you will be travelling overseas so that you don't encounter any issues with card payments.
• Personal electronics, chargers and power bank.
• Clothes hangers for your wardrobe. Drawer space is also provided.

If you forget anything, please note that all essential items are readily available in the UK and the area in which you are staying has plenty of shops where you will be able to purchase these items.  

Our International Summer School offers a taste of full-time student life at UCA, complete with evening social activities.  These include creative workshops in different subject areas, giving you the chance to discover new creative fields and explore our facilities.

In addition to campus-based workshops, we'll host social events where you can unwind and connect with fellow students outside the classroom.  Events will be held on campus, in the Student Union event space and in the town.

Further details of the evening activities on offer will be shared later in the academic year.  

UCA's International Summer School will be hosted at our campus in Farnham - a quaint market town in Surrey, England. 

Your accommodation is provided for the duration of the programme and the cost is covered within your fee.  You will be staying in our newly built accommodation which is based on the university campus and within a 5 minute walk of the town center.

In flats sleeping up to 8 individuals, this self catered accommodation, consists of single occupancy bedrooms, each with its own private en-suite bathroom which includes a sink, toilet and shower and hand towel.  Bedrooms will have a bed (made up ready for your arrival), wardrobe, desk and chair. 

Each flat also has a shared living and kitchen area where you can mix and relax with your fellow flat mates.  The shared kitchen is stocked with a fridge, freezer, cutlery, crockery, saucepans and some essential cooking utensils. 

Upon arrival, each student will be issued with a key which provides access to the main entrance of their accommodation building, the front door to their flat as well as their private bedroom door ensuring students' full security.

UCA also has laundry facilities on campus a short walk from the accommodation.  Instructions on how to access and use these will be provided upon arrival.

Please see below an outline of the scheduled programme, this is subject to change.

Week 1

Week 2