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Information about Student life at the University of Oxford

Bird's eye perspective of All Soul's college and Oxfordshire countryside

Student Life at Oxford

Students with text : What student life here is really like

Official Video Guide to undergraduate study at Oxford

College life

27 colleges offer Engineering Science:

Oriel College quad on a stormy day

Balliol College, Brasenose College, Christ Church, Exeter College, Harris Manchester College, Hertford College, Jesus College, Keble College, Lady Margaret Hall, Lincoln College, Magdalen College, Mansfield College, New College, Oriel College, Pembroke College, St Anne's College, St Catherine's College, St Edmund Hall, St Hilda's College, St Hugh's College, St John's College, St Peter's College, Somerville College, Trinity College, University College, Wadham College, Worcester College

Sam, 2nd year, University College

Oxford has given me chance to connect with like-minded people. Coming from a normal state comprehensive school in Greater Manchester, being a 'nerd' was often a subject of mockery amongst my peers – however at Oxford I have been able to meet many students with a similar passion to my own.

Example Timetables

Timetables vary quite significantly from year to year. You'll find some example timetables from real students in different years here so you can see what your day might look like when you are studying Engineering at Oxford.

What's the best thing about studying in Oxford?

Here's what some of our current students think

 

Vibrant city [Becky, Lady Margaret Hall]

"I love the city because of how vibrant it is. There are so many places to visit and admire, as well as an endless amount of fun activities to get up to."

Indie food places [Minnie, St Peter's College]

"I love how there’s so many small independent food places to try! And how there’s always something to do, never a dull moment!"

Rowing [Sara, St Peter’s]

I have been fortunate enough to row with the University, being surrounded by so many strong intelligent women is really inspiring.

The Societies [Farheen, Jesus]

The wealth of societies at Oxford has really enabled me to explore so many of my interests outside of my degree. I recently joined the Oxford Energy Society and love attending the weekly online talks that cover such a wide range of exciting topics within the energy sector. If you have a particular interest in anything, you will probably find a society for it, and if not, then you can set up one yourself!

The libraries [Natalie, St Hilda’s]

I love everything about Oxford, but one of the things that makes this university stand out so much is how incredible the libraries are. Before coming to university I had never worked in a library, but when I’m in Oxford it’s the only place I work. It feels amazing being able to work in such a beautiful environment and it makes me a lot more productive.

Student Societies

With more than 150 officially recognised societies listed in the University's Register of Student Clubs, there is something for everybody. However, if you think that there is a gap to be filled, you can set up your own student society!

Here are a few societies associated with the Department of Engineering Science.

Formula Student is Europe's most established educational motorsport competition, backed by industry and high-profile engineers including Patron, Ross Brawn OBE. It tasks each team with producing a prototype single-seat race car — either in the autocross or sprint class. The competition culminates in a series of rigorous vehicle testing, as well as a team proposal to a hypothetical manufacturing firm aimed at justifying the project's economic viability.

“Participating in the Formula Student competition this year was a fantastic experience. I have been working with this team since the end of my first year here and it has been a tremendous opportunity to learn about engineering in practice and to grow as a human being."

Engineers Without Borders team member working with schoolchildren in Karnataka, southern India

Dealing with the challenges of today requires problem-solvers who bring different perspectives and are willing to take risks. Engineers Without Borders Oxford emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the community, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2014, we’re an organisation driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support.

"I have loved being a member of Engineers without Borders Oxford! We are a student chapter of Engineers without Borders, hoping to use our Engineering skills to better the world."

Solace, 4th year, St Peter's College

Oxford University Engineering Society logo

Oxford University Engineering Society (OUEngSoc) aims to promote the engineering profession and career paths associated with the skill set provided by an engineering degree. Members include students from a range of backgrounds, including Engineering Science, Materials Science, Engineering Economics and Management, and Physics. OUEngSoc hosts a variety of social and networking events throughout the year with the aim of providing opportunities for students and engineering, finance and management companies to interact.

A Women in Engineering networking group has been established in the department with the intention of organising talks, social events and other networking activities (for allmembers of the department). Membership of this organising group consists of Postdoctoral Research Assistants, Postgraduate students, Undergraduate students and an academicmember of staff.

The Engineering Undergraduate Innovation Fund (EUIF) funds extracurricular projects providing students with the opportunity to take part in novel activities that they themselves have identified. Here are some of the projects that have been funded.