Following the success of the first ever Executive Education programme by the Department of Politics and International Relations in November 2025, we are proud to announce the dates of our next programme in July 2026.
Come join world-leading experts at DPIR – one of the world’s largest and best political science departments – for our Geopolitical Risk programme 16-18 July at Rhodes House, Oxford: a dynamic and immersive learning experience designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and strategic insights needed to navigate today’s complex global landscape.
Programme Overview
In today’s turbulent world, no organisation or business is isolated from politics. This programme brings together world-leading Oxford academics and industry executives to explore the key geopolitical challenges shaping decision-making across a variety of sectors.
It is a great opportunity to gain the tools, connections, and confidence to navigate an uncertain global landscape with clarity and foresight.
This programme is ideal for executives, policymakers, senior managers, directors, and industry leaders across a variety of sectors. Whether you are responsible for strategic decision-making, leading teams, risk assessment, or crisis management, this programme will equip you with the knowledge to anticipate and respond to evolving geopolitical challenges.
If you are seeking to enhance your ability to interpret global risks, refine your organisation’s resilience strategies, and make informed, forward-thinking decisions, this programme is for you.
We are seeking ambitious professionals who are:
✔ Mid to senior level executives.
✔ Professionals from diverse organisations looking to drive strategic impact.
✔ Decision makers who want to enhance their leadership skills and gain global insights.
✔ Individuals who are eager to collaborate, challenge perspectives, and apply insights directly to their organisations.
FAQs
Programme Fees
- £4,200 – programme fee including accommodation
£3,900 – programme fee excluding accommodation
Fee includes: Welcome drinks reception, keynote speech, 2 nights accommodation, all academic sessions and materials, all meals and refreshments including 3 course formal dinner, historic tour concluding at one of Oxford’s historic pubs, and membership of the Geopolitical Risk Forum for 12 months.
When and where is the programme?
The 2026 Executive Education programme will run from Thursday 16 until Saturday 18 July and is taught only in-person at Rhodes House, Oxford.
There will a maximum of 30 attendees.
Which discounts may be available?
An additional 10% reduction on the programme fee is available for:
- NGO staff and national civil servants
- Oxford alumni
- Organisations booking two or more places
...together with the 20% early bird discount when you register by Friday 3 April.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
A non-refundable deposit of 20% is required to secure your place. This must be paid within seven days of receiving your offer email. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in your place being offered to another applicant.
My organisation will pay for me – how can I arrange this?
Important: If your organisation will be paying your fees, please ensure the relevant financial approval has been attained and the financial contact(s) at your organisation have been consulted regarding the payment method (either credit or debit card, or invoice) prior to your application. If accepted on to the course, we will send you the relevant information to arrange payment via your organisation.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
You may cancel your place and receive a full refund within 14 days of making your initial payment. To cancel, please email the Executive Education Team.
If you cancel after the 14-day period, you are not entitled to a refund, except at the University's discretion. If a refund is issued after full payment, the 20% non-refundable deposit will be retained.
If your programme is due to start within 14 days, a 20% non-refundable deposit will be charged, and you may also need to pay for any services or materials already provided. A pro-rata refund may be issued based on what has been delivered.
Failure to notify us in writing and non-attendance will result in the full programme fee being retained.
Do you provide visa support?
No, the University does not provide or cover visa application costs, nor can we assist with the application process. However, participants are responsible for ensuring they have the appropriate visa or immigration status to attend the programme.
All visitors participating in University activities must comply with UK immigration requirements. Please consult the University’s guidance on visitor visas.
If you do not require a visa, you may still need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). View guidance and application information on applying for an ETA.
How do I get to Rhodes House?
From Oxford Train Station:
- Walking: 21 minutes (one mile)
- By bus: Take the 14 or X4 bus from the station to Keble Road stop (four stops, ~nine minutes), then walk six minutes (0.3 miles) to Rhodes House.
Parking
Rhodes House does not have visitor car parking. Many Oxford streets are closed to traffic, and parking is extremely limited and expensive. You are encouraged to use the Park and Ride bus services.
For information on car parks, see Oxfordshire Country Council's website.
Park & Ride
There are five Park and Ride sites which serve Oxford City Centre. You can find information from Oxfordshire County Council on Park and Ride locations, timetables and fares.
Terms and Conditions
Understanding Political Risk: What Our Programme Offers. | Professor David Doyle, Head of Department.