The Academic Demands and Benefits of LSE Summer School

Understanding the Summer School Experience

The term “Summer School” may appear straightforward, yet it can be somewhat misleading. One can’t help but wonder: how much of it is the relaxing summer we imagine, and how much is the serious school part? And, since this is the LSE, known for its academic rigour, just how tough will the school side of things be?

These are the kinds of questions that pop into a typical student’s head - mine included - when deciding whether to dive into LSE Summer School. The idea of mixing summer fun with an intense course load feels like a contradiction. Are you signing up for a sunny escape with a little learning thrown in, or is it more like a crash course with a workload that rivals a regular term?

Having spent six weeks on the programme, I’ve reflected on these questions and am here to offer some insight into the big question: What are the academic demands and benefits of LSE Summer School?

Reality Check

Let me begin with blunt honesty: if you seek a relaxed vacation, LSE Summer School is not going to be it. The courses closely mirror actual LSE modules on their full time degree programmes and are often taught by the same professors who lead those yearlong classes. Essentially, you will experience the academic rigour of an LSE semester, compacted into just three weeks. However, this intensity is quite manageable with proper time management and a proactive approach, and is worth it.

The Course Structure

LSE Summer School courses are equivalent to undergraduate or graduate-level classes, depending on the level you choose, covering material at an accelerated pace. They are rather serious academic endeavours that typically qualify for around 7.5 European ECTS credits (or 3 - 4 US credits), if your institution allows this.

In practical terms, completing all three Summer School sessions equates to nearly an entire semester’s worth of work at your home university. So, yes, if your goal is to achieve high grades and make the most of your time and resources, be prepared to work.

The Classes

Classes happen daily, typically consisting of 3 - 4 hours of lectures in the morning, followed by 1.5-hour afternoon seminars in smaller groups. Morning sessions are usually led by the primary professor, while the afternoon tutorials are often handled by Teaching Assistants (TAs), who are usually doctoral or postdoctoral students from LSE.

You’ll be covering an entire syllabus, complete with readings and assignments, within the span of three weeks. This material will be examined in the form of an exam, essay, or in some cases, a final project. As always, it’s important to check the relevant course syllabus ahead of time for specific details.

The Professors

The competition for teaching positions at the LSE Summer School is exceptionally high, meaning that often, only the best academics are selected to teach. This, in my opinion, is one of the programme's biggest advantages: the opportunity to learn from world-class experts, whether you're studying economics, law, management, or any other discipline.

For example, in my course, EC240: Environmental Economics and Sustainable Development, we were taught by Professor Eric Neumayer, one of the pioneers in this relatively niche field. With decades of experience, he shared insights that went far beyond the textbook, and during breaks, he was more than happy to discuss these ideas with any students who were curious. This goes to show that the professors are not only knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects but, most importantly, approachable.

The Teaching Style

The teaching style at LSE is generally quite interactive, with an emphasis on critical thinking and discussion. Group work, debates and seminars are not uncommon, so be prepared to actively participate and engage with the material; your professors will expect it, and it's a big part of what makes the LSE learning experience so valuable.

Conclusion

Ultimately, like many things in life, Summer School is what you make of it. Yes, you can expect to be challenged, but this is also an opportunity - to push yourself academically, expand your horizons, and grow both intellectually and personally. If you’re ready to take on that challenge, it could be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. After all, it's not just any summer school - it's London, and it's LSE.