How we teach

Experience a world-class education

Studying at St John’s College

At St John’s, you’ll experience a world-class education that’s intellectually challenging and personally enriching. The University of Cambridge provides your lectures, seminars, and exams, St John’s is where your learning is individually tailored, with sessions often delivered by globally renowned experts.

the Tripos system

At Cambridge, a degree programmes is called a Tripos. Each Tripos is divided into parts, typically lasting one or two years. The University Faculties set the content for your subject’s Tripos. You’ll start with a broad foundation in Part I and gradually specialise in Part II (and higher), exploring the topics that interest you most.

  • The University arranges lectures, seminars and assessments.
  • Your Director of Studies (DoS) is a St John’s academic who organises your weekly supervisions, helps you plan your academic path, advises on paper choices, and keeps an eye on your progress.

Supervisions

Supervisions are one of the most distinctive and valuable features of a Cambridge education.

These are small-group teaching sessions, usually involving one to three students and a supervisor. They are typically held once or twice a week and are organised by your Director of Studies with an expert in the topic you’ve decided to pursue.

Each supervision focuses on an essay, problem set or topic. In them, you’ll:

  • Explore ideas in depth
  • Test theories and ask questions
  • Sharpen your thinking
  • Be challenged on your statements
  • Get personalised feedback
  • Be encouraged to develop your grasp of the topic beyond what you’ve been     taught

Because your supervisor is part of the St John’s community you’ll see them around, often in the College café – perfect for when you have a burning question.

Welfare & pastoral Tutor

Your Tutor usually teaches a different subject and is there as your primary point of contact for general welfare matters, a friendly and familiar face to turn to. They:

  • Support your overall wellbeing and academic development
  • Meet with you at the start and end of each term
  • Help manage your transition into College life
  • Offer weekly drop-in Tutorial sessions for any questions or concerns – if they don’t know the answer, they will know who you should ask
  • Provide advice about opportunities available to you in College