The present invention provides methods for preparing and administering a tumor vaccine. The processes include resecting tumors and isolating tumor cells, followed by treatment with ultraviolet radiation to activate the tumor cells. Cells can then be mixed with an unmethylated single stranded oligodeoxynucleotide chain adjuvant to formulate a vaccine and then administered to a subject. The vaccines can be autologous, allogeneic or hybrids thereof to the subject.