It is possible to study for a UK qualification without living in the UK by enrolling on a distance learning course. A wide variety of programmes are available and are delivered using modern learning methods.
Why choose a distance learning course?
you can obtain a UK education without leaving your country
is a more cost effective and less disruptive option
you can study at home, at work or wherever best suits you
the courses on offer are very flexible and can be tailored to your personal needs
UK distance learning uses the latest learning methods available
UK distance learning is covered by quality assurance systems so you can ensure that your qualification will be respected and your studies are effective.
What can I study?
Distance learning gives you the opportunity to study courses at nearly every level in the UK education system from GCSE and Scottish standard grades through to Masters programmes including MBAs and PhD research.
How long do distance learning courses last?
Distance learning is a very flexible way to learn because it allows you to study at your own pace. The minimum duration for an undergraduate degree programme is three years, but some degrees can take up to eight years to complete. For postgraduate courses the time taken can vary from two years to five years.
Which institutions run the courses?
There are four main distance learning providers and more than fifty universities offering postgraduate training:
University of London External Programme
National Extension College
The Open Learning Foundation
The Open University, which incorporates the International Centre for Distance Learning.
If several institutions offer the same course you can compare the course contents and study methods to decide which is most appropriate for you.
What should I consider when choosing a distance learning programme of institution?
what is the course content like and does it match your expectations?
will you need to travel and/or stay in the UK at any stage during the course?
if you need to sit for exams where will these be held?
do you want to study alone or would you prefer a greater level or support and advice?
is this course recognised by employers?
how much contact will you have with other students registered on the course?
is the program recognized by your country’s Ministry of Education/Science?
What are the costs involved with distance learning courses?
Course costs vary from subject to subject, and institution to institution; however, it is easy to say that a distance learning course will cost considerably less than living and studying full-time in the UK. Most courses are organised so that you only pay for the part of the course (module) that you are studying.
However, you may want to consider the following when thinking about how much you are prepared to pay for a course:
you may need to attend a summer school or revision classes - the costs for courses like these will probably be higher
does the cost of the course include exam fees and materials?
re there any extra costs such as tuition, books or postage?
How can I guarantee that the course is recognised?
The Open and Distance Learning Quality Council (ODLQC), is the only officially recognised UK organisation that accredits distance learning courses. The ODLQC assesses administration, educational materials, tutorials and publicity when accrediting institutions but it does not accredit the qualifications awarded. Some institutions award their own qualifications that may be less widely recognised, which is something you should consider before enrolling.
Distance learning courses offered by universities are also subject to quality assurance checks by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA).
Where can I get further information?
If you need more information about distance learning please contact us or have a look at the following websites:
British Association for Open LearningThe United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland)
Our privacy and copyright statements.
Our commitment to freedom of information. Double-click for pop-up dictionary.
Open the original version of this page.
Usablenet Assistive is a UsableNet product. Usablenet Assistive Main Page.