Thinking of continuing your education? Distance Learning is a great alternative to traditional education and is on the rise. If you’re unsure about what it involves, or whether it’s the right choice for you, here is everything you need to know.
What is Distance Learning?
Distance Learning is where you study for a qualification online, choosing your own time and pace, rather than attending regular classes at a university campus.
As with on-campus education, Distance Learning courses can be full-time or part-time. Some institutions solely offer Distance Learning programmes; many others offer the choice between on-campus and Distance Learning, as well as Blended Learning.
How does Distance Learning work?
Study via an online learning platform: Using an online platform quite literally transforms your front room into your classroom. You have the chance to take part in live learning sessions and topical discussions, and access video content whenever you need.
Receive a list of reading materials: It’s true that some people learn better with an open book. In addition to all your online materials, you may be given an additional reading list, in case you’d like to buy any relevant books.
Have regular contact with a tutor: Although you won’t have regular face-to-face contact, your tutors will always be reachable via email. They will provide you with guidance whenever you need it, and host live chats and webinars to help you get to grips with your course content.
Benefit from student support: In addition to the support you receive from academic staff, you can always contact our friendly student support team, who are there to help you from enrolment through to graduation – they will also give you a nudge to help keep you on track!
Access accredited courses: It’s a myth that online degrees are valued less than traditional university degrees. In modern times, an online university offers access to degrees, master's and MBA programmes with a strong focus on employability. Many are accredited by professional bodies.
Discover why Arden's Distance Learning experience is so special
Who is Distance Learning for?
Distance Learning is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested. However, there are certain circumstances where it’s much more suited to a person than traditional, on-campus learning.
Do you have work or family commitments?
Distance learning provides the opportunity to fit your studying into your busy schedule. If you work full-time, study in the evenings or on weekends. If you have children, study in the evenings or the daytime while they’re at school.
Are you worried about money?
If you’re concerned that studying a degree will cost too much money, Distance Learning courses offer flexible funding. In addition, fees are often lower in comparison to regular degrees, and you’ll save on travel and accommodation costs, too.
Would you like to earn a qualification without having to relocate or travel?
Distance Learning courses remove geographical boundaries. If there’s a programme that you’d like to study, but it’s not offered by an institution near you, you can opt for Distance Learning and earn the qualification from the comfort of your own home.
Do you lack formal qualifications?
If you feel as though the qualifications you have aren’t enough to get you onto a regular degree course, Distance Learning programmes are often more flexible when it comes to entry requirements. Relevant work experience and a positive attitude towards learning will be taken into account.
Why choose Distance Learning?
Here are just a few reasons why you may want to consider Distance Learning:
- Flexible hours and location, allowing you to fit your studies around all other commitments.
- Save money on course fees, as well as travelling and living expenses.
- Study at a pace that suits you; revisit anything you didn’t understand the first time around.
- Acquire life skills such as time management and organisation, as well as the practical skills directly related to your course.
Does Distance Learning work?
If you’re still in doubt as to whether Distance Learning is the right option for you, take a look at what some of our students have to say about their experiences – maybe they will convince you!
