Distance learning, otherwise known as online learning, is a flexible approach to the delivery of our postgraduate courses.
You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students, but course materials and supplementary information will be provided through a Virtual Learning Environment. Supervisory sessions will take place through audio-visual communication services.
We offer four types of programme by distance learning:
PgCert
We offer two PgCert programmes, in Applied Linguistics and in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). These include three taught modules, each assessed by written assignment. These are available to study on a part-time basis, over 18 months, so you can fit your studies around your existing commitments.
Taught MA
We offer taught Masters courses by distance learning in English Language, Heritage, History, Modern Languages, Philosophy, Shakespeare and Theology and Religion.
Generally, these include six taught modules and are completed with a 15,000-word dissertation (12,000-word dissertation for History). Some programmes are part-time only, completed in 24-36 months, but others also offer the option to study full-time and finish within a year.
Some of our Masters courses require some attendance: Shakespeare and Education has a core module which is delivered as a four-day block over Easter. However, you still complete the majority of the course at a distance. All other programmes can be studied entirely from your home location.
MA by Research
We offer Masters by Research programmes by distance learning across all subjects in Arts and Law, except English Language.
These programmes do not have any taught content and are completed with a 40,000-word dissertation. Generally, these programmes are available both full-time and part-time, studied over one or two years, respectively.
You will be fully-funded to make a visit to the University during the first year of your studies. This one-week visit is compulsory and takes place during set times in either September or January.
PhD
We offer PhD programmes by distance learning across all subjects in Arts and Law.
These programmes do not have any taught content and are completed with an 80,000-word dissertation unless otherwise stated. Generally, these programmes are available both full-time and part-time, studied over three or six years, respectively.
You will be fully-funded to make a visit to the University during the first year of your studies*. This one-week visit is compulsory and typically takes place during set times in either September or January.
*This compulsory visit does not apply to the PhD English Language and Applied Linguistics distance learning programme.