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Distance Learning
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In the spotlight

Why choose distance learning?

How are distance learning courses taught?

Provider SpotlightResource Development International

Company Overview

Resource Development International (RDI) is the world's largest independent provider of distance learning education, offering students a choice of over 50 qualifications in 12 different subjects from ten different universities. With 20 years experience of supporting over 50,000 university students in the UK and around the world, enrolling 3,000 new students each year - 95 per cent of whom combine full-time work with their home studies and more than 90 per cent who graduate - we know exactly what it takes for you to achieve success.

click here for distance learning courses from RDI. 

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Provider SpotlightUniversity of London External System

The University of London has a long history of providing External students with the opportunity to study for one of its degrees without necessarily coming to London. Now, it offers students a choice of qualifications from over 100 undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas and degrees.
With over 140 years' experience, the University is fully committed to the development and continued success of its External Programme.

The University of London and its External Programme

The University of London was established in 1836 by Royal Charter and is one of the oldest universities in the United Kingdom. The University is a federation of separately incorporated, self-governing, directly funded Colleges, together with a range of central academic activities. 
 
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Provider SpotlightUniversity of Derby

We are a modern and friendly university in central England.
If you want a place to study and get lots of support, this is the university for you. Our Derby Campus is split across three sites: Kedleston Road, Britannia Mill and Markeaton Street. All three sites are close to the city centre. Get a virtual tour of our different University sites.

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There are many reasons for choosing distance learning. For many people it provides the opportunity to combine study with family responsibilities and work commitments. It is ideal for those who have to travel - but also for those who cannot travel at all. Most people who choose distance learning do so because it is both flexible and affordable.

The University of London's External Programme offers over 50 postgraduate degrees and diplomas, as well as more than 30 qualifications at undergraduate level. You work at your own pace and can study anytime, anywhere.

Points to consider when choosing a course

The reputation of an educational institution is an important factor. It gives a good indication of the quality of the course, materials and final qualification you can expect to receive. It may also influence the recognition that your qualification receives from governments, professional bodies and other educational institutions.

When choosing a course, cost & convenience will be important factors, but the most important questions should be about the quality of the teaching & learning. Make sure that you are clear about what the course will cover, how it operates, what will be expected of you and how it will support your personal or career development. Find out the answers to the following questions:

  • What qualification will I receive?
  • Is this recognised by relevant employers or professional associations?
  • What are the admission requirements?
  • What are the main aims of the course?
  • How is it taught, and who are the teachers?
  • What course materials are provided?
  • What support is available from the institution and/or locally?
  • How is it assessed?
  • Who is responsible for setting and marking the exams?
  • How long will it take?
  • How much will it cost?

Any competent course provider should offer clear answers to these questions in its prospectuses or other course information.

Brian Sayer, Distance Learning Adviser, University of London External Programme

Distance learning programmes take full advantage of the available online technologies. This means that although you are not in a class room environment you still benefit from full engagement with your tutors and class mates.

You will usually have access to a tutor via email, and a team of dedicated staff to assist you via phone should you requrie it. In addition to that, courses are delivered utilising the following online technologies:

  • Email
  • Forums
  • Video content
  • Online seminars

Start your distance learning journey by using our course search to find the course for you.