Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
You can apply online via the Applications Portal
Online applications allow you to upload supporting documents, these are for decision-making purposes only. If you are made an offer the Admissions Department, rather than the School, will require to see originals.
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When can I begin studying?
There are two intakes per year, September and February. Applications should be made as early as possible as places are limited. The deadlines for submitting applications are 1 July for September and 1 November for February.
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Can I study the programme full-time?
No, the programme is only available part-time, between two to four years' duration.
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How are fees paid?
Fees are paid module by module, so the cost is spread throughout the entire period of study. Fees can be paid online via the Student Portal.
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Are there any further costs?
You will be expected to buy some set books for each module. The cost of these should not exceed £50 per module.
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Do I need internet access and e-mail?
Yes, the course materials are web-based, delivered via our Visual Learning Environment platform and tutorial contact is by e-mail.
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How much time will I need to spend on study?
This is quite a difficult question in respect of our programme because we do not stipulate a time per week/month that should be spent studying, as we recognise that the majority of our students are in full-time work and have workloads that fluctuate throughout the year. A single credit is intended to represent a notional 10 hours of student input. Thus a 15 credit module represents 150 hours of student input. However, our programme is very flexible and we do not impose strict deadlines.
The only module that has a deadline, as such, is the entry module, which is six months after the start date. Even with this we are prepared to re-negotiate if necessary. For the remainder of the modules, we have notional deadlines. These are three months for a 15 credit module, six months for a 30 credit module and six months for the dissertation. We strongly urge students to remain within these and while we aim to be as flexible as possible, it is not possible for us to extend deadlines indefinitely
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How do the module options vary between the different distance learning Masters?
There are some overlaps between the options available between the different distance learning courses. This is illustrated by a quick visual overview showing those differences.
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We have a thriving student-led discussion board with topics designed specifically for recent starters, as well as more established students. Students are provided with information of others on the same modules, and also in the same country of residence. We have a student profiles section which includes contact e-mails. Additionally, we have an informal group outside the confines of the course - in Facebook, which is proving very popular. Currently, we are investigating ways of further promoting student interactivity.
Finally, we hold an annual, voluntary, free Summer School which we have found greatly supports a sense of community among distance learners.
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What happens if I have domestic or work problems and I am unable to cope with the study and the coursework?
As our programme is flexible, short periods of being unable to study because of work or domestic problems can be easily accommodated as long as the tutor and administrator are informed. If the problems are longer term (more than a month), students are advised to suspend their studies for a while.
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Will the words 'distance learning' appear on the degree certificate?
The degree certificate does NOT include the words 'distance learning'.
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