Learning experience
Designed for flexibility
Distance learning gives you the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, at a time that suits you. You will work within our structured framework, which allows you to obtain a qualification by building on skills and subject knowledge with each module taken and each level of the programme completed. There are three points every year when modules begin (February, June, October), and it is possible for you to put your studies on hold for set periods - we recognise that there are times when jobs, families and other life commitments need to take priority over studying.
Modules tailored to your needs
All of our modules are of the highest academic standard, and are routinely subject to the same internal and external scrutiny as all of our campus-based courses. However, learning at a distance means that we cannot simply duplicate the way we teach our campus students - we cannot run as many practical courses or small group discussions, for example. As such, each of our distance learning modules comprises learning materials specifically written for the subject, supported by a wide range of learning resources from the University Library.
Our support offering
You will have a personal tutor that you can talk to about any aspect of the course, and each module has a module tutor who is responsible for the delivery of that module and is available for any academic issues or discussions. We have group discussions, both with subject tutors and between students only, which are great for sharing experience, asking questions, and feeling part of the University. All assignments are marked and a detailed feedback sheet is returned to you, with comments about the work submitted and specific guidance on how to improve.
The Library
Wherever you are in the world, you will have access to University services, including the Library. The University of Leicester Library has an excellent collection of digital books, journals, and databases, and an enquiry and support service with access to specialist librarians and academic skills advisors. The Library also offers the following:
- Access to the online catalogue and digital library including electronic books, journals and databases
- Free postal book loan service for distance learners, including free book returns*
- Free copies of book chapters and journal articles, where they are not available electronically*
- Free document supply service for book chapters and journal articles, where they are not available at our library*
- Free access to other libraries at universities across the UK and Ireland, where the university participates in the Sconul library access scheme
* Services temporarily unavailable due to COVID-19 restrictions
Find out more about Library support for distance learners. www.le.ac.uk/library
Visiting us
As a University of Leicester student, you are entitled to visit the campus at any time and to make use of the facilities, although if you wish to see particular members of staff you would be encouraged to make arrangements for this in advance. In addition, we run various fieldschools and laboratory weeks which take place on campus and in the surrounding Leicestershire area. Visiting Leicester in this way is optional for some courses and compulsory for others.
When you successfully complete your Bachelors or Masters qualification, you will be invited to attend a formal graduation ceremony in Leicester. Many of our students take this opportunity and choose to bring their families along too, so that they can see their university first-hand.