Distance learning:
Distance learning means completing a course online from home; thanks to modern technology you can be anywhere in the world! There are also ‘blended degrees’ which offer a mixture of teaching on campus and online (these are often preferred by people studying alongside a career). Distance degrees may also require short residential stays on campus, though these are less frequent than on blended courses.
Which institutions offer distance education?
Most famous is the Open University, which has offered distance courses since 1969 (before the internet they used to send out study materials in the post and broadcast on TV!). The OU’s specialism means that they offer many courses, but you can also find distance learning degrees hosted by ‘traditional’ universities.
Limitations:
Not all universities offer distance-learning courses, and some have fewer distance-learning options at undergraduate level. Also, some courses cannot be studied this way, e.g. medicine or nursing, as these require full-time in-person work placements.
Finance:
As a distance learner you’re still eligible for a student loan to cover tuition fees (so long as it’s your first degree). You can only apply for a Maintenance Loan as a Distance Learning student if you cannot attend your course in person because of a disability.
Non-degree distance learning:
You can find free short-courses online (MOOCs) at sites like Future Learn. These are great to explore a subject at degree level, but with less commitment as the timeframe is shorter. MOOCs also look great on a UCAS application, if you want supra-curricular evidence to show that you’re highly motivated and have explored a subject beyond the A-level curriculum.
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The general aim and objective of Head Up! is to promote the interests of young people with disabilities, physical and/or mental health conditions, specific learning difficulties and neurodivergence; offering them practical advice and support concerning their education and welfare.