Which Universities Offer The Best Online Degrees?

Online learning – sometimes referred to as distance or remote learning – is when you study for a degree in your own time without having to travel to lectures on a campus. You can usually submit your work and essays online too, although you may be required to attend campus to sit exams, if applicable to your degree.

Online courses may suit those who want to study, but also need the flexibility that a more structured timetable doesn’t provide. Online learning can usually be done at a time and place that suits you and can be carried out alongside a job or any other commitments that you might have, such as childcare.

Choosing your university

When looking for the best university for online degrees, there are several factors that could influence your decision.
Here are some things to think about when browsing the choice of online universities:

• Speciality subjects. Some universities specialise in certain subjects, which could help to cement your decision.
• Availability of online learning. It’s important to remember that not every university offers online degrees.
• Availability of your chosen online course. The degree you’re hoping to study may only be available through certain universities.
• Legitimacy. Universities must be officially recognised by the UK government before they’re able to award a degree. You can find out more here.
• Ranking.The university league table can be viewed here, and provides handy information about UK universities, including their overall score, student satisfaction, and graduate prospects.
• Entry requirements.Do you meet the criteria needed to study for your chosen degree at the university of your choice?
• Cost. We’ll talk a little more about the cost of online degrees later, but this is certainly something to consider and compare when narrowing down your search.
• Online learning support.
Are there any additional resources available for remote learning students? For example, is there a support system you can use should you need it? Do you have access to the campus library and materials?
• Modules. When comparing online courses from one university to another, it’s worth looking into the differences between modules. While the degrees may well be the same, the content within each module could vary and this may sway your decision.

Online-only universities

Remote learning isn’t solely available through campus universities; there are also a number of online-only establishments, such as The Open University and Arden University.

The Open University has been established for over 50 years, and states that each student will be assigned a tutor to help them through the duration of their online learning. Course modules and tutorials are provided entirely online, although some may require the addition of printed materials.

Can I apply to study remotely through a UK university if I’m based overseas?

If you live outside of the UK but wish to study at a British university, remote learning might be something to think about.
Some UK-based universities provide online degrees for overseas students. There are currently over 8,000 international students across 157 countries studying through The Open University.
Similarly, Edinburgh University have 3,000 students from as many as 170 countries on their online study programme.

Please note that international course fees may apply.

I live in the UK. Can I apply for an online degree in a different country?

Again, this will depend on the university. Some overseas universities welcome students from the UK to participate in their courses remotely.

If you’re allocated an overseas lecturer, remember to be mindful of different time zones.

Which online degrees can I study for?

When it comes to online learning, there are many options available, from law and nuclear science to psychology and accounting.
Remember, some courses may require you to meet a set of eligibility criteria before you’re able to enrol.

What are the best online degrees?

The best online degree for you will depend on what you want to get out of the experience.
If your aim is to enhance your knowledge of a certain field or sector, you might prioritise a course that incorporates modules centred around topics that you find interesting.

On the other hand, if you’re undertaking a degree to assist in your career, you may benefit from doing some research into the best online degrees in this area. If your employer is involved in your distance learning, they may be able to help you choose the most relevant courses for your goals.

Do online degrees count?

Yes – online degrees are no different to degrees obtained on campus and will not be viewed any differently by employers.

Alternatives to online degrees

Committing to an online degree could be a fantastic option for those in need of flexibility; however, this style of learning isn’t suited to everyone.

• Attending university in person can have its benefits. Check out our blog to compare the differences and find out which learning style could best suit you and your needs.
• A range of free, shorter-term online courses can be accessed through various websites, covering skills from English and maths to IT and business.
• The University of London offers Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). These taster courses aim to give budding online-learners the opportunity to study new skills for free without having to commit to a full degree.
• Sandwich degrees combine studying with practical work experience in a relevant role. Depending on the course, you’ll usually complete at least a year of studying, before spending 12 months on placement, which will then be followed up with a further period of studying. During your placement, you’ll gain hands-on knowledge of your chosen sector, which could stand you in good stead when applying for a job once your course has ended.

Where can I search for online degrees?

You can begin your search for an online degree by visiting sites such as this one. Simply select the discipline you’re interested in, the educational level you’ll be studying, followed by your location. The search tool will then show you a list of options to choose from.

The information contained in this article does not constitute advice and should not be viewed as such.
October 2024.