What is Distance Learning?

A great option for flexible learning

Very simply, to study by distance learning means you don't have to be based in Leeds to take one of our courses. Wherever you are and whatever you want to study, it's a great option for flexible learning.

When you choose one of our distance learning courses, you can do just that – study at a distance, at a pace that suits you.

Like our students on campus, you will have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you'll find these online instead of in a lecture theatre. Not only are the modules taught online but you will also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.

Our extensive list of distance learning courses means that whether you are from the UK or further afield, changing your career path or looking for that promotion, we have a course that suits your needs.

  1. Distance Learning at Leeds Beckett

    We've been running distance learning courses at Leeds Beckett for many years and welcome students across the world - from Yorkshire to Botswana and Trinidad to Germany.

    Our specialist staff help to ensure our distance learning students have a great education and experience.

    We ensure that:

    • Each course is the same quality and level as a course studied on campus
    • The teaching and learning materials are designed to help you learn and succeed while studying at home
    • The support we provide to distance learning students is prompt, efficient and helpful
    • We work closely with academic staff - the subject experts - to ensure they have all they need to deliver great courses that help our distance learning students thrive in their careers and lives
Image of female student using the library computer

Benefits of distance learning

  • Distance learning is a great way to progress further in your career - you can balance the demands of your course with your everyday commitments, allowing you to keep working while you learn.
  • You don't have to come on to campus to attend lectures and seminars, so you won’t have to worry about relocating.
  • You'll have the option to study at home, in a library, in a coffee shop - or even on the bus. In fact if you can access the internet, you can access everything you need for our distance learning courses.
  • Some of our distance learning courses have additional start dates throughout the year, giving you added options.
  • Any qualification you earn by distance learning is of equal value to one obtained studying on campus.
  • You can use other university libraries, so you’ll have the benefit of learning resources close to where you live.

  1. Support while you study

    We put a lot of time and effort into ensuring you have a great experience with us. All distance learning students are given an induction programme and course handbook, which specifies exactly what is expected from you - and what you can expect from us.

    Just because you aren't learning on campus doesn't mean you'll have to cope on your own - you'll have the support of a module tutor along with the university's Student Hub and Wellbeing Centre. They are on hand to offer you advice about everything from academic issues to stress and anxiety.

    Whilst studying a distance learning qualification it can sometimes be difficult to balance your study time with both your personal life and work obligations. We will support you through these times by providing advice on time management, organisational techniques and the importance of two-way communication not only with your peers but also other students studying your course.

  2. Tools for learning

    Our students log in to a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) instead of attending lectures or seminars in person. The VLE gives you access to course materials such as videos, ebooks and other documents. You also use it to submit your assignments and to receive feedback.

    As well as the VLE you'll communicate with us through our online library, online forums, Skype conference calls and email. Some of our courses give you the opportunity to access podcasts, blogs and an on-campus learning weekend.

take your next steps

If you're ready to make an application you'll need to register your details on our online application portal. If you have any questions about the process or what to expect you can get in touch with our team who will be happy to help.