Your online study experience
Study anywhere, anytime while you work
Are you looking to advance your career, maximise your creative potential, or turn your passion into a job? Whatever your goals and ambitions are, online learning is a great way to achieve this without putting your life on hold.
Find out what online study involves, how it’ll benefit you, and what it looks like in day-to-day life.
What is online learning?
Online learning, or distance learning, is learning that involves accessing, submitting and receiving what you need via online learning platforms. These are called virtual learning environments (VLEs), which you can access via web browsers.
Online learning has grown increasingly popular since Covid-19 – and for good reason. Wherever you’re based, you can get a degree without pausing your career, relocating, or having to apply for visas and residency. You can study from anywhere, access your resources 24/7, and fit your degree around your commitments.
What are the benefits of online learning?
Study whilst working
Traditional degree courses demand that students fit their lives around their studies. But freeing up entire weekdays and attending in-person lectures doesn’t work for everyone. This is where online study comes in.
Online learning is designed for those who need flexibility. Whether you’re working full-time, looking after family or an international student, you can choose when and how to study your degree.
No visa or relocation costs
With online study, you won’t need to worry about relocation, residency arrangements or visa application processes – they can save you a lot of time, money, and energy, which you can put towards focusing on your studies instead.
Online-first design
By studying online, you save commuting and the costs of in-person learning. But you won’t be glued to a screen and scrolling endlessly through dry reading materials, either. Online degree courses are designed to be flexible, engaging, and suitable for every learning style.
Can’t make it to a live online seminar? Watch the full replay of it at a time that suits you. Looking to fit some study time into your mornings or lunch breaks? You can easily divided up your learning to suit your needs.
Network with international students
Online study is a great way to form solid international networks too. Through online discussion forums and live seminars, you’ll be encouraged to engage with your peers across the globe.
By discussing contemporary topics with other professionals, you’ll develop unique insights and a broader understanding of the industry. Connections can develop into lasting friendships, employment opportunities, and even collaborations.
Unlock new, exciting career options
There’s no doubt that postgraduate study not only broadens your expertise in your chosen field; it also boosts your employment prospects. The latest data published by the UK government shows that 78.3% of postgraduates are in high-skilled employment as of 2022, an increase of 1.1% since 2021.
An MA degree doesn’t just help you unleash your full potential as a creative practitioner. It equips you with in-depth industry and business knowledge, plus the transferable skills required to thrive as a professional. Whether you’re looking to work in an organisation or establish yourself as a freelancer, a degree is your first step to success.
Why learn online with AUB?
140+ years of educational excellence
Since 1883, we’ve upheld our reputation for nurturing creativity with learning that’s supported by engaged, passionate staff and working professionals across the globe.
You’ll be inspired by new perspectives and connections with peers and academics that could lead to exciting collaborations. Throughout your studies, you’ll also get access to presentations from industry professionals with in-depth insights into current industry practice.
As an online student, you’ll never be alone on your creative journey. Our friendly Student Adviser team are available to help you with non-academic enquiries throughout your studies. Whether you need support services, funding advice or wellbeing support, they’re here to help.
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FAQs about online learning
It’s essential that you have a PC or laptop with strong internet connection. While you can access Canvas via mobile devices like a smartphone or tablet, they’re not suitable for watching webinars and submitting assignments. We’d also recommend a webcam and microphone for joining and taking part in live webinars.
For optimal web security, it’s important that you have the most up-to-date version of your chosen web browser. You’ll be able to access Canvas via any standard compliant web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari or Microsoft Edge.
Curious to see what Canvas looks like? Contact our adviser team and request a Canvas walkthrough.
Most of your study time will be independent, but you’ll frequently be invited to join in with weekly webinars and discussion forums. Your tutors are available to provide academic advice and feedback throughout your studies. If you’re unable to attend virtual events live, you’ll get access to full replays in your virtual learning environment.
While everyone learns at a different pace, we’d recommend dedicating around 20-25 hours per week to your studies.
This depends on what your day-to-day commitments are, and how you choose to manage your time.
For example, if you work a full-time 9-5, you’ll likely study for a few hours on weekday evenings, then fitting a longer session into your weekend. If you work in shifts, you can dedicate some of your off-duty hours to your studies. If your job involves manning a post, then you can fit your studies into quieter periods of your working hours.
If the degree you’re studying is relevant to your current career, it’s worth seeing if your employer can adjust your workload or working hours. For instance, this could be a Friday morning or afternoon study session, or a couple of working hours each weekday devoted to your studies.
In terms of where you work, you’ve got total freedom. Whether you prefer to study at home, in a café or at your local library, anywhere is fair game. All you need is your PC, laptop or tablet, plus an internet connection.
No – your master’s degree certificate will look identical to those awarded to graduates of on-campus courses. In short, your degree will carry the same weight as your on-campus peers.
Yes – MA degrees are an internationally-recognised qualification level. As an MA graduate, employers and organisations across the globe will recognise your degree as a benchmark of your skill in your professional industry.
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How you'll learn
Dive into Canvas, your virtual learning environment, and the range of learning resources you’ll access on it.
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Student support
Learn about the support network you’ll have during your studies with us.
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