Ways you can study
So how does part-time study work? Your course may be delivered in one of the following ways
- evenings – you attend during the evenings, outside traditional working hours
- weekends – you attend university at weekends
- daytime – your course is delivered during the day, such as one or two afternoons a week
- block – you attend university periodically for a set amount of days, for example you may need to attend every day for one week each semester. This is called a block week
- blended – a combination of two or more of the above, possibly including some distance learning.
Your attendance will depend on the course you're studying. For full details, search for your course on our online prospectus and contact us using the details provided.
With distance learning, you can choose where and when to study and you can take things at your own pace. Some distance learning courses do require very minimal attendance at the University – check your course on the online prospectus.
However, studying by distance learning has its own challenges. To make it work, you need to be organised, self-motivated and committed. But the rewards are worth it. And of course we're here to support you by email, online discussion groups, phone and post.
Plus your studies are supported by Blackboard, our virtual learning environment and e-learning system. It's one of the most extensive and advanced of any university in the country and contains everything you need to help you succeed.
You are also supported by our learning centres service for students on designated distance learning courses offering
- postal book loans (within the UK and Ireland)
- journal articles or chapters of books that are unavailable electronically (copyright permitting)
- support and advice on library matters, plus referral to specialist advice
- help with accessing other university libraries
If you want to earn an undergraduate degree in three to four years, full-time study may suit you better than part-time study. However you are expected to attend the University on a full-time basis, which wouldn’t be practical alongside a full-time job. It may work if you are working part-time.
Similarly if you want to earn a postgraduate degree in one year, and again, you have the time to dedicate to attending the University on a full-time basis, full-time postgraduate study may be the right option for you.
'With part-time study, you have to find a style that suits you best. For some people, it’s studying in the evenings and into the night. For me, it was weekends. I work ten-hour days, and when I get home at 7 o'clock the last thing I want to do is study until 2 in the morning. We've got a big family too, so I had to balance work and family commitments.'
Hazel Hedicker, facilities service manager, Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust
'When I first started studying it was quite stressful. With a full-time job all the study is done in your spare time. You work evenings, weekends and I've even booked holidays to make time for studying. But my study relates to my practice at work which makes it easier.'
Michelle Watson, therapeutic radiographer, James Cook University Hospital.
