POSTGRADUATE COURSES

FAQs

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How does an online distance learning course work?

Most of the course materials, student support and general study guidance and resources are provided via an e-learning teaching platform called Blackboard. Students access digital teaching materials (e.g. lectures, documents, podcasts, practical instructions) each week and work through them at their own convenience. Coursework is also submitted via Blackboard.  Unlike a traditional classroom environment, students studying online use communication mechanisms such as discussion boards, chat rooms or video-conference tools to interact with staff and other students, and are not required to attend the campus at any time during the course (though they are welcome to visit the university to use its facilities or meet with staff). 
 
Many students choose to study by distance learning because they do not have the option of enrolling for an on-campus course, while others prefer the flexibility of time and location afforded by studying online.
 
What help is available for people studying online?

The courses are taught by our School’s academic staff and supported by e-learning tutors. Many of our tutors are graduates of our online Masters, and all are experienced subject specialists working in relevant occupations (for example in government departments, consultancies, industry and research). Students use Blackboard to discuss course-related matters with staff and other students, and can contact us via email, phone or video call. We also use Blackboard to provide study advice and further information and resources. Other staff within the School and University are available to provide information and support with non-academic matters, such as IT queries and career development. The library provides access to a wide range of electronic journals, ebooks, databases and other resources, as well as subject guides and assistance from experienced staff. 

How is the course assessed?

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Assessment is entirely by coursework – there are no formal university exams. Coursework consists of a mixture of assignments (which varies by module) such as project reports, practical write-ups, presentations and online discussions, quizzes and tests. We place strong emphasis in coursework on developing and enhancing knowledge and skills relevant to the workplace as well as academic skills. The Masters project is written up in the form of a research paper, which potentially may be submitted for publication in an academic journal. 
 
How many hours a week does the course take?

In addition to study based on the course materials, you will regularly spend time reading and preparing assignments. As a general guide, a part-time postgraduate student should expect to spend in the region of 15-20 hours per week on their course during term-time. For full-time students (GIS course only), the weekly commitment is around 35-40 hours.
 
The Semester 1 teaching term runs from late September to mid-December, and semester 2 from late January to the end of April (coursework deadlines may extend a few weeks beyond the teaching terms). No teaching take place during the summer, although full-time GIS students undertake their Masters between June and September.