Online study

Studying online offers the ultimate flexible learning experience for those who are looking to accelerate their career.

Online learning is growing in popularity. Even before the pandemic, the global appetite for online learning was increasing. Many students now prefer studying online to being in a classroom – a recent survey showed 41% of graduates felt their online learning provided a better learning experience than their classroom-based education.

Today’s distance learning programmes take place in sophisticated virtual learning environments delivering courses that have been specially designed for an online audience. Due to advances in technology, distance learners now benefit from a high-quality multi-media experience that is just as enriching and interactive as their on-campus equivalent.

What is the Virtual Learning Environment?

A virtual learning environment (VLE) is an online portal where students can access everything they need for their course. At the University of Glasgow, our virtual learning environment has been built with a smooth user experience in mind and can be accessed from anywhere at any time, via mobile, tablet or desktop devices. It offers seamless integration between existing systems.

Our online programmes are designed and structured so interaction and collaboration are at the core of the learning experience. This is accomplished through our customised learning environment and the mix of tools we have incorporated to facilitate dynamic learning and maximum engagement.

The VLE is where students log in to join live lectures and seminars, as well as to access a multitude of resources. Within the VLE students will find videos, interactive quizzes, journal articles, e-books and web resources. Many of these materials have also been adapted into different formats to suit the individual learning styles of students, such as audio, video or transcript form. Materials can also be downloaded and accessed on the go.

The virtual learning environment is also a social platform, designed to help students and tutors work together.

“A variety of educational approaches such as collaborative learning and enhancing community building will play an integral role in our delivery and you will be encouraged to interact within your courses, with your classmates and tutors in ways such as forums or live sessions in a virtual learning environment,” says Neeraj Bhardwaj Digital Education Manager at the University of Glasgow.

As well as the dedicated discussion areas, students are encouraged to interact with their peers and tutors via active learning created content, peer to peer review activities, groupwork and live student participated sessions. Students also submit their assessments online and gain feedback from their tutors via the portal, too.

Gaining an advanced qualification online rather than on campus has many additional benefits for students.

“Glasgow university is renowned for providing an excellent student experience in a friendly, supportive and engaging student environment. Glasgow's virtual learning environment allows you to benefit from that outstanding educational experience and attain a high-quality degree from a world-renowned institution without having to relocate”, says Bhardwaj.

The degree you are awarded is subject to the same academic scrutiny and control as an on-campus course and the flexible nature of digital learning means you can fit your study around your existing work and personal commitments. By choosing to study online, you can also study at your own pace, at a time that suits you.

At the University of Glasgow, we have specially adapted our programmes into an online format and we deliver learning in bite sized chunks, to suit your schedule.

Another big benefit of studying online is the opportunity to gain an international network of likeminded peers, who you can call upon throughout your career. Online programmes attract students from all over the world, bringing with them a wealth of experience and different perspectives to share. The University of Glasgow welcomes students from more than 140 countries worldwide and is a founding member of Universitas 21 (U21) - a global network of 27 leading research-led universities who collaborate on a range of research projects.

“A huge importance is placed on making sure everyone on the course feels well supported in their learning journey and interacts with everyone to gain the maximum of their learning experience,” says DE Manager Neeraj Bhardwaj.  “We embrace students from all around the world who bring a diverse range of experiences to the online discussion”.

Completing a programme of study online also demonstrates a number of transferable skills to prospective employers. Not only will you have gained specialist knowledge and practical experience in your chosen subject, your commitment will also demonstrate your dedication, drive and time management skills. Online study also shows your ability to operate successfully within a digital environment.

Of course, postgraduate study also reaps rewards of its own, helping you to gain a competitive advantage when it comes to landing your ideal job. Postgraduate degree holders also tend to earn more and work in more highly skilled positions.

At the University of Glasgow, our aim is to ensure that you have an outstanding educational experience that allows you to fulfil your potential and realise your career and personal ambitions.

Whether you are looking to continue your studies after your degree, looking to change career or get a promotion at work, an online postgraduate degree from the University of Glasgow can help you to achieve your goals. We offer a range of programmes that can give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

Discover our online programmes

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First published: 14 April 2021