Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that distance learning might not be something you have experienced before. To help you decide if this type of study is right for you, we've put together a list of some of the most commonly asked questions about studying online.
If you have any other questions about distance learning, you can reach us via the form below and a member of our enquiry team will respond to you as soon as possible. You can also subscribe to our emails via this form, which provide key information about our distance learning offer.
How does distance learning work?
Distance learning allows you to study your degree online, giving you the freedom and flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, at any time.
Is an online degree worth the same as an on-campus degree?
Yes. Our online degree courses go through the same quality assurance and validation processes as our on-campus courses, so you will enjoy the same high-quality teaching and learning experience as our on-campus students. Plus, at Huddersfield, the teaching of our online courses is not outsourced, you will be taught by our experienced academics.
What are the benefits of distance learning?
The benefits of distance learning at Huddersfield include:
- Flexibility to study online, anywhere, anytime.
- Avoidance of additional costs such as commuting to campus or relocating.
- Multiple start dates for courses throughout the year.
- Ability to gain a respected degree qualification entirely online.
- Part-time study options, allowing you to fit study around work and other commitments.
How much time will I need to dedicate to studying online?
The study time for an average module is 16 hours per week. Of this, there is a core 8-10 hours of guided study time each week with the rest of the time allocated to independent study.
Where will my online learning take place?
Your online learning will take place on Brightspace, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Brightspace allows you to learn with clarity and flexibility, and is designed for you to access it anywhere (with an internet connection), anytime, across a range of devices.
Through Brightspace you will have access to a range of learning materials and have the opportunity to watch, read and hear from experts in your field. In addition, our VLE will provide you with a space to hone and practice your learning and skills with a diverse community of learners.
What are the technology and system requirements for studying online?
For full details of the technology and system requirements for studying via distance learning, please see the technology and systems requirements section of the Course Finder page for your course(s) of interest.
How will my work be assessed when studying via distance learning?
The assessments for all of our online courses are carefully designed to give you the opportunity to engage in real world practice and application. Across your course you will be assessed through a range of methods, which may include practitioner reports, essays, presentations and sector relevant projects. All assessments are designed to support you in demonstrating the long terms skills required for work in the sectors and industries related to your course.
Will I have to attend campus?
At Huddersfield, our distance learning courses are delivered 100% online, so you can complete your degree without having to step foot on campus. However, like our on-campus students, you will have access to our campus facilities should you wish to use them.
Do I need a visa to study online?
No. You will not need a visa to study online with us. You can study with us from wherever you are based in the world, provided you have access to the necessary equipment.
Do you offer postgraduate research degrees via distance learning?
Yes. Please contact our Graduate School for further information at gs.pgradmissions@hud.ac.uk.
Am I eligible for a student loan if I study online?
If you are a UK National living in England and studying a Master's via distance learning, you could be eligible for a Master's loan. You can view the full eligibility details here.
How do I pay my course fees?
You can pay your tuition fees online via debit or credit card. Please visit our paying your tuition fees page for more information.
How do international students pay tuition fees?
For international Distance Learning students, you’ll pay your tuition fees using a platform called Flywire.
If you’ve never used Flywire before, there’s a handy step by step guide to making a payment: Flywire Step by Step Guide to paying your fees.
How much are the tuition fees for online courses?
The tuition fees for our online courses vary and are designed to be competitive and offer you value for money. To view individual course tuition fees, please visit the Course Finder page for your course of interest.
I have a question about fees, who can I contact?
You can email our Student finance office : sfo@hud.ac.uk
We also have online drop in sessions daily over Teams which you can join at 10am–12.00pm or 1.00pm –3.00pm UK time.
Private appointments are also available. If you would like to discuss any finance issues confidentially please click here to book an appointment.
How do I apply for an online course?
You can apply for a place on our online postgraduate taught courses using our dedicated online application portal. For other course types, please see the relevant Course Finder page.
What documents will I need to apply?
To apply for a online postgraduate course, you will be required to write a Personal Statement as part of your application. You will also need to upload supporting documents. To save time, make sure that you have the following scanned and ready to upload with your online application:
- A copy of your academic certificates (including English Language Certificates, where applicable)
- A copy of the full transcript of your academic results
- A copy of photographic ID, this can be a passport or UK driving licence (provisional licence is also accepted)
- If you have been advised to do so, a copy of your C.V.
Depending on the course you apply for, you may be asked to provide a portfolio too.
How to I write a personal statement
You can take a look at our dedicated postgraduate personal statement web page for advice and tips on how to write one and what to include.
Is there a fee to apply?
No. There is no fee for applying for a place on one of our online courses.
Do courses run more than once a year?
Many of our online courses have multiple start dates, allowing you to begin your studies at the time of year that is most convenient for you.
What are the English language requirements for studying via distance learning?
If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification; the minimum of IELTS 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our 'where are you from' information pages.
When will I receive a decision on my application?
Application decisions are usually made within three weeks of submission; however, this can vary depending on the time of the year. Look out for an email from the University of Huddersfield for updates on your application status.
What happens after I apply?
Find out the next steps including how to accept your offer and confirm your place with us on our after you apply page.
Who do I contact to check the status of my application?
If you are a home student, please email study@hud.ac.uk to check the status of your application. If you are an international student, please contact us at dl-application@hud.ac.uk.
Will my degree certificate show that I completed my degree online?
Our distance learning courses are validated to the same standard as those taught on campus and are therefore prestigious, internationally recognised qualifications. On successful completion your certificate will state the title of your course and the award gained, with no reference to distance learning. Your transcript, which lists the modules studied, will show the mode of study as distance learning.
In some countries, qualifications earned via a distance learning mode of study may not be recognised by certain authorities or regulators for the purposes of public sector employment or further study. We advise you to explore the local recognition status before you register.
Can I attend graduation on campus?
Yes. When you complete your studies you will be invited to campus to attend your graduation. This is your opportunity to celebrate your achievements, meet your tutors and coursemates in-person and explore our state-of-the-art campus.
Are all of your tutors suitably qualified?
Yes. At the University of Huddersfield we have a reputation for teaching excellence. Our staff rank first in England for the proportion with higher degrees and teaching qualifications, as well as being top five for those holding doctorates. (HESA 2025)
As a distance learning student at the University, you will be taught directly by our academics and benefit from the same high-quality teaching that our on-campus students do.
What are your rankings?
The University of Huddersfield is an award-winning institution and our accolades include:
- We were awarded an outstanding Gold rating, the highest accolade attainable, in all three aspects of the Office for Students’ latest Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023).
- Our Huddersfield Business School was named Business School of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023.
- We were awarded an overall 5 Star rating from QS Stars, which renders the University’s rating as world-class in a broad range of areas such as Teaching, Employability, Facilities, Innovation, Internationalisation and Inclusiveness (QS Stars 2023).
- We are in the top 50 UK universities for Research Power, and three quarters of all our research is world leading and internationally excellent (REF 2021).
I have more questions, who do I contact?
If you have any other questions about distance learning at Huddersfield, please email our enquiry team, who will be happy to assist.