Studying online

How does online learning work?  

Online programmes are delivered through the University's Virtual Learning Environment, LEARN. Our award-winning, online learning technology is fully interactive, and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.   

During term time, you should be prepared to spend an average of 20 hours a week engaged in course materials, be that reviewing lecture notes and case studies, interacting with fellow students and the programme team on the discussion board, researching areas of interest or preparing assessments. As there are no set times for study, to be successful you will need to be self-motivated and determined.   

Although the programme involves independent study, you will also have the opportunity to become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from all over the world. Indeed, one of the most important aspects to successful online study is the ongoing support and sharing of information achieved through interactive discussions and input from expert tutors.

The support from the teaching staff was amazing and encouraging, and that helped me to overcome some major difficulties faced with the poor internet connections and some unforeseen circumstances.  I really enjoyed the teaching style and the way the lessons were dispensed because it not only cultivates in you good time management but also encourages independent thinking and personal research.

Laura Egbe, Sub-Director, Department of Veterinary Services, Cameroon

How will you learn?  

The programme is designed in such a way that, with access to the internet, you will be able to study at the times and in the places that suit you best. The programme will involve mixed teaching approaches, including independent study and reflection, as well as online discussion and group project work. 

As a postgraduate student at the University of Edinburgh, you will have access to excellent resources and be able to take advantage of the University’s academic tradition which values and promotes individuality and independence of thought within research.

Learning is delivered through:   

• Weekly materials, written notes, recommended reading, organised discussions with other learners, tutors and course organisers. Recorded lectures or podcasts may also be available for you to watch or listen to in your own time.   
• Opportunities to connect regularly with your course organiser and programme team to address concerns and monitor progress.   
• Individual assessments including essays, data presentations, proposals and presentations that will reinforce what you have learnt.   
• Group assignments and online discussions with your peers will expose you to different perspectives and new ways of thinking about a problem or topic.   
• Independent study and reflection.  

The discussion board was particularly helpful not only in sharing varied field experiences between students and tutors but also in making the online learning experience as fulfilling as the face-to-face learning environment.

Dennis Muhanguzi, Senior Lecturer, Makerere University

Student Support and Facilities  

You will have access to online student services including:

• library resources
• well-being and student support services
• technical support
• study skills support