Distance Learning Doctorate Degrees - What To Do After Your Masters Degree

Online education is becoming an increasingly popular method of earning a bachelor’s or associate’s degree. However, many schools are not also offering advanced degrees for master’s and doctoral degrees. A distance learning doctorate is an ideal solution for individuals who have a master’s degree already and do not have the time to go back to school full time. Most people with a higher education are already in the workforce and have stringent time commitments for personal and professional obligations. This can hamper someone from continuing their education but with the flexibility of online programs, this issue can be solved.

In order to attain a distance learning doctorate, you must have access to a computer and have an Internet connection. If you are not yet skilled in the basic functions of a computer and how to use the Internet, it is advisable to learn before starting classes. You will use this resource heavily, so you should have expert knowledge already. Most people already have sufficient knowledge of the Internet and computers since they are used so frequently in business today.

There are several methods for attaining a distance learning doctorate. Research various schools for their philosophies and curriculum before committing to a program. There are various approaches and one will likely suit you best. It is advisable to start a doctoral program at the same place you intend to complete it so there is no re working of existing work or credits that do not transfer. Take your time to research methods and choose one that will realistically suit your style of learning and time constraints.

One method to obtain a distance learning doctorate is a completely book free method that is custom made to your personal goals. This method brings you in contact with a professor who specializes in your field and will create a curriculum for those needs. The assignments are completely written and cover related topics in your field. You will need to research and write about a number of topics all relating to the industry in which you specialize. This is a viable option because you are learning practical applications for your business.

Another method is to utilize the distance learning doctorate curriculum to study and research with testing and thesis submissions. The majority of the work is done online but has a more structured course schedule. You will likely have detailed assignments and need to use books as well as do Internet research. Testing may be required at local affiliated testing centers that are located in your area. Some schools will even have a split curriculum where portions are on site and other portions are available online.

Traditional methods of learning are very sound; however, many people have too many responsibilities at work or in their personal lives to commit to the time involved in earning a doctorate degree. Colleges and universities have recognized this and have adapted distance learning doctorate programs to account for this. Accelerated and custom class curriculum account for work experience and knowledge to help speed the process. Utilizing technology, the schools offer comparable classes with the added convenience of working at your own pace from your own home.

University of Gloucestershire

Overview

The University of Gloucestershire is made up of three campuses, two in Cheltenham and one in Gloucester, and was awarded university status in 2001 following the merger of numerous institutions. 10,000 students are currently enrolled from over 60 different countries. The University of Gloucestershire was ranked second in the UK for international student support following the International Student Barometer in 2014.

Many courses feature local and international field trips and the option to spend a semester abroad on a student exchange. The Degreeplus initiative combines internships with formal training to improve employability after graduation. Gloucestershire also offers two year ‘fast-track’ courses in subjects such as Law and Business, allowing students to enter the workplace or further training faster and at a lower cost. The University has also been awarded14 National Teaching Fellowships and have a strong portfolio of lecturers with industry experience.

Services for International Students

University of Gloucestershire is home to a new initiative with INTO to provide language lessons to international students before and during their degree.

The Student Services Team works to ensure that international students receive comprehensive and relevant advice. Each campus has a Helpzone where students can receive support and assistance on issues they may be facing. International Student Advisors help current international students have a successful and enjoyable time while studying. This includes the International Welcome Week which gives students access to all the information and support they need before they start their course, while throughout the year, various trips, parties and social events are organised for international students.

Ranking

88th in the Times University Guide 2016

54th in the Guardian University Guide 2016

80th in the Complete University Guide 2016

Following the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, 25% of University of Gloucestershire’s submitted work was class as ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

Accommodation

All international students are guaranteed a place in University of Gloucestershire halls of residence provided they apply by the given deadline. Approximately 1,380 rooms are available in Cheltenham and Gloucester and a residential support team is on hand to assist you with a any issues that may arise during your stay.

Location

The University is centrally located in the UK and within easy reach of major cities. London is two hours away by car or train, with Birmingham, Bristol and Oxford all less than one hour.

Two campuses are based in the town of Cheltenham, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Cotswolds’, with a third in nearby Oxstalls. Cheltenham is an attractive and peaceful town located in an area of outstanding natural beauty that attracts six million tourists from all over the world every year. It is also home to the world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse, which is also used as a venue for social events and the university graduation ceremony.

Alumni

PJ Crook – famous artist

Cornelia Parker – artist

Zoe Derham – Commonwealth athlete

Adam Buxton – TV presenter

University of Bedfordshire

Overview

The University of Bedfordshire is based in both Luton and Bedford, two large towns north of London. The University of Bedfordshire has two main campuses in the centre of Luton and on the outskirts of Bedford, both with on-campus accommodation. The University also has two campuses for nursing and midwifery degrees at Butterfield Park on the outskirts of Luton, and at the Buckinghamshire campus at Oxford House in Aylesbury. A fifth site, Putteridge Bury, contains the postgraduate Business School.

24,000 students from over 100 countries study at the University of Bedfordshire and since its foundation in 2006, the University has invested over £130 million in building and redeveloping facilities. The sports facilities were used to host athletes in the London 2012 Olympic Games and will play a role in the Rugby World Cup in 2015.

It is less than an hour away from the capital by car and benefits from direct rail links to many airports including Luton and Heathrow. The University of Bedfordshire was created when the University of Luton and the Bedford campus of De Montfort University merged in 2006.

Services for International Students

The University of Bedfordshire has a dedicated International Office that offers support on issues such as visas, accommodation, travel and events, orientation and induction for new students. There is also a formal Communication Skills course, which deals with academic English, aspects of British university culture and more general study skills.

Every new international student is also given a buddy, a current international student who will help you settle into your new surroundings.

Ranking

110th in the Times University Guide 2016

98th in the Guardian University Guide 2016

110th in the Complete University Guide 2016

Following the results of the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, the University of Bedfordshire has more than doubled its amount of world leading research since 2008, while the number of staff judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent in research has quadrupled.

Accommodation

There is a wide variety of accommodation in Luton, ranging from studio apartments to standard rooms in shared flats. Students can also enjoy free access to an on-site gym, 24-hour laundry and 24-hour security. In Bedford, students can choose from two different accommodation options at the Student Village or Liberty Park.

Location

Luton is one of the UK's largest towns, and also one of its most diverse. Over 140 different nationalities make up this vibrant, multicultural society. By contrast, Bedford is a riverside town on a beautiful stretch of the River Great Ouse, surrounded by parks and open spaces.

London is close and easy to reach from both the Luton and Bedford campuses, which are on the same train line into London's St. Pancras station. The journey takes around 40 minutes from Bedford and 22 minutes from Luton on a fast train. London Luton airport is just 4km away from the main Luton campus.

Alumni

• Maggie Alphonsi –English women's rugby international.
• Gemma Hunt – TV presenter for BBC.
• Melvon Odoom – Radio presenter for KISS 100 Breakfast.

Undergraduate Degrees in the UK

International undergraduate applications to all UK universities are managed by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) and, as an official UCAS centre, SI-UK’s professional university consultants can guide you through the entire university application process.

How long do undergraduate degrees last?

For a first degree, most international and EU students undertake a three-year undergraduate bachelor's degree, featuring a combination of seminars, workshops and lectures made up of different modules. Certain modules are optional, and as such students can tailor study to what they are most interested in.

Some undergraduate degrees, such as a science and engineering, can take up to four years to complete, while the introduction of fast-track 2-year degrees enable students to complete their undergraduate course and find a job much quicker.

Types of undergraduate degree

In addition to the standard 3-year undergraduate degree, a joint or dual-honours undergraduate degree will see students split their time across two different courses, meaning a larger choice of modules and increased job options after you graduate.

A sandwich course will last four years and involve spending one year at a work placement related to your field of study.

Short undergraduate degrees

Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) – Lasts for one year full-time and two years part-time.

Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) – A 2-year full-time degree course.

Neither of the above fast-track degree options lead to postgraduate study, but students can move into an extended three-year degree if they change their mind.

Where can I study an undergraduate degree?

Undergraduate courses at UK universities provide world class teaching, state-of-the-art facilities and global recognition from employers.

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