There are a bewildering number of distance learning colleges and courses out there, and choosing between them can be a confusing process. Here are our top ten questions to ask before you commit to a course:
1. Who is the course accredited by?
A good quality Distance Learning course will lead to a qualification which is accredited by a well-known educational establishment or professional body. The accreditation of the qualification you receive is what will give it weight on your CV, so it’s important to know what you’ll be getting.
2. When can I start the course?
Some Distance Learning Courses have several set start dates throughout the year, while others will allow you to begin your course at any time. If you’re in a hurry to get started, it’s important to check if there are any enrolment deadlines you need to meet, or how long you’ll have to wait to begin your studies.
3. How is the course structured?
Will you be set regular assignments, or will you be left to work through the course materials at your own pace? Make sure the course is structured in a way that fits with your own requirements – are you happy to work alone, or would you rather go for something more structured to keep you on track?
4. How will I receive my course materials?
Is the course delivered entirely online, or will you receive hard copies of your textbooks? Perhaps you’ll receive your course on CD-ROM, or a mix of different methods? Check before you sign up to make sure that the course materials will be in a format that you're comfortable with.
5. How much contact do I get with my tutor?
Some Distance learning courses limit the amount of contact time you’ll receive with your tutor. If you’re happy to work through the course with minimal support, this could be a cheaper option, but if you’re unsure or haven’t studied for a long time, it may be better to choose a course which offers unlimited support. Also, check what methods of contact you’ll have – telephone, email, Skype, forums and so on.
6. What experience will my tutor have?
Your tutor may be an experienced teacher, but do they have industry experience to back up their knowledge? Are they a specialist in their field?
7. How and when will I receive feedback?
When you submit an assignment, how long will you have to wait to receive feedback, and what form will this take? Will the feedback you receive be personalised to your work or will it be generic?
8. Do I have to join any professional bodies to study?
Some professional qualifications require you to be a member of the professional body which accredits the course before you can study. If this is the case for your course, be clear on whether membership fees are included in the cost, or whether this is something you’ll need to arrange separately.
9. Are there any exams?
If your course requires you to sit exams, you’ll need to know when these will be and how they’ll work. You’ll also need to know whether you’ll have to attend a specific exam centre or whether you can arrange to sit your exam in your own workplace. Finally, check the exam fees, whether they're included in the cost of the course and whether you’ll receive any help in booking your exams or if this is up to you.
10. What are my funding options?
If your employer is funding your course, can the college invoice them directly? If you’re self funding, are there any options to spread the cost of the course, or does the entire course fee need to be paid up front?
