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Explore the benefits of online learning.
Whether you're looking to gain a promotion, change career or get back into work, distance learning could be the ideal solution.
Distance learning gives many people the opportunity to achieve something they thought might not once have been possible.
The lack of geographical restrictions means that you can study a distance learning course from anywhere in the world, at a time and place that works for you.
Discover the advantages of online learning with ARU:
What are the benefits of distance learning?
As a distance learner you’ll be part of a diverse online community made up of a wide range unique individuals who all have their own motivations and ambitions for studying online. Whatever your motivations there are lots of benefits to online learning and even studying online itself demonstrates a real commitment to self-development and ambition, which your employer or potential employers will recognise.
Choose when & where to study
Online learning is perfect if you want to choose when and where to study. It's an ideal solution if you're juggling work, family and childcare commitments or you find it hard to get to campus. With access to our Learning Management System, you'll participate in online discussions, view course materials, and join the virtual classroom all from your own home. Plus, online learning allows you to study at your own pace and to your own schedule.
Earn while you learn
Our flexible online courses mean that you can fit study around your job and continue to earn while you develop your skills, knowledge and confidence. These essential benefits of distance learning mean that you can apply your education to your current role from day one and fund your course as you develop the tools you need to advance your career.
Support while you study
As a distance learner you won't be distant, you'll have access to the same levels of support as our on-campus learners.
You’ll be supported by specialist tutors who are well experienced in supporting distance learning students. You'll also access everything from careers services, to a world-class online learning environment, study skills programmes, and support for your health and wellbeing.
Funding support
If eligible, you can fund your online course through a government loan, which means upfront costs are avoided and repayments only begin once the course is finished.
If you are self-funding we offer flexible interest-free instalment plans on all courses, undergraduate and postgraduate, delivered by ARU.
Develop your soft skills
A key benefit of online learning is the wide variety of soft skills that you will gain as you progress. Soft skills are the name for those skills we can master that don’t require a formal qualification but are, nonetheless, essential for your success in the workplace.
These skills include, but are by no means limited to, self-motivation, virtual communication, and time management.
Build your network
As a distance learner you’ll have the opportunity to build your network of like-minded learners. Many of our distance learning students find these
connections invaluable, helping them stay motivated and forge new friendships.
Upon successful completion of your studies you’ll be invited to a graduation ceremony at one of our campuses, giving you the opportunity to meet your tutors and peers in person.
87% of our Alumni have gained more, or much more, personal growth and confidence*
Discover what you're made of with our range of distance learning courses.
At ARU, we offer a wide range of courses to suit all sorts of dreams and ambitions. Aside from a variety of subject areas on offer, including education, healthcare, and business management, we also provide courses at various levels too.
From a selection of excellent undergraduate degrees, including bachelors and foundation degrees, to various postgraduate degrees for students looking to return to education after already completing their undergraduate degree either with us or at a different university, there is a course to help you pursue your ambitions.
Whatever your current level of education, you'll be sure to find the right course to fit your needs and career goals.
92% of our Alumni felt ‘much more confident’ or ‘more confident’ at work*
Benefits of online learning FAQs
Can I fit an online degree program around a full time job?
One of the biggest benefits of studying an online program is the flexibility that it offers you to complete your education around your career.
Not only will this help you fund your education, but you'll be able to apply the knowledge and skills that you gain to your current role from day one. Plus, by completing your education alongside your career, you can apply real world scenarios to your class discussions and assignments, helping to enhance your understanding of a topic.
Studying around a full time job isn’t easy, it requires commitment and balance. However, with organisation and excellent time management skills, you can fit your distance learning degree around all of your other commitments.
How can I utilise online learning platforms?
The use of online learning platforms are vital for the distance learning experience. Our learning management system, Canvas, is how you'll connect with other students, submit your assignments, and access online resources.
By actively engaging with the course materials, discussion boards, and virtual classrooms, you’ll be able to make the most of your online learning experience. And, if you find that you’re having difficulties, don't hesitate to seek help from your tutors.
How can an online education benefit my professional life?
Online learning can significantly enhance your professional life by providing flexibility, accessibility, and a diverse range of educational opportunities. Through our online courses, you can acquire new skills, and pursue higher education, and gain the respect of your colleagues without the constraints of the traditional classroom setting. Our 2023 Alumni survey (158 respondents) found that 92% of respondents felt ‘much more confident’ or ‘more confident’ at work and 87% had gained ‘more or much more personal growth and confidence’, demonstrating the positive impact that distance learning can have on both your personal and professional life.
The convenience of learning at your own pace and the ability to access resources from anywhere enable you to balance professional responsibilities with ongoing education. Additionally, our online platform offers you interactive and collaborative opportunities, allowing you to foster relationships with others in your fields.
*2023 alumni survey with 158 respondents