Postgraduate Degree by Distance Learning

Abstract

Distance learning provides a wide opportunity for learners to access postgraduate qualifications. With the establishment of such open and distance learning (ODL) institutions like open universities and e-learning programs by higher learning institutions around the world, more learners are getting into postgraduate degree programs. In the United Kingdom, for example, a group of reputable institutions have established the UKeU (UK e-Universities). This article looks at the types of programs offered (master’s and doctorate) and their characteristics in contrast to traditional on-campus study. We will look into the challenges and issues faced by distance learning postgraduate-degree providers, as well as those faced by the learners. Among the issues are accreditation and recognition, curriculum and assessment, instructional methods, factors influencing learners’ choice of postgraduate programs, and institutional support for learners. Finally, we discuss the effects of postgraduate distance learning programs in the education landscape as a whole.