At York, we take online education seriously. We want you to benefit from maximum flexibility, high-quality course content, expert tuition, wide-ranging support services and all the other elements that make up a fantastic online degree experience – all of which are a reality thanks to cutting-edge digital technology. Let us take you behind the scenes, showing you how the online higher education experience works, the technology that makes it possible and what you’ll need to get your remote studies underway.

What are the advantages of online learning?

Considering distance learning as an alternative to on-campus, in-person classes? You’re not alone: since the pandemic, more flexible routes to professional development have been growing in demand and popularity. And there are lots of great reasons why:

• Self-guided study. With course content available 24/7 via our online learning management system (LMS), you can study at your own pace, when you want, and how you want to.

• Flexibility. Online study is ideal for those with family, work, or other commitments that can otherwise make it tricky to attend scheduled lectures and classes at a given location.

• Choice. You’ll have more freedom to choose between different courses and training providers as you aren’t bound by geographical restrictions.

• Accessibility. There are any number of reasons why attending on-campus classes might not be suitable for your situation. Online learning removes barriers to study, enabling you to learn from the comfort of your own home – or anywhere else you choose.

• Affordability. Distance learning programmes are often cheaper than face-to-face equivalents. Plus, at York, we offer pay-per-module options to help you plan and manage your finances.

How is technology used in York’s online teaching?

We aim to support your learning experience with the tools you need to succeed with digital learning technology. This technology enables us to follow the principles of instructional design, ensuring your learning content is effective, engaging, meaningful and impactful. Combining diverse pedagogical approaches with this digital technology, we draw on video conferencing, recorded online classes, digital course materials, multimedia capabilities, easy-access online library resources such as books and e-journals and much more – all available via our intuitive virtual learning environment (VLE) – to support enhanced learning.

What are the features of York’s Virtual Learning Environment?

As an online student at York, you’ll have access to our innovative and secure VLE. This will enable you to access course content, participate in learning activities, interact with programme staff and fellow learners, and engage in all other requirements of your course. Some of its key features include:

• course materials – such as lecture slides, tutorials, videos, podcasts, reading lists and quizzes

• interactive tools – for discussion and collaborative work

• alerts – keeping you in the loop about announcements, new content and upcoming dates

• submission tools – to submit assignments and assessment tasks.

The VLE is available across all devices and web browsers, meaning you can access it from home, while on the move, or anywhere else.

What software/hardware will I need to study online with York?

We’ve specifically designed our 100%-online courses to be easy to access, requiring as minimal extra digital technology as possible. To study one of our distance learning programmes, you’ll need access to a computer with stable broadband internet connection and an up-to-date web browser. Depending on the course you choose, you may also require:

• software that is compatible with Word and Excel

• a webcam and microphone

• the ability to access a virtual private network (VPN).

How will I interact with other students and programme staff online?

Worried you’ll miss out on discussions and interactions with programme staff and other students by opting for online study? That won’t be an issue. You’ll be able to interact regularly via our VLE, participating in discussion topics and message boards. You can ask questions at any time, sparking meaningful conversations, enriching your understanding of the course content, and building your professional network of contacts.