Are you thinking about taking the next step in your education with a part-time online master’s degree? Online postgraduate courses are making it simpler than ever to balance your studies with a busy lifestyle and full-time work. But you’re likely to have questions about how online learning works.
Below, we’ve provided clear answers to the top questions about online learning. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision on your future. Read on to find out what to expect, and how to get the very most out of your online studies.
How does online learning work?
Online learning offers flexibility for people with busy lifestyles. It does this by providing access to lectures, course materials, and assignments through a digital platform. Instead of attending in-person lectures, you can either join webinars or watch them on demand.
Most courses also include interactive elements, like discussion forums and group projects, to connect students with one another.
For a part-time online master’s degree with the University of Southampton, you can expect to spend around 20 to 25 hours per week on your studies. We design our courses with working professionals in mind, so you can fit your studies around your schedule. This means that no matter where you live and what your working schedule looks like, you can get the degree you want.
Will my degree specify that I studied online?
No, it won’t. A master’s degree carries the same weight and prestige, whether you earn it online or on-campus. So, your degree certificate won't state your study mode. It’ll have the same positive impact on your career prospects.
Will I miss out on networking opportunities?
While you won’t be studying in person with your cohort, you won’t miss out on networking opportunities. As a Southampton Online student, you'll join a global network of like-minded professionals and experts.
You'll have many chances to network with your peers worldwide. These include weekly forums, group projects, and webinars. These interactions can lead to anything, from lasting friendships to valuable professional relationships.
As an online student, you’ll also have access to career and employability services. And once you graduate, you can join our alumni network and continue building professional connection.
What support is available for online students?
Just because you’re learning online doesn’t mean you’ll be on your own. Throughout your studies, you’ll have a comprehensive support network. For academic support, you’ll be able to message your online tutors. And for anything non-academic, you can get in touch with our student adviser team.
If you need to brush up on your academic skills, the university offers a variety of online support services in the Academic Skills Hub, such as:
- academic writing guidance
- software support
- exam preparation
- presentation skills
- critical thinking
- understanding feedback
You’ll also get access to the University of Southampton Student Hub for help and support during your studies. This includes wellbeing, careers, financial support and much more. The team is available to students 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Lastly, never underestimate the support you’ll get from your peers. You’ll feel a sense of community, connection and belonging with your fellow online students. They’re just a text or email away, you’ll never be isolated on your learning journey.
How do I stay motivated and disciplined?
Staying motivated in an online course can be challenging, but there are strategies to help. Setting a regular study schedule and creating a dedicated workspace are crucial steps. Think about where you feel most focused and productive. It could be at home, in your local library, or even in a café.
Break tasks into manageable goals and reward yourself when you achieve them. Actively engaging in class discussions and group projects will also help maintain a sense of accountability and keep you connected with your peers.
To support you with discipline and motivation, we also offer a range of time management resources. These include a weekly planner, which is especially useful for distance learning. Lastly, our student adviser team can share advice for staying on track with your studies.
Can I balance my online studies with a full-time job?
Balancing work, personal commitments, and studies is a top concern for part-time students. We design our courses for busy professionals like you. So, you can create a study plan that fits around your other responsibilities. But it’s important to be realistic about time commitment.
Develop a structured, sustainable long-term study routine. Remember, you’ll need to devote around 20 to 25 hours a week to your online studies. You’ll also need to consider your personal learning pace.
What technical skills do I need?
You’ll need a basic understanding of technology. This means using an internet browser, using video conferencing tools, and submitting assignments online. You’ll be able to access everything study-related via Blackboard, our virtual learning environment (VLE).
You can access this platform via your web browser, and it’s designed to be as intuitive and easy-to-use as possible. We can help you get familiar with Blackboard, and you’ll always be able to request support if you encounter any issues.
Taking the leap with Southampton Online
We’re passionate about making world-class, research-driven postgraduate education accessible worldwide. And we want to help you make an informed decision about your future.
Part-time online master’s degrees are a flexible, rewarding way to advance your career without putting your commitments on pause. They offer a world of possibilities. And with the right mindset, they can be the perfect path to personal and professional growth.
Now that we’ve tackled the most common online study questions, you’ll have a realistic idea of what to expect when you study online with us.
You’ll get the support you need every step of the way, and with the resources we offer, you’ll be positioned to succeed in your online studies. If you have further questions about what it’s like to belong to the Southampton Online community, contact our team of advisers. They’ll be more than happy to help, and no matter what queries you have, you'll get the answers you need.
In the meantime, discover what your life could look like as an online student.