University of Essex Online Undergraduate Prospectus 2014 About us University of Essex Online courses are available to both UK and international students and enable you to benefit from a flexible approach to study, while maintaining the quality and support you would expect from a top UK university. University of Essex Online courses are delivered by Kaplan Open Learning, an experienced online learning provider. The University of Essex and Kaplan Open Learning have developed a partnership over the last five years to offer high quality online courses. Our structured online programmes allow you to study for your degree in a unique virtual learning environment and still have access to all the support and facilities you would expect to receive on campus. Whether you’re a student looking to enhance your professional career, or are a school leaver who has opted for an income and valuable work experience whilst studying for a degree, online study is a cost-effective, convenient and flexible way to do it. Contents Why study with us? 3 Student support 4 Business courses 5-6 Marketing courses 7-8 Criminology courses 9-10 Professional qualifications 11-12 Testimonials 13 Frequently asked questions 14 Fees 15 How to apply 16 Studying for a degree online is more affordable than going to university and the flexibility of our courses means you can continue to work while you study. Why study with us? If you are looking to enhance your professional career, studying online is one of the most cost-effective, convenient and flexible ways to gain a graduate qualification, regardless of your geographical location, work or personal commitments. Flexibility Affordability Study at your own pace from anywhere; at work, at home or on the move. Government-backed student loans are now available to part-time students living in England, so there is no need to pay tuition fees up front. You only start repaying once you are earning over £21,000 and any remaining loan is written off after 30 years. With a University of Essex Online course, you receive your degree from a top UK university and get all the support and facilities you would expect on campus. Experience No travel Save time and money; there is no need to travel to attend face-to-face lectures or tutorials. Everything is done online. Our online tutors have vast experience of delivering traditional campus and online tuition. No exams We operate an assignment-based approach for each module instead of exams. Learning and support A dedicated Student Adviser will support you from admission through to graduation. 3 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate prospectus Entry requirements Our entry requirements recognise previous experience. I would encourage anybody to study for their degree with University of Essex Online as they make it so accessible and their help and support is invaluable. Donna Daly BA (Hons) Business and Management Student support If you study with us, you’ll receive your undergraduate qualification from a top-ranked UK university and be able to access all the support and facilities you would expect to receive from a campus-based university. What support will I receive? We pride ourselves on student support and satisfaction. Whatever your question or problem, we will work with you to find a solution. We have a range of support facilities in place to guide you through your studies. Student Advisers You will be assigned a personal Student Adviser who will be your first point of contact with you throughout your studies and will serve as your mentor. The role of our Student Advisers is to support you throughout the course and provide guidance on your progress. Tutor support Your module tutor will be in regular contact with you throughout the course via our online virtual learning platform which closely replicates a traditional campus classroom. Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) The Ministry of Defence’s Enhanced Learning Credits scheme (ELC) is an initiative to encourage lifelong learning for members of the Armed Forces. The ELC scheme provides financial support for higher level courses. We are an approved course provider for the MoD through the ELC scheme and can offer advice and help you to apply for any financial support available. Additional resources If you study with us you will have access to a number of resources to complement your studies via our virtual learning platform, such as online libraries, which will enable you to access on-line journals, databases and e-books. You can also apply to become a member of the University of Essex Students’ Union. Support for students with disabilities You should make us aware of any disability, long-term medical condition, Your module tutor will lead the class by delivering seminars, posting lessons and mental health difficulty or specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia assignments, answering questions and during the application and interview interacting with you on a regular basis. The virtual learning environment will also process as we find that early be used to mark assignments and we aim awareness of these issues improves our level of support. We can also give to provide feedback on any coursework advice on funding that may be available submitted within seven days. for students with disabilities. There is also the opportunity to have regular contact with your tutor by telephone and e-mail as you progress through your course and to interact with other students on the programme through online forums. Undergraduate prospectus | University of Essex Online 4 Our innovative, virtual learning platform replicates a real classroom environment using the latest internet software technology. Business courses 5 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate prospectus Our business degrees give you the opportunity to improve your career with a mix of key skills that are directly transferable to the workplace; from finance, marketing and human resources to business strategy and project planning. Undergraduate Certificates online Bachelors degrees online Our Certificate of Continuing Education courses can be achieved as a standalone qualification or used as a stepping stone to Foundation and Bachelors study. Earning a Bachelors degree may help you achieve a higher paying career opportunity in your field of interest and bring you closer to achieving your career goals. We offer the following Bachelors level degrees in business: Cert CE Business Studies This course, at first year undergraduate level, will introduce you to key and practical skills that can form the basis for both ongoing career development and further academic study. The course structure will introduce you to the business environment and management skills and provide an option to focus on finance, marketing or human resources. Upon completion of your CertCE, we offer the opportunity to study towards a Foundation degree or Bachelors degree in Business and Management. Foundation degrees online Foundation degrees are higher education qualifications which are equivalent to the first two years of a Bachelors degree and provide a means of integrating study and work-based learning. We offer the following Foundation level degree online in business: FdA Business and Management This course will enable you to acquire essential knowledge, vital skills and critical awareness necessary for managing teams and creating value for a business, whilst preparing you for a future management role. Upon completion of your Foundation degree, if you decide that you would like to continue with your studies, we offer the opportunity to study towards a Bachelors degree via our BA (Hons) Business and Management progression route course. For more details on course content and specific modules visit: BA (Hons) Business and Management This degree will enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the strategic and international dimensions of business and management. It will also provide you with the necessary expertise to critically evaluate business models and concepts and apply them to realworld situations. BA (Hons) Business and Management progression route If you have previously completed a business-related Foundation degree, or an equivalent level 5 qualification, this course allows you to continue your studies and gain a Bachelors degree in Business and Management. ILM Professional Qualifications We have partnered with the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) to offer you the unique opportunity to earn a professional qualification (The ILM Award in Management) whilst you study for your business degree. The ILM is the UK's largest awarding body for leadership and management qualifications. Study content is integrated into our degree courses meaning that you get your qualification without doing any additional academic work online.essex.ac.uk Undergraduate Prospectus | University of Essex Online 6 Study where and when it suits you. Learn at home, during your lunch hour and anywhere where you have internet access. Marketing courses 7 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate prospectus Our marketing degrees will contribute to your career development as you explore concepts such as consumer analysis and the planning and implementation of marketing programmes. Undergraduate Certificates online Our Certificate of Continuing Education courses can be achieved as a standalone qualification or used as a stepping stone to Diploma and Bachelors study. Cert CE Business Studies This course, at first year undergraduate level, will introduce you to key and practical skills that can form the basis for both ongoing career development and further academic study. The course structure will introduce you to the business environment and management skills and provide an option to focus on finance, marketing or human resources. Upon completion of your CertCE, we offer the opportunity to study towards a DipHE or Bachelors degree in Business and Marketing. Undergraduate Diplomas online A Diploma of Higher Education is a qualification which is usually awarded after two years of full-time study at a university or other higher education institution. We offer the following Diplomas of Higher Education online in marketing: DipHE Business and Marketing This course will provide you with the fundamental skills and knowledge to pursue career ambitions in the fields of management, marketing, sales, advertising, and market research. Upon completion of your DipHE, if you decide that you would like to continue with your undergraduate studies, we offer the opportunity to continue towards a full Bachelors degree. Bachelors degrees online Earning a Bachelors degree may help you achieve a higher paying career opportunity in your field of interest and bring you closer to achieving your career goals. We offer the following Bachelors level degrees in marketing: BA (Hons) Business and Marketing Marketing is one of the fastestgrowing creative industries and at the centre of what many businesses do. This degree will contribute to your career development as you explore concepts such as consumer analysis and the planning and implementation of marketing programmes. The business modules on the course will introduce you to increasingly complex problems and encourage you to apply your knowledge and understanding to develop innovative solutions. The marketing modules will not only further your understanding of the role of the marketing function in organisations but can also allow you to study specialist topics such as emarketing and business-to-business marketing. ILM Professional Qualifications We have partnered with the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) to offer you the unique opportunity to earn a professional qualification whilst you study for your business and marketing degree. The ILM is the UK's largest awarding body for leadership and management qualifications. Study content is integrated into our degree courses meaning that you get your qualification without doing any additional academic work The DipHE Business and Marketing and the BA (Hons) Business and Marketing courses are subject to Student Finance England designation. For more details on course content and specific modules visit: online.essex.ac.uk Undergraduate Prospectus | University of Essex Online 8 We have flexible entry requirements that look at both your academic and work-based experience. Criminology courses 9 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate prospectus Our criminology and criminal justice courses give you the opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of how the UK criminal justice system works, examining crime and criminal behaviour as well as policing and imprisonment. Undergraduate Certificates online Bachelors degrees online Our Certificate of Continuing Education courses can be achieved as a standalone qualification or used as a stepping stone to Diploma and Bachelors study. Cert CE Criminal Justice Our certificate in criminal justice programme is a nationally recognised qualification. It is the equivalent of half of a first-year of undergraduate study (60 credits) and is open to anyone with an interest in criminal justice. The programme is broad-based and aims to equip students with an understanding of the rapidly changing criminal justice environment. Earning a Bachelors degree may help you achieve a higher paying career opportunity in your field of interest and bring you closer to achieving your career goals. We offer the following Bachelors level degrees in criminology: BA (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice This course is a broad-based programme of study that explores both the social and personal aspects of crime. It examines some of the most serious concerns we face as a society, such as: What causes crime and criminal behaviour? Can crime be prevented? The course focuses on national, legal How and why should we punish and policy issues facing the criminal justice system and it introduces students offenders? How does criminal justice to the problems facing policy-makers and link to social justice? practitioners. Students explore broad The course requires a critical criminological issues such as theory, research, crime prevention, punishment engagement with criminology theory, research methods and the history of and rehabilitation. crime and punishment. This course provides you with the underpinning knowledge for a career in the criminal justice sector and may also confirm your competence if you are already working within the sector as part of your continuing professional development. Upon completion of your CertCE, we offer the opportunity to study towards a Bachelors degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. For more details on course content and specific modules visit: Gaining a bachelors degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice will provide you with a range of skills and knowledge useful for a career within the criminal justice system or in other areas such as public policy, social work or local government. BA (Hons) Criminal Justice progression route If you have previously completed a criminal justice related Foundation degree, or an equivalent level 5 qualification, this course allows you to continue your studies and gain a Bachelors degree in criminal justice. online.essex.ac.uk Undergraduate Prospectus | University of Essex Online 10 Earn a professional qualification from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) while you study for your degree. Professional qualifications 11 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate prospectus When you study for a business degree How does it work? What are the benefits? with us you can choose to simultaneously You have the option to register for The Institute of Leadership and Management is the UK’s largest study towards a professional qualification a professional qualification from the Institute of Leadership and Management awarding body for leadership and in management from the Institute of (ILM) when you enrol on to one of our management qualifications. The Leadership and Management (ILM) undergraduate degrees in business. benefits of studying for an ILM qualification include: without taking on any additional work. Does this mean extra work? The ILM study content is already integrated into our degree programmes; this means that you gain your qualification without undertaking any additional academic work. earn a professional qualification without any additional academic work; earn your first ILM qualification within the first 60 credits of study; develop as an effective management practitioner; and gain ILM membership and access to online books and study guides. ILM professional qualifications Students on the following degrees with University of Essex Online are offered the opportunity to claim the ILM qualifications listed below as part of their studies, subject to an additional fee. Degree course ILM qualification available Cost CertCE Business Studies FdA Business and Management BA (Hons) Business and Management L4 Award in Management L4 Award in Management L5 Award in Management £150 £150 £180 CertCE Business Studies DipHE Business and Marketing BA (Hons) Business and Marketing L4 Award in Management L4 Award in Management L5 Award in Management £150 £150 £180 Undergraduate Prospectus | University of Essex Online 12 Testimonials In 2009, I had been working for three years within the Police as a civilian Radio Dispatcher and 999 Call Taker; forced to watch the work of Constables from the sidelines. I had always dreamed of becoming a Police Officer but could never compete with graduates each time recruitment opened. I had always regretted missing University at eighteen, and felt it was “too late” for me. I became a Police Constable in March 2014 and have scored very well in all my exams, which I credit to my education with the University of Essex Online. With their help I was able to open the door to my future. Achieving a degree online has helped me realise a dream I had thought I needed to let go of. Victoria Swift FdA Criminal Justice (Police) I have always wanted to have a University education as a result of my childhood and growing up in Nigeria. When possible, I would sometimes go to school walking several miles with no food, which affected my education. Upon coming to the UK I tried several times to gain a University education but failed due to my lack of GCSEs. I graduated in 2014 and achieving a degree is a dream come true; my mother is extremely proud as I’m the first member of my family to achieve a degree. The Business and Management course has inspired me to become an entrepreneur and I’ve started developing my own products. What I’ve learned ftom the course will come in very useful when building my own company. Oluwole Okanlawon BA (Hons) Business and Management 13 Starting my studies was a daunting prospect but with the help of some very knowledgeable tutors and kind Student Support Advisers, I was navigating my way through the Foundation degree (FdA) and had the confidence to do two modules at a time. I finished the FdA in just over two years. By this time my appetite for learning and knowledge was increasing and the University of Essex Online made the transition from FdA to BA so easy that I moved straight onto the Top-up programme. I am now pursing an MSc in Business and Management. Studying online is not without its challenges, but I would have it no other way. I’ve learned to be more disciplined, which in I believe is the main ingredient for success. Winsome Barrett BA (Hons) Business and Management I completed my degree whilst working full time and raising three teenagers. It ‘s amazing what’s achievable when you put your mind to it. The studying paid off for both my employer and myself when in July 2012 I was appointed to head up the Confederation of British Metalforming (first female its 110 year history). I was particularly pleased that they acknowledged how proud they were that I had completed my degree. For me personally, trying to juggle a busy home and work life, online learning enough was ideal. It fits around your life and enables you to manage your studying time effectively. Where else could you attend economics lecture sitting in your pyjamas! Geraldine Bolton FdA Business and management Frequently asked questions How does online learning work? Online learning is a flexible method of studying that is designed to fit around your existing work and personal commitments. You can choose how and when you study, using our innovative virtual classroom environment. Do I need a computer? You will need regular access to a computer with internet access. While it may be possible to study from a variety of venues such as at work, from a library or at a family member's house, we recommend that you use a computer based in your own home. How much of my time will it take to study a module? The number of hours required each week will vary during the length of your module. For example, if you are preparing an assignment, the number of hours required in that week may be higher than other weeks where you are studying the module materials or interacting online. You should be prepared to spend a minimum of 10 to 15 hours per week studying. What happens if my circumstances change during my studies? University of Essex Online courses are different to traditional degree courses. Our approach is based on choice and flexibility. If your personal situation changes during your studies, we will work with you to make the necessary adjustments to your course load. Will I have to sit any exams? There are no exams to sit. All assessments are based on discussion contributions, written assignments and work-based learning projects. Every piece of work that you submit is uploaded via our virtual online platform and your tutor has direct access to assess it. Am I eligible for a student loan? If you are a UK or EU citizen and live in England or Wales and haven't completed a degree before you may be eligible for a student loan which will pay for the full cost of your undergraduate studies. If you are not eligible, or you decide to fund your course yourself, we offer a simple monthly payment plan to enable you to spread the cost of your tuition over the duration of your studies. How do I apply and when can I start? Call us on +44 (0) 800 0527 526 or complete our online application form. We have monthly start dates so you can begin your studies as soon as you’ve been accepted onto one of our courses and your student loan application has been received or you and have paid your course tuition fee. Will my degree say online learning? There is no mention of online study on the University of Essex degree certificate. The mode of study is mentioned on the transcripts that accompany your final grades. What is Accredited Prior Learning (APL)? APL is a process which enables you to gain recognition, formal credit and exemptions for learning you have previously completed prior to enrolling on a University of Essex Online course. This certificated learning could have been through study at another Higher Education Institution, distance learning, in-house company training or professional or vocational qualifications. Do I get a graduation ceremony? Yes, you will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex campus in Colchester after the successful completion of your degree course. Undergraduate Prospectus | University of Essex Online 14 Tuition fees and student loans Student loans Many UK or EU students living in England are eligible for a government-backed student loan. As one of them, you won’t have to pay any tuition fees up front as the loan will cover the full cost of your course. If you are not eligible for a tuition fee loan, or you decide to fund your course yourself, we offer a simple monthly payment plan to enable you to spread the cost of your tuition over the duration of your studies. A 10% discount is available for full payment of undergraduate tuition fees up front. Call us on +44 (0) 800 0527 526 and our specialist student finance advisers will advise you on the student loan process and guide you through your application. All of our tuition fees are the same whether you are a UK, EU or international student. Programme Credits Standard study duration Tuition fee per month Full course fee* Certificate of Continuing Education 60 8 months £375 £3,000 Diploma of Higher Education 240 32 months £375 £12,000 Foundation degree 240 32 months £375 £12,000 BA (Hons) degree 360 48 months £375 £18,000 BA (Hons) Progression Route 120 16 months £375 £6,000 *10 per cent discount available for full course fee payment up front. All fees are subject to change without notice. Undergraduate tuition fees and length of study All of our undergraduate courses cost £375 per month payable over the standard course duration. If you study faster than the standard course duration, your tuition fees will be reduced. For example, the total tuition fees for a full Bachelors degree are £375 per month, payable for the standard course duration of 48 months, up to a total of £18,000. This is equivalent to £4,500 per year, which is half of the annual tuition fee of £9,000 charged by most UK universities. All of our courses can be completed faster than the standard course duration. For example, a full Bachelors degree can be completed in a minimum of 36 months, saving you £4,500. If you take longer than the standard study duration to complete your course you won't be charged more than the full course fee for doing so. 15 University of Essex Online | Undergraduate Prospectus Entry requirements We have flexible entry requirements that take both your academic and work-based experience into account. All applications will be considered on their individual merits and assessed by the academic team, taking into account professional status and work experience as well as prior academic achievements. If English is not your first language, then your English ability should be equivalent to IELTS 6.0. For more detailed information on the specific entry requirements for our postgraduate courses please visit the relevant course page on our website. How to apply Contact one of our experienced Admissions Advisers today on + 44 (0) 800 0527 526. It is important that you fully understand the commitment involved and choose the right programme. We will discuss your previous education, relevant work experience, time available to study and your career aspirations. Contact details T +44 (0) 800 0527 526 E enquiries@online.essex.ac.uk online.essex.ac.uk For more details on course content and specific modules visit: online.essex.ac.uk University of Essex Online courses are delivered by Kaplan Open Learning (Essex) Limited. Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is correct. However, Kaplan Open Learning (Essex) Limited reserves the right to change or amend, at any time, any of the course details including content, dates, fees payable, terms and conditions. Kaplan Open Learning (Essex) Limited also reserves the right to close or not start any published course. 16 online.essex.ac.uk University of Essex Online West Gate 6 Grace Street Leeds LS1 2RP T +44 (0) 800 0527 526 E enquiries@online.essex.ac.uk Keep up-to-date by following us on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/UniEssexOnline Twitter.com/UniEssexOnline
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