A distance learning university is a university that offers distance education programs via correspondence. Rather than attending school in person, students receive and submit assignments via mail or email. In other words, there is a physical difference between on-site and remote university studies. Rather than communicating face to face, students use technology to connect with faculty and other students. Many prestigious universities offer distance learning programs and courses.
The world-famous University of Oxford in the United Kingdom (UK) is an example of a distance learning university. In courses like “Master of Studies in International Human Rights Law” and “Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Data and System Analysis,” Oxford offers undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas and certificates. Through its Harvard Extension School, Harvard University, a prestigious Cambridge, Massachusetts university, offers Internet-based distance education courses as well as online seminars and lectures.
Stanford University, based in Palo Alto, California, became a distance learning university in two ways in 2007. In the same year, Stanford launched the first online high school for gifted students, as well as an international outreach program. Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY), a Stanford distance education high school diploma program, is designed to be completed in three years by gifted students. Stanford’s education programs are adapted in collaboration with education models in African and Latin American universities as part of the international outreach program.
A distance learning university will usually provide prospective students with self-assessment materials to assist them in determining whether distance learning and online programs are right for them. Distance education is not for everyone because it requires a high level of self-motivation and adherence to deadlines to complete mail correspondence or online classes successfully. Some prospective distance education students are concerned about a lack of social interaction, but many distance university courses now include online discussions between students as well as group projects using online technology.
Part-time completion of a course or degree through a distance learning university can be a great option for those who have work hours or other commitments, such as raising children, that prevent them from attending a university full-time in person. Exam delivery varies greatly between distance learning universities. Students may be required to take exams at nearby colleges or universities if their school does not offer remote exams. Distance education is not for the faint of heart, but it can be a fantastic option for those who need a more flexible option than attending university on campus.