When considering studying, one of the big questions is whether you want to study offline – in person – or online. There’s a massive number of differences between the two modes of study, and while they both offer a lot of opportunities, chances are one will fit your situation better.

Here we compare the two so you can make the right decision for you.

 

Where do I study?

Offline: on campus, usually in a lecture hall.
Online: anywhere in the world.

This is one of the massive benefits to studying online. It doesn’t matter where you study – at home, in the office, in the park, on your commute, even on the beach! Offline studying is usually a lot more restrictive.

 

When do I study?

Offline: according to a set timetable of office hours, lectures and classes
Online: flexible study, with 24-hour access to course material

Whether you have a busy career, a hectic family life or you’re training for a marathon (or even all three!), online study is available whenever you want it to be, unlike offline study where you will need to do your work and attend lectures at set times.

 

What do I wear?

Offline: looking professional can be beneficial
Online: whatever you like… pyjamas?

Many courses for mature students encourage students to keep to a business-casual dress code. If you’re studying online, no one even knows what you’re wearing!

 

Who else is studying?

Offline: typically younger, full-time students
Online: people just like you – busy professionals, ambitious mums and dads, and dedicated adult learners from all around the world.

Most students on face-to-face courses will be young adults who are studying immediately after leaving school, while remote learning is often the choice for professionals who are looking to get a degree a little later in life. Our students come from over 150 different countries, and our average student is in their mid-thirties and in full-time work.

 

What qualification do I get?

Offline: a globally-recognised degree.
Online: a globally-recognised degree.

That’s right – there’s no difference between the quality of degree you receive studying online versus on campus. There’s no mention of online study on our certificates, and you’ll even be invited to attend graduation at the University of Essex Colchester campus.

 

What’s the experience like?

Offline: life-changing.
Online: life-changing.

 

No matter where or how you study, gaining a new qualification will change your life. Your new degree may take you to places you never thought you’d go, meet people you never know you’d meet and help you reach career goals you never thought you’d achieve. Just check out some of our students’ stories.

 

If you think online study is the way to go, then why not download our prospectus to find out which course is right for you.