Gain a postgraduate degree 100% online and part-time around your current commitments, with the University of Essex Online.

Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or take the first step in a new industry – we’ll provide you with the skills, knowledge and support to successfully further your career. And with subject areas including business, education, health computing and more, there’s a course to meet every aspiration. Read on to discover the many benefits of studying a postgraduate degree online.  

 

Accessible education for all

Achieving a postgraduate qualification might be easier than you thought, as we offer both academic and work experience entry routes. Applying to study with us is simple – all you need to do is submit an application. You’ll be assigned a dedicated Admissions adviser upon enquiry, so if you’re unsure which course is right for you, they’ll be happy to discuss your options.  

Can’t commit to a full Masters right now? You can study a postgraduate diploma (PG Dip) or postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) which take less time to complete. For each level of study, you’ll gain a recognised qualification, and the best option for you will depend on your personal career ambitions.  

 

Study that fits around you

Our courses are designed to fit flexibly around your work, so you can gain the qualifications needed to get ahead in your current industry, or launch a new career. What’s more, the skills and knowledge you’ve developed can be applied from day one of the course. 

Known as the VLE, our state-of-the-art virtual learning platform gives you 24/7 access to study materials from any device, anywhere in the world. Here, you’ll work through interactive lecturecasts, participate in discussion forums and submit your assignments. The comprehensive eLibrary also provides access to a wide range of textbooks and academic journals, so you have plenty of high-quality resources to support your studies. 

 

What really sets the University of Essex Online experience apart is the exciting online lectures. They curate interactive and fascinating lecturecasts to keep you engaged throughout each module.

Nicholas Pillay | University of Essex Online

 

Managing your time effectively

An online postgraduate degree requires a substantial commitment, so you’ll need to dedicate around 15-20 hours of study per week, per module. On average, your learning experience will involve the following: 

• directed learning (40%) – participate in tutor-led discussions and seminars, completing interactive exercises on the VLE, and watching videos and lecturecasts 
• self-directed learning (30%) – undertake wider reading and research in your area of study to develop your understanding 
• assessment (30%) – prepare for and complete assignments and activities that contribute towards your overall assessment   

 

Dedicated student support

Studying online doesn’t mean studying alone. With Essex Online, you’ll have access to the same support and facilities you’d expect on campus. You’ll receive exceptional support from our staff from day one; whether you need academic support, financial support, or disability support, our teams are on hand to enhance your learning journey. It’s important that you can access your online learning materials at all times, so if you have any technical issues, you can contact the IT team for assistance.   

 

The experience from the Student Services team was exceptional. They were so kind enough to send reminder emails on assignments that were close to due dates and constantly encouraged me to reach out if I needed any help. The Student Services team left a good impression on me as they valued student welfare and academic success.

Erika Van der Merwe | University of Essex Online

 

Boost your industry connections

We’re proud to have students from more than 140 countries worldwide. You’ll build connections, share experiences and learn from your peers through regular discussion forums and group projects. By collaborating with fellow students, you’ll gain a truly global perspective of your chosen industry and see how professionals across the world operate within the field. And at the end of your degree, you’ll be invited to graduate on campus and celebrate with family, friends and classmates.  

   

Why choose the University of Essex Online?

Whether you want to become an expert in your field, adapt your skills to a new industry, or boost your salary and career prospects – an online Masters degree can help you get there. All degrees are awarded and validated by the University of Essex, so you’ll benefit from the world-class research and ground-breaking teaching, and become part of a truly global community. There are many other benefits to studying with Essex Online: 

• study 100% online, part-time around your current commitments 
• join a global network of students from over 140 countries 
• flexible payment options and a range of tuition fee discounts and scholarships 
• graduate on campus at the University of Essex, a top 30 UK university (Complete University Guide 2025) 

 

Discover our Student  Stories and find out what it’s really like to study online. If you have any questions, contact our friendly Admissions team, who are always happy to help.