As well as degrees, diplomas and certificates, the University of Essex Online also offers both online short and professional courses which can be completed in just a few weeks.
Below we’ve explained the differences between our online short courses and online professional courses so you can make the right choice for you and your career.
Our online short courses are undergraduate-level modules taken from our business subjects, which can be studied as standalone qualifications. They’re ideal if you’ve no prior experience of higher education – helping you develop key academic skills while expanding on your knowledge of your chosen area of business.
Fully accredited by the CPD Certification Service, our online professional courses are postgraduate-level modules taken from our business, health and computing subject areas. They’re ideal if you’ve already studied at undergraduate level and are looking to advance in your career or move into a new industry. What’s more, the 20 academic credits awarded upon completion can be applied to a PG Cert, PG Dip or full Masters degree.
| Online short courses | Online professional courses | |
|---|---|---|
| Course fee (2023/24) | £771 UK / £809 international | £1,386 |
| Study duration (includes one-week induction) | 10 weeks | 13 weeks |
| Academic credits | 15 credits at undergraduate level | 20 credits at postgraduate level |
| Study experience | Delivers a strong foundation for the chosen subject area, with no requirement for prior qualifications or formal study experience | Provides a detailed or advanced understanding of a specialised subject, ideal for those with some prior qualifications or study experience |
| Work experience | You’ll usually have some work experience at any level | You’ll usually have extensive work experience, or be returning to work after a career break |
| Career impact | Designed to build confidence in core principles within your current or future role | Designed to accelerate your career by delivering enhanced knowledge of your chosen subject. Also ideal if you’re looking to upskill, return to the workplace or move into a new career |
| Study progression options | Progress to a Bachelor’s degree | Progress to a PGCert (8 months), PG Dip (16 months) or full Masters degree (usually 2 years) |
There are no formal entry requirements for either our online short courses or online professional courses.
However, as our courses are delivered in English, you’ll need a high proficiency in this language. If English isn’t your first language, your ability should be equivalent to:
You can find more information on our English language requirements here.
We offer three online short courses in business and nine online professional courses taken from our business, health and computing subject areas.
All our courses are delivered 100% online, part-time, allowing you to fit your studies around your work and family life. You’ll enjoy access to lecturecasts, learning materials and resources via our innovative virtual learning environment (VLE), which is available 24/7.
We have regular intakes throughout the year for both our online short and professional courses. You can find all our upcoming start dates here.
Apply for an online short course
Apply for an online professional course
Once your application has been submitted, a member of our Admissions team will be in touch with next steps.