The study year commences in February and modules are examined in October. The study time required for each module is, on average, 7-8 hours per week over a period of 30 weeks (plus 4 weeks for revision). Some students may find that the study time required is longer than indicated, especially at the beginning, until they become more familiar with the subject matter and the mode of study.
Once registered, you will be sent a comprehensive study package for each of your chosen modules. This includes:
You will be issued with an Athens password to gain access to the University of London’s online library resources.
There are numerous opportunities for receiving support from tutors and CeDEP staff throughout the study year. Communication is increasingly carried out via email and the CeDEP's tailor-made Online Learning Environment (OLE).
It is now easier than ever for students to contact tutors and their peers electronically to gain help and support. Tutors are allocated to each module and are available to answer queries, promote discussion and offer feedback during the study year (February to October).
CeDEP tutors also provide a monthly update, to summarise activity on the OLE, answer any
frequently asked questions and draw attention to topical events which relate to their module. These are posted on the OLE and also emailed to all students to ensure they reach those with poor internet connectivity.
An opportunity for specific tutorial feedback on students' understanding and interpretation of the
subject matter is offered in the form of Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs). These are two substantial assignments which you can complete voluntarily for informal assessment. In the case of the research methods module (R106), assignments are assessed and make up the final module marks.
The OLE provides you with the opportunity to extend your studies by discussing both academic and non-academic issues with tutors and fellow students through the Internet.
The OLE provides easy access to study resources, as well as to fast and efficient academic and
administrative support. It also enables you to be part of a learning community in a way in which distance learners have seldom been accustomed in the past.
The OLE includes a number of learning support features: