Glossary of course types/Modes of study

Aberystwyth University offers a range of modes of study for Postgraduate degrees. Please see a description of each below:

• Full-Time

  Based on-site in Aberystwyth, Aberystwyth University offers an exceptional residential academic experience if you wish to pursue full-time study.  The vast majority of postgraduate students study on a full-time basis.

  Students with study leave from employment or considering higher education as part of a career change will find it easier to devote themselves to their studies in Aberystwyth’s academic environment.

• Part-Time

  Many of our postgraduate courses are available on a part-time basis, in order that you can continue your career and studies simultaneously. Part-time research students (LLM by Research, MPhil, and PhD) do not normally have to be resident in Aberystwyth. Attendance requirements are determined by the relevant Head of Department. Where feasible, part-time research students are encouraged to attend the University’s Research Training Modules.

• Distance Learning

  Distance Learning describes an alternative method of delivering taught courses through study packs and study schools as opposed to the traditional lecture or seminar-based method.

  Our Distance Learning courses allow you to study at postgraduate level without leaving your job or home, except to attend short residential Study Schools in Aberystwyth. This approach to learning encourages students to be highly motivated, to take responsibility for their own learning, and to manage their time effectively.

  Distance Learning currently can be undertaken in the Department of Information Studies, the Department of Law and Criminology and the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS).

• External or Split-Site Research Degrees

  Aberystwyth University can be very flexible to enable you to carry out research at your place of employment, either because you want to examine a subject with particular relevance to your career or employer, or because you need to access specialist equipment or resources (for example corporate archives) as part of your research. Such arrangements may be particularly attractive to overseas academics who wish to upgrade their educational qualifications without leaving their current university post in their home country.

• Visiting Students and Non-Qualification Postgraduate (NQPG) study

  Many of our taught courses are designed with a view to meeting current employment needs. The different modes of study described above exist to accommodate and complement individual career paths.

  Research students may have external supervisors in addition to the supervisions provided by Aberystwyth University. Some research students may wish to come to Aberystwyth university for a research visit as part of their studies at the home university. The NQPG route may be one which is available. The University welcomes all requests by individuals to attend the institution as visiting students, and details will be finalised by the Postgraduate Admissions Office and the relevant academic department.