How to graduate debt free with Distance Learning
Thursday, December 23rd, 2010One of the biggest concerns that school leavers have with university is the rather sizeable issue of debt. With tuition fees currently standing at 3,225 per year but looking set to increase drastically its no wonder that young people are trying to seek out an alternative option.
In fact, imagine getting your degree for a lot less than everyone you know is paying for theirs … or even getting it for free! We’re talking about distance learning here.
Distance learning simply means studying for a qualification away from schools, colleges or universities. Most often this means that you study at home or work and the course comes to you in the form of books, DVDs, online resources and virtual communities. Distance learning is often thought of as a path more suited to mature students, but it can also provide a cheap and flexible solution for young people too.
Distance learning gives you lots of flexibility – you can study where and when it suits you instead of having to be restricted by a set timetable.
It is entirely up to you how long it takes you to complete your degree course – it can be as fast or as slowly as you wish – there’s no pressure to finish it in three years.
This flexibility allows you to work at the same time as studying – 70% of Open University students have a job while studying for a degree.
There are many providers of distance learning courses with the likes of The Open University and RDI who offer fantastic incentives to young people to study via distance learning.
The Open University offer an incredible deal where if you live at home and earn less than 16,500 per year then you won’t have to pay anything towards the cost of your course. They don’t even take into account your parents’ income, which means you don’t get punished for your parents’ earnings.
Resource Development International (RDI) is the world’s largest independent provider of distance learning education, offering students a choice of over 40 qualifications in 13 different subjects from nine different universities. RDI courses are now accessible through the internet on your mobile phone so you really can study wherever and whenever you want!
By studying via distance learning over a campus-based university, you could save up to 42,791. This together with the flexibility of getting your degree in more comfort and at your own speed are very strong contenders to any traditional university route.
For more information on distance learning and to find out about some of the opportunities available take a look at notgoingtouni.co.uk.
Notgoingtouni.co.uk helps young adults with their future by highlighting jobs and training that exist outside of university. There are lots of distance learning opportunities currently available in addition to free career guides and over 300 videos on apprenticeships, foundation degrees, gap years, voluntary work and advice on getting a sponsored degree.