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Launched in 2007, Kaplan Open Learning (KOL) works in partnership with the University of Essex to provide a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate online courses. Developed by subject experts and industry leaders, our online degrees are offered in Business, Management, Marketing, Law, Criminology, Psychology, Infection Control and Public Health.
Scoring significantly higher than sector averages in the 2017 National Student Survey (NSS)
for course delivery
Online study is just a way of learning that is entirely online. It is extremely flexible, allowing you to choose how and when you study; this allows you to fit your online degree around your family and work commitments. All resources, classroom activities and assignment submissions are also completed online, using our cutting-edge virtual classroom environment.
Although I was nervous before starting my degree, I quickly became familiar with the format and deadlines. Studying has not always been easy, but completing this degree has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I never thought that I could reach this level, but now that I have, nothing can stop me or hold me back.
We assess our students in a number of ways, depending on the module you are currently taking. Here’s a brief overview of the different types of assessment you might encounter:
Assignment: a structured essay that focuses on a topic or task set by your tutor.
Dissertation/thesis: an original research project on a topic of interest, aligned to a relevant area within the subject or course.
Discussion activity: a discussion between students on a topic or issue (set by the module tutor), which takes place over a 2-week period within the online learning platform’s forum.
Journal report: an assessed record of a student’s individual progress, and a reflection on their learning and its application.
Oral presentation: a brief spoken presentation delivered online within a time limit, focusing on a set topic, usually supported by notes and slides.
Project: an independent topic, based on a task set by the module tutor.
If you are a UK or EU citizen living in England or Wales, and haven’t completed a degree before, you may be eligible for a student loan. This loan will pay for the full cost of your undergraduate studies.
If you’re not eligible, or you decide to fund the online degree yourself, we offer a simple monthly payment plan, enabling you to spread the cost of your tuition over the duration of your studies.
Various courses also offer scholarships and discounts, which are awarded based on merit.
Our Admissions team will be able to offer advice on your personal circumstances.
There is no mention of online study on the University of Essex degree certificate – it’s just like the degree you would earn if you studied on campus. The mode of study is mentioned only on the transcripts that accompany your final grades.
We realise that a key part of your Kaplan Online Learning (KOL) experience is a successful partnership between us and you - our students. That's why we create an inclusive community, so even though you're learning online from a distance, we make sure that we fully support you in your education and wellbeing. This enables you to achieve your best and fulfil your ambitions; we look forward to helping you succeed!
