Studying Online
Study online when and where you want with Ulster University.
We make it happen.
Why choose Ulster Online for your Masters?
- A Top 30 UK University – Ulster University is proud to rank as a Top 30 UK University in the Guardian University Guide 2024.
- World-leading research impact – Ulster University has an established reputation for delivering world-class research, standing among the top 10% of UK universities for research impact in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
- Expert academic staff – Our distance learning programmes are led by the same qualified academics, researchers and practitioners as our on-campus offerings, all passionate in their areas of expertise.
- Commitment to solving global challenges – We are dedicated to finding solutions for the most pressing global challenges concerning social and business renewal and healthy communities and culture. We also empower our students to drive change in their chosen areas.
- Flexibility for working professionals – Study 100% online with 24/7 access to all learning and supporting materials, discussion boards and readings, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere in the world.
- Excellent student support – Dedicated Student Success Advisors are on hand to guide online students from registration to graduation, providing careers advice, research opportunities and academic support.
Our research excellence
Within the Research Excellence Framework (REF, 2021), Ulster University ranks in the top 10% of UK Universities for outstanding (4*) or very considerable (3*) research impact, with 97% of research being judged as having ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable impacts’ in terms of reach and significance.
Our interactive online learning environment is built for active and collaborative learning to build real-world skills and knowledge. We facilitate “learning by doing” through a variety of teaching approaches, including workshops, group work and project-based learning.
Our innovative teaching methods are backed up by state-of-the-art facilities and 20 years of experience in the distance learning market, allowing us to bring the very best learning experiences to students all over the world.
Teaching methods
As an Ulster Online student, you’ll be able to make use of a wide range of learning methods and formats. These include:
- Live sessions (with recordings available)
- Interactive seminars
- Directed learning exercises
- Practical activities
- Independent readings and tasks
- 24/7 access to resources
- Group and collaborative learning with fellow students from around the world.
Learning by doing
Our interactive online learning environment is built for active and collaborative learning to build real-world skills and knowledge. We facilitate “learning by doing” through a variety of teaching approaches, including workshops, group work and project-based learning.
Our innovative teaching methods are backed up by state-of-the-art facilities and 20 years of experience in the distance learning market, allowing us to bring the very best learning experiences to students all over the world.
Flexible learning, on your terms
“I work full time, I’ve got a young son and I’ve had health problems, so it’s been a real stretch. But the reason why I picked Ulster… is the flexibility that you offer. So, I’ve actually had a break between modules because I was ill and I needed to catch up on life and other stuff”.
– Claire Planner, an online Health Psychology MSc student at Ulster, speaking on how the carousel model has helped her.
Unlike many traditional institutions, Ulster offers you a choice of start dates throughout the year. The rotating structure of our modules, sometimes referred to as ‘course carousels’, allows for several intakes each year and ensures start dates are as flexible as possible for incoming students.*
Students who wish to take a break from studying can step off their current carousel and step on a new one at a later date, with little disruption to their studies. (*Depending on when you start, module order may change.) At Ulster Online, we remove the stress so that you can focus on success.
Are our courses right for you?
Ulster Online courses are well suited for working professionals and those looking for flexible learning options. As an online student at Ulster, you can study anytime, from anywhere in the world, fitting your studies around your existing work and life commitments.
No matter where you are in your career, Ulster Online has an option for you. Whether you are looking to upskill, boost your CV or switch careers, studying online with Ulster can help you achieve your goals.
“At Ulster University we are committed to creating an environment which supports, promotes and enables research excellence. [Our REF results] reflect the quality, commitment, and leadership of our research community, our investment in research, our worldwide contribution, and the strength of our partnerships and collaborations.”
Exceptional student support
Student success is at the heart of everything we do and one of the most popular aspects of online learning at Ulster is the excellent level of student support available.
From enrolment right through to graduation, you’ll have your very own Student Success Advisor who is there to make your student journey as smooth and possible, answering any questions relating to course content, study schedules, fees and more. Your Advisor can also direct you to other relevant resources such as Student Welfare.
Student Success can help you to:
- Settle into the course and begin your online learning journey
- Provide guidance and advice to support your progression
- Connect you to other support services you might find useful
You’ll also receive support from academic staff, including module facilitators and instructors with an open line of communication with course leaders to raise questions about the course in the easiest way possible.
If you are a student who requires additional support due to a disability or other condition, you can gain access to a range of additional online resources to help you successfully complete your course. Get in touch for more information.
What our students say
“All the support was fantastic, and the monthly calls are very helpful and reassuring”
– Emma Spittles, online Biomedical Science MSc student
“Very supportive”, “efficient” and “quick to respond.”
“I agree with what everybody has said in terms of the support from Student Success. I think that it has been amazing. I’ve never experienced that sort of support before.”
– Chloe Cross, online Health Psychology MSc student
“A super nice experience at Ulster, easy to onboard and the Student Success team made me feel comfortable. Although it’s an online course the personal touch from the team really helps.”
– Oteri Kueberuwa, online Health Psychology MSc student
FAQs
How does online learning with Ulster work?
Our Masters courses typically require 20 hours of study time a week. While independent learning necessitates a degree of motivation and self-discipline, you will be supported from registration to graduation by a dedicated Student Success Advisor to ensure the work is as manageable as possible.
Can I study 100% online?
Yes, all our distance learning Masters can be studied online with no need to travel or relocate.
Even specialised courses such as the Biomedical Science MSc can be done entirely online; however, you will require laboratory access and research approval from your organisation for this specific course.
Can I take a break from my studies if needed?
Yes. Our online Masters programmes all offer the flexibility to take a break if needed, using our carousel model to exit early and restart your studies at a time that suits you. Ask your Student Success Advisor for more details, or contact us.
Is an online Masters degree the only choice of qualification?
No; in fact, we offer a range of study pathways to allow you to tailor your learning to your own individual needs.
Multiple stackable qualifications include individual modules, Postgraduate Certificates (PG Cert, minimum of 12 months), Postgraduate Diplomas (PG Dip, 16months) or the full Masters qualification (MSc, 2 years).
How long does it take to get a Masters online?
Our Masters courses take a minimum of two years to complete, for a total of 180 credits. If this length of time is infeasible, consider opting for an individual module, PG Cert (8 months minimum) or PG Dip (16 months), taking the option to pause your studies if necessary.
Our online Masters programmes
Our online Masters programmes aim to produce highly employable graduates with the skills and confidence to shape change within their sector.
Psychology Conversion MSc
Get the skills, knowledge and confidence to transition smoothly and effectively into a career in psychology.
Health Psychology MSc
Our BPS-accredited online Masters programme grants Stage 1 training to become a Registered Health Psychologist in the UK.
Biomedical Science MSc
This IBMS-accredited course is taught by world leading researchers and offers critical training to becoming a biomedical scientist in the UK.
Visit our blog
The Ulster Online blog covers all you need to know about our courses, specialisms, career outcomes and more. So, whether you’d like to learn how to become a health psychologist or what you can do with a Master’s in biomedical science, we’ve got you covered.
Visit the blog homepage, or see some examples of our latest educational content below.
Ulster is a Top 30 UK university in Guardian University Guide 2024
What to expect from a consultation call? An Enrolment Guide
At Ulster Online we pride ourselves on the level of student support we offer, not only for existing students, but also for prospective students still weighing up their options. If you are considering one of our online Masters programmes, our team of expert Enrolment Advisors are on hand to provide all the guidance you need
Online Biomedical Science MSc: An Interview with Professor McKenna
Contact us
If you would like to find out more about a programme, please contact us using this form.