Part-time and distance learning
For some people, learning is a stepping stone to a new career, while others study to broaden their horizons and gain personal satisfaction. However, juggling work and family commitments means it is often difficult to study full-time.
At Sunderland we offer a huge range of part-time postgraduate courses, so you can fit your learning around your other commitments.
Part-time study options include evenings, Saturdays, occasional block weeks or studying one or two days midweek alongside full-time students.
Distance Learning
Distance learning is possible for some Taught Masters and MPhil and PhD programmes.
Postgraduate students on distance learning programmes are not based at the University, and instead undertake their research from elsewhere (often overseas), with a supervision team comprising of supervisors from the University.
Combining study and work
Employers are generally very positive about their staff studying part-time. Workers who take the initiative to improve their skills invariably become more valuable to their employers, thanks to their increased knowledge, improved analytical and communication skills and broader networks.
Many of our part-time students not only have the emotional backing but also the financial support of their employers. Employers know their can trust the University of Sunderland's reputation for combining academic rigour with practical skills, and so they feel confident investing in their employees.
Debbee Forster's employer, InterContinental Hotel Group (IHC), encouraged her to study for a MSc in Human Resource Management. IHC paid Debbee's course fees, and they also provided study leave and flexible working arrangements to help her meet study deadlines. Read Debbee's story.
Students' stories
You may also want to read about the experiences of other students who have taken part-time postgraduate courses at Sunderland:
Gillian Hanson and her two daughters Julie and Gemma all took part-time teaching courses to develop their social care company.
Alan Brown, a retired teacher, studied MA Photography part-time at the age of 65.
Claire Rushworth returned to Sunderland to study part-time for an MA in Teaching and Learning with ICT to advance her teaching career.
Debbee Forster studied part-time for an MSc Human Resource Management with the full support of her employer.
