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Distance Learning Programmes

1.©Nafisa Fera 2.©Nafisa Fera 3.©RAI 4.©Nafisa Fera

Distance or online learning programmes allow students the flexibility of studying at a university without having to take classes on-site. Students are able to incorporate their studies alongside other personal or professional commitments, as well as following access courses which might not be otherwise be available to them through their local institutions. Self-directed study is an essential component of the distance learning programmes. Students are supported through a combination of online tutorials, virtual classes, discussion forums, and personal tutors.

A number of universities that offer anthropology have one or two online modules which students can take as part of their taught degrees. In general however, relatively few universities offer an entire degree (either at undergraduate or postgraduate level) through distance learning.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of institutions around the world that offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in anthropology through distance learning.

Australia:

The University of Southern Queensland offers a BA online degree in Anthropology.

Canada:

Canada Virtual University offers an online BA degree in Anthropology

Athabasca University offers a BA online degree in Anthropology


United Kingdom:

The University of Wales Lampeter offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Anthropology.

Bircham International Online University offers modules and degree programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

United States:

Charter Oak State College offers online degrees where students can choose a concentration in Anthropology.

Ashford University offers online BA degrees in Social Science where students can choose a concentration in Anthropology.

The University of North Texas offers postgraduate degree courses (MA or MSc) in Applied Anthropology.

The Commonwealth Open University offers an MA in Anthropology through distance learning.

Foothills College offers an Associate in Arts degree with a major in Anthropology.

Important aspects to consider when choosing a distance learning programme:

  • Are you the type of learner who will enjoy self-study and the virtual classroom environment? Do you have the time-management skills needed to balance your studies with other personal and professional commitments?
  • What kind of accreditation will you receive with the programme? Is the accreditation internationally recognised? It is important to check with your local universities whether they will acknowledge a distance learning degree from a particular institution.
  • What is the national or international reputation of the institution? Does it appear in any of the published university rankings? Find out whether the institution is accredited through a professional accrediting body, and do your research by talking to alumni, career advisers, and local university professors.
  • It’s a good idea to find out: who the teaching staff will be, which instructional technologies will be used, and how much individual support will be available.

Get involved in anthropology through the RAI's Education Outreach Programme

image © Nafisa Fera The RAI's Education Department organises events, activities, contests as well as produces teaching and learning materials for anyone interested in learning about anthropology. Take a look at the many ways to get involved with like-minded people who are passionate about the subject:

 

 

  • Become an RAI member: take a look here for all the benefits associated with joining the RAI.  
  • Attend an event: take a look at our events page for a list of various anthropological events which take place nationally. 
  • Take part in discussions by joining our community forum and our Facebook Group
  • Join our Student E-Network by emailing Nafisa Fera, the RAI's This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
  • Become a volunteer: the RAI's Education Department is always looking for ethusiastic individuals to help out with our outreach events such as the London Anthropology Day and the ESRC Festival of Social Science. If you are interested in volunteering email Nafisa Fera, the RAI's This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
  • Apply for an internship: interns form an essential part of the RAI's Educational Outreach Activities. If you are interested in becoming an intern for the RAI's Education Department email Nafisa Fera, the RAI's This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with your CV and a cover letter. A minimum of two months is required in order to be considered. For further information about volunteering at the RAI visit: http://www.therai.org.uk/about-the-rai/governance/getting-involved/
  • Be creative: If you have a poem, song, artwork or photographs which reflect anthropological topics, email Nafisa Fera, the RAI's This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Take a look at the Your Space section for inspiration!



Disclaimer: The above information is provided for information and guidance only. It should not be interpreted as endorsement or otherwise by the Royal Anthropological Institute (RAI) for any external institution listed.  Furthermore, the RAI accepts no responsibility for material created by external parties or the content of external websites.