June 2018
Online learning graduates reflect on balancing study with work, lively discussion forums and bonding with fellow learners around the world.
Online learning
Our featured alumni, based in Scotland, Belgium and Singapore, each wanted to pursue advanced study in their chosen fields. An online degree offered the flexibility required to balance this with busy working lives.
While challenging at times, our graduates cite multi-perspective debates, rigorous discussions and a sense of community as highlights of their degrees. Some even managed to visit campus for conferences or to meet up with tutors.
And one, Lyndsay Brown, has come full circle and now tutors on the MSc programme she once studied.
Kelly Ann Dempsey
Working in an ecology related field and using real project examples in discussions and assignments helped Kelly Ann Dempsey make the most of her online MSc in Biodiversity, Wildlife & Ecosystem Health.
Read Kelly Ann Dempsey's profile.
One of the most exciting things about the course is being able to learn from people from all over the world. It was quite a unique experience to participate in discussion fuelled by wide ranging experiences and backgrounds.
Hong-Heng Goh
Dr Hong-Heng Goh's work across science and technology fields meant he had to keep up with recent developments. Since studying the PG Cert in Computational Chemistry and Modelling he's put both the subject knowledge and the lecturers' pedagogical techniques to good use.
Apart from acquiring skills in the subject-matter at hand, I also managed to pick up various pedagogical techniques adopted by the different lecturers and tutors. The latter skill, serendipitously, turned out to be something that had a more direct and positive impact in my subsequent career move.
Lyndsay Brown
Having worked as an Optometrist with an interest in Primary Care throughout her career, Lyndsay Brown's online degree has opened up new and different opportunities for her.
I was very fortunate to be able to come to campus and participate in the many courses and opportunities available to develop new skills. The most memorable for me was learning the tools to help deliver a successful presentation. Feeling and controlling the fear!
Endean Tan
Dr Endean Tan juggled online masters studies in Internal Medicine with work, exams and national military service. Despite the challenges, the MSc helped him with the final hurdle to becoming a specialist and consultant in Singapore.
I think the biggest lesson I learnt was how to remain committed despite these challenges, and to see the bright side of putting my nose to the grindstone: it would eventually pay educational dividends!
Emma Makin
Emma Makin loved the sense of community within her MSc in Digital Education online learning cohort. She's putting her degree to good use as Head of Computer Science.
I really felt a part of something and would have continued to study at Edinburgh for the rest of my life if I could!
Send us your profile
Online Learning
The University offers more than 60 programmes, including Postgraduate Certificates, Diplomas and Masters degrees. All awards are identical to our on-campus qualifications, but delivered flexibly and fully online.
Online programmes are increasingly popular among those who wish to study for a postgraduate qualification alongside on-going work or other commitments.