Academic

For questions about studying on the programme.

How does Online Learning work? 

This short video provides an introduction to postgraduate level online distance learning at the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine who host the Data Science, Technology and Innovation programmes, at The University of Edinburgh. 

YouTube Video: The University of Edinburgh: Online Distance Learning

What support will be available to me as an online distance learning student?

All of our distance learning students have access to the same academic facilities as our on-campus students. These include (i) an extensive library collection of electronic textbooks and journals, (ii) additional one-to-one support from members of the Programme team, (iii) a personal tutor, and (iv) access to a variety of other study events and resources from across the University and the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.

What is the time commitment required to make a success of this? i.e. how many hours a week are students expected to dedicate to the programme?

Students will vary in the rate at which they can assimilate the course content but we advise that you should be able to dedicate around 8 to 12 hours of study time per week. You should note that some of this time may overlap with your day-to-day work because the course materials should be directly relevant to your clinical practice and professional development activities.

Do I have to come to Edinburgh at any time during the programme?

The programme is delivered entirely online and it is not necessary for you to come to Edinburgh, however, you are very welcome to visit the University. All of our students are encouraged to attend the graduation ceremony in person, if they are able to do so, but it is not required.

How much freedom will I have in choosing the dissertation topic?

All dissertation topics have to be formally proposed in advance in consultation with the Programme Director and your potential supervisor. However, we encourage all of our students to undertake research that is interesting to them and matches their career aspirations if it is possible to do so.

What is the teaching schedule for the programme?

Each academic year is broken down into six courses, each of which lasts for 6 weeks. The first 5 weeks of each course comprise delivery of the educational content with the last week normally reserved for revision and assessment. The six courses run from September to July with short breaks in December and April coinciding with the Christmas and Easter period in the UK.