How the
Programme Works Usually the course is studied over three or four years, with 4 subjects at each stage, although the Durham MBA Distance Learning Programme offers considerable flexibility. In particular, Stages 3 and 4 may be combined - with examinations in April and a dissertation submitted by August. The University will allow extensions of study beyond the three/four year period, up to a maximum of 8 years, to accommodate the work commitments of the individual student. Although the programme is designed to be followed on an individual basis, offering maximum flexibility, we facilitate local student groups which are supported, where possible, by a local graduate of the programme.
University of Durham Business School produces specially written distance learning material which contains all the information, background detail and assignment questions you will need to complete the programme successfully. All the essential text books are included in the course material.
You can enrol for the programme at any time during the year, with an appropriate choice of initial examination date (April/August). If you withdraw before completing the full MBA programme, but after successfully completing Stages 1 and 2 to the required standard, you will be awarded the Advanced Diploma in Business Administration.
Tutor Assistance
Individual tutors are allocated for each subject to provide students with general support. They also provide feedback to students on the Tutor Assessed Assignments (TAAs) which are completed at intervals throughout each course.
Residential Seminars
The seminars, which are held in Durham and some overseas locations in September, are an important feature of the programme. There is a short optional induction seminar when Stage 1 students are able to meet both tutors and students from later stages who are attending their own intensive residential sessions. It is important for students to attend these later seminars, which last about one week, although exemptions can be granted in case of difficulty. The seminars give the opportunity to exchange experience, problems and solutions with other students and programme tutors.
Examinations
Examinations for Stage 1 are held in April and August each year. Examinations for Stages 2 and 3 are held in April each year and the dissertation for Stage 4 can be submitted in April or August. If candidates fail any examination they will normally be allowed to re-sit the failed subjects at the next ordinary examination date. The examinations include both conventional examinations and an Examined Coursework Assignment for each course which is completed before the examination date.
Examinations may be taken either at an official centre or at any of over 100 approved overseas centres located in each of the major continents throughout the world. New centres may be added if required.
"Following what can be the lonely path of learning at a distance it is essential to build good personal relationships. The one to one communication with members of the Business School, the tutor network and the other students is one of the major benefits of the Durham Distance Learning Programme."
Paul Webb
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