UH Online Master's Programmes

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Have questions about studying online with the University of Hertfordshire? You’re in the right place.

Our FAQs cover everything from applications and entry requirements to fees, online learning, student support and what to expect from your programme. Explore the answers below and find the information you need to take your next step with confidence.

Studying with UH Online

What is UH Online?

UH Online is the University of Hertfordshire’s online learning platform. It offers part-time postgraduate degrees that can be studied from anywhere in the world. Programmes are delivered by University of Hertfordshire academics and lead to a recognised UK university qualification.

Are UH Online degrees studied entirely online?

Yes. UH Online programmes are delivered 100% online, so you do not need to travel to the University of Hertfordshire campus to attend classes. You can access learning materials, activities and assessments through the University’s virtual learning environment.

Is an online degree from the University of Hertfordshire the same as an on-campus degree?

Your online degree has the same academic standing as the equivalent campus-based award and is issued directly by the University of Hertfordshire. Your degree certificate does not state that you studied online.

Is the University of Hertfordshire a recognised UK university?

Yes. The University of Hertfordshire is a recognised UK university regulated by the Office for Students. Its degrees follow the University’s academic standards and quality assurance procedures.

Can I study with UH Online from outside the UK?

Yes. UH Online programmes can be studied from countries around the world, provided you meet the entry requirements and have access to a suitable computer and reliable internet connection.

Do I need a UK student visa to study online?

No. As your programme is delivered 100% online and does not require you to live or study on campus in the UK, you will not need a UK Student visa to complete your degree.

Will I need to travel to the UK during my programme?

No. All materials and assessments are accessible online. If you choose to attend your graduation ceremony in person, you will need to arrange your own travel and check the UK entry requirements that apply at the time.

Can online students attend graduation?

Yes. After completing your degree, you will have the opportunity to attend a University of Hertfordshire graduation ceremony alongside campus-based students. Ceremonies are typically held at the Abbey Church of St Albans.

Learning experience and study schedule

How does online learning work at UH Online?

You will access your programme through Canvas, the University’s virtual learning environment. Canvas provides access to learning materials, discussion forums, assessments, eBooks and eJournals. You can also use it to communicate with tutors and other students.

Are UH Online programmes self-paced?

No. UH Online programmes offer flexibility, but they are not completely self-paced. Each module has set start and end dates, and assignments and/or online tests must be completed by fixed deadlines. This structure helps students progress through the programme together.

Do I have to attend live online classes?

Most learning is asynchronous, allowing you to access materials around your existing commitments. Some programmes such as those in Psychology and Public Health, may include scheduled live tutorials, discussions, tutorials, optional drop-in sessions or online events.

How many hours should I study each week?

You should plan to dedicate approximately 15 to 20 hours per week to your degree. The exact amount of time required may vary depending on the module, assessment schedule and your previous experience.

Can I study while working full-time?

UH Online programmes are designed for part-time study and can be combined with professional and personal commitments. You will need to set aside approximately 15 to 20 hours each week and meet all assessment deadlines.

How long does an online Master’s degree take?

The online Masters degrees are all 180-credit programmes designed to be completed part-time over a minimum of 24 months. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is completed part-time over five years.

Are there scheduled breaks between modules?

Modules generally follow one after another, with no scheduled breaks between them. The exception to this is over standard university holidays in the Spring/Easter and Winter/Christmas. Students will receive a module calendar when their programme starts.

What equipment do I need to study online?

You will need a suitable desktop computer or laptop and a stable internet connection. Some activities may also require a camera and microphone. Access to a smartphone or tablet alone may not be sufficient for completing all coursework and assessments. We strongly recommend dual monitors for the MA Character and Creature Animation programme.

Can I access the University’s online library?

Yes. UH Online students can access the University’s online learning resources, including eBooks, eJournals and other academic materials through Canvas and the University’s digital services.

Assessment and academic support

How are UH Online students assessed?

Assessment methods vary by programme and module. They may include written assignments, reports, projects, presentations, portfolios, quizzes, online tests, recorded activities, discussion contributions and research projects.

Will I need to sit examinations on campus?

No. You will not need to travel to campus for assessments. Assessments are completed online, although some modules may include timed online tests or time-constrained assessments.

How is each module structured?

15 credit modules typically include six weeks of teaching and formative activities, followed by two weeks of graded assessment. 30 credit modules usually include twelve weeks of teaching and formative activities, followed by four weeks of graded assessment. Formative activities help you check your progress before completing the assessments that contribute to your final module result.

What academic support is available to online students?

Support may include a programme leader, module tutors and student support advisors. Students can also access academic guidance, career support, assessment support, online events, wellbeing services and technical help with Canvas.

Can I contact my tutors online?

Yes. Canvas supports communication with tutors and other students. Depending on the module, you may interact through discussion forums, online tutorials, group projects, feedback sessions and other digital activities.

Can online students access careers support?

Yes. Online students can access the University of Hertfordshire’s Careers and Employment service remotely. This includes access to Handshake, the University’s careers platform, and support with job searches, work experience, career planning and further study.

What happens if I cannot complete the full Master’s degree?

Depending on your programme and the credits completed, you may be eligible to leave with an intermediate qualification. A Postgraduate Certificate may be awarded after 60 credits, usually eight months of study, and a Postgraduate Diploma after 120 credits, usually 16 months. Eligibility is subject to the University’s academic regulations.

Entry requirements

What are the general entry requirements for a UH Online Master’s degree?

Entry requirements vary by programme. Applicants will normally need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification, usually at Honours 2:2 level or above. Some programmes may require that this degree is in a relevant subject area and/or consider applicants with relevant professional experience who do not hold an equivalent degree.

What English language qualification do I need?

International applicants whose first language is not English will normally need an IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5, or an accepted equivalent. Various alternatives to IELTS are accepted, including TOEFL and Duolingo and there are also several exemptions for those who have studied or worked in English before. Exact requirements may vary by programme.

Can I be exempt from providing an English language test?

An exemption may be available based on your nationality, previous education or other evidence of English language ability. An Enrolment Consultant can review your circumstances and explain which evidence may be accepted.

Can I apply without a Bachelor’s degree?

Some programmes may consider applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but have substantial relevant professional experience. The type and duration of work experience required depends on the programme and must normally be supported by a CV, personal statement and professional reference.

Do my documents need to be translated into English?

Yes. Academic and identification documents that are not in English must normally be accompanied by an official English translation.

Application process

How do I apply for a UH Online programme?

Applications are submitted through the UH Online application portal. You can create an application, enter your personal, educational and professional information, upload your supporting documents and return later if you need more time to complete it.

How long does the online application take?

The application form typically takes around one hour to complete if you have your information and supporting documents ready. You can save your progress and return before submitting it.

Which documents will I need for my application?

Depending on the programme, you may need:

A passport or other valid photographic identification
Your highest academic certificate
Official academic transcripts or a full statement of results
Proof of English language proficiency, where required
A personal statement of 300-500 words
A CV or LinkedIn profile
A professional or academic reference letter
For Character and Creature animation – a creative portfolio

Additional documents may be requested based on your qualifications or programme.

How long does it take to receive an admissions decision?

Once your completed application and supporting documents have been submitted, the admissions team will usually aim to provide a decision within three to five working days. More complex applications may require additional review or evidence.

Is there an application deadline?

Each intake has its own application deadline but applications processed before this deadline are processed on a rolling basis. Applying early gives you more time to provide documents, receive an admissions decision, organise funding and prepare for your programme.

Are there multiple start dates each year?

Yes. UH Online offers multiple entry points during the year, although available start dates vary by programme. Check the relevant programme page for the current intake dates.

Tuition fees and funding

How much does it cost to study with UH Online?

Tuition fees depend on the programme. Current fees for all programmes are published on the UH Online fees and funding page.

Is there an application fee or enrolment deposit?

No. UH Online does not charge an application fee or require a deposit to begin your programme.

Can I pay my tuition fees in instalments?

Yes. Payment options may include paying in full, paying per module or dividing the relevant fee into monthly instalments.

Are learning materials included in the tuition fee?

All required online learning materials and University-provided software are included where applicable. You should not normally need to pay additional fees for access to the University’s standard online learning resources.

Can I apply for a postgraduate loan?

Eligible UK students may be able to apply for postgraduate funding. The type and amount of support depend on where you normally live and the funding rules in place when your programme begins. US students may also be able to consider a private student loan. Check the current requirements before applying.

Are UH alumni entitled to a discount?

Yes, those who completed a full Bachelors degree at UH and have not since used the alumni reduction on a subsequent programme, may be eligible for a 20% reduction in the standard fee subject to eligibility checks during registration.