Distance learning research with the College of Arts and Law

Distance learning, otherwise known as online learning, is a flexible approach to the delivery of our postgraduate research courses. This method of study gives you the unique ability to access our academic expertise and resources from anywhere in the world, while receiving the same level of expert support and supervision as on-campus students.

We offer PhD and Masters by Research programmes by distance learning across a range of subject areas in arts, law and humanities. Generally, these programmes do not have any taught content, and are completed with a thesis of 80,000 words for the PhD and 40,000 words for an MA by Research. You can choose to study either full-time or part-time.

Our distance learning research programmes include:

Course materials and supplementary information provided through our Virtual Learning Environment.
Regular supervisory sessions which take place through audio-visual communication services.
A fully-funded visit* to the University during each full year of your studies.
Online access to careers support at the University of Birmingham.
Discussion forums which allow you to connect with staff and other students.

Find out more

Our distance learning research courses

Please use the links before to find out more about our programmes in your area of interest.

African Studies
Archaeology
Byzantine, Ottoman and Modern Greek Studies
Classics and Ancient History
Creative Writing
Cultural Heritage
Drama and Theatre Studies
English Language and Applied Linguistics*
English Literature
Film Studies
Global Ethics
History
History of Art
Law
Modern Languages (French, German, Hispanic, Italian or Russian Studies)
Music (Composition, Performance or Musicology)
Philosophy
Sexuality and Gender Studies
Shakespeare Studies
Theology and Religion
Translation Studies

* The compulsory visit does not apply to the PhD English Language and Applied Linguistics distance learning programme.

Hear from our students

Some of our current and recent distance learning PhD students explain why they chose the University of Birmingham:

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