Study with us

Why choose a Heriot-Watt distance learning programme?

1. Quality assured

Heriot-Watt University is the eighth oldest higher education institution in the UK and we are regularly inspected to ensure that high standards are maintained. Our courses need to meet the same rigorous quality criteria no matter which country they are being delivered in. Our partner institutions are regularly monitored ensuring a quality learning experience for students.

2. Internationally recognised

Achieving a certificate, diploma or degree from our programmes means that you gain a Heriot-Watt University qualification which is recognised around the world. Heriot-Watt is one of the top UK universities for graduate employment, with 94% of graduates entering directly into work, further study or training. With a global reputation for innovative education and enterprise our graduates are highly sought by employers.

3. Exemptions and recognition of prior learning

Entry to the degree programmes is based on an assessment of your prior learning and experience. We accept learners from many different academic backgrounds. We look at each individual application to see what you have already studied and how this might fit in with our course coverage. If you already have relevant qualifications you might be able to get an exemption from a complete level of the degree or from various courses.

4. Study where and when you want to

It is up to you when, where and how you study. You don't have to travel abroad to study or sit exams, so if we have a partner institution in your country you will be able to achieve the full degree at home. The programmes are flexible, you can choose whether to study part-time or full-time depending on what will suit your family and work commitments.

5. Career boost

Our business degrees enable you to acquire a good knowledge of all the core management disciplines of accounting, economics, finance and management. You will be encouraged to develop your analytical, communication and technical skills within these subjects and to apply your knowledge effectively in the work place.

6. Flexible study routes

Our degrees are based on a modular approach and common courses (modules) appear in different pathways. This makes it possible to move from one area of study to another and ensures that you achieve the qualification that is right for you and your career. 

7. Cost effective

Our programmes cost much less than travelling to the UK and taking classes on-campus at the University. There is no large initial cost and you can pay for the courses as and when you take them. There is no separate fee the first time that you sit a particular course examination. For more detail on fees, please contact your local Approved Learning Partner.

8. Support network

There is always someone you can turn to if you need help. There are three main methods of supporting you in your studies:

  • You can contact your Approved Learning Partner
  • You can contact the External Programmes team here at Heriot-Watt and we will deal with your query as quickly as we can
  • You can use our web support system to correspond with tutors appointed by the University and to get in touch with other students

9. Specially designed materials

Our programmes use a combination of printed material, tutor assisted guidance and internet resources.Course materials have been specifically designed for distance learning programmes by academic staff at Heriot-Watt University. Have a look at at the sample text from Level 1 Introduction to Banking and Financial Services.

10. Transfer opportunity

It is possible to transfer to a full-time programme on campus in Edinburgh, provided that you have achieved a complete level of your studies and performed well in exams. For example, some of our students transfer to the campus to study an Honours year (year 4) once they have completed level 3.