Online course details
Study options
Part-time: 10 weeks
International fee
£840 (2022/23) ‡
Online course description
This course will enable you to learn how to recognise your own learning style and areas for development. You will also learn how to research effectively and efficiently, plan and write assignments at an appropriate level, identify resources for study and research, and reference accurately using Harvard conventions. You will learn skills such as analysing assignments tasks and developing a range of writing skills for academic purposes as well as how to present research findings and use online resources and electronic journals, all skills required to study at a higher education level.
It bridges the gap for any students who do not currently hold the appropriate level or traditional entry qualifications in English to access higher education. It is also ideal for those who may already have a range of qualifications or experience but not previously studied at university level. This course provides you with an opportunity to learn academic study skills that will help you with future higher educational courses.
You may also be looking to refresh your skills as part of your continuing professional development (CPD) or to enhance your career employability and range of accessible, transferable skills.
Access to our undergraduate and postgraduate courses
If you wish to study a University of Derby Online Learning undergraduate or postgraduate course, we will accept this Certificate of Credit in Study Skills for Higher Education as evidence that you are able to perform at a suitable level of IELTS (International English Language Testing System) 6.0 which will improve your eligibility for a number of our courses, providing you have IELTS 4.5 and meet all additional entry criteria.
Although this course is not classed as an A-level equivalent, completion of this course will evidence your ability to study at level 3. We recognise that, upon successful completion of this course, you are able to meet the academic requirements needed to study at higher education level for many of our higher educational courses, providing you meet additional criteria.
Preparing you for IELTS
If you are an international student, this course will provide you with the opportunity to develop the academic English language competences needed at Level 3, giving you additional preparation for undertaking IELTS 6.0 testing at a local centre in your country. Although this course will not provide you with an IELTS qualification, you will have an opportunity to underpin your knowledge to complete the IELTS test.
Gain further skills with the Foundation Certificate in Higher Education
If you are also interested in improving your general English, Maths and study skills for entry into higher education, you may look to take this course as part of the Foundation Certificate in Higher Education. The Foundation Certificate in Higher Education is an online 60-credit, Level 3 foundation course designed to provide you with the English, Maths and study skills required in order to study at a higher education level.
You can study all of the 20-credit modules individually if you chose to but, if you do them individually, they cannot be classed together as the Foundation Certificate. Each 20-credit module can be completed as a stand-alone award and you will receive a Certificate of Credit upon completion of any one of the following courses:
Enhancing your personal development plan (PDP)
This course is an ideal way to update your personal development plan (PDP). It also gives you the opportunity to reflect on your progress through activities set in the academic skills module. The activities will help equip you with the required skills needed in the development of your digital literacy and communication skills and provide you with a foundation for future development in education and work-based skills.
Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to successfully manage your time and prioritise workloads. You will also acquire practical skills, such as accessing materials for self-study, and developing your abilities in using primary and secondary sources for research.
Studying this module will enable you to:
- Work collaboratively in groups and develop team working abilities
- Devise strategies for successful time management and independent learning
- Develop your understanding of academic English skills in writing, reading and presentation
- Use the library effectively, including utilising online resources and electronic journals
- Accurately source and utilise resources for researching and referencing
- Produce extended written work using basic arguments with supporting information
We will advise you of your study plan when you are invited to enrol.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Pace of study
We recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.
Assessment method
This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports.
Student support and guidance
Whilst we encourage our students to become independent, life-long learners, we also recognise that offering the right support and guidance will help you to achieve your goals. There is a wealth of support available to you at the University, from your dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor, through to our:
All these services, and more, are available to you as an online student at the University of Derby.
You will require:
- Level 2 qualifications such as GCSE (grades A*-C), Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2, NVQ, Skills for Life, higher diploma, BTEC award - certificate and diploma, Cambridge National, Cambridge Technical
- Candidates with extensive work/vocational experience will be considered on an individual basis
- CV and personal statement
- A 'Pass' the online literacy and numeracy tests - you will receive a link to complete these tests once you have submitted an application
English language qualification
International/European students will:
- Have graduated from secondary school in their country, demonstrating a basic level of English to benefit from the programme
- Have a minimum IELTS 4.5 or equivalent
Find out more about our English language requirements
Normally the entry qualification will need to be mapped to the UK equivalent course to ensure access to the appropriate programme level (with a view to progressing to undergraduate level and achieving 60 credits at level 3). When applying, it is essential that you submit the following:
- CV
- Qualification evidence awarded in country [these will be checked for equivalency with the National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) organisation]
- Transcripts of all relevant education/training
Non-standard entrants
If qualifications do not match the standard criteria, it may be possible to access as a ‘non-standard’ entrant where there are equivalent/alternative qualifications. You will be required to submit evidence of work experience and have a discussion with the Academic Lead before being offered a place as a direct entrant to ensure that you have the necessary capacity for studying at level 3.
‡2022/23 for new entrants
Starting between September 2022 and August 2023.
| | Per 20 credits | Modules | Cost |
|---|
| UK/EU/International |
£840 |
1 |
£840† |
2023/24 for new entrants
Starting between September 2023 and August 2024.
| | Per 20 credits | Modules | Cost |
|---|
| UK/EU/International |
£840 |
1 |
£840 |
About your fees
This figure would be the total cost of this course in the current academic year. However, please note that fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase if your course lasts longer than one year.
However, please also note that you can receive a 5% discount if you either:
- Pay your full course fees upfront, or
- When enrolling in September, pay for all of your modules to be studied in that academic year upfront
Flexible payment plan available
- Pay monthly for the course that you are studying
How to apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.
Students should apply directly to the University.
Apply now
For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.
Documents to support your application
In order for your application to be assessed, you will need to provide the following documents when you apply:
- Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
- Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*
*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:
- Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
- The date of the translation
- The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
- The translator’s contact details
A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.
Please note: failure to submit any documentation when requested, may result in your application being withdrawn.
Application deadlines
All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts. Take a look at information regarding applying for an online course to see full details of deadlines and term dates.
This programme will enable you to develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the skills required to succeed in an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in higher education. You will develop a range of transferable skills through activities and module content that will also contribute to your continuing professional development.
Work-based skills
The course will enable you to look how to successfully manage your time, prioritise workloads and cope with stress as well as acquiring practical skills such as accessing materials for self-study, all skills that are transferable to the work place.
Utilise our Careers and Employment Service
Whilst you are a student at the University of Derby, and for 3 years after you graduate, our Careers and Employment Service can assist you with job search advice, CV creation, workshops and events, as well as one-to-one appointments with employment advisers to help with career planning and interview preparation.
Other courses you might like
.jpg)