Distance learning can be an ideal way of building qualifications if your schedule or location does not allow you to attend regular courses. The essence of distance learning is that you do it at a time that suits you. It can be a lonely way to learn and it requires sustained motivation, but with good support from the college concerned it can work very well.
The Open University is probably the best known of the distance education providers. But there is an Irish National Distance Education Centre (NDEC) based at Dublin City University. Its choice of programmes is a lot more limited than the OU, but both BA and BSc qualifications are on offer. The BA subject modules include history, psychology, literature, philosophy and sociology. The BSc is an information technology-based course, taking in computing, communications technology, human sciences and management science. Both courses are modular in structure. There are no formal entry requirements for those over 23 years of age. Time is rapidly running out for applications and those interested in either programme need to contact the NDEC without delay by telephone (01) 700 5481, by fax (01) 700 5494 or e-mail ndec@dcu.ie.
