Online and distance learning

More flexibility to get the degree you want, from a high-performing Russell Group university

Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge or progress your career, our online and distance learning courses provide you with the platform you need to reach your potential.

You don't need to live and study in York to get a degree from us. You can get many of the benefits of studying with a high-ranking university from the comfort of your home.

Our online and distance learning courses have been specially designed for studying from anywhere. So you can expect to receive the same high-quality education you'd get from studying on campus.

Distance learning courses

All of our online and distance learning courses offer:

Access to our inspirational academics
Carefully curated courses, designed especially for distance learners
A degree from a Russell Group university
Research-led teaching
Flexibility to study from anywhere
More time to earn while you learn

Distance education is perfect for me because I didn't have to give up my job to go back to university, so I could very well combine working and studying.

Valentina, distance learning student

Flexible online courses

Some of our online courses take the freedom of distance learning even further, providing:

Multiple start dates per year
Eight week modules
The option to pay-per-module
No need to travel to the University

See all of our online and distance learning courses

Why York

in the UK

in the Complete University Guide 2025

in the UK for the quality of our research

in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

nationally

in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

The most important thing I enjoy and like about studying at York is the commitment of MSc programme staff – their commitment to the subject and flexibility in communication.

Abdulsalam, MSc in International Humanitarian Affairs (online)