The option to learn online means that learners now have access to a huge range of courses, making study more flexible and accessible than ever before. Whether you're looking to gain a new qualification, develop a professional skill, or simply explore a subject that interests you, there's likely an online course out there to suit your needs.
But is online learning right for you? As with any mode of study, there are both advantages and drawbacks to consider. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of online learning to help you decide whether it could be the right fit for your goals, lifestyle, and circumstances.
What options are there for learning online?
In reality most courses involve some element of online learning even if students attend classroom-based lectures, workshops and seminars because students usually need to access all their learning materials and submit assessments using an online platform. However, some courses involve the option to complete the course fully online with students working through materials and submitting assignments at their own pace and in some cases attending regular webinars and seminars. Most online courses include the option to meet with a tutor, usually via a video call. Often there’s also the option to complete blended learning courses (a mix of online and classroom-based study)
If you need to complete practical learning alongside your online study, opportunities may be provided for you to take part in workshops, field trips, laboratory work or even work placements. Face-to-face tutorials, residentials, summer schools etc are sometimes important parts of the course and some courses mix online learning with ‘residentials’ where students attend in-person for a whole weekend or for a couple of weeks at a certain point in the course.
Providers and courses
All sorts of organisations offer distance-learning courses.
- Some providers – such as the Open Study College – offer a wide range of subjects and qualifications, but others, for example the Open College of the Arts, specialise in offering courses in particular subject areas.
- Certain providers focus on offering courses leading to particular qualifications. Examples include The Open University (OU), well-known for its degree-level programmes, and the National Extension College is just one of a number of providers of GCSE and A level courses.
- Many mainstream further education colleges and universities offer online or blended learning courses alongside their campus-based programmes.
- Many professional bodies offer their qualifications via distance learning either through accredited providers or directly to their student members.
- MOOCs – massive open online courses – are free and paid-for online courses hosted on platforms developed by universities, major companies, professional bodies and other institutions, often in partnership with each other. Well-established examples of MOOC platforms include Coursera, edX, FutureLearn and OpenLearn (part of The Open University). MOOCs are usually short courses in very specific topics.
If you want to learn informally, there are all sorts of educational apps, videos, podcasts and of course the option of using AI to create learning tailored to your needs.
The pros of learning online
Let’s look at some of the many benefits of online study.
1. Flexibility
You can study at times that suit you and fit your learning around other commitments you may have - especially if your course is mainly self-study. You can learn in the comfort of your own home, at work, on a train, in a library or in a café anywhere in the world!
2. No geographic restraints
You’re not restricted to courses in your locality. This is particularly helpful if you live in a rural area or travel around a lot. Or, you might want to do a course that’s not widely available.
3. No time restrictions
You may be able to start a course at any time and have flexible deadlines for submitting work. Or there may be a number of start dates to choose from. (However, some online courses – including those that involve sitting public exams – do follow the academic year.)
4. Study freedom
You can usually study at your own pace. Although you may be given a timescale to finish the course, find out whether it’s possible to complete the course quicker than suggested or take longer without incurring extra cost. You can often build up to a full qualification by taking modules at your own pace.
5. Cost
It can work out cheaper than doing an equivalent classroom-based course. Online degrees are often cheaper than in-person alternatives. It’s often easier to fit online studies around paid employment too. If you’re in employment and a course is relevant for your work, your employer may fund some or all of your tuition – it’s worth asking! Rather than paying all your fees in one go, you may be able to fund one module at a time or pay for the course in instalments (as is the case with The Open University where you can take out an OU Student Budget Account). Depending on the course and your circumstances, you may be eligible for a government-backed tuition fee loan or other financial support in the form of grants, bursaries or scholarships. Course providers should be able to advise.
6. Routes to entry
Entry requirements may be more flexible. The course provider should give you guidance on any background knowledge/qualifications you need in order to succeed.
7. Independent study
You may prefer to study on your own. Especially if you’ve not enjoyed classroom study in the past.
8. You don’t have to travel
This saves you time, effort and money.
9. Can be a good option if you have a disability, health issues or caring responsibilities
Many students find the flexibility, lack of travel and ease of tailoring learning to their needs ideal. Additionally some providers offer good support facilities for students with additional needs.
The possible cons of distance learning and factors to consider
Apart from checking the broad topics you will cover, when researching courses, there are lots of other things you need to think about.
1. You need the motivation and time to commit
Even if there is tutor support, you won’t have a teacher encouraging you to get your work done. Think about whether you have the self-discipline to learn on your own – it’s not always easy to avoid distraction! With any luck, you’ll have a quiet place to study and there will be people around who will encourage you. And, depending on the course, there may be an online student community. Make sure you investigate how many hours you will be expected to commit to your studies and be honest with yourself as to whether you have the time.
2. You may feel that you’re missing out socially
If you decide to do a course which is fully online instead of a classroom-based programme, think about whether you will miss the opportunity to interact with other students face-to-face and participate in college/university life.
3. Hidden extras and course funding
Find out what will be included in the course fee. You may have to pay extra for certain resources, practical elements, to sit exams or to gain certification, for instance.
4. Online learning doesn't suit everyone
Make sure you know exactly how the course will be delivered. Are you sure you will cope with this type of learning? Also check that you have the necessary technical requirements – decent laptop, and a fast and reliable broadband connection.
5. Assessment arrangements vary
Not all online courses involve assessments, but if there are, find out what these involve, how frequently you are assessed, how you get feedback, typical pass rates etc. If there are external exams, you may need to travel to sit these; make sure that you can get to an exam centre. Also find out whether you can resit any assessments if necessary and, if so, whether there are additional costs.
Finally…
Whether you’re intending to do an online course to gain a qualification or simply to learn for pleasure, as you will have read, there are lots of factors to consider. If you do your research, choose your course wisely and prepare well, there are certainly lots of benefits. If you are considering learning online, before you make a big commitment, why not sign up for a short course to see whether this type of learning suits you?
Based on an original article written by Debbie Steel, updated May 2026
