Q. Do you think that age works as a barrier in pursuing distance learning?

No not at all – our students come from all walks of life and are aged 18 and upwards.

Indeed, one of our oldest students, Bernhard Herzberg, died a month before his 98th birthday while completing his second master’s degree with us. He also attained his bachelor’s degree in German Literature with the International Programmes in 2000, at the age of 91, so age is clearly not a barrier to completing our study programmes.

Q. How can you better market the distance learning courses and what are the key requirements of students that it still needs to cater?

We are in the process of implementing a new advertising campaign, entitled “Be More.” This campaign, which carries aspirational messages, will be carried in both print and online media.

This has been further supplemented by our new YouTube EDU channel. We are one of eight UK universities to be selected for this partnership, making us the 100th worldwide member of the channel. Video resources on this channel include a vast array of learning materials and topical discussions, all designed to help students engage with research and issues at the heart of a range of study programmes, as well as promoting what we do.

Q. How do you ensure that the education imparted through distance education programmes of your institute is on a par with the regular learning courses?

We have just received the highest judgement of “confidence” by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), an independent UK body responsible for safeguarding the quality standards of higher education in all UK universities and colleges. Again, this is testament to the standard of our award and the quality of the learning experience for our students.

It’s important to note that all graduates, whether they study on campus or through the University of London International Programmes, are awarded a University of London degree. Academics within the colleges are responsible for developing and writing the study materials for all study programmes offered through the University of London International Programmes. They are also responsible for setting the exam papers and marking the scripts in London.

Our students have access to online learning facilities which are far better than those available to campus-based students just a few years ago. Students want flexibility to learn at their own pace and be able to move around, and that’s what distance learning offers. We believe that what we offer is much more aligned with what students want.

Q. What are the upcoming courses that students can look forward to?

Innovation is key to what we do. We continue to develop and update our study programmes to ensure they meet student needs. We are currently in the process of developing eight new programmes including an undergraduate Psychology programme and a postgraduate Masters in Education.

Dr Mary Stiasny OBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) and Chief Executive of the University of London International Programmes, succeeded Professor Jonathan Kydd in heading up the International Programmes, following his retirement in July 2013.