University of Manchester - Online Programmes

The University of Manchester’s Online and Blended Learning programmes are here to bring you flexible access to world-leading education on your terms. With online learning, you’ll receive the same renowned teaching and support as on-campus students, while having the freedom to study at your own pace and around your own commitments. Choose from a range of online qualifications, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses and online master’s courses – covering everything from an Educational Leadership in Practice MA to a Pollution and Environmental Control MSc – and gain unique skills in your chosen area.

Explore our full range of online and blended courses here.

Benefits of studying online with The University of Manchester

Educational excellence   
The University of Manchester is a world-renowned Russell Group institution, ranked 34^th best university in the world, 10^th best in Europe and 6^th best in the UK (QS rankings, 2025). We’re recognised for delivering leading research and teaching across our wide range of specialist departments – and our distance learning offering is no different. Each course benefits from expert teaching from professionals with real-world experience in their field. 

High-quality tools and support  
Our online university courses benefit from the same level of teaching support as our on-campus learners. We’re a university that’s invested heavily in technology to keep you connected to your course leaders and fellow online learning course students – including interactive platforms like our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and discussion forums to enable collaboration. Rest assured, you’ll always feel supported throughout your online study.

Study from anywhere in the world 
Online degree courses with The University of Manchester enable you to work where and when it suits you – so you can tailor your learning around your other commitments. Whether you’re caring for family or studying while in employment, our online courses run for a range of fixed and flexible durations – enabling you to work and pace yourself through the high-quality learning materials at your own convenience.  

Become an expert in your field 
All our courses are designed in line with real-world requirements , so you’ll be equipped with skills you can apply in your chosen industry and career from day one. Covering a wide range of topics that are relevant to the issues of today – including chemistry, sustainable electrical engineering, healthcare and data science – you’ll gain the knowledge to thrive and become an expert in your field.  

Collaborate and build connections 
Undertaking distance learning courses doesn’t mean you can’t collaborate and build valuable industry connections in the same way as on-campus courses. Throughout your study, you’ll enhance your future career by interacting and networking with both local and international learners, as well as potential future business contacts. 

Career development at any level 
One of the main benefits of an online master’s degree or CPD course is that it suits people at many stages of their career – from recent graduates to experienced senior executives and those looking to move into a new field. The flexibility of online learning opens the door to more opportunities to develop your career in the way that works for you – so it’s never too late to explore your options. 

Find out more about online learning and how it can work for you as a busy working professional, here.

Funding

All our online and blended learning courses come with a number of funding options depending on your needs. From application and alumni discounts to payment via instalments, there are lots of ways we can help you can the next steps in your career – we can even support you in building a business case in securing possible funding from your employer. Get in touch to discuss the options for your chosen course. 

Find out more about your options for funding your course here.

If you’re looking to boost your skills and advance your career with further education online, browse our courses here.