Frequently Asked Questions (ODEL)

Distance learning / online learning / e learning is an exciting opportunity and one that will allow you to access and participate in quality education from Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA). It will not matter your location in the world. Through Open, distance and E learning (ODEL) you will be able to advance your skills and improve your career prospects in a convenient and cost-effective way. With that in mind, we’ve set out to answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to ODEL:

Why should I choose an ODEL course?
There are so many reasons to take an online course. You get to learn at your own pace and in your own environment – regardless of where you’re based. It’s by far the most flexible way of learning, making it possible for students to overcome geographic and financial constraints, while balancing other professional and personal commitments. Online learning is the perfect solution for busy professionals who want to learn with us. While online learning isn’t the solution for everyone, it does have certain benefits that make it ideal for many.

With online learning you can study from anywhere

With no need to attend classes in person, it’s possible to study from anywhere in the world – all it takes is a computer and reliable internet connection.

First and foremost, this means you don’t need to be near the university, so if you live at the other end of Kenya – or in another country altogether – you can still access its resources, including course materials and expert lecturers. It also provides extra flexibility to study in a range of environments, depending on where your busy week takes you.

Continue working whilst studying

Starting a new university course is a big decision to make, regardless of which one you choose. By studying online, however, you’re able to minimise the impact you have on your life at present. Not only will it be easier to keep up with family and social commitments, you’ll also be able to continue working, so you can continue earning to ensure bills are paid and life is no less comfortable financially.

Take a cost-efficient approach

As well as enabling students to continue earning, studying remotely can also be a lot more cost-efficient than traditional on-site learning, for a number of reasons. As you’re able to work from the comfort of your own home, there’s no need to move or pay for secondary accommodation during your course. As well as being with your friends and family, you’ll save a considerable amount of money. Ideal if the cost of furthering your education has held you back in the past. You’ll also save here and there on things like transport and meals.

Studying online can help you to build a global network

Online courses are taken by people all across the world, which means they’re great for international networking. Every time you log in to attend a lecture or write on the message boards, you’ll come into contact with people from all kinds of backgrounds: different nationalities, career paths, skills and experience. The relationships you build with these people – both fellow students and academics – can be truly valuable while studying and later on in life.

Knowing more about how the business world works in other countries and continents will only add to the knowledge you develop in class, and make you more effective in your professional life.

Online degrees are equally credible

Today’s online courses are more credible than ever, which is why an increasing number of people are choosing distance learning over the traditional on-campus approach.

What do I need to complete a distance learning course?
You’ll need regular access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and Microsoft Office for your assignments. With this type of hardware and software at your fingertips, you’ll be able to learn from a variety of places, including home, work, libraries, coffee shops and internet cafes. You may also need a smart phone for easier and frequent communication. Can an online student make use of the university if they are in the Kenya?
Yes of course! You are a valued student studying at CUEA. You will have a student ID and will be able to make use of the facilities if you are nearby. Alternatively, all the course materials you will need are accessible online if venturing to campus isn’t something you’d like to do. What subjects can I study?
If you’re looking for a 100% online course, you could choose any of the following: Provide link. If you’re on blended learning you will be advised by your lecturer. There are also a number of distance learning or blended courses available in various other formats, please browse our Prospectus for more information.

When can I start the program?

We have three intakes a year. Students can join our programs in January, May and August.

Do you have a detailed syllabus for each module?
Yes, we have all course information available for each module. If you are unable to find the specific details you are looking for, please get in touch with our Admissions Team on 0709691000 or by email at admissions@cuea.edu, who would be happy to direct you to the relevant information. If the course is 100% online, would I be able to download and print readings out if necessary?
Our innovative online courses are fit for the 21st century student. Course material can certainly be downloaded for reading offline. However, we don’t endorse or offer the ability to print reams of paper for reading offline. In our opinion, it’s not very environmentally friendly and our systems don’t allow it – primarily due to copyright. How long will my online course take?
All courses 100% online courses take an equal amount of years as the on campus counterparts to complete (2 years certificate & Diploma; 4 years basic degree; 2 years masters; 3 to 4 years doctorate). However, ODEL students are given up to a double of the normally stipulated years for each course. If needs be, you can break up your studies and take time out in between completing modules. Are there any exams?
Yes, there will be examinations, continuous assessments and assignments as required by commission for university education (CUE). Examinations will be taken on campus or at regional centers. In addition, you are required to make an active participation in and may be assessed via coursework, group work, class participation, presentations and other types of assignment. What referencing style do you use?
We use APA referencing. For style guidance, please access the students handbook (Provide link). How are ODEL courses delivered?
In a similar way to traditional classroom-based courses, actually. With most programs, you’ll be given a course structure, in the learning management system (LMS) at the beginning of your term which details the year ahead. It’ll break everything down into distinct modules so you know what’s coming up and what you might have to prepare for.

The details will depend on the specific course you take. As an example though, on our Provide link students can expect to complete 12 taught modules over two years, followed by a research-based dissertation. Each module is worth a specific number of credits, which help to determine your end result. All of your course materials will be available through the University’s virtual learning environment.

Are there specific times for the online classes?
Yes, you will receive a full timetable of online tutorials. The lecturer will run two sessions each week and will advise you within the LMS course page.

If I am working in a different time zone to where a live lecture is scheduled, could we watch a recording of it at another time?

What is the average cohort size?
Our cohort sizes change with each intake and are different depending on the subject you choose to study. Therefore, we don’t have average cohort sizes. Our cohorts are generally very diverse and international, so you’d be able to network and learn from different cultures from all over the world. Can I receive private tuition on top of the live lectures?
We don’t offer private tuition as the courses are designed to enable students to learn and study on their own terms and collaborate with others on their course. Feedback and monitoring of our current students show that learning using the discussion forums, lectures and various assignments is very effective for student learning and development. What are the types of networking and collaboration opportunities?
You are able to message fellow students and tutors, use discussion forums, take part in group work and learn via the lecture sessions. Studying online is a highly interactive environment – you’ll certainly feel part of a community. While we keep all course communication within the learning environment, often students also choose to use Skype, WhatsApp or even have a Google Hangout with the friends they make whilst studying. Would I be eligible for careers advice?
Of course – we will soon have a career support office with the Dean of Students. We aim to be flexible as many students who study online also study overseas. We will adapt our appointments to suit you. If visiting campus isn’t feasible then we have other ways we can offer support.

As for materials, the online learning environment contains videos and interactive activities for you to watch and learn from as necessary. You’ll also have access to the university’s online library – including e-textbooks, journal articles and specialist industry reports (for example, Mintel).

What support will I have as an online student? 
You will learn from leading academics and industry figures, have access to community boards and instant messaging services, regular discussions and support from a dedicated Student Services Coordinator – all to help guide you through your student journey. You will also have access to 24/7 technical support, should you have any issues in accessing the virtual learning environment. Would I be able to switch from a campus course to an online course half way through my course?
The short answer is yes. However, the optimum approach will be evaluated on a case by case basis and will depend on a variety of factors, such as the similarity of the courses you want to transfer between and at what point you are at in the course. Every case is different. Therefore, if you are already a registered student and you’d like to discuss switching from campus to online, we suggest that you contact your head of department.

Are these degrees flexible if you are working full-time?

Absolutely! We have designed these degrees so that you can study and work at the same time. In fact, over 70% of all our online students work and study at the same time – it’s a great benefit to be able to apply the learning from your studies immediately to the workplace.

How many hours of study is recommended per week?
Generally we recommend 15 hours of study per week. However, the amount of study which is required will depend on the number of units, your own way of working and the amount of study time you have available. Does it matter where I am?
No, it really doesn’t – that’s one of the biggest reasons to take an online course. You’re able to study from anywhere in the world; all it takes is a computer and an internet connection. Are there any face-to-face sessions throughout the programme?
No, these courses are 100% online and contain no campus requirements. That being said, you can visit campus on your own terms if you would like to especially for orientation and examinations. If I am an online student, would I be able to attend graduation?
Of course! You will be invited just the same as any other student. Graduation is held on campus. If you are unable to attend graduation yourself, we will send your degree certificate in the post. Will my degree certificate say that I studied online?
No, your degree certificate will not specify that you studied an online course, it will simply say the degree that you studied and qualification you achieved. What are the requirements for overseas students?
You may require a visa and a student pass for when you visit the physical university. Please refer to Student portal web pages Provide link. How much are the fees for the programs?
Provide links

Are there any funding opportunities available?