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Planning your studies
How you Study
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Postgraduate

MSc, Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate in Agricultural Economics

How you study

The study year commences in February and modules are examined in October. The study time required for each module is, on average, 7-8 hours per week over a period of 30-31 weeks (plus 4-5 weeks for revision). Some students may find that the study time required is longer than indicated, especially at the beginning, until they become more familiar with the subject matter and the mode of study.

Study materials

Once registered, you will be sent a comprehensive study package for each of your chosen modules. This includes:

  • A detailed study guide. Composed of ten units, this incorporates exercises, assignments and other activities into the study text, which will take you through your programme of self-directed study. Various modules are now offered in electronic, CD-ROM format, and are generally denoted by a three digit course code (eg C107).

  • An indicative study calendar. This will assist you in planning your study, as well as highlighting deadlines such as those for Tutor Marked Assignments.

  • Books and other published materials. Generally textbooks, these are acquired on your behalf and should provide background as well as key extracts necessary for study of the module.

  • Integrated volumes of key readings. These are drawn from a wide range of sources and are provided as required readings. Information is also supplied regarding sources of further reading as well as weblinks, for students to look into should they so wish.

  • Supplementary study materials. These are included where appropriate, and include items
    such as computer software.

  • A student handbook. This booklet contains useful administrative information, as well as a CD with study tips and advice.

Library access

You will be issued with an Athens password to gain access to the University of London’s online library resources.

Study support

There are numerous opportunities for receiving support from tutors and DLP staff throughout the study year. Communication is increasingly carried out via email and the DLP's tailor-made Online Learning Environment (OLE).

It is now easier than ever for students to contact tutors and their peers electronically to gain help and support. Tutors are allocated to each module and are available to answer queries, promote discussion and offer feedback during the study year (February to October).

DLP tutors also provide a monthly update, to summarise activity on the OLE, answer any frequently asked questions and draw attention to topical events which relate to their module. These are posted on the OLE and also emailed to all students to ensure they reach those with poor internet connectivity.

An opportunity for specific tutorial feedback on students' understanding and interpretation of the subject matter is offered in the form of Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs). These are two substantial assignments which you can complete voluntarily for informal assessment. In the case of the research methods module (R106), assignments are assessed and make up the final module marks.

The Online Learning Environment (OLE)

The OLE provides you with the opportunity to extend your studies by discussing both academic and non-academic issues with tutors and fellow students through the Internet.

The OLE provides easy access to study resources, as well as to fast and efficient academic and administrative support. It also enables you to be part of a learning community in a way in which distance learners have seldom been accustomed in the past.

The OLE includes a number of learning support features:

  • student-student and student-tutor interaction

  • links to relevant resources

  • course-specific discussion rooms where you can debate and find solutions to queries about your course

  • assignment submission and tutor feedback area

  • administrative and technical help areas

  • electronic course documentation to download and print

  • notice boards where you will be informed of any important events, deadlines and new resources

  • student café where you can meet and talk to your fellow students socially

  • point of contact with the Study Director.