Degree Programmes with Credit Exemption

What should I choose: distance learning or fulltime?

It depends on your need. If you intend to work fulltime, then it should be a good idea to choose distance learning, when most classes are held during weekends and the night time of weekdays.

Quota is applicable to fulltime mode. The competition for places is quite keen. Applicants are suggested to apply early (in March) to have a better chance. However, some places may be available very late due to withdrawals.

There are usually a lot more places offered in the distance learning mode.

Applicants failed to obtain a place in the fulltime mode in August may apply to distance learning mode, of which the starting date will be in October.

Distance learning mode is different from fulltime mode in the following aspects:

• Flexible in the time to complete the programme*

• Flexible in number of credits taken per year. Students may opt to rest for a time and return later*

• Attendance at classes is optional

• More straightforward assessment tools involving mainly assignments and a final examination

• A comprehensive set of course materials allowing you to study at anytime and any place.

* As long as the programme remain in offer.

Distance learning courses do offer hours of face-to-face classes. Most courses offered by the computing programme team offer around 40 to 50 hours of face-to-face classes. So there are plenty of opportunities to interact with tutors and peers. The main difference from fulltime mode is that attandance at most of these classes are optional.

The computing programme team is currently developing a flexible learning mode, which offers lectures+video recordings in distance learning courses. We will gradually introduce this learning mode to most computing courses starting from Oct 2010.

I have been studying fulltime at other local institutions, would I find distance learning difficult to adapt?

Every year hundreds of students graduating from HKIVE, HKCC, HKUSPACE and other local institutions come to the OUHK to obtain credit exemptions in distance learning programmes. Generally there is no problem adjusting to distance learning mode.

Clearly, you would need to find out the differences and to develop a new study habit. You will be required to work more independently and to manage your time better in distance learning mode.

Is credit exemption applicable to fulltime mode?

The fulltime mode operates in a way that offer entry into higher years of study. This is still credit exemption but in another form.

For example, HD in an area directly related to computing is qualified to enter into Year 3. This is equivalent to obtaining 80 credits of exemption.

Can I switch between fulltime mode and distance learning mode?

This is possible theorectically. Practically, however, the fulltime mode has a limited quota, and distance learning mode students will find it very difficult to switch mode to fulltime.

The other direction is possible. Students may study fulltime mode and obtain an ordinary degree first, and then switch to distance learning mode to study the remaining credits for the honours degree.

Is there any difference in the qualification obtained thru distance learning mode and fulltime mode?

If a programme offers both fulltime and distance learning mode, the qualification title is the same regardless of the mode of study.

How do I register in a distance learning programme and obtain credit exemption?

Please read the distance learning credit exemption page