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Distance learning (Sports History and Culture MA)

The programme is delivered entirely by distance learning through DMU’s Virtual Learning Environment, Learning Zone. There is no requirement to attend campus-based teaching. All lecture materials, readings, assessment guidance, and announcements are provided online, allowing you to study from anywhere in the UK or internationally. 

Teaching

How does teaching work in practice? 

Each module is organised thematically and delivered through Learning Zone. You will normally have access to:  

  • Weekly online lectures (with embedded activities and tasks and suggestions of further reading) 
  •  Guided reading lists, with the vast majority of relevant materials available electronically  
  • Clear assessment briefs and submission points via Turnitin  
  • Regular announcements and guidance from module tutors 

You work through the material independently, supported by academic staff. 

Are there live online lectures or seminars? 

The core teaching materials are asynchronous, meaning you can access them at times that suit you. From time to time, optional live online sessions, research webinars, or events hosted by the International Centre for Sports History and Culture (ICSHC) or related academic or non-academic organisations may be offered, but these are not compulsory. 

How much time should I expect to spend studying each week? 

Full-time students should be willing to commit 30-35 hours per week to study, and will study two modules at a time over a period of one year. Part-time students are expected to study for 15-18 hours per week, and will take one module at a time over two years. 

Full-time and part-time routes 

What is the difference between full-time and part-time study? 

The main difference is pace:

  • Full-time students complete the MA in one year (October–September).
  • Part-time students complete the MA over two years. 

Both routes lead to the same MA award and involve the same modules and assessments. 

What does the part-time route look like over two years? 

Part-time students normally study: 

Year 1:

  • HIST5021 Social and Cultural Themes of Sport (30 credits)
  • HIST5022 Sport, Politics and Policy (30 credits)
  • One optional module:
    • HIST5024 Sport, Writing and History or
    • HIST5025 Football: Past and Present (30 credits) 

Year 2:

  • HIST5023 Investigating Sport: Research Methods (30 credits)
  • Dissertation (15,000 words) or Heritage Project (60 credits) 

This structure is designed to balance study with work and other commitments. 

Can I switch between full-time and part-time study? 

In some cases, yes. Requests to change mode of study are considered on an individual basis and are subject to university regulations. You should contact the Programme Leader as early as possible to discuss your circumstances. 

Is the part-time route suitable if I work full time? 

Yes. Many students on the programme combine part-time study with full-time employment. The asynchronous nature of the distance learning model allows you to organise your study around work and family commitments, provided you can commit regular time to reading and writing. 

Assessment and deadlines 

How are assessments submitted? 

All assessments are submitted online via Turnitin through Learning Zone. You will receive clear instructions and deadlines for each piece of assessment within your module sites. 

Are deadlines different for part-time students? 

Deadlines are staggered for part-time students to reflect the two-year structure of the programme. A full assessment calendar is provided in the Programme Handbook and on Learning Zone. 

Can I get an extension if I have work or caring commitments? 

Extensions and deferrals are governed by DMU academic regulations. While employment alone is not normally grounds for an extension, unforeseen circumstances can be considered. You should consult the relevant university guidance and contact your module tutor or Student Advice Centre as early as possible. 

Support and contact 

How much contact will I have with academic staff? 

Each module has a designated tutor, and you will remain in regular contact with them throughout your studies via email and video/phone calls. You will also have a Personal Tutor (normally the Programme Leader) who can support you with broader academic or pastoral issues. If you are local to Leicester or wish to visit, you are more than welcome to see your tutors in person in their offices in the University. 

Will I feel isolated as a distance learner? 

Distance learning is independent by nature, but you will be part of an active research community. Students are invited to ICSHC research events, webinars, and conferences, and are kept informed about activities through email and social media. Many students also connect informally with peers through online discussion and shared academic interests. 

What resources will I have access to? 

As a distance learner you have full access to:  

  • DMU Library electronic books and journals  
  • Online archives and databases  
  • Learning Zone support materials 
  • DMU Base Camp (academic skills and library support services)

You will also be fully registered with the University and have full access rights to physical resources (such as the Kimberlin Library) and study spaces, should you wish to use them. 

Many of our students also sign up to the SCONUL Access scheme which allows registered University students the right to access study spaces and materials from other University libraries across the UK. Some of these Libraries also allow SCONUL users borrowing rights. 

Dissertation and Heritage Project 

When do I start thinking about my dissertation or project? 

Formal preparation takes place during the Investigating Sport: Research Methods module (HIST5023), which takes place from January to May for full-time students and October to January (in their second year of study) for part-time. However, many students begin thinking about potential topics earlier, often drawing inspiration from taught modules. 

Do I get a supervisor if I study part time and at a distance? 

Yes. All dissertation and heritage project students are allocated a supervisor, regardless of study mode. Supervision is conducted remotely, usually via email and online meetings. 

Can I base my dissertation on my professional or personal interests? 

Yes, provided the topic fits within the academic scope of sports history and culture and can be supervised by the course team. Topics are agreed in consultation with the Dissertation or Project Module Leader. 

Who should I contact if I have further questions? 

For general enquiries about the programme, distance learning, or routes of study, please contact: 

Programme Leader: Dr David Dee 
Email: ddee@dmu.ac.uk