Our online-taught EMFSS programmes empower learners to pursue their educational goals and careers, from anywhere in the world. We spoke to first year BSc International Relations student Natasha Shears to find out how she stays motivated to study online, how she found out about the course, and where she sees it taking her in the future.
What are the UoL online degrees with academic direction from LSE?
The Online Undergraduate Programmes in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences (EMFSS) are awarded by the University of London, with academic direction from London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Building on the University of London’s rich history of providing accessible education around the globe, LSE’s expert faculty have developed world-class academic content that is available online, on your schedule.
Each of these degrees has been designed with flexibility in mind:
- BSc Accounting and Finance
- BSc Business and Management
- BSc Data Science and Business Analytics
- BSc Economics
- BSc Economics and Finance
- BSc Economics and Management
- BSc Finance
- BSc International Relations
- BSc Mathematics and Economics
With four annual programme starts (August, November, February, May) and the ability to attend full- or part-time, learners around the world can access quality education in a format that complements their personal and professional goals, lifestyle, and location.
How did you find out about the UoL degree with academic direction from LSE?
"I was intrigued to see if any other universities offered distance learning, and I was delighted to find through a Google search that the University of London offered an online degree in the exact subject I was looking for! I read some student testimonies about the course, and it seemed like such a great opportunity.”
Why did you choose to study online?
“The idea of studying online was really intriguing to me - I’d studied from home during the Covid-19 pandemic and actually found that it suited me quite well. Studying for a degree online wasn’t something I’d considered before, but I really liked the idea of studying wherever and whenever works best for me.”
How do you keep yourself motivated to study online?
“It can be tough at times! But I find that taking some time in the evening to create a plan for the next day helps me to keep on track with my tasks. I do have a timetable which I try my best to stick to, but I also think that it’s important to be flexible and forgiving if you can’t always follow it. Each day is a fresh start!”
Have you met up with any of your classmates in person?
“I attended a networking event at LSE’s New Academic Building which was a really great evening – I had the chance to meet some of my classmates and talk to teachers and students on other courses. I also visited the Senate House Library with a friend, it’s such a beautiful building and I’d definitely recommend visiting if you have the chance. Something in particular that I love about studying online is that you can meet people from all over the world, and I’d love to meet more of my classmates in person!”
Why did you choose the International Relations degree?
“International Relations really appealed to me for its versatility – you can explore politics, history, economics and more in one degree! You can explore exactly why and how international actors relate to each other, and understand international affairs, and even the world better. I really enjoy the analysis involved in International Relations, it can be challenging at times but truly eye-opening.”
What are the main topics you’ve covered so far on your course?
“I’m currently a First Year, and so far the course has been an introduction to International Relations, including the main theories and literature that are important in the subject. At the moment, I’m really enjoying learning about significant global historical events.”
What is your favourite part of the course?
"The live sessions are definitely my favourite part of the course – it’s so great to have the opportunity to discuss what I’ve learnt with fellow students across the world. After completing the asynchronous work and reflecting on it, it’s great to hear new perspectives and to ask and answer each other’s questions."
What do you hope to do with your degree when you graduate?
"Once I’ve graduated, I’m hoping to study International Education as a Master’s degree, and I’d ultimately like to pursue a career in teaching for an NGO. International Relations felt like a good segue for my next steps."
What would you say to someone who is considering applying to the UoL International Relations degree?
"I would definitely recommend studying online if flexibility is important to you. You can fit studying in alongside work and other responsibilities you might have, and you can meet some amazing people from anywhere in the world! I would definitely suggest asking any questions you might have to current students or staff, there’s a great sense of community. There are a lot of benefits to studying online!"
Applications and enrolments are open, with four annual programme starts (August, November, February, May).
Read more to discover which online taught EMFSS programme is right for you.