12 Tips for Preparing for a Degree Online and Their Potential Impact

Embarking on an online degree presents an exciting opportunity for personal and professional growth! The convenience and accessibility of online learning truly open up a world of higher education for many individuals across the globe. However, you may encounter some unique challenges along the way. With the right preparation, you can maximise this experience and lay the groundwork for your success.

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Here are 12 tips to consider before starting your online degree programme, along with how these steps can positively influence your academic journey.

1. Clarify Your Goals

Before enrolling in an online programme, it’s wise to reflect on what motivates you to pursue this degree. Are you seeking to advance your career, transition to a new field, deepen your knowledge, or achieve a personal goal?

How this helps: Having clear goals inspires you and guides you through your studies. When challenges arise (and they inevitably will), those goals will remind you of your purpose and help you stay focused on achieving your dreams.

2. Research and Choose the Right Programme

Online programmes come in all shapes and sizes! It’s essential to consider factors like accreditation, curriculum, faculty, flexibility, and support services. Take some time to assess how well the programme aligns with your career objectives and personal requirements—you deserve a great fit!

How this helps: Selecting the appropriate programme can significantly impact the effectiveness with which you acquire valuable skills and knowledge. Furthermore, an accredited degree can enhance your attractiveness in the job market! With Robert Kennedy College’s (RKC) 100% online degree programmes, you will earn a degree from a government-accredited British university. Our degrees are recognised worldwide. Click here for more information.

3. Organise Your Finances

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Take a moment to review the tuition fees and any extra expenses, such as software subscriptions or internet upgrades. It’s also wise to explore monthly payment plans or employer sponsorships that can help alleviate your financial burden.

How this helps: Being financially prepared can alleviate your concerns, allowing you to focus on your studies without the persistent anxiety over funding your education. For information regarding RKC’s fees, discounts, instalments, a sample payment plan, and conversion to your local currency, please click here.

4. Master Time Management Skills

Online learning requires a significant amount of self-discipline. Create a schedule that allocates time for classes, assignments, self-study, work, and personal commitments.

How this helps: Effective time management ensures you stay on track and meet deadlines without feeling overwhelmed. A structured approach enables you to balance your studies with other responsibilities.

5. Set Up a Dedicated Study Space

Select a comfortable, quiet location where all your essentials are readily available, such as your laptop, a reliable internet connection, stationery, and sufficient good lighting.

How this helps: Establishing a consistent study environment can make a significant difference. It helps minimise distractions and subtly signals to your brain that it’s time to focus. In this way, you can significantly enhance your productivity and concentration!

6. Build a Support Network

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Share your plans with family, friends, or colleagues! Their support can genuinely help you adhere to your study schedule. And remember to connect with other students online; it’s an excellent way to cultivate a sense of community together!

How this helps: Emotional support and camaraderie genuinely make the journey feel more interconnected and less isolating. A robust network offers valuable insights, shares helpful resources and serves as an excellent sounding board for your ideas!

7. Evaluate Your Technological Needs

It’s wise to keep your laptop or computer up to date and ensure it has sufficient processing power, storage, and reliable security software. To further enhance your experience, consider investing in comfortable noise-cancelling headphones and a quality webcam, if needed.

How this helps: Reliable technology ensures everything operates smoothly, enabling you to enjoy engaging in live sessions or watching recorded lectures fully. This significantly enriches your overall learning experience!

8. Develop a Growth Mindset

Pursuing a degree online is an exhilarating journey that presents its share of challenges but offers a fantastic opportunity to learn and develop. Remember, each step forward may involve a few bumps along the way, and that’s perfectly fine!

How this helps: A growth mindset encourages you to confront academic challenges with resilience and to focus on finding solutions rather than becoming overwhelmed by difficulties. It enhances your confidence and allows you to thrive!

9. Get Organised with Tools and Apps

Consider utilising productivity apps like calendars, task managers, and note-taking tools to help you stay organised with your deadlines, assignments, and goals.

How this helps: Staying organised enables you to avoid those last-minute scrambles and makes it easier to manage your workload smoothly. With these handy tools, you can keep everything right where you need it, simplifying your academic routine!

10. Practice Self-Care

Online learning can be a wonderful journey, but it certainly requires both mental and physical energy. To maximise the experience, ensure you prioritise getting enough sleep, staying active with some exercise, and enjoying a nutritious diet. Also, don’t forget to schedule those essential breaks during your study sessions.

How this helps: A well-rested and healthy mind shines brightly in academics! By avoiding burnout, you can stay motivated and sustain your productivity throughout the programme.

11. Work on Communication Skills

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Effective communication in writing is vital for success in online learning! You can email your professors, engage in lively discussion boards, and collaborate with your classmates throughout the journey.

How this helps: Open and friendly communication fosters meaningful connections, enhances clarity in submissions, and enables us to express our ideas confidently.

12. Prepare for Self-Motivation

Online learning, unlike traditional classrooms, encourages you to be more self-directed. Take a moment to reflect on what inspires you! It could be creating a vision board, establishing regular progress checks, or treating yourself to small rewards as you complete tasks. No matter what it is, discovering your motivation can make the journey all the more enjoyable!

How this helps: Cultivating your self-motivation enables you to remain consistent and engaged, particularly when you lack substantial external support.


An online degree equips you with specialised knowledge and skills essential for success. Achieving this demands strategic preparation and effort. By setting clear goals, managing your time effectively, leveraging technology, and nurturing a growth mindset, you can optimise your programme and fulfil your academic and professional objectives. These steps empower you to excel academically and savour the learning experience.

This chapter of your life is not merely a stepping stone—it is a wonderfully transformative experience that paves the way for countless opportunities. By taking the time to prepare, you will embark on a truly fulfilling and enriching academic journey that lies ahead. If you are ready to start, click here to apply.

Robert Kennedy College: Pioneer in Flexible and High-Quality Online Learning – Join Dean Dr. iur. David Costa on an informative zoom session

Robert Kennedy College (RKC), based in Zürich, Switzerland, is a private educational institution specializing in online postgraduate degree programmes. Established with a commitment to providing Swiss-quality education, RKC has developed state-of-the-art online e-learning technology to deliver its courses. The college offers a range of programmes, including Bachelors, Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science (MSc),LLM, DBA and PhD programmes in partnership University of Cumbria, University of Salford and University of Gloucestershire.           

Recent Event: Information Session with the Dean

On 26 March 2025, RKC conducted an online information session hosted by Dr. iur. David Costa, the Dean of the college. The session provided prospective students with insights into the various programmes offered, the online learning experience, and the benefits of studying at RKC. Dr. Costa also addressed questions from participants, offering valuable guidance on admissions and programme selection. The recording of this session is available for those who could not attend live.

Advantages of Online Education at Robert Kennedy College

  1. Flexibility: RKC’s online programmes are designed to accommodate the busy schedules of professionals. The students can study at their own pace, from anywhere in the world. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those balancing work, family, and education commitments. ​At the end of the programme, students also get an opportunity to attend the graduation ceremony at the University. 
  2. Swiss-Quality Education: Leveraging its base in Switzerland, RKC emphasizes high-quality education standards. The college employs well-trained educators who utilize digital platforms to deliver comprehensive and engaging course materials. ​
  3. Diverse and International Community: With over 7,000 students from over 160 different countries, RKC offers a truly international and diverse educational experience. This multicultural environment enriches learning by providing various perspectives and networking opportunities.
  4. Innovative Assessment Methods: RKC employs open-book assessments instead of traditional exams, allowing students to apply their knowledge in practical and meaningful ways. This approach reduces exam stress and better prepares students for real-world challenges. 
  5. Comprehensive Online Resources: The college’s online platform provides a rich and engaging learning experience, including interactive lectures, discussion forums, and extensive study materials. Students have access to a wealth of resources that support their academic journey.

For more information on programmes, visit RKC website or contact our expert education advisors live on WhatsApp chat.

Mastering Tomorrow: Management Programmes for Your Future

We are almost done with 2024 and I hope the year was blessed for everyone. On behalf of the staff and students at Robert Kennedy College (RKC), I would like to wish you, our readers, and your families a Happy and Prosperous New Year 2025!

As we approach 2025, the landscape of business and management is evolving rapidly. To stay ahead, it’s crucial to choose a master’s programme that not only addresses current trends but also prepares you for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Here are some management programmes you should consider to be better prepared for 2025 and beyond.

(1) Business Administration

Business Administration remains one of the most sought-after degrees for aspiring leaders. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategy. Modern programmes increasingly incorporate courses on digital transformation, sustainability, and global business trends.

RKC offers several 100% online degree programmes in Business Administration including an MSc in Business Administration through our partnership with the University of Salford (UoS), UK, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a BA (Hons) in Business Administration through our partnership with the University of Cumbria (UoC), UK.

(2) Digital Transformation

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As digital technologies continue to reshape industries, a degree in Digital Transformation can equip you with the skills to lead in this new era. These programmes focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, and digital strategy. They prepare graduates to drive innovation and manage digital initiatives within organisations.

At RKC we offer programmes such as MSc in Data Analytics, MBA in Artificial Intelligence, and MBA in Digital Marketing through our partnership with UoC and Master Of Science in Digital Business, through our partnership with UoS, just to name a few.

(3) Sustainability Management

With increasing emphasis on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, a Master in Sustainability Management is becoming more relevant. These programmes teach students how to integrate sustainable practices into business operations and strategy. They cover topics such as environmental management, sustainable finance, and ethical leadership.

If Sustainability is what you are interested in then check out our MBA in Energy and Sustainability, MBA in Finance and Sustainability or MBA in Leadership and Sustainability.

(4) Innovation and Entrepreneurship

For those looking to start their own ventures or drive innovation within existing organisations, a Master’s in Innovation and Entrepreneurship can be invaluable. These programmes focus on developing entrepreneurial skills, from ideation to execution. They often include incubator programmes and teachings from successful entrepreneurs.

Through our exclusive partnership with York St John University (YSJ), UK, we offer 100% online MBA programmes in Leading Innovation and Change, and  Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

(5) Global Business

In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding global markets and cross-cultural management is crucial. A Master’s in Global Business prepares students to navigate the complexities of international business. These programmes cover international trade, global strategy, and cultural intelligence.

RKC offers several programmes in Global Business such as MBA International Business, MSc Computer Science and International Business, MBA International Healthcare Management, MBA Global Hospitality Management, MBA International Relations and Diplomacy, LL.M – Master of Laws in International Business Law, Master of Science in Global Management, Master of Science in International Banking and Finance, Master of Science in International Accounting and Finance, Master of Science in International Business with Law, Master of Science in International Corporate Finance, Master of Science in International Events Management, and LL.M – Master of Laws in International Commercial Law, just to list a few of our programmes.

(6) Human Resource Management

As organisations recognise the importance of talent management, a Master in Human Resource Management (HRM) is becoming more valuable. These programmes focus on strategic HR practices, including talent acquisition, employee development, and organisational behaviour. They prepare graduates to manage the workforce of the future.

As you can imagine, our Master of Science in Human Resource Management and Development is one of our longest running and more popular programmes.

(7) Supply Chain Management

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of supply chains in global business. A degree in Supply Chain Management equips students with the skills to manage complex supply networks and improve operational efficiency. These programmes cover logistics, procurement, and supply chain analytics.

Check out our Master of Science in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

(8) Healthcare Management

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The healthcare industry is undergoing significant changes, driven by technological advancements and an aging population. A Master in Healthcare Management prepares students to lead healthcare organisations and improve patient care. These programmes cover healthcare policy, management, and informatics.

If healthcare is what you are interested in, then have a look at our MBA in International Healthcare Management or MBA in Public Health Management.


Choosing the right master’s programme is a critical step in preparing for the future. As we move towards 2025, the skills and knowledge required to succeed in management will continue to evolve. By selecting a programme that aligns with emerging trends and equips you with the necessary expertise, you can position yourself for success in the decades to come. Whether you are interested in digital transformation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, or global business, there is a programme that can help you achieve your career goals.

But again, the programme you are looking for might not even be on this list. Do your research and choose a programme that works for you. Check out the list of all the programmes we are currently offering and see which one works for you. If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.

7 ways how an Online Programme at RKC Shape Personality Development of its students

Doing an online master’s programme from Robert Kennedy College transcends the traditional boundaries of education, offering not only academic growth but also a transformative experience that enriches one’s personality and life skills. 

Beyond gaining expertise in a specialized field, students in our online programmes often experience profound personality development. 

Here’s how the journey contributes to building resilience and adaptability to enhancing communication skills. The challenges and opportunities offered by our online learning environment contribute significantly to shaping well-rounded, capable individuals.

1. Fostering Self-Discipline and Time Management

RKC Online learning requires managing coursework alongside personal and professional responsibilities. This flexibility is a major advantage, but it requires a high level of self-discipline and effective time management.

The ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines helps develop a proactive and organized personality.

As we have no set class times, students must proactively schedule their study hours to meet deadlines. This environment fosters a disciplined approach to daily routines and long-term planning, which are crucial life skills.

 2. Enhancing Communication Skills

Despite its remote nature, online programmes offered by Robert Kennedy College involve collaborative projects, virtual discussions which improve written and verbal communication.

In an increasingly digital world, the ability to communicate effectively across online platforms is crucial. Engaging with peers from different cultures enhances cross-cultural communication and adaptability that in turn nurtures strong communication and teamwork skills and enables our students to express their ideas clearly and collaborate efficiently in diverse teams. 

3. Building Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Robert Kennedy College offers advanced coursework. And that challenges students to think critically, analyze problems, and propose evidence-based solutions.

The research-intensive nature of our programmes nurtures analytical and independent thinking.

This emphasis on critical thinking goes beyond academic work; it shapes how students approach problems in their personal and professional lives, fostering a mindset that values analysis, creativity, and evidence-based decision-making.

The experience also fosters independence, as students learn to rely on themselves for motivation and problem-solving. This newfound confidence and self-reliance prepare them to face future challenges with assurance.

4. Encouraging Emotional Intelligence and Resilience

Pursuing our online master’s degree uniquely fosters emotional intelligence (EI) and resilience fosters empathy, cultural sensitivity, and emotional intelligence.

EI, the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions while fostering healthy relationships, is enhanced through online learning through Self-Awareness, Empathy through Diversity, Improved Communication and Relationship Management

5. Relationship-Building through Global Networking and Exposure

Contrary to the misconception that online learning is isolating, RKC programmes offer ample opportunities for networking. Through virtual meetups, group projects, students can form meaningful connections with peers, instructors, and industry professionals worldwide.

These relationships can lead to lifelong friendships, mentorships, and professional opportunities, enriching both personal and career development.

6. Boosting Confidence and Self-Efficacy

Completing an online master’s programme is no small feat. It requires dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Successfully navigating this journey instills a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-confidence. Having a clear plan for studying, assignments and breaks gives you a sense of  control and boosts confidence. Acknowledging milestones such as completing a module or submitting an assignment reinforce positive momentum. Specialized knowledge enhances professional competence, empowering individuals to take on leadership roles by Engage Actively in Class

7. Encouraging Lifelong Learning and Curiosity

Our online master’s programme fosters a mindset of continuous growth and intellectual curiosity by encouraging the exploration of advanced topics, which stimulates a passion for deeper understanding. 

 

Our online programmes are much more than an academic pursuit; it’s a journey of personal transformation. Through interdisciplinary learning, students at Robert Kennedy College are exposed to diverse ideas and perspectives, promoting innovative thinking and cross-domain exploration. The programme’s research-driven approach hones inquiry skills, inspiring a habit of seeking knowledge and staying informed. Additionally, engaging with evolving technologies and trends nurtures adaptability and a proactive, learning-oriented attitude. The self-directed nature of online education further instills a lifelong commitment to personal and professional development, making it a powerful tool for cultivating lifelong learning and curiosity.

If you want to do an online degree programme, explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/PhD degree programmesthat Robert Kennedy College offers through exclusive partnerships with top British universities. You could also chat live with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can have a look at your profile and give you some advice.

 

Turning Challenges into Opportunities: The Vital Role of Student Support in Online Education

Today, we live in a world of technology, and it is imperative to provide adequate support to students in their online education journey. Still, certain challenges must be overcome.

Robert Kennedy College (RKC) has been in online education for over twenty years, collaborating exclusively with British government-accredited and globally renowned universities to deliver their degree programmes online to students worldwide.

When students are admitted to one of our degree programmes, their journey with us is just beginning. We aim to provide a fruitful, enjoyable, and seamless learning experience. To achieve this, RKC has a dedicated StudentCare team that supports students from onboarding to graduation.

As an online institute, we have students from all over the world who can enrol in and complete degree programmes from anywhere. This global reach presents challenges for our StudentCare team, which works tirelessly to address the various concerns our students may encounter. These challenges include programme extensions due to geopolitical uncertainties, internet outages caused by natural disasters, and delays in fee payments due to different issues like banking issues or personal circumstances. Since our students are not concentrated in one location, their challenges can vary widely.

In addition to everything else, the StudentCare team must ensure that all resolutions comply with the guidelines and policies set by the University and the College. This is crucial for student’s timely completion of the programme while maintaining the high standards expected of graduates.

RKC’s StudentCare team is dedicated to promptly resolving student concerns and is accessible through email, chat, phone, or the Online Campus account.

Excellence in Student Care is essential for every online institution and has become a cornerstone of successful colleges in today’s digital age. As e-commerce thrives and reliance on digital platforms grows, providing exceptional Student Care is more critical than ever.

The following are key challenges online institutes face in delivering excellent Student Support, which is crucial for building a loyal student base and driving growth.

The Critical Role of StudentCare in Online Education Success

(1) Trust and Loyalty

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Student support acts as the primary connection between an educational institution and its learners. In an online environment where personal interactions are limited, outstanding support fosters trust and loyalty. When students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to remain engaged and recommend the institution to others.

(2) Student Experience

A smooth and positive student experience is crucial for online education providers. Providing effective student support ensures that learners’ needs are met quickly and efficiently, improving their educational journey. This can lead to increased student satisfaction, favourable feedback, and higher retention rates.

(3) Stand Out

Exceptional student support can be a key differentiator in the competitive online education industry. Institutions that surpass student expectations distinguish themselves from competitors, gaining a significant advantage in attracting and retaining learners.

(4) Sales Driver

Students who are satisfied with their education are more likely to continue their studies and invest in additional courses over time. Online education providers can improve the student experience and drive enrolment and revenue growth by offering excellent support. Furthermore, satisfied students are more inclined to refer others, which can create new enrolment opportunities.

The Challenges

(1) Lack of Personal Interaction

One of the biggest challenges for online education providers is the absence of personal interaction. Without face-to-face communication, it can be difficult to convey empathy and understanding. Therefore, institutions need to seek ways to humanise their interactions by offering personalised responses and engaging proactively with students.

(2) Managing High Volumes of Inquiries

Handling a large volume of student inquiries can be challenging for online education providers. Robust student support systems and automation are essential for efficiently managing these inquiries while maintaining quality support.

(3) Consistency is the name of the Game

Our students can access StudentCare through various channels, including email, live chat, our Online Campus, and phone support. Maintaining consistent, high-quality support across these channels can be challenging. To address this, we train our StudentCare team to ensure uniformity in our service. Managing a high volume of student inquiries is often difficult for online education providers. To efficiently handle these inquiries while ensuring quality support, we rely on robust student support systems.

(4) Handling Negative Feedback

Negative feedback is common, but how an online education provider responds can greatly affect its reputation. By addressing complaints promptly and professionally, an institution can turn a negative experience into a positive one. However, managing negative feedback requires tact and strong communication skills, especially on public platforms.

(5) Keeping Up with Technology

The rapid pace of technological advancements means that student support tools and platforms are constantly evolving. Staying updated with the latest technology and incorporating it into student support operations can be challenging, but it is essential for maintaining efficiency and meeting student expectations.


Support for students is essential for online education providers. Although there are challenges in the digital environment, the benefits greatly outweigh these difficulties. By investing in training, utilising technology, personalising interactions, and promoting a student-centred culture, institutions can address challenges, build lasting relationships, and achieve long-term success through increased student loyalty and an improved experience.

At RKC, our StudentCare team is dedicated to serving our diverse and global student population. We take pride in their efforts to support student success while adhering to the standards and guidelines set by our university partners.

If you want to do an online degree programme, explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/PhD degree programmes that Robert Kennedy College offers through exclusive partnerships with top British universities. You could also chat live with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can have a look at your profile and give you some advice.

If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.