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.

Get empowered and inspired to discover great things – A Dynamic partnership of Robert Kennedy College and University of Cumbria

When it comes to pursuing higher education, choosing the right institution is crucial for both personal and professional growth. The University of Cumbria, with its rich heritage and global reputation, is one such institution that stands out. 

What makes the University of Cumbria particularly attractive to students worldwide is its partnerships with prestigious institution like Robert Kennedy College. This unique collaboration offers students not just a world-class education but also a network and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

The University of Cumbria: A Snapshot

The University of Cumbria, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Northwest England, has steadily built a reputation for excellence in education and research. With campuses in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster, and London, the university offers a unique blend of natural beauty and academic rigor. Its commitment to quality education has earned it a spot among the top universities worldwide, particularly recognized for its contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Located in the picturesque Lake District in the UK, the University of Cumbria is a relatively young university with a big ambition. With a focus on providing high-quality education that blends practical skills and academic learning, the university has carved a niche for itself in a variety of fields. From health and law to business and education, the university offers a diverse range of programs that cater to a global student body.

One of the standout features of the University of Cumbria is its commitment to employability. With a track record of graduates who have gone on to succeed in their careers, the University of Cumbria is not just a place of learning; it’s a place that shapes future leaders and professionals

The Global Recognition of the University of Cumbria

While the University of Cumbria is a relatively young institution, it has rapidly earned a reputation for academic excellence and student satisfaction. The university’s commitment to offering high-quality education is reflected in its strong rankings for student satisfaction in the UK. It is recognized for its innovative approach to teaching, which combines traditional lectures with hands-on experience in real-world settings.

The University of Cumbria is making waves internationally. It’s ranked 8th worldwide for Quality Education according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings.

This ranking is all about how universities contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Additionally, the University of Cumbria has made a significant impact on a global scale. It has built a strong international presence with students from all over the world, contributing to a diverse and vibrant culture. Its partnerships with academic institution like Robert Kennedy College – further bolsters its international reach, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a world-class education.

The Partnership with Robert Kennedy College: A Game-Changer for Students

Since 2010, the University of Cumbria has formed a strategic partnership with Robert Kennedy College (RKC) in Zürich, Switzerland, a renowned institution known for offering flexible online learning opportunities.

This collaboration aims to deliver high-quality online graduate and postgraduate programs to students worldwide. The partnership blends the convenience and flexibility of online learning with the academic excellence of a prestigious British university, offering a range of programs including BA, LLM, MBA, and MSc.

This collaboration allows students to benefit from the best of both worlds: the flexibility of online learning with the academic credibility of a prestigious university like Cumbria.

What Robert Kennedy College Brings to the Table

Robert Kennedy College, located in Switzerland, has long been known for offering high-quality postgraduate programs, especially in the fields of business and management. Their unique online learning platform has attracted students from around the world, who appreciate the flexibility it offers alongside a rigorous academic curriculum. 

By partnering with the University of Cumbria, RKC offers a seamless educational experience that combines the expertise and resources of both institutions.

How Students Can Benefit from this Partnership

For students looking to advance their education, this collaboration offers a unique opportunity. Whether you’re seeking to complete a business MBA, develop your skills in leadership, or pursue a career in healthcare, this partnership allows you to study in a flexible and supportive environment.

As the world of work continues to evolve, employers are increasingly looking for candidates with not only strong academic qualifications but also the ability to adapt to new technologies, global environments, and shifting business landscapes. The combination of practical experience and academic rigor offered by the University of Cumbria and Robert Kennedy College makes this partnership a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their career prospects in an increasingly globalized world.

Student Testimonials

Here’s what some students have to say about their experience:

Frank, MBA (Switzerland): “It was a great journey not only to increase and consolidate my management knowhow, but also to network with incredible personalities from all around the world!”

Isha, MBA International Healthcare Management (Kenya): “The way the MBA is structured is not difficult to do while being able to work at the same time. It has a broad and yet, in depth learning of the major concepts needed for any organization. It makes everything appear relevant and makes you think outside the box.”

Charles, MBA International Business (USA): “I had a good experience pursuing my MBA at Robert Kennedy College because I was able to exercise schedule flexibility to attend classes virtually, do the readings, and compose the required research papers in available time slots in my busy schedule. I apply the lessons learned and knowledge acquired every day on the job. It has proven to be a great professional value enhancement for me. ”

The University of Cumbria’s global recognition and its partnership with Robert Kennedy College provide students with an exceptional opportunity to gain a world-class education that can lead to significant career advancements. With the flexibility of online learning, the credibility of two respected institutions, and access to a global network, students are well-equipped to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether you’re looking to study business, healthcare, or education, the University of Cumbria and Robert Kennedy College partnership offers an exciting path to success.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, consider how this partnership can help you achieve your academic and professional goals while providing the flexibility and global exposure that today’s job market demands.
Talk to our expert education advisor to find out more about the eligibility requirements and admission process. Apply now if you are ready to dive in!

Revolutionising Global Learning: The Innovative Partnership of Robert Kennedy College and York St John University

In today’s digital landscape, education is no longer confined to the four walls of a traditional classroom. Online learning platforms have revolutionised how students access knowledge, breaking geographical barriers and opening doors to innovative, flexible learning opportunities. Few partnerships illustrate this transformation as effectively as the collaboration between Robert Kennedy College (RKC) and York St John University (YSJU). By combining RKC’s forward-thinking digital delivery methods with YSJU’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence, this alliance offers students worldwide a unique opportunity to pursue high-quality education tailored to the demands of the modern world.

York St John University

York St John University, located in the historic city of York, UK—a place steeped in history and culture — stands as a symbol of academic excellence with a rich legacy over 175 years. Initially founded as a teacher training college, it has transformed into a respected institution offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

YSJU is committed to creating a stimulating learning atmosphere that fosters intellectual development, critical thinking, and practical skills. With an emphasis on inclusivity, the university strives to assist students from diverse backgrounds, providing them with the resources and opportunities needed for success.

The institution is well-known for its strong focus on teaching quality and student satisfaction. Faculty members are specialists in their disciplines and dedicated educators who prioritise student achievement. This commitment is evident in YSJU’s consistently high student experience and employability rankings.

Robert Kennedy College

  • Robert Kennedy College (RKC) is located in Zurich, Switzerland, and is a leader in online education.
  • The college aims to make high-quality education accessible and recognised for flexible, innovative, and globally acknowledged programmes.
  • RKC focuses on online and blended learning, allowing students to manage their education alongside personal and professional responsibilities.
  • The advanced online platform provides access to top-notch resources and engaging learning experiences, regardless of students’ locations.
  • The faculty comprises seasoned scholars and industry experts, offering a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the virtual classroom.
  • Academic excellence combined with real-world experience prepares students to thrive in their careers.
  • RKC collaborates with esteemed universities, enabling students to obtain degrees from reputable institutions while enjoying online education.
  • The college prioritises tailored support and a collaborative atmosphere, nurturing a strong sense of community among students and faculty.

The Partnership

The collaboration between Robert Kennedy College and York St John University exemplifies how teamwork can enhance education. This partnership enables students to access YSJU’s renowned degree programs via RKC’s cutting-edge online platform, merging the strengths of both institutions.

  • Flexibility and Accessibility: A key feature of this partnership is its flexibility. Students can learn at their own pace, managing their education alongside work, family, and various commitments. This accessibility makes higher education attainable for students, irrespective of geographical limitations.
  • Quality and Accreditation: Degrees conferred through this partnership are fully accredited and recognised, providing students with a globally recognised qualification. In 2006, York St John University received the University title and degree-awarding powers from His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council. York St John University’s stringent academic standards and Robert Kennedy College’s enhanced online learning features ensure a superior educational experience. Upon finishing the programme, students will receive their degree from YSJU.
  • Global Community: The partnership cultivates an international learning community, uniting students from across the globe. This diverse group enriches the educational experience, providing varied perspectives and insights that promote personal and professional development.
  • Support and Resources: Students gain advantages from both institutions’ comprehensive support. RKC supplies strong online resources and personalised assistance through our dedicated StudentCare team, whereas YSJU delivers academic excellence backed by a rich legacy of educational expertise. This dual support framework guarantees that students possess all they need to thrive.
  • Innovative Learning Environment: The collaboration utilises cutting-edge technology to create an engaging and interactive learning environment. From virtual classrooms to online discussions and collaborative projects, students are immersed in a dynamic educational experience that equips them for the challenges of the modern world.

Success Stories and Impact

The success stories emerging from this partnership are a testament to its effectiveness. Graduates have achieved significant career advancements, leveraging their degrees to secure promotions, switch careers, and embark on entrepreneurial ventures. The combination of a prestigious degree and the flexibility to study from anywhere has opened doors to new opportunities for countless students.

Alumni often speak of the transformative impact of their education, highlighting the practical skills, critical thinking, and confidence gained through their studies. The support and guidance from faculty and the sense of belonging within a global community are cited as some of the factors in their success.


The collaboration between Robert Kennedy College and York St John University highlights the potential of online education to dismantle barriers and provide high-quality, flexible learning options. By combining the strengths of both institutions, this partnership allows students to achieve their academic and professional goals, regardless of their location in the world.

This collaboration exemplifies how educational institutions can innovate and adapt to better serve the evolving needs of students. It demonstrates that educational opportunities are limitless with the right combination of technology, expertise, and support.

This partnership effectively bridges traditional and modern education, creating pathways for students to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

If you want to do an online degree programme, explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/DBA/PhD degree programmes that Robert Kennedy College offers. You could also chat live with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can look at your profile and give you some advice. If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.