FAQ

• How exactly does a Distance Learning course work?
• How do I enrol on a course?
• How do I receive Distance Learning course material?
• How long do I have to complete my online course?
• Can I study from abroad?
• How much time will I need to allocate to online learning?
• Is it OK that I have never studied before?
• Do I need to attend Classes / Lectures
• Do I need access to a computer?
• Will I receive Online Certification at the end of my course?
• Who writes the Distance Learning courses?

How exactly does a Distance Learning course work?

Distance learning is a flexible approach to learning. You are not tied down to fixed start dates and time limits. Once you enrol in your chosen online course, we will send you the initial course materials and you can get started straight away. You will be given a unique username and password for our distance learning platform when you register online and all notes can be downloaded from this site. A tutor will be assigned to you and contact details of your assigned tutor will also be included in your online learning introductory pack. Progressively, you will complete and submit your assignments to the college by email on our online learning centre. You will receive your certificate or diploma upon successful completion of all elements of the course.

How do I enroll on a course?

You can find detailed instructions in our Distance Learning Enrolment guide.

How do I receive Distance Learning course material?

Online learning Introductory packs are posted to you on one day a month so you will not have long to wait to get started. Once you have satisfactorily completed your first assignment, your next set of notes will become available to you online.

How long do I have to complete my course?

For most distance learning courses you have between 6 months to 2 years to complete your online course (please see individual course information for details). We encourage you to complete your studies within the set timeframe. However, if you do not have time to complete your course during the specified period simply contact us, as course extensions can be agreed – please also see the terms and conditions of enrolment.

Can I study from abroad?

In general, Portobello Institute Distance Learning programmes are designed so that you can study from anywhere in the world. However, some of our distance learning courses have a mandatory requirement for attendance at seminars; please see individual online course profiles for details. It is also important to note that FETAC Certification is only awarded to residents of the Republic of Ireland with a valid PPS number.

How much time will I need to allocate to my studies?

There are no set time requirements; you work at your own pace. The flexible nature of online learning allows you to fit in studying around all the other areas of your life - family, work and so on. As little as 1 hour per week would be required with some of our online courses, while other courses could take longer.

Is it OK that I have never studied before?

Absolutely. Many of our students are in a similar position. At Portobello Institute Distance Learning, you learn at your own pace, in your own home. Each lesson, set out in easy to understand language, takes you step by step through the online course. There is no pressure, no competition and our friendly, patient tutors will help you overcome any problems you may have. If you ever need additional assistance simply contact your tutor and help will never be far away.

Do I need to attend Classes / Lectures?

For some of our online courses students will be required to attend workshops. There will only be a requirement to attend at most one seminar per month. This dates and times will be available before the student signs up for the course.

Do I need access to a computer?

Access to a computer would be desirable as you will be required to download notes from our online learning centre. You can also upload your assignments to the online learning platform and you tutor will post feedback on this site. However, access to a computer is not compulsory as we can arrange for everything to be processed by post upon request. There is an additional administration cost of €30 for this service.

Will I receive a certificate at the end of my course?

Upon successful completion of all online courses, you will receive a Portobello Institute certificate of Completion in recognition of your achievement. What's more, you will have the knowledge you need to make the most of your new skills.

In addition, many of our online courses allow you to gain a qualification from the Irish Accreditation body FETAC (Further Education Training Accreditation Council). These qualifications are at level 5 and 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications and your certificate will reflect this.

Who writes the courses?

All of the courses available on the Portobello Institute Distance Learning programme have been written by highly qualified tutors, experts in their fields, and are updated regularly to ensure that the information is accurate and relevant.