Distance Learning FAQ's

Each course offered by Opus can be studied by distance learning, which means you can study from the comfort of your own home, and can timetable your study around your own personal commitments. Distance learning is often an unfamiliar way of learning for many new students. Having pioneered the teaching of creative courses by correspondence, Opus aims to make the experience as user friendly as possible.

From a course for beginners through to a degree, Opus offers a range of stitched textile courses for students of all levels. The Opus Learning Path shows the possible route or progression, mapping out your possible learning path through the Opus courses.

All courses are modular. Each module contains exercises and tasks designed to help you explore techniques, ideas, creative responses and personal projects. The exercises are designed as a lesson would be to guide you logically through subject areas and towards personal work. When you have completed the exercises in the module, you send in your work for written feedback. You will receive a written tutorial from an experienced member of the tutor team to help you in your learning.

What if I have questions whilst studying?

If you have any queries or questions you can contact the Opus office where a member of the tutor team will be happy to answer any questions.

How does the modular system work ?

The courses can be started at any time as each module is purchased separately. With each module you will receive an invoice for the next module. When you are ready to order this you return a copy of the invoice to us along with your payment for the next instalment of your course.

How long does each module take ?

There are guidelines given for the length of each module and deadlines to work towards. However these are not set in stone, and are there for a guide to help you focus. We recommend that you work within these guidelines but if you need to take time out or have a break between modules you can easily do this.

How will I be assessed?

Your work will be assessed through the guidance tutorials you receive. The work is also seen by the school's internal verifier, and the external verifier on completion of the course. Many of the course have a final assessment exhibition where you get the chance to show your work to the public in a central London gallery.

How will I keep in touch with other students ?

There will be a new discussion forum on this website to exchange ideas with other students. This will be password protected to ensure your privacy.

We also run a series of short courses throughout the year where you can meet up with other students currently studying with Opus.

What are the additional costs involved ?

Postage and packing is not included in the price of the modules. Postage of £11.75 is included automatically for UK and EU students if you order online. For non-EU students the postage is£23.50.

If studying for a City and Guilds course, there is a City and Guilds Registration Fee which should be paid with the first module.

Whilst studying on the course you will have to purchase your own materials and any text books which you may need to assist you during your studies.

The majority of courses offered have a final assessment exhibition. A fee is charged for taking part in this exhibition.