What is blended learning?

For students balancing busy lives, blended learning offers a flexible study solution. Explore courses, costs, and decide if hybrid learning is the right path for you

How do blended learning courses work?

Blended learning, often called hybrid learning, combines traditional face-to-face classroom teaching with online learning. This approach offers a flexible, student-centered experience that balances independent study with in-person support.

Hybrid learning is becoming increasingly popular - according to the Luminate Early Careers Survey 2025, 16% of undergraduates and 40% of postgraduates are now enrolled in hybrid or fully online programmes.

On a typical blended course, you might spend:

• 60-70% of your time learning online, working through materials and completing tasks at your own pace.
• 30-40% of your time on campus, attending seminars, workshops, or tutorials for real-time interaction.

It's an excellent option if you want the flexibility to study on your own schedule while still enjoying opportunities to connect with tutors and classmates in person.

When studying online, there are two main formats:

• asynchronous learning - study at your own pace, whenever it suits you
• synchronous learning - real-time participation in live sessions.

Your tutors will shape the experience to fit your learning style and goals, and you'll have a  schedule outlining when you'll need to be online and when you can work at your own pace.

What are the advantages of blended learning?

Hybrid learning is highly valued by students. According to the Early Careers Survey 2025, students on blended learning programmes feel the most prepared for employment, with 73% reporting confidence in their job readiness - compared to just 54% of those in traditional, in-person courses.

Blended learning gives you the flexibility of online study with the support of campus life through:

• collaborative learning - use of online forums, video calls, and shared documents to work with peers anytime, anywhere
• continuous feedback and assessment - digital tools provide real-time insights into your progress
• in-person interaction - classroom time focuses on group work, discussion, and one-to-one tutoring
• self-paced study - around the clock access to learning materials allows flexibility.

Having greater control over your learning helps you build independence, boost your confidence, and sharpen your digital skills - key qualities that employers highly value in the workplace.

What blended courses are offered by UK universities?

Many universities now offer hybrid courses. Here are some popular options to consider:

Undergraduate courses

• Adult Nursing BSc -  University of Sunderland
• Applied Education Studies BA -  University of Bedfordshire
• Business Management BA - London South Bank University
• Midwifery BSc  -  University of Leeds
• Primary Education Studies BA - Anglia Ruskin University

Postgraduate courses

• Adult Nursing MSc - Coventry University
• Architecture: Professional Practice (PGDip) - Cardiff University
• Biomedical Science MSc - Keele University
• Global Executive MBA - The University of Manchester
• Prevention, Population Health and Leadership MSc - Bangor University

Continued professional development (CPD) courses

• Coaching and Mentoring for Leaders - Newcastle University
• Diagnosis and Decision Making in Advanced Practice - University of Stirling
• Injectables in Aesthetic Medicine (BCDG) - The University of Manchester

Use terms like 'blended,' 'hybrid,' or 'part time online' to search for online courses.

What challenges might I face with blended learning?

Like any learning style, hybrid learning comes with a few hurdles, such as:

• adapting to new study methods
• ensuring reliable access to devices and quiet study spaces
• missing some of the social energy of campus life
• dealing with technical issues like unstable internet or unfamiliar digital tools
• staying motivated and managing your time effectively.

Don't let this discourage you - your university will provide plenty of support to help you settle in and stay fully engaged throughout the course.

Blended learning could be a great fit if you:

• prefer to manage your own time
• want to avoid long commutes
• work while studying or have caregiving responsibilities.

Explore our guidance on how to choose the right degree.

How much does blended learning cost?

Hybrid learning can help reduce expenses like transport and accommodation, but tuition fees vary:

• blended undergraduate degrees are set at the standard £9,535 per year.
• fully online courses, like the BSc in Nursing at The Open University, may cost around £27,750 for the whole degree.

Blended courses sometimes cost more than fully online options, but that includes access to facilities, in-person teaching, and student life on campus.

For more information, see our guidance on student loans and finance.

How will I be assessed on a blended learning course?

Assessment on hybrid courses is designed to fit the flexible learning style. You'll likely encounter a mix of methods to demonstrate your knowledge and skills, such as:

• coursework - essays, reports, and creative projects
• online tests - timed quizzes or automated assessments
• in-person exams - some programmes require physical attendance for exams.

The exact combination will vary depending on your subject and university, but blended courses often favour coursework for its flexibility.

Will I have access to student support services?

As a blended learner, you're fully supported like any other student. You'll have access to:

• academic support - online and on-campus support to help you stay on track with assignments
• career services - workshops, coaching, and virtual careers fairs
• mental health support - counselling, wellness programs, and peer support available both online and offline. See our advice on looking after your mental health at university
• tech and admin support - help desks for IT issues, library access, and course tools.

How can I prepare to start a blended learning course?

Before you get started, make sure you've got the basics covered:

• a reliable laptop, desktop computer, or tablet with internet access
• a working camera, microphone, and speakers for online classes
• an email account for course updates and login access
• basic digital skills like opening documents, joining online sessions, and uploading assignments.

Discover 10 things to do before starting university to ensure you are fully prepared.

Find out more

• Explore our guide to online learning.
• Read about choosing an online learning platform.