Online Learning Periods

Each online learning period lasts eight weeks, and students study a single module in that time. Most online learning periods run consecutively without any break.

Exceptions: The capstone project module runs over two consecutive online learning periods, and may require you to continue studying during the winter or summer break.

If you are not studying on a York Online programme, please see Semesters for information on the academic year.

Online learning periods

Module schedules

Further information on the York Online modules including any pre-requisite modules can be found on the module catalogue. 

• Computer Science programmes
• Management programmes
• MBA programmes
• MPA programmes

Programme structure

York Online programmes contain a total of 180 credits, which is made up from ten 15-credit taught modules, and a 30-credit capstone project module. Each 15-credit taught module comprises seven weeks of teaching, followed by a short assessment period. The 30-credit capstone project module usually takes place at the end of a programme and lasts 16 weeks.

The exact modules required for your programme of study are set out in the programme specification.

Programme duration

York Online programmes can be completed in two years of part-time study (approximately 18.75 hours per week on average). Students can choose to study up to six modules per year. 

Students that take a break from their studies will extend their programme duration, and may have to wait for any missed modules to become available to study. It is therefore important to understand the implications of taking a Leave of Absence. 

You can access the exact dates of this year’s online learning periods from the York Online Module Schedule.

Assessment timings

All modules are summatively assessed, and most will include formative assessment activities too. For taught modules with a single summative assessment, this will take place during the assessment period that immediately follows the seven weeks of teaching. Modules that have multiple, smaller, assessments will have assessment activities that take place during the seven weeks of teaching. Formative assessments will always take place during weeks 1-7 of the module.

Most online learning periods run consecutively without any break, meaning assessments may be due for a previous module as the next module starts. Reassessments take place at the same time as new modules are running. Students can choose to prepare for an assessment rather than register for their next module by taking a Leave of Absence.  

Future online learning periods