Case study: University of London

The University of London was established by Royal Charter in 1836 as a secular alternative to Oxford and Cambridge, the only two other English universities at the time. The first to explicitly exclude religious qualification as an entry requirement, in 1865 gave students the opportunity to study wherever they are, promoting access to higher education and pioneering distance learning across the globe. It was the first university in the world to admit students regardless of their gender, race or religion, and in 1878 was the first university in the UK to award degrees to women.

The University was also the first to give students the opportunity to continue to earn a living while studying, and to study privately and take exams without coming to London. 

Improving access and equality of opportunity remains University of London's mission to this day, and is now the UK’s leading provider of digital and blended distance education internationally, offering programmes to around 40,000 students in 190 countries across the world. Based in London, the University’s community and impact are global. The University of London is a collective of 17 federation members, including Studiosity partners Birbkeck, Queen Mary, SOAS and Royal Veterinary College.

Why Studiosity?

University of London were looking to expand their offering to their online only students with on-demand, academic support to improve attainment and retention for a global learning base, particularly for those students that do not have physical contact with the University.

In line with their digital and blended delivery, they wanted to provide a scalable, 24/7 support service for their students, with the goal of creating a closer affiliation with their programme and the University, and to increase their confidence levels when preparing for assignments and examinations.

During academic year 2022/23 the University first piloted Studiosity with all Law and Computer Science students. Following the success of this pilot, Studiosity was then extended to all students across Psychology, Global MBA, Professional Accountancy, Post Grad Marketing, Masters Science and Data Science. 

"Wow this was the most critical yet encouraging and informative guidance I have ever received and I very much appreciate it!"

Engagement outcomes: