Information for Individuals

Professional learning

At the Institute of Professional Studies we have designed an innovative model of professional learning that enables you to gain an academic qualification from the University of London while focusing on your professional activities in your workplace.  It allows you to use your learning in the workplace as an important part of your academic studies, which is why we call our subject area Work-Based Learning.

Work-Based Learning at Birkbeck is offered both as core elements of our Foundation Degrees, and as academic programmes entitled Professional Studies programmes.

The work-based learning programmes which the Institute offers provide a way of supporting a wide range of professionals in developing and updating their knowledge and professional skills.  Our innovative programmes allow flexible access to higher education and provide an intellectually challenging professional development experience which is directly relevant to workplace activities.

Birkbeck has a long tradition as a provider of research-informed higher education on a part-time basis, and most of our students are mature adults who are combining study with other demands in their life.  We therefore have considerable expertise in supporting people who are studying at the same time that they are working and/or undertaking other responsibilities, such as volunteering in their community.

Professional Studies at Birkbeck College

We currently offer a range of work-based learning awards – these are as follows:

• Undergraduate BSc in Professional Studies (designed to build on a Foundation Degree or equivalent)
• Postgraduate MSc in Professional Studies
• Research Doctorate in Professional Studies (currently undergoing approval)

In addition work-based learning is integrated into each of the wide range of Foundation Degrees offered at the College

All of the work-based learning programmes are designed and delivered on the basis of self-managed learning, which means that they are delivered via a limited number of face to face group presentations/ workshops, with additional one to one contact via telephone, email and using on-line learning.  This means that work-based learning study can be combined with other demands on your time.