Distance Learning & General Information

Distance learning, also known as correspondence study, home study, independent study, is any non-traditional educational process which exists outside a classroom setting. Courses are taken by students in their own homes using a variety of means, from traditional pen and paper correspondence, to lectures delivered by videos or by computer.

The CIDBT is a front-runner in providing affordable, high quality education courses in a vast range of canine and pet subjects.

Like all university and college courses/modules you will be required to purchase books & DVDs in addition to the course/module fee. The average course materiel cost is about £45.00 but do note that as you enter other modules the costs may drop as you will have some of the products from previous modules in your possession. The CIDBT also sell their DVDs at a much reduced rate to their students in most cases. No other organisation in dog behaviour in Britain specifically produces DVDs for education in a Degree qualification.

Our training courses are available to people from all backgrounds, from beginner to advanced levels. We aim to provide our students with the necessary skills and qualifications that will make a difference to their knowledge and career.

• Pet courses available from basics to advanced level

• No previous knowledge or experience required for CIDBT certified courses

• Prior knowledge or experience is required for some Middlesex University accredited courses

• Flexible distance learning at a pace that suits you

• Full support from expert tutors in the subjects

• Achieve greater job satisfaction

• Recognised qualifications in a variety of education levels and disciplines

• Open doors to new career opportunities

The combination of Distance Learning and Workshop courses

Depending on the educational module you study, the medium of the distance learning will change. It is important to look at the academics of the programme as well as the workshops. You cannot qualify on theory ALONE. Your future clients expect you to have capable and practical experience - which we teach. The medium will then depend on all factors involved and may be adjusted for individual requirements.

All CIDBT courses and materials are sent by e-mail in word documents and or PDFs. This is the most sensible and environmentally conscious way of reducing paper use and course costs. Returned work should be in a Word type file that can be opened/viewed and marked by your tutor.

If you wish to have a course sent by post this may incur a special additional charge though in some circumstances. (i.e. if you don't have access to a computer) this may not be applied. You must make the postal request when the tutor FIRST contacts you by e- mail at the course beginning indicated by the tutor's first welcome e-mail to you.

Why Is Accreditation Important?

In order to gain recognition of your hard work, the CIDBT, like other British companies and institutions have been assessed through the rigorous Work Based Learning system at Middlesex University which has twice won the Queen's award for excellence in such programmes of education.

The process of accreditation is a voluntary one that provides for a minimum of standards and includes an intensive self-study by the institution and an inspection by external examiners. The Middlesex University invite another British University to execute this process.

What Challenges Can I Expect?

Previous studies comparing distance learning with traditional on-campus learning have indicated similar, if not higher, success rates. The distance learning student, however, will have to compete with other distractions such as family and work unlike the “traditional” student. Make sure your schedule will enable you to successfully complete requirements for each module.

Keep in mind that some course work will strictly adhere to pre-established timelines while other programmes are flexible and self-adjusting to the rate of study. All educational institutions have policies concerning refunds, renewals periods, transfers, and withdrawals from course work.

How Do I Apply?

The procedure for applying to distance learning degree programmes is similar to traditional degree programmes. See our Enrolment page or contact us.