When a resident of Malta seeks flexible online education, he or she has two main domestic options: the University of Malta and the Institute of Tourism Studies. However, the University of Malta’s online degree system still awaits full implementation — and what if tourism isn’t one’s cup of tea? Fortunately, as a resident of the European Union, a Maltese citizen can also pursue an online degree from a school on the continent. Here we summarize the primary domestic and foreign options.

THE UNIVERSITY OF MALTA

The University of Malta (UM) is the island’s premiere educational institution. As of March 2010, the school’s e-learning system is still in its early stages. The University of Malta’s Virtual Learning Environment presently offers tutoring modules to four-year students, and some online classes are available to the university’s junior college students. UM’s Distance and E-Learning Committee intends to implement full online degree programs university-wide. For updates, check the university’s IT projects website.

THE INSTITUTE OF TOURISM STUDIES

The Institute of Tourism Studies was founded in 1987 to serve Malta’s hospitality community. Certificates and diplomas are awarded for both on-campus and online study. Examples of study areas include: hospitality and tourism management; hotel operations; travel agency operations; and tour guiding. Some degree programs include one-year hospitality internships outside of Malta.

OVERSEAS SCHOOLS

When researching distance learning options throughout the European Union, a good place to start is the European Association for Distance Learning (EADL). The EADL helps to regulate the quality of distance learning programs; it weeds out scam artists such as the infamous European Institute for Education. Maltese students may also apply to schools outside of the European Union, but applications and funding might be more complex than they are when one stays within the EU system.

Reputable distance learning programs are offered by schools such as the University of London, the University of Edinburgh, the Free University of Berlin, and other major universities throughout Europe.