MLA College
Plymouth, United Kingdom
MLA College
Plymouth, United Kingdom
Founded
2012
Institution Type
Private Higher Education
Delivery Mode
100% Online
Intakes Per Year
3
About MLA College: A Global Leader in Maritime and Sustainability Distance Learning
About MLA College: A Global Leader in Maritime and Sustainability Distance Learning
MLA College, formerly known as Marine Learning Alliance Ltd, is an award-winning UK Higher Education provider specialising in distance learning degrees in the marine, maritime, sustainability, and engineering sectors. Established in 2012 and originally based within the University of Plymouth, MLA College now stands as a registered Higher Education Institution in England in its own right, in accordance with the Higher Education and Research Act 2017.
What sets MLA College apart is its fully online delivery model, allowing students from anywhere in the world to earn UK university degrees validated by the University of Plymouth without the need for relocation. The college has a robust partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and serves as the education partner for CIFAL City of London, delivering sustainability programmes aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
MLA College is part of the Global Education Holdings (GEDU) network and is recognised by the Office for Students (OfS). The college holds Independent Research Organisation (IRO) status and is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating its commitment to quality, research, and inclusive access to education for learners worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 2012: Founded as Marine Learning Alliance Ltd, offering distance learning courses in marine science and maritime subjects.
- 2014: Incorporated as MLA College Ltd and began delivering hydrography and maritime programmes validated by the University of Plymouth.
- 2020: Launched CIFAL City of London in partnership with UNITAR and BAU Global to support the UN Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.
- 2023: Acquired by Global Education Holdings (GEDU), expanding global reach and resources for programme development.
Academic Programmes and Areas of Expertise
Academic Programmes and Areas of Expertise
MLA College delivers specialist undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed for working professionals in the maritime, sustainability, and business sectors. All degrees are validated by the University of Plymouth and delivered entirely online through the award-winning Total Learning Package (TLP) interface, with three annual intakes in January, May, and September.
Maritime Operations
Programmes focused on the operational, safety, and management aspects of the maritime industry, equipping seafarers and shore-based professionals with advanced knowledge for career progression.
- MSc Sustainable Maritime Operations
- MSc Maritime Safety and Environmental Management
- MSc Marine Operations Management
Hydrography and Meteorology
Specialist programmes in ocean science disciplines, covering hydrographic surveying, meteorology, and oceanography for professionals working in offshore and marine environments.
- MSc Hydrography
- MSc Meteorology
- MSc Applied Oceanography
Global Sustainable Development
Programmes developed in collaboration with UNITAR and CIFAL City of London, focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and sustainability leadership across all industry sectors.
- BSc (Hons) Global Sustainable Development
- MSc Global Sustainable Development
- MSc Sustainability in Practice
Business and Management
MBA and management programmes designed for professionals seeking leadership skills, available with specialist pathways across multiple industries including maritime, finance, and technology.
- MBA Maritime Operations
- MBA Capital Markets and Finance
- MBA Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Engineering
Engineering-focused programmes that address the technical and design challenges within the marine and maritime sectors, supporting career development for engineering professionals.
- MSc Marine Engineering
- MSc Sustainable Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Marine Engineering
Navigation and Marine Science
Programmes covering navigation, marine technology, and related scientific disciplines for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in core maritime science areas.
- MSc Navigation
- MSc Marine Science
- BSc (Hons) Sustainable Maritime Operations
Admission Requirements for MLA College
Admission Requirements for MLA College
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationRelevant HND, Foundation Degree, or equivalent professional experience
- English LanguageIELTS 6.0 or equivalent for non-native speakers
- Supporting DocumentsCV, academic transcripts, personal statement, passport copy
- Professional ExperienceRelevant industry experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications
- Application MethodDirect application via the MLA College website (www.mla.ac.uk)
Postgraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationRelevant bachelor's degree or postgraduate diploma, or equivalent professional experience
- English LanguageIELTS 6.0 or equivalent for non-native speakers
- Supporting DocumentsCV, academic transcripts, personal statement, passport copy
- Professional ExperienceSignificant industry experience may be accepted in place of a first degree
- Application MethodDirect application via the MLA College website (www.mla.ac.uk)
Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Early submission is recommended to ensure timely tutor allocation and smooth enrolment.
Second annual intake for all programmes. Apply directly through the MLA College website well in advance of the start date.
Third annual intake. This is the most popular entry point and students are encouraged to apply early to secure their place.
MLA College accepts applications year-round. Contact the admissions team for guidance on the next available intake for your chosen programme.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at MLA College
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at MLA College
MLA College offers competitively priced distance learning programmes with no distinction between UK and international fees. As there is no physical campus, students avoid relocation and accommodation costs, making MLA a financially accessible option for professionals worldwide.
| Fee Category | UK Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Postgraduate MSc (typical) | GBP 6,500 - GBP 9,750 | GBP 6,500 - GBP 9,750 |
| MBA (top-up) | Contact college for current fees | Contact college for current fees |
| Undergraduate BSc (Hons) | Contact college for current fees | Contact college for current fees |
| Individual Module | Contact college for current fees | Contact college for current fees |
| Total | Contact MLA College directly for full fee schedules | Contact MLA College directly for full fee schedules |
MLA College Bursary Scheme
MLA College awards bursaries of GBP 500 to eligible students with annual incomes below GBP 25,000, as well as dedicated Women in Maritime and Women in STEM bursaries for new female applicants.
- Award Amount: GBP 500 fee reduction
- Eligibility: Students over 25 with income below GBP 25,000, or women entering maritime/STEM
- Categories: 6 bursaries each for UK residents, non-UK residents, and women applicants
Professional and Organisational Discounts
MLA College offers a range of discounts including 10% for UN employees and families, 20% for BIMCO member organisations, 10% for professional body members, 10% for Armed Forces personnel, and 25% alumni discount.
- BIMCO Discount: Up to 20% off tuition fees for sponsored students from BIMCO member organisations
- UN Scholarship: 10% tuition fee reduction for UN employees and immediate families
- Alumni Discount: 25% discount for graduates returning for further study at MLA College
Digital Campus and Learning Environment
Digital Campus and Learning Environment
MLA College operates as a fully online institution with its registered office at The Merchant, St Andrew Street, Plymouth. While there is no traditional physical campus, the college delivers an immersive digital learning experience through its award-winning Total Learning Package (TLP) platform, enabling students to study from anywhere in the world.
MLA College's award-winning online learning platform allows students to download materials and study on or offline at their own pace.
MLA College is registered in the historic maritime city of Plymouth, a fitting home for a college specialising in marine and maritime education.
MLA College graduates gather annually at the Theatre Royal Plymouth to celebrate their academic achievements in a memorable ceremony.
Online Learning and Student Support
Digital Learning Features
The TLP platform provides a comprehensive learning experience with no live lectures, allowing maximum flexibility for working professionals studying part-time.
- Downloadable course materials for offline study
- Video and written content for each module
- Dedicated personal tutors and subject-specific academics
Student Support Services
MLA College provides dedicated support through personal tutors, programme managers, and a network of associate lecturers with global industry experience.
- Personal academic tutors assigned to each student
- Flexible modular approach with up to seven years to complete
- Access to University of Plymouth Students' Union membership
Student Life and Global Community at MLA College
Student Life and Global Community at MLA College
Although MLA College does not have a traditional campus, students become part of a vibrant global online community of maritime professionals, sustainability practitioners, and business leaders. The college fosters meaningful connections through its digital platforms, collaborative projects, and international networking opportunities.
Plymouth, United Kingdom: A Historic Maritime City
Plymouth, United Kingdom: A Historic Maritime City
Discover Plymouth
Plymouth is one of Britain's most historic maritime cities, located on the south-west coast of England where the River Plym meets Plymouth Sound. With a rich naval heritage stretching back centuries, it is the perfect home for MLA College and its focus on marine and maritime education. While MLA College delivers all programmes online, Plymouth's maritime legacy deeply informs the college's identity and academic mission.
Maritime Heritage
Plymouth has been a major naval port for centuries, famous as the departure point of the Mayflower in 1620 and home to the Royal Naval Dockyard at Devonport.
Coastal Living
The city offers stunning coastal scenery, including Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican, and easy access to Dartmoor National Park and the South Devon coastline.
Education Hub
Plymouth is home to the University of Plymouth and several specialist institutions, creating a thriving academic community with strong links to marine research.
Transport Links
Plymouth is well connected by rail to London and other major UK cities, with Brittany Ferries providing routes to France and Spain from the city's port.
Career Outcomes and Professional Development
Career Outcomes and Professional Development
Industry Partners and Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Since all MLA College programmes are delivered entirely online, international students do not need a UK student visa. You can complete your entire degree from your home country without relocating.
All programmes are taught in English. International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. Contact the admissions team at info@mla.ac.uk if you need guidance on language requirements.
MLA College offers individual payment plans to help students manage tuition costs. UK and eligible EU/EEA students may also apply for Student Loans Company funding to support their studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Recognitions and Accreditations
Recognitions and Accreditations
As a specialist distance learning institution, MLA College is not typically included in mainstream university ranking tables. However, it holds important recognitions and accreditations that attest to its quality and standing in UK higher education. All degree programmes are validated by the University of Plymouth.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Maritime Studies | Specialist Provider | Leading UK distance learning provider in maritime education |
| Sustainability | UNITAR / CIFAL Partnership | Official education partner for CIFAL City of London |
| Distance Learning | Award-Winning TLP Platform | Recognised for innovative online delivery via Total Learning Package |
| Hydrography | Specialist Programme | One of few UK institutions offering MSc Hydrography by distance learning |
Features
MLA College offers several notable features for its students:\n\nFlexible Learning: Focused on distance learning, allowing students to study at their own pace, typically part-time, while working or balancing other commitments.\n\nIndustry-Relevant Programs: Specialized courses in sustainable maritime operations, global sustainable development, and other maritime and environmental disciplines.\n\nInternational Reach: Serving a global student body, with many students from diverse countries, particularly in the maritime sector.\n\nAccredited Courses: Programs are validated by the University of Plymouth, ensuring high academic standards.\n\nGlobal Partnerships: Notable collaborations, including with UNITAR, enhance the scope and impact of its sustainability programs.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - December
Location
The Merchant, St Andrew St, Plymouth PL1 2AX
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