Frequently Asked Questions

Download a copy of the student handbook, which contains all the information you need to begin the course and may answer some of the questions you might have.

How do I obtaining a place on the course
Firstly, you need to obtain a registration pack by either calling or emailing us.  Complete the registration form and return it to Moustraining Ltd. On receipt of the registration document and payment of fees you will be sent:

Your name and address will be sent to your on-line tutor who will then make contact with you, and you can begin straight away.

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What software do I need?
To complete the course you will need access to a computer with Windows 98 or later and to the following software:

Microsoft Word
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Outlook
Internet Explorer
Microsoft Access (certain Phase 2 modules only)
Microsoft Expression Web (certain Phase 2 modules only)
Microsoft Publisher (certain Phase 2 modules only)

The above programs can be obtained separately, or come as part of the Microsoft Office suite.

If you do not have a copy of Microsoft Office, as a University student, you will be entitled to purchase an educational version of Microsoft Office at a substantial discount

Please note that certain versions of Microsoft Office suite do not contain all programs listed above.

Please note that the course materials have been designed to cover Microsoft Office versions XP (2002), 2003 and 2007. The modules will work with earlier versions of Microsoft Office, but screen images and descriptions may differ.

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Do I need to attend the University of Plymouth at any time during the course?
No.  This is a distance-learning course.  All work is done from the comfort of your home or workplace and all contact with tutors is via e-mail or telephone.

For students living in the Plymouth area the course is also delivered as a taught programme at John Kitto Community College.  For further details please contact Simon Thorpe at sthorpe@jkcc.org.uk

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How does the course progress?
At the start of each module, you will receive the relevant training materials, a copy of the current assignment and the assessment criteria. You will then work through the training materials supported as necessary by your on-line tutor.

When you have finished the training materials, you should then be able to complete the assignment. Look at the assessment criteria as you work through the assignment to ensure that you cover all the required elements. When you have completed the assignment, return it to the Course Administrator.

You will then be sent the next module study materials, assignment and assessment criteria.

Your assignment will be marked by your tutor and independently moderated. Your work will normally be returned to you within four weeks together with feedback on the module assessment criteria form. On receipt of this, you should contact your on-line tutor who will discuss the feedback with you.  You should keep a copy of your work together in a folder, which can become your portfolio.

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What if I get behind with my study?
The distance learning course is designed to give you complete flexibility and control of your learning environment. Thus, you will be able to progress at your own rate through the course.

There is no set deadline for the completion of each module assignment. Your Personal Goal Analysis information will be used to monitor your progress on the course. You should however try to complete and submit module assignments by the date that you have set yourself, otherwise you will fall behind and your self-motivation will suffer. Self-motivation is very important when studying on a distance-learning programme, as ultimately you have no one to answer to but yourself.

If you do fall behind your own schedule, do not worry, simply contact the course administrator who will be happy to help you set new targets.

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Do I need to pass all the modules in order to get the certification?
Yes, you will need to get a minimum of 40% in each modules studied to obtain a pass. Marks between 30-39% may be compensated by the University and a pass awarded.  Below 30% means that the module will have to be repeated.

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Can I see a sample of the modules?
Yes, you can download one here.

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Am I entitled to an NUS card?
As a student of the University of Plymouth you are entitled to join the Student Union. The fee for a NUS Extra card is £10 and allows students access to a wide range of local and national benefits and discounts.  The current card is valid until the end of October 2007 so do apply early. 

Before applying for your NUS Extra card you will need your University of Plymouth Registration Card - please contact the Moustraining Office who will arrange for this to be sent to you.  Once received please visit the Student Union website www.upsu.com for further information and to register on-line.

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