About The Association of Distance Learning Colleges

The Association of Distance Learning Colleges (ADLC) brings together distance learning providers committed to maintaining high standards of education, learner support and professional practice.

We work to support both the organisations delivering distance learning and the students who choose this flexible way to study.

Our Mission – for Course Providers

ADLC supports its Member Colleges by promoting quality, encouraging collaboration and representing the interests of responsible distance learning providers.

ADLC Aims

• Quality Assurance: To establish and maintain rigorous quality standards for distance learning, helping to ensure students receive a high-quality educational experience.
• Advocacy: To represent the interests of distance learning colleges and their students with government, policymakers and the wider public, supporting policies that recognise and strengthen distance learning.
• Collaboration: To encourage Member Colleges to share best practice, resources and expertise, supporting continuous improvement across distance learning education.
• Innovation: To encourage innovation in distance learning, including developments in teaching methods, technology and the ways learners are supported.
• Professional Development: To support opportunities for educators and administrators to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding of effective distance learning.
• Ethical Conduct: To establish and promote a clear Code of Ethics for Member Colleges and encourage high standards of professional and ethical conduct.
• Dispute Resolution: To provide a mechanism for addressing disputes between Member Colleges and students, with the aim of supporting fair and appropriate outcomes.
• Industry Insights: To help members understand developments affecting distance learning, including educational trends, market changes and relevant regulatory updates.

If you are a course provider interested in becoming part of the Association, find out more about ADLC membership and the benefits of joining.

You can also contact us to discuss membership or ask any questions about the Association.

Our Mission – for Students and Learners

Our aim is to help you, as the learner, find the right course at the right price from a reputable provider who will do all they can to ensure you complete your studies successfully and achieve the goals you have set for yourself.

Distance learning can provide a flexible way to gain qualifications, develop professional skills, return to education or simply explore a subject that interests you. Our Member Colleges offer courses across a wide variety of subjects and levels, allowing you to study in a way that can fit around work, family and other commitments.

Browse our Courses to explore the areas of study available and discover the ADLC Member Colleges offering them.

Choosing an ADLC Member College

Every ADLC Member College agrees to abide by our Code of Ethics. It sets out the standards we expect from members and provides learners with greater reassurance when choosing a distance learning provider.

Courses offered by our Member Colleges include tutor support, so learners can receive guidance, feedback and assistance as they progress through their studies. The precise learning experience and support available will vary between providers and courses, so we always recommend reviewing the individual course information before enrolling.

Recognising achievement

We are also proud to recognise the achievements of students and tutors from across our Member Colleges. Visit our Certificates of Excellence to discover some of their stories and achievements.