Anglia Ruskin University has been selected to create online learning courses for training RAF medics posted overseas.

The institution which has campuses in both Cambridge and Chelmsford will offer degrees to improve the knowledge of the medical professionals, starting in September.

The health and social care course and two-year foundation degree have been designed to cater to the needs of staff members working in the field.

Flt Lt Ric Stubley, of HQ 22 Group, said: “When RAF medics are on postings such as Afghanistan, studying for an online degree is a perfect way of filling their downtime.”

Last year, 140 students from the university completed a degree in learning technology research using online learning courses in a bid to promote e-learning as a valid method of embarking upon higher education.

Tony Howard, head of Anglia Ruskin’s Higher Skills@Work team, said: “Through this latest Higher Skills@Work initiative we are able to provide training to RAF Medics with academic credit, which may then be topped-up via a range of Anglia Ruskin distance learning courses to achieve a full undergraduate degree.

“Our courses are designed specifically to build the professional skills and knowledge to meet the challenges of operating in this arena, and to ensure the continuation of a high-quality learning experience during overseas postings.”

Anglia Ruskin University has a student population of 28,000 and is one of the largest universities in the east of England. The university has developed a portfolio of supported distance learning courses.

Distance learning provides the option to choose when and where to study and is an ideal solution for people juggling work, family and childcare. Skylark Media Group, a video production company based in Bristol, has worked alongside e-learning companies to produce video for training, education and entertainment.

Post-graduate courses for RAF staff are currently in the process of being developed.

Find out why video is important in an e-learning programme.