You can study with us wherever you are. If your location, a busy professional life or family commitments make class attendance difficult for you, we can bring our expert teaching to you. Our Open Distance Learning (ODL) programme provides you with all the distance tuition you need, including allocated tutor, course materials, Gem Kit and access to online support and services. Also included in the ODL fee are examinations and student membership of Gem-A. You will require internet access and will be given your individual student login.

Foundation Practical Component

ODL students on our Foundation course must attend at least a one day practical workshop. UK-based students will receive three practical tutorials at Gem-A’s London headquarters. Overseas students can attend these tutorials, or we can help point you to a local provider.

Diploma Practical Component

ODL students on our Diploma course must attend at least three days of practical instruction. UK-based students will receive six days of practical tuition at Gem-A’s London headquarters. Overseas students can attend these tutorials, or we can help point you to a local provider. Students will also be expected to complete some practical elements of their course locally under the supervision of their tutor and using the Gem Kit supplied with their course. Access to a gemmological microscope is strongly advised and Gem-A can supply a reasonably priced student model.

Students currently studying on Gem-A’s Gemmology Foundation Correspondence Course may enrol on the old-style Diploma Correspondence Course until 30 November 2009, but must take the old-style examination by June 2010. Students paying in instalments must look up their postage fee and add the cost of postage to their first instalment.