Distance Learning Students

How do I set up my University account?

Your University account gives you access to the University’s online systems and services, including your University email, learning resources and student systems.

If this is the first time you have enrolled at the University of Northampton, you will need to:

• Set up your University account with a secure password.
• Set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA is an additional security step that helps protect your account and personal information

Once your account has been set up, you will be able to access University systems and services using your University email address and password.

If you need help setting up your account, accessing your University email or using other University IT services, visit the IT Support pages.

My University Email

As a University of Northampton student, you have been assigned an official University email address.

We will use your University email address to send important information about your studies, including enrolment updates, teaching information, important announcements and any actions you need to complete.

Please check your University email regularly throughout your studies.

For guidance on accessing your University email, visit the IT Support pages.

How do I access learning resources?

The Northampton Integrated Learning Environment (NILE) is the University’s online learning platform and an important part of your studies.

You will use NILE to:

• Access learning materials and resources
• View module information
• Access reading lists
• Submit assessments
• Receive feedback and view grades
• Participate in online learning activities

Each module will normally have its own NILE area containing module-specific information, resources and assessments. You may also have a NILE area for your course containing wider information and guidance relating to your studies.  To help you get started with NILE, we’ve created a NILE Introduction, Help and Support Guide which includes information on signing in, personalising your profile and navigating the platform

Please note that some educational partners use their own online learning environment instead of NILE. If this applies to your course, your educational partner will provide further guidance.

Student information and support

Student Portal

Your Student Records System (SRS) Student Portal provides important information about your studies and a range of self-service functions, including:

• Viewing course and module information
• Updating your contact details and trusted contact information
• Requesting changes to personal information
• Accessing certificates of student status
• Requesting changes to your course or modules

Access your student record and self-service functions through the SRS Student Portal.

Student Hub

Once you have enrolled, you can access the Student Hub for information, guidance and support throughout your studies.

The Student Hub provides access to a range of services and resources, including:

• MyNorthampton App
• Northampton Integrated Learning Environment (NILE)
• Your timetable
• Module results
• Student support services
• Ask Us
• Student newsletters, announcements and University news
• Information about University services

The Student Hub is your central location for accessing key student information and services and finding support throughout your student journey.

Support from your Personal Tutor?

Throughout the duration of your studies, you will have access to a dedicated Personal Tutor (PT). Your PT is allocated at the start of your studies and they are there to help from the very start as you settle into your programme and right up to the point you graduate.

Your PT will be in touch regularly through the academic year to see how you are getting on but you don’t have to wait for them to contact you. If you want to talk about how to achieve your ambitions, your academic success or have something to confidential which you wish to discuss then please contact your PT. Your PT is also able to signpost you to some of the more specialist services (see below) or help you understand how policies and processes work.

You will be allocated a PT during the first few weeks of your programme and you can access this information via your programme NILE site or by contacting the programme team. Prior to the allocation of your PT your academic contact will be the programme leader.

What other academic support is available?

Alongside your PT you will also have module leaders who can help you with specific queries about the modules on which you are enrolled. This is the person to talk to if you have specific study difficulties with the module, for instance, if you don’t fully understand the assessment requirements of a module, or have difficulties obtaining reading material.

Your programme leader is also available to provide support and guidance throughout the duration of your studies at the University.

What other support is available at the University?

The University of Northampton offers you extensive support throughout your studies. ​​​​​​​​We have a range of support and services available to help ensure that your time studying with us is as enjoyable and rewarding as possible. Our services offer support in many areas including academic support, financial guidance, mental and physical wellbeing, disability and additional support needs, and general student support.

Our Supporting You pages and Student Hub (accessible once you have enrolled and have a username and password) provide a wide range of information on the support which is available. If you are unsure which support might be right for you or you are not sure what is available then please contact the Student Information Desk: SID@northampton.ac.uk

You will also receive a weekly Student Newsletter from the University keeping you up to date with all the latest news, events and opportunities you can get involved with during your time at UON.