Distance Education in Bahrain: Situation and needs

In Bahrain, 36 international universities from 10 different countries provide distance education services through 21 local agencies to more than 800 students. Results from a survey suggest that the majority of the distance education students are working, married, of middle income class, and studying for a Bachelor's degree. The students find the distance education option attractive because: (1) there are a limited number of places in the conventional Bahrainian universities and on particular courses, and limited scholarships and financial support available for conventional students; (2) the distance system is more open and flexible in respect of their regulatory requirements; and (3) the students find it caters better for those with poor secondary school scores, low income, family and job responsibilities.