Distance learning universities have been attracting attention in recent years, with famous celebrities announcing their graduations. Many may be thinking, "I didn't know about that way of learning. Maybe I could do it too." However, the reality of what you can learn and how to actually graduate remains unclear. Therefore, the University Journal Online editorial team will introduce the "basics of distance learning universities." We hope you will find this information helpful as a guide to learning efficiently and effectively. The author is Toshio Tane, who has long been involved in editing specialized magazines and websites dealing with distance learning universities and has interviewed many people involved with them. He currently also broadcasts on radio programs about learning for working adults. Please refer to his advice based on his extensive interviewing experience and his own learning experience. (Supervised by: Kiichiro Inui, Specially Appointed Professor, Niigata University)