Open University

Anyone studied through OU? I am considering working towards at least an HND in the area of psychology or social sciences. Just wondering what peoples thoughts and impressions are regarding Open University and if it is worth the money or not?

Thanks in advance.

[Stingo]

Originally Posted by Milky Bar Kid

Anyone studied through OU? I am considering working towards at least an HND in the area of psychology or social sciences. Just wondering what peoples thoughts and impressions are regarding Open University and if it is worth the money or not?

Thanks in advance.

I'm currently studying for a BA in History with the OU. In my opinion, like many things, you get out of them what you put in. Personally, I'm enjoying the studies - 60 points a year is the advisory amount if you are in a full time job. If there are any tutorials to attend as part of the course, then it is worth your while to make the effort. Also, if any of the modules/courses involve a summer school, then you simply have to go - it's the dogs cojones!!

+1 im study maths was doing two 60 points course but with a full time job was just finding it hard to commit to both and still go out and play on the bikes. Would recommend them though!

I agree, you have to make sure you put the work in, because you're largely left to get on with it. Support is there if you need it though.

ive recently done a distance learning course but a MBA via durham uni. Its alot of work especially when working full time. Its the exams i am most worried about and trying to fit in revising alot of material. But like said its what you put in that you will get out of it.

Originally Posted by Milky Bar Kid

Anyone studied through OU? I am considering working towards at least an HND in the area of psychology or social sciences. Just wondering what peoples thoughts and impressions are regarding Open University and if it is worth the money or not?

Thanks in advance.

Why do you want to do it? You need to make you don't lose interest when it gets hard...

I have thought about another course but I like my free time and also do I really need a masters degree?

I want to do it because I will only be 53 when I retire, and because I don't have any qualifications outside of school which relate to the real world to fall back on.

I started studying a degree in psychology at Uni but I wasn't mature enough and tbh, was fed up of school. I have since done 4 years in my current job and I feel that it would be both beneficial to my current role and also an ideal back up/retirement plan.

I'm most of the way through my MBA with the OU, and lucky enough to be sponsored by my employer - have you asked yore if they'll help?

Either way, you'll only get your moneys' worth if you put the effort in. It can be hard to keep the momentum up and stay motivated - you will find many new ways of distracting yourself from your studies. But the good thing is that you can see yourself making progress along the way. The best bit for me is seeing my essay results come back every 8 - 10 weeks and exam results every 6 months. And if it all gets too much there are break points where you can stop for a while (depends on course).
Btw, you might be able to go straight on to a Masters programme if you've got enough professional experience - that's what I did.