OU - Studying for everyone!!! (Business and Management At The Open University)

Member Name: foxarama13

Product:	Business and Management At The Open University
Date:	16/06/09 (13 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Easy to get into, great support network, can pay as you choose, can learn in privacy of home

Disadvantages: Need strong self discipline if the weather is nice and you have to stay in doors! :o(

Having been made redundant last year I decided that it was time for me to 'grow up' and get a real job! So, I looked to the Open University for suitable courses in order to further myself, not only work wise but also on a personal level.

It is some 10 years since I left full time education and although I have undertaken some training courses and modules along the way I have not been privy to any 'hard graft' study, so to speak.

I was pleasantly suprised with the Open University - the fact that they were all so knowledgeable when I rang up, the fact that they were very keen to assist and that within the space of about a week I was fully enrolled and raring to go! There are such a vast range of courses that are available and I really do believe that you are never too old or to young to pick up learning again.

To start with I undertook two courses - which to be honest, I wouldnt really recommend as it was a bit of a struggle! But they were openings courses - which are the ideal way to find your feet with learning again and to gently ease yourself back into the mode of submitting assignments, completing work to deadlines and managing your time between working full time (which I was) being full time parent at home or juggling the balance between work and general life duties.

I found the plans to be most helpful, all documentation; text books and study information is sent out well in advance of the dates that you need it and there are also online tutor groups which can assist and provide support if you are ever feeling a little bit lost!

The Opening Courses which I took - and found to be most enjoyable as well as thought provoking - were Y159 Understanding Management and Y157 Understanding Society.

These were 10-point courses (typically you are required to gain 360 points for a full degree) however you can pick up as much or as little as you choose - which is the beauty of OU.

Staff are friendly and helpful whenever I have rang or emailed for anything and there is always someone who is in the same position as you - which is really helpful if you feel that you are slipping behind or you dont understand a concept!!

I am currently working towards a further course as part of my BA (Hons) Business Studies. The great thing about OU is that you can pay for it as you choose, you can study as you choose and you can gain a well respected qualification by working around your existing commitments.

Summary: An excellent way to gain qualifications at your own pace, in your own home!!