Making the right choice with the OU (Open University in general)

Member Name: sugar78

Product:	Open University in general
Date:	19/06/09 (103 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great communication from the staff and tutors

Disadvantages: Distance learning not for all

I undertook my A Levels at College, but never went to University from that. I decided to find a full time job, but i always wanted to go to University and complete a degree in history.
6 years ago, i started to study with the Open University, and i am glad i did. I was nervous about the first course that i did and was not sure what to expect. My first tutor was excellent, and there was great communication between myself and the tutor. The staff answered all my questions and put me really at ease for my first year.
I have taken some time out from studying at the OU, and this is my first year back after a 1 year absence, but it has been like riding a bike! You never forget and again, i could not praise highly the staff and the tutors for the help and advice that they have passed to me.
The OU have a variety of courses that can be offered to you, and also have short courses that can last a few weeks. This may be good for those who would like a taster and are not sure if the distance learning method is for them.
Prices on courses does vary and for myself, they normally cost around £500-£600 per year, dependant on the course that you are interested in and at what level. I am currently in the middle of completing a BA (Humanities). Some courses have residentials, and you also get to meet your tutor and fellow students around once every 2 months at tutorials.
You do need to make sure that you have the time and committment to carry out the courses, due to it being distance learning, but the OU do send you a timetable with your course materials, so as long as it is followed there should be no problem.

I would recommend that anyone who has thought about learning with the OU to give it a try. I know i certainly made the right choice.

Summary: A great institution to help you gain that qualification