All About the Open University

By: Paul Geraghty - Updated: 28 Jan 2021 | *Discuss

 

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Most of us have heard of the Open University. It’s the source of those weird programmes you used to see on late-night BBC2 in which long-haired, cardigan-clad professors tried to explain the intricacies of quantum theory to bleary-eyed insomniacs. Today, the television programmes are gone, but the Open University is still going strong. In fact, it is now officially Britain’s largest university with more than 150,000 students enrolled. In recent years, many young people have even been opting to study for their degrees at the Open University instead of the conventional brick-and-mortar kind.

Entry Qualifications to the Open University

From the beginning, what set the Open University apart was that its courses were accessible to those who lacked the academic qualifications typically required for entry to traditional universities. It was intended to open doors to those who for whatever reason - family expectations, need to earn a living, low academic achievement - did not undertake a university education after leaving school, and were left with a lingering sense of unfulfilment because of it.

Don’t think, though, that because the Open University has broader entry criteria than most universities that its standards are in any way less rigorous. Its quality standards are checked in the same way as those of any other British university and its qualifications are equivalent and recognised as such.

What’s Involved At Studying at the Open University

The Open University is designed to be flexible, to meet a variety of needs from students of diverse backgrounds, some of whom may even be in full-time work. For this reason, there are far fewer time constraints when studying at the Open University than there are elsewhere. If you like, you can usually pursue your studies over many years, at a pace dictated by your own life circumstances.

Most Open University courses are accessed primarily via distance learning. Some include residential components too; others are based entirely on distance learning. In some courses, you may be required to attend in person only for exams; in others, even the exams are conducted remotely. If there is some reason why attendance in person is difficult for you, exceptions can usually be negotiated.

Courses are accessed in a variety of ways. In the old days, this usually meant twilight-hour television programmes and audio tapes, but in the digital age, naturally, the Internet has come to the forefront. You will usually submit papers online, access course materials online, and even participate in online conferences with your tutors and fellow students.

Courses on Offer at the Open University

The Open University offers the same broad spectrum of degree courses you would expect to find at most universities, covering everything from English literature to science and Information Technology. In total, 13 subject areas are taught at undergraduate level. There is also a wide variety of taught Masters degree courses at post-graduate level.

Financing an Open University Course

All Open University courses have to be paid for, other than those freely available (on a course material basis only) under the OpenLearn program.

Open University students are not eligible for the student loans and maintenance grants which are standard at other universities. The Open University operates separate financial assistance schemes of its own, however. You can get help towards buying a computer, and can get some or all of your course fees paid for on your behalf depending on your household income level. The assistance options are primarily aimed at undergraduate learners; some help is available for postgraduate courses but it is more limited in scope.

Open University – Conclusion

The Open University has changed the lives of many people who might never otherwise have been able to enjoy the benefits of a higher education. So whether you pine to learn more about medieval Italian literature, or just want a new qualification to help with your career, check it out. There might be something there for you.

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