National Open University of Nigeria - NOUN
speciality: Communication

As a student of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), I had the opportunity to learn on my own terms, balancing academics with other aspects of my life. Here’s my take on the experience:

The Good:

Flexibility: NOUN’s open and distance learning model allowed me to study at my own pace, anytime and anywhere. This flexibility was a game-changer for me, enabling me to juggle work, family, and other responsibilities while pursuing my education.
Accessibility: The university’s online platform and study materials made it possible for me to access course materials and learn from the comfort of my own home.

The Not-So-Good:

Technical Issues: At times, the online platform experienced technical glitches, which disrupted my study schedule. However, the university’s support team was responsive and helped resolve issues but sometimes not promptly.
Limited Face-to-Face Interaction: As an online student, I missed out on the traditional university experience of face-to-face interactions with lecturers and peers. While virtual interactions were helpful, they couldn’t fully replace in-person connections.
Tuition Fees: One thing to consider is that NOUN’s tuition fees were higher compared to some traditional federal universities. This might be a factor for prospective students to weigh when making their decision.
Self-Motivation: With the flexibility of online learning comes the need for strong self-motivation. Some students may struggle with procrastination or staying on track without a structured schedule.

Overall:

My experience with NOUN was positive, and I appreciated the flexibility and accessibility that the university offered. While there were some challenges, the benefits far outweighed the drawbacks. If you’re considering NOUN, I’d encourage you to take the leap It’s a great opportunity to learn on your own terms and achieve your academic goals.

I Studied Mass Communication at the National Open University of Nigeria (2013–2017).It was a good experience overall. I liked the flexibility the program provided, as I could learn at my own pace.and the course material were really easy and self explanatory.Also doing my internship at TV/radio station with real newscasters made the entire experience a memorable one.

The computer-based exams and assessment tests were also a great, making the learning process modern and convenient.

However, I sometimes wished for more direct lectures and interaction with tutors. In fact, l and some of my coursemates had to engage lecturers from the University of Benin to help guide us through certain topics. While the independent learning approach was valuable, having more structured lecture support within the university would have made the experience even better.

National Open University plays a very important role in expanding access to higher education, especially for people who cannot attend traditional universities due to work, family, financial constraints, or distance. Its open and distance learning (ODL) model provides flexibility and allows students to learn at their own pace, which is a great advantage in today’s busy world.

One of its major strengths is its affordability and wide reach, with study centres across the country. It gives working class individuals, single parents, and those in rural areas the chance to earn recognized degrees and certificates without having to relocate or quit their jobs.

However, like many large institutions, NOUN also faces challenges such as slow administrative processes, limited direct interaction with lecturers, and occasional delays in results or course materials. Improving student support services and technology platforms would go a long way in enhancing the learning experience.

Overall, NOUN is a valuable and necessary institution in Nigeria’s educational landscape. With continued improvements, it can become a model for open and distance learning not just in Nigeria, but across Africa.

“I’m proud to have graduated from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)! What I love most about NOUN is its flexibility and accessibility, which allowed me to balance my studies with work and other responsibilities. The university’s commitment to open and distance learning has been truly empowering, enabling me to pursue my academic goals without sacrificing other aspects of my life. The supportive online platform, dedicated lecturers, and rigorous academic programs all contributed to an enriching learning experience. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have studied at NOUN and would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a flexible and affordable path to higher education.

😊

It’s indeed a citadel of knowledge ,it help students to realize their strength and help them work effective on there capacity to ensure success in their careers ,I love the fact that it is a work and study institute

I am excited about the self-learning option it offers, and flexible time for study and exam arrangements. I really do not have anything I dislike about the school as it is in perfect alignment with my work life. A balance.

National Open University of Nigeria is a great citadel of learning, conducive to distance learning that welcomes both physical and virtual exams. I can recommend it to anyone.
I learnt a lot from Dr. Akinwalere Ifedayo, who was my support during my final research in 400L

Here’s my most honest experience as a student studying at National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

One thing I like about this school is FLEXIBILITY. NOUN’s online platform allows me to study at my own pace, which is perfect for me in particular as a young vibrant lady in her early 20’s who is enthusiastic, has a big dream and wants to achieve a lot. School does not have to stop me from going about my other day to day activities. It’s also great for working professionals or people with family commitments.

The next thing I like about NOUN is AFFORDABILITY. Omg, let’s not talk about how going to conventional universities are amazingly expensive these days. Compared to these universities, NOUN’s tuition fees are relatively affordable.

Lastly, I’ve come to meet with people from different backgrounds, professions and experience, when we get to meet for exams or practicals or even through study groups. You’re not limited from knowing people in just your space, it’s more like networking I’ll say!

If I’ll talk about the dislike, first would be technical issues. Occasional glitches on the website or during online classes can be so frustrating!

Next on my list would be slow or no feedbacks, sometimes feedbacks are fast when you face technical issues in your student portal, etc. Other times, you need to go on 3 days fasting & prayer! (I’m exaggerating, but it seems like that Lol) Other schools may face this too, but maybe not as much as NOUN because NOUN is 90% online, we only have physical exams. And plus it’s mass number of students. It’s quite understandable.

Last on my list would be the fact that you have to motivate yourself to read. In NOUN, you either plan to fail or you fail to plan. Nobody is coming to save you! It’s either you read to pass or you don’t read to fail! If you’re not self motivated or disciplined, NOUN won’t be a great choice. On the other note, if you create or join a study group, it might help boost your performance.

Would I recommend NOUN? YES & NO.

I would recommend NOUN to those who value flexibility and affordability. If you’re self-motivated and disciplined, NOUN can be a great choice.

But if you’re not disciplined & motivated or you’re probably a slow learner and you mostly learn at a pace or an environment where you can be close to your lecturer and course mates or you prefer to have someone who sits next to you and explain in details, then NOUN isn’t the right option for you.

Well, these are the major things I can share from my experience at NOUN.

Thank you for reading!

i have time to do other things ,i dislike not getting enough practical done, new courses are added almost every year, coming late for an exam is automatic carry over, you wont have access to the hall ,the staff are friendly, the student are both young and old

Although it’s distance learning school didn’t stop the stress and struggle some of us went through paying the high fees per semester. And in each semester? The fees are increased.

It’s a good school. You go off when you need it and resume when you are capable just don’t forget your student login.

So far it’s been a great school just the expenses and staff. Most of them are SO extra with things unnecessary.