The Open University - OU Speciality : English Language & Literature
programme: English Language and Literature

I did my degree with the Open University. At the time I had two young children and a job, but this was not a barrier. I feel very lucky to have done this before Cameron’s government introduced sky-high fees which also included the OU, defeating its’ entire purpose. Other than that, I would recommend it for those needing something outside of the typical student experience.

I studied with the Open University for three years, full time whilst holding down a full time job. Being 24 when my course started, being able to simultaneously work whilst studying was a non negotiable for me. The Open University is a gateway to allowing people to have it all rather than nothing and as society; particularly post covid, moves more towards remote and flexible working, I can only assume its appeal and popularity will grow.

Of course, there are some disadvantages with distance learning, not being able to build the same kind of rapport with students and teachers and that lack of one on one interaction may be difficult for some. You of course don’t get any of the social benefits that you do with attending a traditional university and the advantages of bouncing ideas with your peers is lost. I do think the Open University would benefit from creating study groups in person more, based on location and encouraging more of a social study for those that want it, although I understand the difficulties with creating something on that scale when the primary focus is online working.

For me, however, the positives far outway the negatives. I gained so much from being able to devise my own study schedule and make that fit around me. I could study in the comfort of my own home and I think it made me a much more disciplined learner as well as improving my time keeping and organisational skills. I wasn’t at the mercy of someone else’s schedule and having that flexibility to study as and when I wanted, allowed me to better my work, life (study!) balance. Of course, it was an added bonus not having to travel and being able to study in my pyjamas! Lastly, I didn’t have to waste time waiting to see a tutor and could just email across any queries and would usually have a prompt response. Would I recommend the Open University? 100%