Pros:
– The OU was founded for remote students, so classes and student tools are well optimised.
– The OU has exclusive academic and co-production partnerships with the BBC and the UK’s Ministry of Defence.
– BA/BSc (Hons) Open or BSc (Hons) Combined STEM degree routes are perfect for those who want to explore course options before declaring a Major.
– Structural flexibility is a key offering, with 30 credit modules (of the 120 required for each year) usually having two entry points per calendar year.
– The Student Support Team is fantastic.
Cons:
– No “real” student experience due to the remote delivery.
– There aren’t many student societies, but this does offer more opportunities to create your own!
Key takeaway:
Though most employers welcome OU’s graduates, it can lack the prestige of some red-brick universities. Entry requirements are minimal, which is a double-edged sword. Applicants have more flexibility, but the intensity of some other university programs may push students further.