Started another degree after studying at Aberystwyth to do something more analytical but couldn't afford to go back to University so this was the next best option. Overall very pleased with the helpfulness of the staff and the books provided. However, it isn't easy and you have to really be motivated and determined to make yourself work. If you are the sociable type, you may struggle. You can always meet people via the facebook groups and tutorials but of course, this doesn't really compare to meeting people daily in a red brick University though. This is a great alternative if you want a degree but don't want to or can't afford to go to University, or if you want to work full time and get a degree.

Good considering that it is distance learning.

My tutors have been excellent and the University provides a great deal of support.

Do

N/A as learning from home

There is more now than there has been previously. Not a great choice but as this is distance learning it does the best it can.

The majority of the work you have to teach yourself, they provide the books and you do the reading and you are regularly assessed through essays and exams. All of my modules have had tutorials so I can see people face to face and have been great so far.

OK so I haven't finished my degree yet but my employer is impressed that I am gaining work experience and getting a degree at the same time. It looks good on your CV as shows that you have the determination and self motivation.

N/A as learning fromhome

I've loved it! I'm just about to start my last level (the equivalent to third year at brick uni) and am already considering self-funding another degree. I've learned so much, always supported by the module teams, and feel even more passionate about the subject. Having been out of education or 20 years starting again was very nerve racking but the way the OU takes you gently from Level 1 modules up to Level 3s really helps build your confidence in your subject knowledge and transferable skills. I'd recommend taking the plunge to everyone!

They are all online, but of an excellent standard: the library has online access to a great range of journals and other resources, and provides a wide range of training webinars to ensure students can get the most of it; the STEM online lab is fantastic and really helps fill the gap learning science online could present; the online tutorial system can be a little clunky at times but isn't bad and the actual study resources the uni provides as first rate.

This is where the uni excels in my opinion. Most tutor's really know their subjects inside out, are encouraging, supportive, and more than happy to provide additional help - much more so than the brock uni I attended. And during this Covid period both tutors and the uni in general have been great at communicating, providing reassurance and mitigation to help us all get through

Given the distance learning nature of the university OUSA (the student's union) does a great job of representing us to the uni authorities and then communicating it.

NA - distance learning

Although this is a distance learning university the OUSA encourage a range of online societies, events meetups etc. There is something for everyone, you just have to make the effort to get involved

Like most: The comprehensive, multimedia and up to date study resources that you can study at your own pace within reason. Like least: a few more online tutorials would be helpful

The Careers service provides career coaching, help with CV writing, interview techniques etc. There are regular vacancy newsletters you can sign up for. Additionally many modules have Field Schools etc for practical experience.