Open University

[LoopyLoux]

Hi all, I have been looking at starting a degree in health and social care with the OU.

I would have to get a loan etc for it, but before I fully commit, I'd like to see if anyone has any reviews first, and to be honest, I'd like to know if a degree is actually worth having, will I be able to get a job in something related afterwards or am I going to be potentially wasting up to 6 years of my life?

If I'm honest I don't know much about university atall, I only have GCSEs, I'm certainly not the most clever person but I am 26, with two beautiful daughters, who I love dearly but I need to do something for myself, so if anyone has any advice, tips, or experience they'd like to share I'd be really grateful.
Xx

Hi OP
I'm in my second year of doing BA Hons in Health and Social Care. It's fantastic. Extremely supportive. Well taught with excellent online materials and cheaper than a brick uni. I'll be 40 this year, work full time for the NHS and have two children aged 4 and 7. It's so worth it and it's really good to have something that's all yours.

Hi
I’m also in my second year of a health and social care degree, I’ve found it really good so far.
I started after not studying for many years and the support has been brilliant, I never thought I’d pass my first assignment never mind the first module. I’m now on my third module (I’m studying part time) and I’m still enjoying learning new things.
There are online tutorials to help throughout the modules as well.
I’m not sure what I want to do when I finish yet, but it has suited me while my children are little to study from home.

Hi Op

I’m currently doing my nursing degree through the OU and an nearly finished my first module which is an intro to health and social care module. The materials have been fab etc, what I will say is my tutor can be a little difficult to get a hold of if I have a problem and usually by the time she replies I’ve worked it, for example I emailed a fortnight ago about my upcoming end of module assessment and I’ve not had a reply yet!

Good side is other students are really helpful as are the forums. I’m now in my first placement and really enjoying it, have made some nice friends doing their nursing through the actual uni and our stuff is just the same as theirs

Overall yes go for it, you need to be extremely motivated and good with your time, I’ve been ok so far when only this module was running but I’m still doing this module and now my placement module it can get overwhelming!

I'm starting a course in October this year, with the aim of getting a certificate or diploma in environmental studies or environmental science.

I already have a BA and an MA from many years ago but I'm looking for something new, and possibly even a new career.

I'm really looking forward to starting!

In terms of advice, plan your time and set up a quiet place to study. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, and believe in yourself!