OU - studying for "fun"

[BookShark]

Would really value opinions from people who have done this.

I'm contemplating an Open degree with the OU, probably something in the social sciences area. I'm in my 40s, have a well-paid professional job so this wouldn't be to retrain, more just for personal interest and sense of achievement.

DD is at secondary so childcare isn't really an issue, although obviously there's everything that comes with general family life to contend with, plus a full-time job. Am I crazy to think I can do this and enjoy it, or is it just a stupid idea and better to wait until I'm retired and don't have to juggle work?

I'd probably go down the certificate, then diploma, then degree route, so at least I can drop out and still have something to show for it, but even so, it feels like a pretty big commitment on paper.

Thanks for any advice!

I would love to do an OU degree, but it's too expensive now and the time commitment is a bit too big for me. I'm learning a language and a musical instrument, and both these activities satisfy that need for intellectual stimulation and sense of achievement, without so much expense or time. It's easy to aim for many small exams/certificates along the way, and there aren't the same fixed deadlines as with OU. I can stop/take a break and still feel I have a certificate to show for my work.

I am in my final essay (OU open degree). It sure as hell doesn’t feel very fun right about now. Having said that, this degree is for career progression. I wouldn’t recommend it just for fun to be honest especially if you have other commitments.

I am doing an OU degree for 'fun', I already have a job and am in my fifties with older children.

I love it. It has led directly to some freelance work, I really feel like I am learning new things and I work hard - I think much harder than if I was 18!

Can't recommend it enough.

Not ou but I did a law degree for fun over last few years then a law masters. I went part time ar work when doing it.

I may do another in a few years when 60. Though not sure they are worth £9k per year for fees (no loans for second decrees unless special subjects and no loans when over 60 to discourage retirees doing it for fun (which more would if "free")

I'm doing a masters with the OU at the moment for 'fun'. It is related to work but won't help in any way. My kids are all at uni - this keeps my brain active, been in job a long time and doesn't feel challenging any more. Am enjoying it but is quite full on with full time job. I need to work one weekend day and 2/3 evenings a week.
Relieved it is coming to the end for this year and I will be 'free' till October. I wish the breaks for Christmas and Easter were longer. 1 week seems mean.