Experiences of studying with the OU

[WithAliceAforethought]

I'm embarking on an English literature degree in October - just part time. (And thanks for all those who contributed to my previous thread where I read every message and it helped me make a definitive decision to do it!)

So I have a few questions.

I'm starting with the one module of course. If I feel I can handle more, am I able to do so? As in, run another module alongside it? Just to get the job done quicker so to speak.

Meeting / chatting with people. Do you get to know people on your course or not at all? I'm easy either way tbh but I just wondered

And finally- is it really 16 odd hours a week commitment or did you find it more or less?

Thank you in advance

No you can't just pick a course up as you like, they start at set times in the year.

The first module is easy, it's meant to be but don't let it lull you into a false sense of security, my second module was also easy but very, very content heavy and although the assignments were easy enough reading the content took alot of time. I did a 15 credit level 3 starting in Sept and picked another up in Jan and it nearly killed me juggling with work and family. Take the 6 years, they would pass anyway but gives you something to do and without rushing it you'll enjoy it more.

Local meet ups happen, you may have the option of face to face tutorials, most of mine were online and you recognize names. Each tutor group has a forum where you can ask questions and get to know people in your group a little. Other unofficial groups on Facebook or WhatsApp.

@Singleandproud thanks, that's really helpful as I was wondering just how difficult the first module is going to be. I've already told myself I will read a poem a night from the Faber book of beasts to ease myself in

First year is roughly GCSE level to ease you in. Look at some of the free Open Learn level 1s to have a look.

If you aren't doing it for career progression I'd do it slowly and really take it in. That's what I started to do and then things at work and family ramped up, and it suddenly became about career progression and it was less enjoyable as I was strapped for time it became a thing to get through rather than enjoy

Excellent! Have just finished 3rd year (part time) of Nat Sci degree and the OU is fantastic in my experience. As has been said level 1 is easy, but level 2 ramps right up. Are you doing 60 credits? I did 60/60/30 and have now stopped work to do 90/120. Glad I did 30 this year as, as a single parent/ demanding full time job would have been too much. Depends on your own academic background too. If you have relevant A levels big advantage. Such a joy to study again!

Good luck!

There's probably already a Facebook group for October 2024 starters on your course.

The courses tend to have WhatsApp groups (unofficial) you can sign up to too.

The ou doesn't do face to face like it used to.

Only do one module at a time (60 credits a year)