Come talk to me about Open University

[lotuseener]

I'm thinking of starting Introduction to Social Sciences in Feb 09. I think I would make a degree in Economics my long term goal.

I will have to take 1 course at a time to start with.

I'd like to know more about it from other mums who have done it or are doing it. I will be working part time and have a young child. I am also on a low income, is the financial aid easily accessable?

I don't know anything about the financial aid, but I would really recommend the OU, have just finished my degree in Social Sciences with Sociology (started doing Psychology but switched to Sociology). The tutors and coursework were brilliant, lots of support and very understanding if you need extensions or can't meet deadlines. The Social Sciences are really interesting and obviously very relevant to "every day" life. I started my first course two weeks before DS1 was born, (he's now 6.5) and also have DS2 who is nearly 5, (in fact I sat one exam a few days before he was due!) so it is definitely manageable with young kids. I never did as much work as was recommended but my grades have always been ok. Good luck!

I have been studying whilst bringing up my 3 kids now aged 6, 9 and 12. The OU is amazing. I have taken breaks on years which have been demanding - am currently on my 7th course ( my degree is primarily maths and science) Hope to graduate within 2 years now.

It is a long slog - but totally worth it! The material is well written and you gets loads of support. I believe financial aid is readily available but have never applied myself. Good luck with your studies.

Thanks.

I figure even if it takes me 10 years to complete a degree, its better then not having a degree in 10 years, iykwim.

I am excited and nervous about the idea, but I am going to start the application process this week.

I did a OU access course to start with (can't remember what it was), then I got he opportunity to do a distance learning foundation degree through my work. I found out after I started it is full time but you work at home, workshops once a month

Now in the second year its not that bad, manage to fit it all in, usually in the weekend before assignments are due .

I can do a thrid year and get a full degree or jump up and do a masters 18mth course so in 3 years you can get full degree. Well thats the theory .