You want to change direction or modify your plans

Learning with the OU / Planning Studies /

If you don't know where to start

If your circumstances or aspirations change you will need to re-think your plans.

Whether you're studying for career reasons, for personal interest or a mixture of both, the resources here will help you make connections between where you are now and where you'd like to be in the future. For example, you may want to move from a broadly based open degree to a named one, reconsider your route through a particular subject area, or select modules that will gain you professional recognition.

If time is an issue

Whether you're planning for a career or studying for interest

be aware of how much time you'll need
work out how much time you have
think about taking a short module - but check the effect on the qualification you want
consider taking time off to help you change direction before you register again. If you've successfully completed an OU module, keep in touch via the Alumni Association - you will be able to access StudentHome for up to a year after your last module.
if you want to take a long break from study, talk to your regional or national centre to check whether this affects the qualification you want or the modules you want to do.

Student quotes
“I thought that I wanted to do a science degree but what I'm really interested in is the environment so I need to change tack a bit.”

“Now I'm back in employment, I really ought to think about choosing modules that gain me professional recognition.”

What to look for if your circumstances have changed

Here's some advice on

costs and funding for payment options and help with fees
career planning
general assessment matters, including assignments and examinations
services for disabled students if you think you may have additional needs.

For details of subjects, individual modules and programmes of study (modules that lead to an award) have a look at

Study at the OU and choose a subject
the faculty websites.

If you want to know how OU study might open up career opportunities, see OU Study and Your Career.

If you want to change the award you are working towards or transfer from an open to a named award, go to Study at the OU, choose a subject, select a qualification and note the code and module requirements.

Find out which modules will gain you professional recognition.

If you have any concerns, contact your nearest regional or national centre or visit a local module choice event and talk to someone face to face.

Tips

If you'd like to explore the subject area further, have a look at our faculty websites.

Study at an appropriate level for you - the majority of students start with Level 1, then move on to Level 2 before attempting Level 3.
Check the entry information for Level 3 modules that interest you to see whether specific Level 2 modules are recommended.
If you have been working towards a particular qualification, contact your regional or national centre if you want to change your mind.
Your student record displays any modules you have already linked to a qualification
If you've studied at higher education level before, visit the Credit Transfer website to see whether you are entitled to some credit towards your chosen qualification.