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• Affiliated societies
• List of affiliated Student Societies

Affiliated societies

Societies are a recognised feature of student life in all universities and OUSA is very proud of its role in supporting O U students to establish their own, further enriching the study and lives of OUSA members. Societies formed by students are run autonomously by and for their members and currently there are around twenty different ones affiliated to OUSA.

Some Societies arose from related Open University courses and some are the consequence of interests or hobbies. All were initiated by small groups of enthusiasts wanting to share their passion with others. The majority of Societies offer membership not just to students but also to friends and families ensuring a real cross section of members.

Some of the larger, more established Societies organise regular meetings, revision weekends, conferences, outings and events; others might have modest numbers relying on newsletters in order to thrive. Some Societies require an annual membership fee to be paid, others subsist by voluntary donation. Occasionally defunct Societies fold and new ones come on board reflecting changing student interests and differing times.

The one thing that they have in common is that they are full of enthusiasts and supporters in different measures and small committees of devotees who ensure that the Societies continue to function. If you would like to be a part of any of the Societies listed below, further information about them can be obtained by using the websites links where provided or by contacting the Societies Desk, OUSA Office, PO Box 397, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6BE or telephone +44(0) 1908 652003 or fax +44 (0) 1908 654326. Alternatively, email the Societies Desk direct at ousa-societies@open.ac.uk

List of affiliated Societies

Change Ringers Society

Regular meetings of bell ringers in different parts of the country. Peals and quarter peals from Plain Hunt upwards.

Development & Environment Society

The Open University Development and Environment Society (OUDES) exists to support students and alumni in promoting the protection of the environment, in reducing poverty  and in defense of human rights. This is facilitated through discussion amongst Open University students, staff and alumni as well as through events such as our Annual Revision Weekend for students taking Open University courses related to Environment, International Relations and Development. Our online presence has adopted a "multi-site" strategy, with our main hub at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Open-University-Development-Environment-Society-OUDES/144094162320572.

Geological Society

Encourages active friendly self help groups. Arranges lectures, get-togethers, field trips, national and local events. AGM with dinner dance and annual Symposium weekend.

Law Society

The Open University Law Society welcomes anyone interested in legal issues. With regional social events, the OULS provides a forum for members to socialise with each other and network for professional purposes. The OULS also provide opportunities to get involved in mooting, an essential activity for any budding lawyer to develop their advocacy skills and further develop research and public speaking skills. With a successful mooting team, as well as workshops and plans to implement inter-university 'friendlies' members can get involved at any level. We are currently offering free membership. To find out more, visit www.ouls.org

Mountaineering Society

For those interested in fell walking, mountain walking, climbing etc: for all levels of experience.

Fusion (Physics) Society

Aims to provide information on all aspects of physics with a newsletter and website, to foster communication between students, and between students and the Physics Dept, and to promote events such as lectures and visits to places of interest.

Psychological Society

Provides support in Open University courses and offers opportunities to further interests in psychology.

Students for Ethical Science Society

Opposes harmful animal use in research and teaching in the Open University, and promotes the many alternatives available.