Being as this was an empty forum and that there must surely be Open Degree students other than myself, I thought I would start the ball rolling with the first thread.
It would be lovely to hear from other Open Degree students and what topics you are studying, and your reasons for taking the Open Degree. Is all going well or are there complications?
Just introduce yourself. You know you want to! ^_^
Im Nicci, 28 from Belfast. Outside of uni I have just completed a VTCT in Aromatherapy and am almost finished VTCT reflexology. I volunteer one day a week in a Fair Trade shop and am on the search for a job or the meaning of life whichever comes first...
These are the modules I have completed or am doing at the minute.
Not sure where I am going next- I keep changing my mind about what to study and due to me having withdrawn from a few modules in the past I think this may be the last year I can receive fee support. I have reserved a place on Bon Depart: Beginners French and also plan to do Human Nutrition in order to get the Certificate in Health Sciences.
I'm glad there's somebody else in my boat Nicci!
I'm Ben, 27, from Barnstaple in Devon. I've just lost my job of nearly nine years so I've taken the decision to get on with what I really should have done all those years ago and get a degree! I would like to go in to teaching but liked the way the Open Degree is so flexible and has so many options so I'm going down that route with a view to doing the required PGCE at the end of it. Got many years of study ahead!
I'm also job hunting and applying for voluntary work in schools around the area in a hope to build up some relevant work experience. I have only just started here so all advice and support would be much appreciated!
With 60 points at level 3 already completed, Nicola, getting an Open Degree is already in the bag! Bit more level 2 study and the rest is a walk in the park... ^_^
I was originally aiming for a Humanities Degree, but wanted to go off track a bit and thought an Open Degree sounded the best idea.
I have 60 credits for an Understanding Health & Social Care Level 1 course
60 transferred credits for an Adult Education Teaching Certificate. Classed as Level 2.
Start Writing Fiction 10 credits Level 1
Start Writing Family History 10 credits Level 1
Starting with Psychology 10 credits Level 1
Creative Writing 60 credits Level 2 (just completed - hope I have passed.
As you can see, I have a long way to go!
My next intended courses are Exploring English Language and Understand Phsycology. (two shorter ones). I don't qualify for funding assistance, so it works out quite expensive for me.
The problem is there is so much to choose from Steven, I keep 'deciding' then changing my mind again so not sure what to do. There is also the desire to get finished ASAP but i know in reality it will be 2 years until I am weraing that gown!
I know.
My decision on the last two level 3 modules was purely based on whether they had an exam or an EMA - I'm hopeless when it comes to exams so that's why I chose T307 and U316, both 60 pointers.
As I was getting older, in the end the desire was definitely to get finished as soon as possible before my brain finally got frazzled! T307 was easier because it followed my previous path of computing and technology modules with a bit of environmental innovation thrown in. U316 I thought would lead on naturally from this but I'm finding it quite difficult but satisfying and my TMA results so far have been encouraging.
Keep at it, you'll get there in the end. I'm hoping to get to wear my gown next year then it will all have been worthwhile.
Steve
Oh well, to keep the ball rolling, here is the courses I have taken towards my Open Degree(BSC, 300 credits)...
...and now with only 40 points left, I shall be taking the following courses...
...not interested in going any "higher" after that, but will continue to finish my Certificate in Contemporary Science. For an introductory qualification, it allows me to study Basic science, Astronomy, Maths, Physics and Geology. Bloomin marvelous! ^_^
My name is David Prowse. I am 47 and currently the Marine Engineer Officer of one of the Navy's anti-submarine warfare frigates. I joined the Navy in 1980 as a craft apprentice have over the years obtained a BTEC OND in Marine Engineering, City and Guilds craft certificates and a BTEC HND in Engineering. I had originally hoped to obtain a BEng but my HND is too old for it to be counted as credit transfer! It was fine for the Open Degree route however and I have concentrated my efforts on business and management related topics since 2005. I have successfully completed B120, B121, B201 and am currently studying BZX628. I have already obtained a Certificate in Business Studies and hope to gain the Certificate in Professional Management on the way to completing my degree (30 Level 3 points to go). I may carry on for Hons or go down the PGC or PGDip route as I prepare to leave the Navy in 2014 after a career lasting more than 30 years. I have done most of my studying whilst at sea via the internet but I have found the chance to interact with students of differing ages and other walks of life very stimulating.
My name is Steve, 57 from Burnley, a self-employed printer. I gained my BSc Open degree last year and am currently studying U316 The environmental web for BSc Hons.
I started off in 2000 on a named Computing & IT degree but after a couple of gap years, a couple of failed courses and then losing eligibility for a couple of courses, I decided to change to the Open degree so at least my efforts were not totally wasted. Too late for a career change now.
Courses passed:
Courses failed and not retaken:
Come October that's it... probably!
Steve
Never say never Steve, you dont know what new courses will be introduced to suck you back in!
Hi there everyone
I'm an Open Degree student too and I chose this course of action because of the flexibility that this option gives us.
I'm mainly interested in Science and Computing courses but I'd like to take some modules in other fields too,such as business/management.
I'm fairly new with the OU,I'm currently doing MST121 (Using mathematics) and M255 (Object Oriented Programming with Java) and I have to say I'm impressed with the quality of the learning materials,I made the right decision joining the OU.The only thing I complain about is the difference in fees we have to pay outside the UK,it's a big one (I live in Ireland myself),but,all in all,I'm quite satisfied.
Ok then,kind regards for all of you from Dublin
Hello, My name is Agnes and I am an open degree student, I am enjoying the courses I am doing which started with my employer in k100, Health and Social Care, this I found to be very rewarding in doing as we looked back at wht had gone before what was happening at present and what was likelly to happen in the future. For my second level 1 course I choose DD100, an Introduction to the social sciences this course really put my back up at the start and I thought I would go crackers trying to understand it but my perservance paid of and I managed to pass, it was the way the contents of the course give a sentence and then turned it on its head and because this was althrough the course it took quite a while to get acclimatised to this kind of work .
Next came DD200 Governing Europe, We were given a field trip to the European Parliament in Brussels, this course was very exciting as it is revelant for our working lives on a day to day basis, but then came my second level 2 course and it was WW200, Understanding Law, now this course I believe should be compulsory for all students on all degrees, as it really opens up your horizions, and you start to see everything in a different light because of your understanding of law.
My third level course is k311 Promoting Public health, again it is in the Social Sciences but very good and revelant in todays world of health, I am finding this course a bit more harder as My dad died at the begining of the course and I have struggled but my tutor and the support groups and the regional office have been most helpful and I advise everyone to avail of the help and support they offer, for my second level3 course I am a bit undecided as I failed W200.
Anybody any ideas as I like and am interested in a broad range of courses.
Hi,
I have taken or am currently studying the following modules
- T175 ....... Networked living: exploring information and communication technologies
- M150 ...... Data, Computing and information
- M255 ...... Object-oriented programming with java
- BZX628 .. Managing 1: Organisations and people
- BZX629 .. Managing 2: Marketing and finance
- TT381 ..... Open source development tools
- MU123 .... Discovering mathematics
- B690 ....... Managing 3: The integration challenge
I am currently unsure as to which modules to take next. However, I am leaning towards the following to start in October:
- MST121 ... Using mathematics
- T184 ..... Robotics and the meaning of life
- M257 .... Putting java to work
Also, I have my eye on M366 ... Natural and artifical intelligence to start in February of next year. However, the vote is still out on that one.
After that it will probably be a mixture of business, computing and perhaps one more maths course. The maths course in question is M248 - Analysing Data. I would like to get into a management role, so being able to analyse data correctly seems important to me. This should take me up to an Open degree (300 points).
I am currently unsure if I will finish off my honours or move forward with the Professional Diploma in Management.
I also agree, that the quality of the learning material at the OU is of a high standard. I am in a good position to comment on this having studied and taught at HE level at other universities/colleges.
Good luck with your studies!
Hi Raymond
You might find some helpful information in the OU's FAQs relating to course choice http://www3.open.ac.uk/contact/faq.aspx?t=S&cat=1-1GSQY2
Hope this helps.
Jenny, Platform Team
Hello fellow Open Degreers
This is my first time with the OU, so I'm finding my way around. There's so much to explore and take in, it's great fun getting 'fat eyes'.
I'm getting a head start having received my resources in SA188 - Archaeology: the science of investigation, though the course officially starts in September. However, I have to be more patient to access the course website which opens August 25th, it's not too long to go now though I'm chomping at the bit. If anyone is doing the SA188 it would be great to hear how you're finding it, if you've delved in like me.
I'm also doing the A219 - Exploring the Classical World in October and A251- World Archaeology to start November. Then, that's my year covered with 100 credits under my belt ;)
Good luck to all you newbies like me and all you seasoned OUers that I aim to be and of course .......... ennnnnjoy the ride! Sula-May
Hi all,
So far, Y161, DD100 and U116 done. Currently studying T206 and registered next year for T211. I will almost certainly follow T211 with T307 and then probably U316 (or its replacement anyway). So in theory I could claim a Technology Bsc, but keeping options 'open' at the moment, so to speak. Also the open degree reflects the fact that I am doing a variety of modules, rather than just technology. That, and I can still change my mind again.
Does doing the 'Open' make us more rounded individuals, or just indecisive?
Richard
hi guys,
my question is how do you put the open degree on your c.v, how do you explain it. Has anyone had any experience with employers and th open degree????????/
waheedah khan
Hi everyone, my name is Alina and I live in Peterborough.
I am completely hooked on the OU and am studying for an open degree. The courses I have completed so far are:
SK123 Understanding Cancers
SK121Uunderstanding Cardiovascular Diseases
SDK125 Introducing Health Sciences
SK195 Human Genetics and Health Issues
SK185 Molecules, Medicines and Drugs
S187 Elements of Forensic Science
SK183 Understanding Human Nutrition
S180 Life in the Oceans
I have just qualified for the Certificate in Health Science so am really chuffed. I start SK124 Understanding the Autism Spectrum in october and aim to do SK120 Diabetes Care in may. Assuming I pass these I shall have more points than needed for level one but there are so many subjects out there that I can't stop! Also I think I'm a bit scared to go for level two!! When I find the courage to go up a level I hope to do Human Biology and Cell Biology.
At the rate I'm going (I only do one course at a time) I shall be approx 98 years old (49 now) when I get this degree!
Good luck everyone with your studies
Hi
I've nearly completed my Open Degree. I started in 2003 with an Openings Course and then went straight into some level 2 courses (Psychology and Life Sciences) with some 10 and 15 pointers in between.
Started level 3 courses in 2008 and am doing SXM390 this year after doing SXL390 last year. I'm hoping to do SXN390 next year to finish which will give me 395 credits with 160 at level 3 (S377, K366, SXL390, SXM390 and SXN390).
I'm 57 next week and hadn't done any science since A levels in 1972! I've really enjoyed the courses, some more than others, and only failed one (S320 failed as I didn't sit the exam).
I would say if you are interested in a course then go for it. Use the Open Learn facility to explore the course materials if they are included there and make full use of forums, tutorials etc.
Best wishes
Janet
Hi Janet,
Well done that woman!
Regards and best wishes,
Netta
Hi all,
I'm Netta and will start my first module TU100 - My Digital Life, on way to Open Degree, in October. Chomping at the bit really, haven't studied officially for many years so finding my way around online at mo and digesting all the info offered. Almost started an Arts/Humanities degree in '95 but found I was expecting my son. This is almost an Arts/Humanities but with some I.T. thrown in, if all goes to plan.....next module hopefully will be AA100 - The Arts Past & Present, then Music (my first love) for Level 2 and almost all of 3.
That's the rough plan but, who knows..?
Any tips or advice gratefully received, especially on how to work within family time restraints for working mums!
Looking forward to being in touch with like-minds.
All the best, Netta
Hi Everyone,
I am currently looking into starting a degree with the OU. I was initially just looking at business studies degree as it will help my career. I am 25 and a manager within customer services but looking to climb up the career ladder.
However, the arts and humanities courses just keep catching my eye and after reading all of your stories I think I am definitely going to go with an Open Degree. It seems the key thing is to enjoy what you are studying and I think mixing personal with business is the best comprimise.
In answer to Richard Lees, I would say it makes you more-rounded individuals! Demonstrates a flair of individuality with determination and flexibility.
Thanks everyone for your encouraging comments, I hope to be joining you all on the Open route soon!
:)
Stacey
Hi All
I decided on an open degree and had such a range of interests, without knowing what career i might want when I complete...
So I studied K101 60 credits introduction in health and social care last year and got a distinction
Just started K225 30 credits diverse perspectives in mental health
Starting U122 30 credits Making your experience count in April and
A215 60 credits Creative Writing this september
I don't know what else I might add in - maybe some language courses and other health courses
I am lucky in that I am disabled so get financial support :-)
Hi Sarah,
Sorry to bother you. I am a new student and I saw your post in the 'Open Degree Students' forum. You said you get financial assistance due to your disability. I am also disabled and wondering what your experiences were regarding claiming financial assistance ? Was it easy or did you have to jump through hoops ? Is it worth claiming ?
I have General/Social Anxiety Disorder with Agoraphobia and am staving off depression by keeping myself active to avoid 'uselessness' feelings. I do get ESA (Support Group) and DLA (Middle rate care + low rate mobility) so I guess there's a chance I might qualify.
Please let me know your experiences with this.
And well done with your K101 distinction, I am impressed. I have a while to go before I do a 60 point course, still just rebuilding my self confidence at the moment : )
edit: Okay, perhaps that wasnt as private as I thought :O
Hi Gary
Sorry to hear you having to fight off depression, I hope your study helps, I know it does for some students.
Have you looked at this link http://www.open.ac.uk/disability/mental-health-difficulties.php it explains some of the support the Open University can give, plus there's Disabled Students Allowance eligibility quiz.
The very best of luck with your studies.
Yvonne (Platform team)
Hi
My name is Sarah and I live in Scunthorpe and work as a Procurement Officer for North Lincolnshire Council.
I started my Open Degree in 2009 with
K101 Introduction to Health and Social Care - I really enjoyed this course as it was relevant to my job as a casual care assistant
D101 Introduction to Social Sciences - this course I felt jumped about too much so struggled slightly
K217 Adult health, social care and wellbeing - I am really enjoying this course although I'm only halfway through it
Currently I'm still deciding which courses I would like to do as I really don't like exams so am looking for ones which have a final EMA.
A326 Empire 1492-1975
B204 Making it happen
DD301 Crime & Justice
K311 Promoting Public Health
Have also joined quite a few groups on here to see the feedback other students are giving for these courses
Hi all! Just joined the group, haven't found anyone else doing an open degree on my various course forums yet so I'm glad there's a place for us to huddle!
I'm Mia, 21, and started studying at the OU after dropping out of a Physics degree at Oxford because I found it so restrictive - no choice in what module we studied or what pace I worked at, and no bloomin time outside of study to live a little!
Originally I thought I'd take a totally different track and do arts or humanities, so I took AA100 (Arts Past and Present) at Level 1 after having my Physics credits transferred, but then I went back to work in the science centre where I had a weekend job a few years ago. After my experience at Oxford made me think I hated science and wanted nothing more to do with it, suddenly my mind was open to all the different roads it could take me on, and rather than settle for just one narrow area I opted for an Open Degree where I could study everything that I found interesting!
Although I loved AA100 I'm now back to science - S283 (Planetary Science and the Search for Life) and SD329 (Signals and Perception: the Science of the Senses) this year and probably Science in Context and Evolution next year. I'm loving every minute of it, and I've now got a fab job at the science centre running programmes in the theatre and at schools around Wales.
The Open Degree is the best thing that could have happened to me!
Good luck to everyone in their pursuit,
Mia
Welcome Mia! Aye, I do agree with being able to choose from multiple topics for the Open Degree. Although I am a programmer at heart, I did get tired of doing it for year-after-year and mixed it up with the short science modules and one for social science.
I think if an employer challenged me on such a decision my response would be along the lines of "one should always try new things".
Congratulations on your new job! ^_^
Just finished my level 2s with only one level 3 module remaining...final stretch! ^_^
I'm not getting a Degree with Honours but looking forward to the graduate ceremony...if I pass the exam for Interaction Design in October...
Hows everyone else getting on?
Hi all!
I'm about to start my first OU module in Feb 2013 (Environmental Science S216), and plan on continuing with similar modules after in order to complete my degree. I've actually completed a Diploma of Higher Education at the Uni of Southampton in Contemporary Europe, but decided to transfer my credits to a BSc Open rather than BA Open as I always felt that I chose the wrong path when originally attending Uni with languages.
I'm really quite nervous about getting back into studying after a 6 year break, and the addition of two small children, but as they say, where there's a will, there's a way! And I'm determined this will take me in the direction I want to go.
If anyone is doing the same module (or has the same time constraints with children and keeping house!) it'd be lovely to hear from you. Like a previous poster said, there's no group set up yet for my module so I'm feeling a bit lonely!
Good luck to everyone with your studies :) Nicole
Page 1 of 2