Support, networking and community

Before, during and after your postgraduate studies, you’ll be able to make use of the OU’s support, student services and networking opportunities.

From official student groups in the OU Students Association, to the many unofficial social media groups you can join, find out more about the support you can access.

Connecting with other students

Every module you study will have its own dedicated module forums. They provide an opportunity to discuss ideas, ask questions, and facilitate group and collaborative assignments. Module tutors will moderate the forums, start discussions, and will join in if they feel the need to.

Don’t forget: many of your peers may work or have previously worked in the field you’re studying. Building connections with your fellow students may help you during and after your studies. Once you graduate, or if you’re already an OU graduate, you can join the OU Alumni Association. With 280,000 members worldwide, it provides the perfect opportunity to network and join official events.

Student Support Team

You’ll have access to a subject-specific Student Support Team throughout your studies. If you have any general questions about your studies, or need to talk through your study options, they can help.

Career planning and support

Our dedicated Careers and Employability team offer a variety of free services to OU students throughout their studies and for three years after students stop or finish their studies. Our careers service can offer you:

  • individual careers guidance
  • online webinars with a variety of organisations
  • access to publications such as our Career planning and job seeking workbook
  • free careers consultations.

Additional needs

We’re committed to making study accessible to all, whether you have a disability, health condition, mental health difficulty, or a specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia). When you sign up for a qualification or module, we’ll ask you to let us know about any additional circumstances that may impact on your studies. The support we can offer you will depend on the modules you choose to take, but our services include:

  • accessible study materials
  • specialist equipment
  • tailored assessment
  • residential schools support
  • additional support accessing tutorials and day schools
  • financial help.

You can find more information about our support on our disability support page.

OUSA logo

Open University Students Association (OUSA)

OUSA’s mission is to be the community and voice for all OU students.

As an OU student you’ll automatically be a member of OUSA. Through OUSA, you can attend or create local meet-ups, join a club or society, or get extra help and support from your fellow students.

Juggling study alongside other responsibilities can be challenging – but you’re not alone. OUSA offers a variety of resources, guides and helpful services.

Find out more about opportunities, events and support on the OUSA website.

 

At the residential schools you meet people from other parts of the world which really adds to the experience.

Fatima Zahra Kerdoum, Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Other ways to connect

Connect on social media

You can follow us and join in the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Or you could join one of the many informal Facebook groups set up by students.

Student Hub Live

Student Hub Live is a series of online interactive events open to the whole OU community. You can put your questions and comments directly to guests in the studio.

Visit Student Hub Live  

Network with staff and students

Whether you’ve completed your studies or you’re just beginning, there are lots of like-minded staff, students and alumni to connect with on LinkedIn.

Follow us on LinkedIn