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FREE
YOUR
AMBITION
Your 2021/2022
BUSINESS AND
MANAGEMENT
Prospectus
Welcome to The Open University. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, looking to change direction or searching for a new beginning, you’re in the right place. – The roadmap to your new career. – An opportunity to gain new skills. – The chance to explore your passion. – A way to create a better life for you and your family. – The next chapter in your learning journey. Whatever you want to achieve, we’re here to help you make it happen. Join over two million people who’ve freed their ambition with us. YOUR AMBITION OUR MISSION.
YOUR NEXT
ACHIEVEMENT
STARTS HERE
This prospectus Welcome to
― An OU qualification is widely
is the start of The Open University
respected by businesses,
your journey and We’ve pioneered distance with 77% of FTSE 100
learning for over 50 years. companies sponsoring staff
will cover: This pioneering spirit is why to study with us.
we are experts in delivering
― More CEOs and Managing
distance education, both in
Directors of UK companies
the UK and across 157 countries
have studied with us than
worldwide, and why we lead
any other UK university.
what you can study the way for innovative teaching
and research. ― 86% of our alumni say studying
with us helped them achieve
how long it’ll take Every day, we support our
their career goals.
students to achieve their goals
around other important things ― 74% of our students are
how distance in their lives. It’s what we do. already in work, balancing
learning works The Open University was
their careers with their studies.
established by Royal Charter ― We are the largest
your funding on 23 April 1969. We’ve come a UK university for
long way since then, constantly undergraduate education.
options innovating at every step to make
sure that our founding mission – ― Throughout our 48-year
how to register. enabling access to education partnership with the BBC,
for all – remains as relevant now we’ve co-produced numerous
as it did 50 years ago. TV and radio series – like
Inside the Supermarket,
The Bottom Line and Sir David
Attenborough’s Blue Planet II
and A Perfect Planet.
2
STEP ONE – FREE YOUR AMBITION
Bringing university to you, wherever you are 4
How do we compare with other universities? 5
What you can study 6
Achieve your goals with us 7
Welcome to business and management 8
STEP TWO – EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
Building your qualification 10
Prepare for study with an Access module 12
How long your qualification will take 14
How we support you 16
How you’ll learn 17
STEP THREE – FEES AND FUNDING
Your fees and funding options 18
STEP FOUR – UNDERGRADUATE
Find an undergraduate course 23
STEP FOUR – POSTGRADUATE
Find a postgraduate course 33
STEP FIVE – ACHIEVE YOUR AMBITION
How to register 48
Useful information 49
Get in touch Back cover
3
BRINGING UNIVERSITY TO YOU,
WHEREVER YOU ARE
At The Open University, we pride ourselves on being unconventional.
There’s no right order to do things in life, only what’s right for you.
We’ll help you get where you want to be.
Learn on your terms Spark your imagination Connect with
Learning with us is flexible and From online tutorials, to like‑minded students
supportive, guided by expert books, to the virtual learning Module discussion groups are
tutors every step of the way. environment, you’ll study using there for you to talk about your
a variety of digital and physical subject, coursework or to share
We’ll give you all the essential
resources. So however you learn study methods. You can also
course resources and materials
best, we'll keep you inspired. connect with us on social media
you need. Plus, our dedicated
or join one of the many informal
Student Support Team is Our assessment social media groups set up by
always there to help you
methods your fellow students.
if you need advice.
Depending on your course, When you register, you’ll become
― You decide when
we’ll use a blend of written a member of our students
and where you learn.
assignments, oral and practical association. This community
― You can keep on earning assessments, projects, exams, gives you the chance to meet
while you learn. dissertations and portfolios. fellow students and help
For more on assessments, influence University decisions.
― You can fit study around visit openuniversity.co.uk/ For more information, visit
other life commitments. assessment. openuniversity.co.uk/ousa.
― You can fund your studies
Additional study Get social with us
in a way that suits you.
support
@OUstudents
Learn from the best Did you know that we support @OUstudents
Our network of more than 5,000 more disabled students than @OUstudentslive
expert tutors deliver innovative, any other UK university? We’ll
insightful teaching and many provide access to tools and
combine their work as tutors guidance and ensure you get the
with academic or industry roles. appropriate level of support to
make the best of your studies.
There’s been a lot on in the last few years; we had my
son, I moved jobs, and I moved house again. The OU’s
flexibility certainly does make things easier, it really
complements that kind of lifestyle.
Jack Brooke
OU graduate
4
HOW DO WE COMPARE
WITH OTHER UNIVERSITIES?
FREE YOUR AMBITION
An OU qualification is exactly the same as one from a
campus-based university, but our unique approach to
learning means you don’t have to put your life on hold.
Distance is in our DNA
We’ve been bringing university
to our students, wherever
they are, for over 50 years.
Our resources are designed
for distance learning, and we
know how to best fit study
around busy lives.
We’re respected
A combination of education
and experience is highly sought
after and can greatly enhance
your employment prospects.
An OU qualification allows
you to put what you learn into
practice immediately. You’ll be
able to show you’re dedicated,
driven and committed –
personal qualities that are
valued in any workplace.
We’re flexible We’re a thriving We’re open to all
Studying with the OU allows you
community We believe that your ability isn’t
to work as you learn and apply You’ll be joining one of the only based on your previous
your new skills and knowledge most diverse, dynamic qualifications. That’s why there
in the real world. and inclusive student are no formal academic entry
communities. Whatever your requirements for most of our
There’s no such thing as a typical
goals, we’re here to help undergraduate courses.
OU student. You’ll decide how
and champion you to fulfil Find out what you’ll need to study
and when you want to study.
your ambition. our postgraduate courses at
Our tutors and Student Support
Teams are used to helping More than 170,000 students openuniversity.co.uk/pg‑ready.
students balance study with study with us each year. Now
other commitments. it’s your turn to join them.
MORE INFORMATION
Find out more about
The Open University.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
learning
5
WHAT YOU
CAN STUDY
Whatever the Undergraduate Postgraduate
change you want Certificate of higher education Postgraduate certificate
to make, whatever Get a general grounding or Ideal for professional and career
your goal, it starts improve your understanding development, this is the first
of a subject area. step towards a masters degree
here with one of over as well as being a valuable
200 qualifications. Diploma of higher education qualification in its own right.
You can study Expand your knowledge
Postgraduate diploma
and improve your skill set
towards a degree in a specialised area. Work towards a widely
or start with a Named degree
recognised qualification that
is equivalent to two-thirds
certificate or diploma Complete modules in a specific
of a masters degree.
of higher education subject to earn an honours
Masters degree
and build on your degree and open doors to
a new interest or career. Study modules towards an
studies as you go. internationally respected
Open degree qualification while gaining
specialist academic, professional,
Design your own honours
or technical skills.
degree and include modules
from different subject areas
to suit your interests and needs.
FIND OUT MORE
Find the course to match
your ambition.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
course‑types
6
FREE YOUR AMBITION
ACHIEVE YOUR
GOALS WITH US
Since we were We will: You can expect:
founded, over 50 help you get a qualification materials that are designed
years ago, we’ve to suit you and your goals with you in mind
helped more than provide a flexible learning continuous innovation and
two million people experience that works with
you and your life
accessible learning, whatever
your circumstances
realise their potential.
use technology and teaching access to world-class
methods that enhance your resources, whenever
study experience you need them
support you every step qualifications that are
of the way. respected by employers
around the world.
Open Diaries
The Open Diaries is a
collection of videos from our
students and tutors, sharing
what it’s like to take that life-
changing step.
Keen to hear more from
people who decided to
make that change?
Visit
openuniversity.
co.uk/diaries
7
WELCOME TO
BUSINESS AND
MANAGEMENT
Whatever the change
you want to make,
The Open University Business School has been
whatever your ambition, delivering transformational, high quality business
it starts here and management education for over 30 years.
We’re one of Europe’s largest business schools
and are part of the 1% of global business schools
Studying business
who are triple accredited.
and management
with us will allow
For more than 30 years we’ve equipped students with the knowledge
you to: and skills to take their careers to new heights. You could be joining
the 19,000 students, in over 80 countries, who are currently fulfilling
specialise in accounting, their business and management ambitions with us.
economics, innovation
and enterprise, leadership Across each module, you’ll get access to a diverse and creative
practice or marketing curriculum which has been inspired by our internationally-recognised
research agenda.
join a business school
with a global reputation
as a leading provider Undergraduate Postgraduate
of qualifications and
Our undergraduate qualifications We offer postgraduate diplomas
executive education
range from the certificate and postgraduate certificates in:
in higher education and the
obtain a qualification ― business administration
diploma of higher education,
from a triple-accredited
business school. to the honours degree ― finance
in business management.
― human resource management.
We have the following specialist
pathways for the degree: Our masters degrees include the
triple-accredited, practice-based
― accounting MBA, which was ranked fifth
best in the world and first in the
― economics
UK by CEO Magazine in its 2019
― innovation and enterprise Global Online MBA Rankings.
You can also complete our MBA
― leadership practice
in as little as two years.
― marketing.
We also offer specialist masters
You can also specialise in business degrees in:
in the computing and IT degree,
― finance
or study business management
with French, German or Spanish. ― human resource management.
8FREE YOUR AMBITION
The best part of studying with the OU is the flexibility, being
able to work wherever/whenever. The challenging element is the
independence and being completely responsible for managing my
time effectively. The OU has changed me as a person. I feel that I have
become more confident and proactive in shaping my future.
Candace Louison
currently studying towards BA (Hons) Business and Management
Professional Boost your
accreditation career prospects
Our MSc in Human Resource The Open University Business
Management is approved by the School delivers transformational,
Chartered Institute of Personnel high quality business and
and Development (CIPD), and management education and
students can attain membership belongs to the top 1% of global,
after successfully completing triple-accredited business
this qualification. schools. As organisations must
innovate to meet the challenges
Our MSc in Finance has been
of economic uncertainty and
accepted into the Chartered
global competition, they’re
Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute
looking for employees with
University Affiliation Program.
adaptable skills to help them
succeed. An Open University
Credible qualifications, business and management
qualification builds skills that
valued by employers are increasingly valuable to
Business graduates are employers, including problem
attractive to employers solving, commercial awareness,
as they can demonstrate digital literacy and leadership.
commercial awareness, strategic
The abilities and qualities you’ll
thinking, problem solving,
develop can help you gain
effective communication and
entry to professional training,
entrepreneurship. They can also
demonstrate the technical ability
postgraduate study and Step one,
to use information technology,
graduate entry roles across
many sectors:
complete.
analyse data and manage projects.
― management and leadership You’re well on your way
to making that life change,
― accountancy page by page, step by step.
Take the next one by
― entrepreneurship or business
continuing to read about our
ownership
business and management
― information technology qualifications, then register
for your chosen course.
― advertising and marketing
Visit
― human resources openuniversity.
― banking and finance co.uk/courses
― sales and retail.
9BUILDING YOUR
QUALIFICATION
Undergraduate Access module
An optional module to build your confidence
You’ll need to build up a certain number of credits and prepare you for further study.
to gain your qualification. Here’s how it works:
The different stages
To complete Stage 1, you’ll need 120 credits,
― Complete one stage for a certificate of higher studying modules worth 30 or 60 credits.
Stage 1
education, two stages for a diploma of higher
education, and three stages to gain an
honours degree. 120 credits
― To complete each stage, you must build up a set
number of credits. Certificate of higher education
The credits you need
To complete Stage 2, you’ll need a further
― You’ll need at least 120 credits to complete 120 credits, studying modules worth 30 or
each stage. This means that to earn an honours 60 credits.
Stage 2
degree, 360 credits are required in total.
― Credits are gained by successfully 240 credits
completing modules.
Diploma of higher education
The modules available
― With each module you successfully complete
To complete Stage 3, you’ll need a further
you’ll earn a set number of credits, usually either
120 credits, studying modules worth 30 or
30 or 60.
60 credits.
Stage 3
― Modules are either compulsory or chosen from
a range of options.
360 credits
Honours degree
READ MORE
Find out more about credits
and modules and how you
work towards a qualification.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
credits
10EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
Postgraduate
60 credits
You’ll need to build up a set number of credits, at postgraduate level.
which is done by successfully completing modules.
You’ll need:
― 60 credits to gain a postgraduate certificate Postgraduate certificate
― 120 credits to gain a postgraduate diploma
― 180 credits to gain a masters degree. A further 60 credits
at postgraduate level, totalling 120 credits.
With each module you successfully complete, you’ll
earn a set number of credits. Modules are either
compulsory or chosen from a range of options.
Postgraduate diploma
Getting started
All you need to do is choose which qualification you
want to study and register on a module that counts A further 60 credits
towards that qualification. at postgraduate level, totalling 180 credits.
Masters degree
11PREPARE FOR
STUDY WITH AN
ACCESS MODULE
We’re different to You can choose to dive straight You’ll engage with the materials
into your qualification at Stage 1 to complete tasks such as
other universities or you can get started with an online quizzes and tutor-marked
because we’re open optional Access module. If you assignments. At the end, you’ll
aren’t sure where to start, you demonstrate your learning
to people based can find more information on by completing a final written
on their potential the best starting point for you on assignment. There’s no exam.
our website, visit openuniversity.
rather than their co.uk/ready.
Access modules start every
prior qualifications. An Access module is a great
February, May and October
and usually last for 30 weeks.
Our students come place to start if you want a gentle Each week requires around
from a diverse introduction to Open University
study. It can also help you find
nine or ten hours of study.
If your module has the fast track
range of academic out more about your interests option, you can increase your
backgrounds, so and where you want your
learning to take you.
study time and complete your
Access module in just 18 weeks.
we offer a choice
How Access What you need
of starting points modules work You’ll get access to your module
depending on how website and your books and
You’ll have a dedicated tutor,
confident you are in who’ll provide academic support other printed materials will be
posted out to you. All you need is:
your study skills. via email and one-to-one phone
tutorials. Your Student Support ― a phone
Team will be on hand to help
with everything else, including ― a computer with
fees and funding, administrative internet access.
support, and study-related
guidance. Your Access module
materials are a blend of
printed and online resources.
What you can study This module will help you foundation for further studies
to improve your subject in these fields, this module
Each Access module covers knowledge in those areas will help build your confidence
relevant topics and develops the particularly, but also prepare and prepare you for more
skills you’ll need as you continue you for further study on a wide OU study.
your chosen qualification. variety of OU qualifications.
We offer one other Access
People, work and society Science, technology and maths module, which is more relevant
Access module (Y032) Access module (Y033) to other subject areas:
Get compelling insights into a Grow your knowledge in a range ― Arts and languages
wide range of areas, including of technical subjects, including Access module (Y031) –
childhood and youth studies; science; engineering and design; also available as Arts and
social science; psychology; environment; mathematics; languages Access module:
health; business; and law. and computing and IT. As the fast track (YXFT031)
12EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
Do you qualify for a free How much does an
Access module? Access module cost?
You can study an Access module If you don’t qualify to study for
for free if you: free, the cost depends on where I chose an Access
you live.
― live in the UK (excludes module to get me
Channel Islands and Isle of ― In England, the Channel back into education.
Man) or have a British Forces Islands and the Isle of Man
Post Office address it’s £792. I’m now working
― are studying the module as ― In Northern Ireland and towards an honours
part of an OU qualification Scotland it’s £264. degree. This wouldn’t
(this doesn’t apply if you live
in Scotland)
― In Wales it’s £321. have been possible
― have a household income
You can pay up front by debit or without the OU.
credit card, or by bank transfer.
(or, in Scotland, a personal
Or spread the cost with an Open
income) of £25,000 or less, or
University Student Budget Michelle Brennan
you receive qualifying benefits
Account – for more, see page 21. OU student
― have completed less than
If you’re studying an Access
one year of a full-time
module as part of an OU
undergraduate programme
qualification and you live in
at FHEQ or CQFW level 4/
England, Wales or Northern
SCQF level 7 or above, and not
Ireland, you could cover the cost
completed 30 credits or more
with a student loan – for more,
of OU study.
see page 18.
MORE INFORMATION
Find out more about our
Access modules.
Students who start with an
Access module are more likely to be Visit
SUCCESSFUL openuniversity.co.uk/
ug‑access
when they advance to OU Stage 1 study.
13HOW LONG YOUR
QUALIFICATION WILL TAKE
We give you the flexibility to choose the amount of study
you want to take on each year. That means you can get the
qualification you want in a timeframe that works for you.
Undergraduate qualifications
Most of our students study part time, gaining 60 credits a year. That’s like studying at
half the rate of a full-time course at a campus-based university. If you want to complete
your study at full-time equivalent intensity, you’ll need to gain 120 credits per year.
Part time | 60 credits a year | 16–18 study hours a week
Certificate of higher
education (120 credits)
Diploma of higher
education (240 credits)
Honours degree
(360 credits)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Years to complete
Full time | 120 credits a year | 32–36 study hours a week
Certificate of higher
education (120 credits)
Diploma of higher
education (240 credits)
Honours degree
(360 credits)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Years to complete
Some qualifications follow a different pattern of study. See individual descriptions on our website for more information.
All OU students are considered part-time students. This remains the same even if you choose to study at a full-time equivalent intensity.
14EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
Postgraduate qualifications
How long it will take to get your qualification depends on how it’s
structured and the number of credits required. All of our postgraduate
courses are offered as part-time study and the usual timescales for
individual module completion are shown below.
― 15–30 credit module – typically five months.
― 60 credit module – typically nine months.
The guide below gives you an idea of how long it could take you to gain
your qualification.
Part time | 60 credits a year | 16–20 study hours a week
Postgraduate certificate
(60 credits)
Postgraduate diploma
(120 credits)
Masters degree
(180 credits)
0 1 2 3
Years to complete
Some qualifications follow a different pattern of study. See individual descriptions on our website for more information.
Have you studied before? MORE INFORMATION
Find out more and use our
If you’ve studied at university level before, you could count this time planner tool.
study towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and
Visit
money by reducing the number of modules you need to study.
openuniversity.co.uk/
Visit openuniversity.co.uk/credit‑transfer to find out more.
time
15HOW WE
SUPPORT YOU
You’re never alone when you’re studying
with The Open University. Your community
of expert tutors and fellow students are There is a community at The
here to support you every step of the way. Open University. Everyone
supports each other. One
For each module, you’ll have a dedicated tutor who’ll be your first tutor that really inspired me
point of contact for any queries. They’ll lead regular tutorials, mark
your assignments, provide detailed written feedback, and give was Michael. His words of
support over the phone, through email, or online. encouragement gave me a
Our Students Association, OU Community forums and range of confidence boost. My grades
societies and groups mean you’re connected to one of the UK’s
largest student communities.
just kept on improving
and improving.
Joe Acaye
OU student
READ MORE
Find out more about how you’ll
be supported during your studies.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
community
16EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
HOW YOU’LL
LEARN
With regular tutorials The virtual learning environment What you need
or ‘module website’ contains all
and an online hub to the online study resources you’ll
To study with us, you’ll need:
manage your studies, need, including: ― a computer with internet
access. Don’t worry if you
you’ll have everything ― a week-by-week study planner
haven’t got access to one
you need to succeed. ― an assessment section, giving right now – you could receive
details of your assignments financial support to help you
and their due dates buy one
Once you’ve registered, you’ll have
access to StudentHome where ― the tutorial booking system ― a good grasp of the English
you’ll be able to: language. We teach our
― your online tutorial room and
courses in English. If you’re
― see an overview of your your tutor’s contact details
not sure whether your
course and the modules ― module forums where you English is at the right level,
you’re studying can discuss topics with other go to openuniversity.co.uk/
― submit your assignments students and complete englishlanguage for help
collaborative work online and guidance.
― choose and enrol on your
next module ― PDF and accessible formats
of your module materials
― visit our online Help Centre and resources.
― access your virtual learning
environment.
Ready
for the
next step?
Read on to discover
more about how we can
help you fund your studies
and the qualifications you
could earn.
17YOUR FEES AND
FUNDING OPTIONS
UNDERGRADUATE STUDY
We believe cost shouldn’t be FOR THOSE LIVING IN Funding your studies
a barrier to achieving your NORTHERN IRELAND
potential. That’s why our tuition OR SCOTLAND ENGLAND AND WALES
fees are among the most Credits Cost
competitive in the UK. Whatever each year per year4 Part‑Time Tuition Fee Loan
your circumstances, we’re If you live in England or Wales
60 £1,056 the best way to fund your
here to help you find a way of
funding your studies that suits 120 £2,112 undergraduate studies, regardless
your circumstances. of age or income, might be with
In Northern Ireland and Scotland,
a student loan. In fact, 80% of OU
the total cost for a typical
How much does it cost? 360-credit honours degree
students in England and Wales
fund their studies this way.
You’ll fund your studies on a module- based on today’s prices is £6,336.
by-module basis, which means you 4
2021/22 prices (exceptions apply); fees Key facts
won’t have to pay for your whole normally increase annually in line with
inflation and the University’s strategic ― You don’t have to pay anything
qualification up front. We’ve given approach to fees. up front. Repayments only start
you an idea of costs below:
when your salary exceeds the
WHAT’S INCLUDED? income threshold, which is
FOR THOSE LIVING IN
ENGLAND Your module materials, tuition, currently £27,295.
Credits Cost assessment and exams are all ― Repayments are deducted
each year per year1 included in our module fees. automatically from your salary.
There are some additional costs
60 £3,168
that aren’t included. ― You can pay off the loan early
120 £6,336 without any penalties.
― You’ll need your own computer
and internet access. ― Any balance outstanding after
In England, the total cost for
30 years will be written off.
a 360-credit honours degree ― For some modules, you may
based on today’s prices is need to buy additional set Here’s how your monthly student
£19,008. That’s two-thirds books, such as fiction books or loan repayments could look:
the cost of an equivalent a language dictionary.
qualification offered at a Income each Monthly
year before tax repayment5
campus-based university – ― You may need to pay for travel
a saving of over 30%. 2 to tutorials or exams. Up to £27,295 £0
1
2021/22 prices; fees normally increase
― A handful of our modules £29,000 £12.79
annually in line with inflation and the
University’s strategic approach to fees. include a residential school. For
£34,000 £50.29
2
Based on maximum chargeable fees these, you’ll need to fund the
for the 2021/22 academic year. cost of travel to the residential 5
Repayments are based on what you earn, not
school venue. There may also what you owe. You’ll repay 9% of what you
FOR THOSE LIVING IN WALES be additional costs for meals earn over £27,295. For example, if you earn
£29,000, you’ll repay £153.45 that year (9% of
Credits Cost and accommodation. £1,705). That’s just £12.79 per month.
each year per year3
Already have an
60 £1,284
undergraduate degree?
120 £2,568 You may still qualify for a student
In Wales, the total cost for a loan. You just need to be living in
typical 360-credit honours degree England or Wales and looking to
based on today’s prices is £7,704. study an eligible qualification.
3
2021/22 prices (exceptions apply); fees
normally increase annually in line with
inflation and the University’s strategic
approach to fees.
18FEES AND FUNDING
WALES Course Grant Disabled Veterans’
You may also be eligible for a Scholarships Fund
If you live in Wales, you can also
non-repayable Course Grant of If you’ve been injured in, or due
apply for maintenance grants
up to a maximum of £265 a year. to, military service, you could be
and, if you need one, a top-up
It’s intended to help with course- eligible for funding to complete a
maintenance loan, to help with
related costs, such as a computer, full Open University qualification.
living costs.
internet access, stationery or
Employer sponsorship
Maintenance grants travel to tutorials.
Your employer could partially
You could be eligible for up to
SCOTLAND or fully pay your module fees.
£4,500 a year. The money you
receive isn’t a loan – you won’t Part‑Time Fee Grant Study related costs
need to pay any of it back. The If you live in Scotland, you could If you’re on a low household
amount you’ll be awarded is qualify for a Part-Time Fee Grant income or receive certain
determined by your household and top-up funding to cover 100% benefits, you might be eligible
income and the rate at which of your course fees. You’ll likely be for additional funding for study-
you study. eligible if your personal income related costs, such as travel,
is £25,000 or less, or you’re on childcare and internet access.
Maintenance loans
certain benefits, and you’re
You’ll also be eligible to apply for Self‑funded study
a non-means-tested maintenance studying at least 30 credits a year.
loan, should you need it, to The fee grant and top-up funding If you’re not eligible for student
‘top-up’ the financial support aren’t loans, so you won’t need to loan or grant funding, we offer
you’ve received from grants. pay any of it back. a range of other funding options.
NORTHERN IRELAND Other support OUSBA loan
Pay your fees in instalments
If you live in Northern Ireland, you Carers’ Bursary with a loan from Open University
could be eligible for a fee grant If you provide unpaid care for Student Budget Accounts Ltd.
and/or loan to help towards the a friend or family member See page 21 for more information.
cost of your tuition fees. who cannot cope without your
support, you may be eligible for Card payments
Part‑Time Tuition Fee Grant a bursary of £250 to support you Pay for each module with a
You could be eligible for up to with your study costs. debit or credit card in one quick,
£1,230 a year. The money you simple payment.
receive isn’t a loan – you won’t Care Experienced Bursary
If you have been in care of a Local Mixed payments
need to pay any of it back. The
Authority at any stage of your life, Combine your payment options
amount you’ll be awarded is
you may be eligible for a bursary to fund your studies the way
determined by your household
of £250 to support you with your you want.
income and the rate at which
you study. study costs.
Part‑Time Tuition Fee Loan Disabled Students’ Allowance
If you’re not eligible for the grant, You could access financial
or if it doesn’t cover the full cost support towards study
of your tuition fees, you can pay in costs incurred as a result of
your disability.
full or in part using an alternative FIND OUT MORE
payment method, such as a Part-
Time Tuition Fee Loan. Find out more about
undergraduate fees and funding.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
ug‑fees
Call 0300 303 5303
19POSTGRADUATE STUDY
With The Open University, Funding your studies Learning grant and
a world-class postgraduate maintenance loan
qualification is an investment ENGLAND ― You could access up to £18,025 of
you can afford. Whatever your maintenance grants and loans.
Postgraduate loan
circumstances, we’ll help you find
If you live in England, you ― You’ll automatically get a
a funding method that suits you.
could be eligible for a maintenance £1,000 non-repayable grant,
How much does it cost? loan of up to £11,570 from Student rising to £6,885, depending on
Finance England. your income.
You’ll fund your studies on a ― Loans are non-means-tested, ― Loans are non-means-tested,
module-by-module basis, which so eligibility isn’t based on so eligibility isn’t based on
means you won’t have to pay your income. your income.
for your whole qualification up
front. To find the total fee for your ― The money is paid directly to you. ― The money’s paid directly to you.
qualification, visit our website.
― You’ll get your first instalment ― Payments are made in
WHAT’S INCLUDED? after you’ve paid for your first instalments, spread across
module and started studying. however long you’re studying.
Your module materials, tuition,
assessment and exams are all ― Payments are spread across two ― You’ll get your first instalment
included in our module fees. or three years. after you’ve paid for your first
module and started studying.
There are some additional costs ― Repayments only start when
that aren’t included. you earn more than the income ― Loan repayments only
threshold (currently, £21,000). start when you earn more
― You’ll need your own computer than the income threshold
and internet access. ― You’ll repay 6% of your income
(currently, £21,000).
over £21,000. So, for example, if
― For some modules, you may you earn £25,000, you’ll repay ― You’ll repay 6% of your income
need to buy additional set only £240 that year (6% of over the threshold – so, for
books, such as fiction £4,000). That’s just £20 a month. example, if you earn £25,000,
or theory books. you’ll repay only £240 that
― Payments are deducted
― You may need to pay for travel year (6% of £4,000). That’s just
automatically from your salary.
to tutorials or exams. £20 a month.
― Any balance outstanding after
― A handful of our modules To be eligible you must be:
30 years will be written off.
include a residential school. For ― a resident in Wales
these, you’ll need to fund the To be eligible you must:
cost of travel to the residential ― studying for a masters degree
― be under 60 years old
school venue. There may also ― under 60 years old.
be additional costs for meals ― be a resident in England
and accommodation. Wales STEMM bursary
― be studying a masters degree
If you study towards an eligible
that can be completed in no
Science, Technology, Engineering,
more than three years
Mathematics, or Medicine
― not currently have a masters (STEMM) masters, you might
degree or equivalent also be eligible for an additional
£2,000 to help with study or
― be studying your qualification
living costs.
from the beginning.
Wales 60+ bursary
WALES If you’re aged 60 or over at the
start of your masters’ seasonal
If you live in Wales, you can apply
academic year, you could receive
for financial support over the
a non-repayable bursary of up
duration of your qualification. And if
to £4,000 towards study or
you’re studying towards an eligible
living costs.
science-related qualification, or
are aged 60+ when you start your
studies, you could be eligible for
20 additional bursary funding.NORTHERN IRELAND Disabled Students’ Allowance Open University
FEES AND FUNDING
AND SCOTLAND You could access financial support Student Budget
towards study costs incurred as a
Postgraduate loan Account (OUSBA)
result of your disability.
If you live in Northern Ireland or
When you enrol with
Scotland, you could be eligible for Employer sponsorship
us, you’ll be offered the
a tuition fee loan of up to £5,500 Your employer could partially or
opportunity to pay your fees
from Student Finance Northern fully pay for your module fees.
through a loan from OUSBA.
Ireland or the Student Awards
Grant funding
Agency Scotland. Here’s how it works
We offer access to a database of
OUSBA will pay your fees
― Loans are non-means-tested, over 600 non-OU funding bodies
to The Open University and
so eligibility isn’t based on offering grants for postgraduate
then you can choose to
your income. students studying, or looking
repay OUSBA:
to study, a masters, PGCE or
― There’s no upper age limit.
research degree. ― in a single sum before
― Payments are spread your course starts. There’s
OU bursaries
over either two or three no interest to pay with
Available only to OU honours
years, depending on your this option
graduates, our bursaries could
chosen qualification.
help lower the cost of your ― in monthly instalments
― Repayments only start when postgraduate study. of up to a year. With this
you earn more than the income option interest does apply.
Study related costs
threshold (currently, £19,390 in The interest rate is fixed for
If you’re on a low household
Northern Ireland and £25,000
income, or receive certain the duration of the course
in Scotland).
benefits, you might be eligible (representative APR 5.1%).
― You’ll repay 9% of your income for additional funding for study- If you’re worried about
over the threshold – so, for related costs, such as travel, affordability or a poor credit
example, if you earn £27,000 and childcare and internet access. history, you can apply for a
live in Scotland, you’ll repay only joint loan application with
£180 that year (9% of £2,000). Self‑funded study a third party. This could be
That’s just £15 a month. If you’re not eligible for loan or with a partner, sibling or
grant funding, we offer a range of friend, for example.
― Payments are deducted
automatically from your salary. other funding options. As a responsible lender,
OUSBA loan OUSBA carries out
To be eligible you must be: affordability checks as part
Pay your fees in instalments
― a resident in Northern Ireland with a loan from Open University of the application process.
or Scotland Student Budget Accounts Ltd. To find out more about
See right for more information. OUSBA, visit openuniversity.
― studying for an eligible
postgraduate qualification. Card payments co.uk/ousba.
Pay for each module with a
Other support debit or credit card in one quick,
Carers’ Bursary simple payment.
If you provide unpaid care for Mixed payments
a friend or family member Combine your payment options
who cannot cope without your to fund your studies the way
support, you may be eligible for you want.
a bursary of £250 to support you
with your study costs. FIND OUT MORE
Find out more about
Care Experienced Bursary
postgraduate fees and funding.
If you have been in care of a Local
Authority at any stage of your life, Visit
you may be eligible for a bursary openuniversity.co.uk/
of £250 to support you with your pg‑fees
study costs. Call 0300 303 5303
2122
FIND AN
UNDERGRADUATE COURSE
You can register
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
for the 2021/2022
BA (Hons) Business Management (Q91) 24
academic year
for undergraduate BA (Hons) Business Management
26
and Languages (R55)
qualifications from
18 March 2021. BSc (Hons) Computing & IT and Business (Q67) 28
OPEN DEGREE
We’ve based the
BA/BSc (Hons) Open (QD) 30
qualification start
dates on the first
module(s) you can
study as part of
your qualification.
23BA (HONS) BUSINESS
MANAGEMENT
Discover how businesses develop strategies, handle risk and take
decisions. See what’s involved in essential business functions such
as marketing, accounting and finance.
This degree in business Why this qualification? The School undergoes regular
management provides reviews to ensure that
an innovative and accessible ― Develops your understanding standards are maintained
introduction to the world of of business organisations and and has successfully retained
business, and helps you relate their key elements. its triple-accredited status
your studies directly to your own since 2004. This qualification
― Explores wider considerations
workplace. You’ll investigate how is accredited through inclusion
such as environments,
organisations work, how they’re in these reviews.
markets and processes; and
managed, and the external
how all these work together.
world in which they operate.
Routes through the degree
― Equips you for a wide range
You’ll also gain a general
of employment opportunities You can choose between a
understanding of business
across all sectors. broad-based degree in business
organisations and their key
elements; wider considerations ― Helps you relate your studies management, or study business
such as environments, markets to your own experience. in combination with another
and processes; and how all these specialist option, choosing
work together. ― Offers a choice of from accounting, economics,
specialist routes. innovation and enterprise,
Flexible options enable you leadership practice or marketing.
to focus on subject areas that Your choice of specialism
are most relevant to your needs.
Accreditation
will be included in the name
You can combine your business The Open University Business of your degree, for example,
management studies with a School is one of the elite BA (Hons) Business
specialism in either accounting, institutions worldwide that Management (Accounting).
economics, innovation and are triple accredited by the
enterprise, leadership practice Association to Advance
or marketing. Collegiate Schools of Business Related qualifications
(AACSB), the European Quality
Improvement System (EQUIS), Diploma of Higher Education
and Association of MBAs in Business Management (W51)
(AMBA). These are internationally openuniversity.co.uk/w51
recognised quality standards Certificate of Higher Education
which independently validate the in Business Management (T27)
quality of the School’s teaching, openuniversity.co.uk/t27
research and operations.
24Qualification structure
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
You can choose a broad study of business management or specialise AT A GLANCE
in one of the following:
― accounting ― leadership practice Course code Q91
― economics ― marketing.
― innovation and enterprise Total credits 360
The example route shown below is marketing. Other routes will vary, Start dates
go to openuniversity.co.uk/q91 for details. Oct 2021
Register by 9 Sep 2021
Example route Feb 2022
Register by 13 Jan 2022
Compulsory
Stage 1 – 120 credits
An introduction to business and
modules Entry requirements
management (B100) (60 credits) Option No specific requirements
modules
Assessment
Awarded Based on a mix of:
You’ll choose 60-credits from a selection qualification ― Tutor-marked assignments
of modules. For more information, go to ― Interactive computer-
openuniversity.co.uk/q91-mar marked assignments
― End-of-module assessments
― Examinations
Stage 2 – 120 credits
Shaping business opportunities Study duration
(B207) (60 credits) Part time: 6 years
Full time: 3 years
Mode of study
Understanding customers (B206) (60 credits) The learning materials
provided are mostly
online with some print
Electronic versions
of printed materials
Strategic management (B302) (60 credits)
Stage 3 – 120 credits
available (e.g. PDF)
Online forum
Compulsory
Marketing in action (B328) (30 credits)
Collaborative work
Compulsory
You’ll complete your studies by choosing
one from a selection of 30-credit modules.
For more information, go to
openuniversity.co.uk/q91-mar
BA (HONS) BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
(MARKETING)
Qualification delivery, module availability and qualification
structure are subject to change.
MORE ONLINE
Find out more about this course,
fees and funding, and how to register.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/q91
Call
0300 303 5303
25BA (HONS) BUSINESS
MANAGEMENT AND
LANGUAGES
This degree combines business management with French,
German or Spanish. You’ll divide your time equally between
business management and one modern language.
You’ll explore how businesses Why this qualification?
develop strategies, handle risk
and take decisions. You’ll see ― Develop your understanding
what’s involved in functions of business organisations
such as marketing, accounting and their key elements.
and finance. Combining this
― Explore wider considerations
with a modern language opens
such as environments,
doors to other cultures and
markets and processes
communities. It can provide
and their relationships.
a key to the global workplace.
It also includes an optional week ― Become a proficient
in France, Germany or Spain. user (Common European
Framework of Reference
for Languages level C1)
of your chosen language.
― Develop advanced knowledge
of the cultures that use your
chosen language.
― Extend your competence in Related qualifications
intercultural communication.
Diploma of Higher Education
in Business Management
and Languages (W86)
openuniversity.co.uk/w86
Certificate of Higher Education
in Business Management
and Languages (T45)
openuniversity.co.uk/t45
26Qualification structure
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
You’ll choose one of three routes: AT A GLANCE
― business management and French
― business management and German Course code R55
― business management and Spanish.
Total credits 360
The name of your degree will include your chosen language.
For example, BA (Hons) Business Management and Spanish. Start dates
Oct 2021
The example route shown below is business management and Register by 9 Sep 2021
Spanish. Other routes will vary, go to openuniversity.co.uk/r55
for details. Feb 2022
Register by 13 Jan 2022
Example route Entry requirements
No specific requirements
Compulsory
modules Assessment
An introduction to business and
management (B100) (60 credits) Based on a mix of:
Stage 1 – 120 credits
Option
modules ― Tutor-marked assignments
― Interactive computer-
Intermediate
Exploring languages and culture marked assignments
qualifications
(L161) (30 credits) ― End-of-module assessments
OR Awarded
Portales: beginners’ Spanish (L194) (30 credits) qualification Study duration
Part time: 6 years
Spanish studies 1 (intermediate) Full time: 3 years
(L116) (30 credits) Mode of study
The learning materials
Certificate of Higher Education in Business
provided are mostly online
Management and Spanish (T45)
with some print
Electronic versions
Stage 2 – 120 credits
Shaping business opportunities of printed materials
(B207) (60 credits) available (e.g. PDF)
Online forum
Compulsory
Spanish studies 2: language and culture
of the Spanish-speaking world Collaborative work
(L226) (60 credits) Compulsory
Diploma of Higher Education in Business
Management and Spanish (W86)
Stage 3 – 120 credits
Strategic management (B302) (60 credits)
A buen puerto: advanced Spanish
(L314) (60 credits)
MORE ONLINE
Find out more about this course,
BA (HONS) BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
fees and funding, and how to register.
AND SPANISH
Visit
Qualification delivery, module availability and qualification
structure are subject to change.
openuniversity.co.uk/r55
Call
0300 303 5303
27BSc (HONS) COMPUTING & IT
AND BUSINESS
This degree combines computing & IT and business. These two
subjects are intertwined throughout the world of work. You’ll divide
your time equally between computing & IT and business.
You’ll gain insight into markets, Why this qualification?
organisations, processes,
strategies, policies and decision ― 50:50 split between
making. This will complement computing & IT and business.
the skills and knowledge you
― Choose from four focus
develop in computing & IT.
options within the computing
And you’ll pick a computing &
& IT strand.
IT focus to fit your needs and
interests. Preparing you to take ― Learn how innovation relates
part in the management and to the choice of production
execution of computer-related technology, such as using
projects in a business setting. ‘green’ technologies.
― Create and manage an
enterprise through our
computer-assisted Sustainable
Enterprise Challenge.
Related qualifications
Diploma of Higher
Education in Computing & IT
and Business (W42)
openuniversity.co.uk/w42
Certificate of Higher
Education in Computing & IT
and Business (T13)
openuniversity.co.uk/t13
28Qualification structure
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
You’ll choose one of four computing and IT focus areas: AT A GLANCE
― computer science ― software development
― communications and ― web development. Course code Q67
networking
Total credits 360
The example route below shows the computer science focus.
Other routes will vary, go to openuniversity.co.uk/q67 for details. Start dates
Oct 2021
Register by 9 Sep 2021
Example route
Feb 2022
Compulsory
Introduction to computing and information modules
Register by 13 Jan 2022
Stage 1 – 120 credits
technology 1 (TM111) (30 credits)
Intermediate Apr 2022
Introduction to computing and information qualifications Register by 10 Mar 2022
technology 2 (TM112) (30 credits) Option Entry requirements
modules
No specific requirements
An introduction to business and Awarded
Assessment
qualification
management (B100) (60 credits) Based on a mix of:
― Tutor-marked assignments
― Interactive computer-
Certificate of Higher Education in
marked assignments
Computing & IT and Business (T13)
― End-of-module assessments
― Examinations
Object-oriented Java programming
Study duration
Stage 2 – 120 credits
(M250) (30 credits)
Part time: 6 years
Full time: 3 years
Algorithms, data structures and
computability (M269) (30 credits) Mode of study
The learning materials
provided are a balance
Exploring innovation and entrepreneurship
of print and online
(B205) (60 credits)
Electronic versions
of printed materials
Diploma of Higher Education in
available (e.g. PDF)
Computing & IT and Business (W42)
Online forum
Optional
You’ll choose 30 credits from a selection
of computing and IT modules, go to Collaborative work
Stage 3 – 120 credits
openuniversity.co.uk/q67-citb Compulsory
Creating futures: sustainable enterprise
and innovation (B327) (30 credits)
Leadership in a changing world
(B329) (30 credits)
The computing and IT project
(TM470) (30 credits)
MORE ONLINE
BSc (HONS) COMPUTING & IT Find out more about this course,
AND BUSINESS fees and funding, and how to register.
Qualification delivery, module availability and qualification Visit
structure are subject to change. openuniversity.co.uk/
q67‑citb
Call 0300 303 5303
29BA/BSc
(HONS) OPEN
Do you want the freedom to study a range
of subjects that interest you? Then our Open
qualifications are ideal. The fact that the OU has
The degree allows you to choose modules from a wide range
the option of choosing
of subject areas so you can, for example, combine business an Open degree is
and management modules with modules from other disciplines,
such as science or the arts.
fabulous. So many
people I have spoken
Why this qualification? Open qualifications to wish that they’d had
and your career this option at university
― Tailor your qualification to suit
your needs. Achieving an Open qualification rather than going
― Choose modules from a wide
demonstrates your exposure to down one route.
different subjects and disciplines,
range of subject areas.
affording you the opportunity to
― Study to fit evolving career develop a rich world-view in the Carol Dow
ambitions or personal interests. process. You’ll also have a highly BA (Hons) Open
employable set of skills and
― Open up your career prospects.
attributes, including:
― Count previous university study
― adaptability
towards your qualification.
― critical thinking
― analysis and problem solving. Related qualifications
Research shows that almost
Diploma of Higher
86% of graduate job vacancies are
Education Open (W34)
open to graduates of any subject
openuniversity.co.uk/w34
(Institute of Student Employers,
2019). Employers value the Certificate of Higher
personal qualities needed Education Open (T09)
to achieve a degree through openuniversity.co.uk/t09
distance learning.
30How you can focus your Open degree
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
on business and management
AT A GLANCE
This selection of modules shows how you can focus
on business and management in combination with Course code QD
other subjects that are of particular interest to you.
However, this is just one example of the many Total credits 360
combinations you can study and you’re not
restricted to this route. Start dates
Oct 2021
Example route Register by 9 Sep 2021
Business and Feb 2022
Stage 1 – 120 credits
An introduction to business and
management Register by 13 Jan 2022
modules
management (B100) (60 credits) Entry requirements
Option
modules
No specific requirements
Intermediate Assessment
You’ll choose 60 credits from a wide range Depending on the modules
qualifications
of OU level 1 modules you choose to study, you may
Awarded
qualification
be assessed in any or all of the
following ways:
Certificate of Higher Education Open (T09) ― Tutor-marked assignments
― Interactive computer-
marked assignments
Stage 2 – 120 credits
― End-of-module assessments
Shaping business opportunities ― Examinations
(B207) (60 credits)
Study duration
Part time: 6 years
Full time: 3 years
You’ll choose 60 credits from a wide range
of OU level 2 modules Mode of study
As the BA/BSc (Hons) Open
can be made up of a range
Diploma of Higher Education Open (W34) of different modules, the
learning materials provided,
use of online forums and
inclusion of collaborative
Stage 3 – 120 credits
work will depend on the
Strategic management (B302) (60 credits)
modules you choose to study
You’ll choose 60 credits from a wide range
of OU level 3 modules
BA/BSc (HONS) OPEN1
1
Whether you qualify for a BA or BSc (Hons) Open will be
determined by the number of credits you have from modules
suitable for a BA or for a BSc.
MORE ONLINE
Find out more about this course,
fees and funding, and how to register.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/qd
Call
0300 303 5303
3132
FIND A
POSTGRADUATE COURSE
To work towards
POSTGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS
a postgraduate
qualification, you first MBA (Master of Business Administration) (F61) 34
need to choose and MBA (Technology Management) (F69) 36
register on a module MSc in Finance (F67) 38
that counts towards
MSc in Human Resource Management (F68) 40
that qualification.
MSc in Law, Economics and Governance (F90) 42
Doctoral Degree by Research PhD
44
(Doctor of Philosophy)
MSc in Systems Thinking in Practice (F47) 45
OPEN MASTERS
MA/MSc Open (F81) 46
33MBA (MASTER OF BUSINESS
ADMINISTRATION)
This triple-accredited MBA is a unique distance learning qualification
that builds business skills in the workplace, enabling you to critically
assess multiple perspectives and apply new understanding
in practice as you study.
Designed for practising senior Entry routes to the MBA 3. Non‑graduates, you can
and middle-level managers, it start the MBA if you hold our
emphasises strategic analysis, Our qualifications work together Professional Certificate in
interdisciplinary skills, creativity to help you grow your knowledge Management (S01) or have
and innovation. Its strong in manageable stages towards completed six of our Business
international emphasis and your MBA, so you progress Management microcredentials1.
global reputation makes it in your study as you develop 1
Planned for the 2021/22 academic year.
highly attractive to ambitious in your career.
executives all over the world.
There are three routes to the MBA.
How long will
your MBA take?
Accreditation 1. With an honours degree from
a UK university, or an equivalent Most students study this
Only 1% of all business schools qualification. qualification in three years
are triple accredited. With
by studying 60 credits a year.
accreditation from AACSB, 2. If you hold a degree without
To achieve this, you should
AMBA and EQUIS, the OU honours, you'll need to have
expect to devote 12–15 hours each
Business School is one of them. completed either:
week to your studies. You can,
― Managing 1: organisations however, study certain modules
and people (B628) concurrently depending on your
study intensity and complete
― three of our Business
within 18 months. This will require
Management microcredentials1
you to be able to devote 24–28
― the GMAT examination with hours each week to your studies.
a score of 640 or above.
You are allowed up to a maximum
of seven years to complete the
180 credits required for the MBA.
34You can also read
