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YOUR 2018–2019 OPEN QUALIFICATIONS PROSPECTUS
EXPLORE THE OU Achieve your goals with The Open University 3 Five reasons why you should choose us 4 What you need to get started 5 Learn in a way that suits you 6 What you can study 7 Boost your confidence with an Access module 8 How you build your qualification 10 How long your qualification will take 12 Why study for an Open qualification? 13 When and how you can pay 14 UNDERGRADUATE COURSES BA or BSc (Hons) Open (QD) 18 Diploma of Higher Education Open (W34) 18 Certificate of Higher Education Open (T09) 18 BSc (Hons) Combined STEM (R28) 24 POSTGRADUATE COURSE MA or MSc Open Masters (F81) 26 BEFORE YOU GO Other useful information 31 Our other prospectuses 32 Get in touch BACK COVER
2
Dream of changing your future?
Believe you can. Start expanding
EXPLORE THE OU
your horizons and learning new skills.
Explore new possibilities, create your
own path and find your passion.
We’re here to help you succeed.
ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS
WITH THE OPEN UNIVERSITY
We’re pioneers in distance learning, and since we
were founded have helped more than two million
people realise their potential. Our unique approach
to learning means you don’t have to put your life
on hold to get the qualification you want.
86%
of FTSE 100 companies
have sponsored employees
WE WILL: YOU CAN EXPECT: on OU courses
–– help you get a qualification –– materials that are
to suit you and your goals designed with you in mind
–– provide you with the –– continuous innovation – we’ve
teaching and learning been leading the way in distance
resources you’ll need learning for nearly 50 years,
–– offer a flexible learning ensuring education is accessible,
experience based around whatever your circumstances
you and your life –– access to world-class resources,
–– use technology and teaching whenever you need them
methods that enhance your –– qualifications that are respected
study experience by employers the world over.
–– be there to support you
every step of the way.
3
FIVE REASONS
WHY YOU 1.
SHOULD We’re open to you –
we make learning
CHOOSE US available to all,
regardless of
background, age
or additional
learning needs.
2.
You can study
3.
We guarantee
around your existing outstanding value
commitments – we’re and a high-quality
experts in helping education at a
people fit their studies competitive price.
around their busy lives.
4.
We’ve designed
5.
You get more than
our qualifications a highly respected
to enable you to put qualification – you’ll
what you learn into be able to show you’re
practice immediately. dedicated and committed,
skills that are valued in
the workplace.
4
EXPLORE THE OU
WHAT YOU NEED
TO GET STARTED
Where you start in life YOU CAN DO IT WHAT YOU NEED
shouldn’t limit where you The main reason we’re called There are just a couple
The Open University is that we’re of things that you’ll need
go. If you’re determined to
open to everyone. Every year, we to be able to study with us.
succeed and prepared to help thousands of people achieve –– A computer with internet
work hard then we can extraordinary things. access. But don’t worry if you
help you get started. –– There are no formal haven’t got access to one right
academic entry requirements now – you could receive help
It’s easy to begin studying with at undergraduate level. to buy a computer.
us. The next few pages will tell –– We helped around 22,000 –– A good grasp of the English
you more about how studying students with disabilities and language. Our courses are
with The Open University works, additional needs last year alone. taught in English, so if you’re
the courses we offer, how you unsure whether your English
–– Our students are diverse.
pay, and how long your is at the right level, go to
30% of new undergraduate
qualification will take. openuniversity.co.uk/
students are under 25 and
our oldest students are in englishlanguage for
their nineties. help and guidance.
HAVE YOU STUDIED BEFORE?
If you’ve studied at higher education level before, it might
count towards your OU qualification, cutting down the modules
you’ll need to study as well as saving you time and money.
If you tell us what you’ve done, we’ll do the rest.
Go to openuniversity.co.uk/credit-transfer.
5
LEARN IN A WAY
THAT SUITS YOU
You’ll have the flexibility to PIONEERING TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
fit study around the other We’ve been using innovative You’ll gain automatic
technology to connect with entry to our active students
things going on in your life,
our students since we first association when you register –
whatever they may be. started. We’ll make sure that you can help influence University
you always have what you decisions, meet fellow students
SUPPORTED OPEN LEARNING need and feel connected. and develop new skills.
We have designed our learning Find out more at
experience to combine flexibility CONNECT WITH
openuniversity.co.uk/ousa.
and regular contact, ensuring you OTHER STUDENTS
get the help you need to learn in You can use our module DO YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL
the best possible way. You’ll get discussion groups to talk STUDY NEEDS?
regular support from tutors and about subjects or study We’re committed to helping
access to all the materials and methods, or you could students with disabilities and
resources essential to your course. follow us on social media. additional needs. We’ll give
You’ll also have access to a student Join the conversation on you the tools to help overcome
support team who will be there to Facebook.com/OUstudents obstacles that could stand in
help you on your learning journey. Twitter.com/OUstudents the way of your learning –
Instagram.com/OUstudentslive whatever your needs may be.
Or you could join one of For more information go to page
the many informal Facebook 31, call us on 0300 303 5303 or go
groups set up by the students. to openuniversity.co.uk/disability.
6
EXPLORE THE OU
WHAT YOU CAN STUDY
We offer nearly 200 highly respected qualifications.
Decide which type of qualification is best for you.
To find out more
about how you
FOR UNDERGRADUATES FOR POSTGRADUATES
–– A degree in a named subject –– Masters degree BUILD YOUR
Complete modules in –– Postgraduate diploma QUALIFICATION
a particular subject to and how long it takes,
–– Postgraduate certificate
earn an honours degree. see pages 10–12
Whatever you
–– An Open degree
choose, we’ll give you:
Design an honours degree
from across a number –– the flexibility to fit
of subjects to meet your postgraduate study around
own needs and interests. your other commitments
–– Diploma of higher education –– the opportunity to
Expand your knowledge improve your career
and improve your skillset. –– freedom to follow
A diploma of higher education your passions in depth.
is equivalent to two-thirds
of an honours degree.
–– Certificate of higher education
Get a general grounding
in a subject. A certificate
of higher education is
equivalent to one-third
of an honours degree.
7
BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE
WITH AN ACCESS MODULE
If you don’t have much You don’t have to do one, but you WHAT DO YOU
experience of university- might find it useful if you’d like to: NEED TO BEGIN?
–– improve your confidence
level study or haven’t You can start Access modules
–– get a taste of a subject area
studied in a while, you in February and October.
you’re thinking of studying
could benefit from starting in more detail
You’ll need:
your studies with one of –– brush up on your study skills.
–– access to a phone
our Access modules. Each module includes a selection
–– equipment that plays DVDs
of materials, online quizzes, and –– the use of a computer
They offer a great introduction assignments that you complete with internet access –
to a range of subjects and act as over 30 weeks. It takes around you don’t need to buy
a taster to see if you want to delve nine hours of study each week. one though, the use of
deeper. Students who choose to one at a public library
You’ll get:
start with an Access module do will be fine.
better on their next module, so it’s –– a personal tutor providing
a great way to start your chosen regular feedback with one-
qualification. You might even to-one telephone tutorials
qualify for a free Access module. –– further support from
a dedicated team
throughout your study
–– detailed written feedback.
WHAT YOU CAN STUDY People, work and society Science, technology and
Access module (Y032) maths Access module (Y033)
Arts and languages
This is a multi-disciplinary module This module introduces you
Access module (Y031)
– you’ll be getting compelling to a technically oriented range
This fascinating module explores insights into a wide range of areas, of subjects, including science;
a wide range of subjects – including childhood and youth engineering and design;
including art history, English studies; social science; psychology; environment; mathematics;
language and English literature, health; business and law. This and computing and IT. As the
and creative writing; it touches on will allow you to improve your foundation for further studies
modern languages, history, and subject knowledge in those areas in these fields, this is the ideal
religious studies too. It’s ideal if particularly, but also prepare module to build your confidence
you want to explore your creative you for further study on a wide and prepare you for further study.
side, have an interest in language, variety of qualifications.
and want to start honing your
study skills.
8EXPLORE THE OU
DO YOU QUALIFY FOR A FREE ACCESS MODULE?
You can study an Access HOW MUCH DOES AN Students who prepare
module for free if you: ACCESS MODULE COST? by taking an Access module
–– live in the UK (excludes If you don’t qualify to study are more likely to be
Channel Islands and Isle for free, the cost depends
on where you live.
SUCCESSFUL
of Man) or have a British in their future studies
Forces Post Office address –– In England, the Channel Islands
–– are studying the module to and the Isle of Man it’s £732.
prepare for an OU qualification –– In Northern Ireland, Scotland
(this doesn’t apply if you live and Wales it’s £246.
in Scotland)
Pay up front by debit or credit
–– have a household income (or, card, or by bank transfer.
in Scotland, a personal income) Or spread the cost with an
of £25,000 or less, or you’re Open University Student NEXT STEPS
receiving qualifying benefits Budget Account – see page 15 Order an Access
–– have completed no more for more information. Modules Prospectus
than one year of a full-time If you’re studying an Access at openuniversity.co.uk/
undergraduate programme at module in preparation for ug-access or speak to our
NQF level 4/SCQF level 7 or an OU qualification and you Student Recruitment team
above, and not completed 30 live in England or Wales, you on 0300 303 0069.
credits or more of OU study. could cover the cost with a
student loan – see page 14
for more information.
9HOW YOU BUILD
YOUR QUALIFICATION
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
ACCESS MODULE
You’ll need to build up a set An optional module to build
your confidence and prepare
number of credits to gain your you for further study.
qualification. Here’s how it works.
WHAT ARE STAGES, CREDITS To complete Stage 1, you’ll
AND MODULES? need 120 credits, studying modules
worth 30 or 60 credits.
STAGE 1
STAGES
–– You must complete three stages
to gain an honours degree, two stages 120 CREDITS
for a diploma of higher education and one
stage for a certificate of higher education.
–– To complete each stage you must Certificate of higher education
build up a set number of credits…
CREDITS
–– You need 120 credits To complete Stage 2, you’ll
to complete each stage. need a further 120 credits, studying
–– You need 360 credits to gain a degree. modules worth 30 or 60 credits.
STAGE 2
–– Most students study 60 credits a year.
–– You gain credits by successfully
240 CREDITS
completing modules…
MODULES
Diploma of higher education
–– With each module you successfully
complete, you’ll earn a set number
of credits, usually 30 or 60.
–– Modules are selected from
To complete Stage 3, you’ll
a choice of options.
need a further 120 credits, studying
–– You choose the modules you modules worth 30 or 60 credits.
STAGE 3
want to study, year by year.
360 CREDITS
Honours degree
10EXPLORE THE OU
POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS
You’ll gain a MA or MSc
degree by building up
a set number of credits...
CREDITS
–– You need 180 credits to
gain a masters degree.
–– You gain credits by successfully
completing modules…
MODULES
–– With each module you successfully
complete, you’ll earn a set number
of credits, usually 30 or 60.
–– Modules are selected
from a choice of options.
–– You choose the modules you
want to study, year by year.
GETTING STARTED
I’d definitely recommend
All you need to do is choose and
register on a module that counts
OU study to anyone
towards your qualification. You considering it. OU study
can find out more about the Open is flexible, it moulds itself
masters degree on page 26. to your lifestyle and to
For information on how long your your learning style.
qualification will take – see page 12.
Alexis Redwood,
MA in Childhood and
Youth Studies student
11HOW LONG YOUR
QUALIFICATION WILL TAKE
Exactly how long it will take to get your qualification depends on how many
credits you study each year and which qualification you’re working towards.
Most of our students study part time. The way we work gives you the flexibility
to get the qualification you want in a timeframe that’s right for you. If you want
to study full time, you’ll need to plan your studies carefully.
UNDERGRADUATE
PART TIME | 60 CREDITS A YEAR | 16–18 STUDY HOURS A WEEK
CERTIFICATE OF HIGHER
EDUCATION (120 CREDITS)
DIPLOMA OF HIGHER
EDUCATION (240 CREDITS)
BA OR BSc (HONS) 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)
BA OR BSc (HONS) DEGREE
(360 CREDITS)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
YEARS TO COMPLETE
POSTGRADUATE
PART TIME | 60 CREDITS A YEAR | 16–20 STUDY HOURS A WEEK
MA OR MSc DEGREE
(180 CREDITS)
0 1 2 3
YEARS TO COMPLETE
Some qualifications follow a different pattern of study. See individual descriptions for more information.
12WHY STUDY FOR AN
OPEN QUALIFICATION?
EXPLORE THE OU
Would you like to tailor your own qualification,
studying subjects that interest you? Then our
Open qualifications are for you.
You’ll be able to: DIPLOMA OF HIGHER I chose the Open degree
–– design a personalised EDUCATION OPEN because it allowed me to
qualification to suit your needs Design your own qualification choose from a wide range
–– choose modules from a to expand your knowledge of modules to suit my
wide range of subject areas and improve your skillset. personal and professional
–– change direction to fit CERTIFICATE OF HIGHER
needs and aspirations.
your career ambitions EDUCATION OPEN Adam Chandler,
or personal interests BA (Hons) Open
Design your own qualification
–– improve your to get a general grounding
employment prospects in one or more subject(s).
–– count previous university study Find out more about our
towards your qualification. Certificate and Diploma
of Higher Education Open
BA OR BSc (HONS) OPEN on page 18.
Design an honours degree
from across a range of different MA OR MSc
subjects to meet your own OPEN MASTERS
needs and interests. In addition Expand your subject-specific
to gaining valuable skills that knowledge and design a masters
you might need for today’s degree to match your employment
competitive job market – you’ll needs and professional aspirations.
be able to prove to employers You’ll also have the flexibility
that you’re flexible and adaptable. to fit postgraduate study around
Find out more about our BA or your other commitments.
BSc (Hons) Open on page 18. Find out more about our
MA or MSc Open Masters
BSc (HONS) on page 26.
COMBINED STEM
Tailor an honours degree
to your needs and interests
across a range of Science,
Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics (STEM) modules
(including psychology and sports
science), or focus on one or two
specific areas. If you already
hold a degree, you could still be
eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan
towards this qualification. LOOKING FOR A
Find out more about our SPECIFIC SUBJECT?
BSc (Hons) Combined
If you’re searching for a
STEM degree on page 24.
qualification in a particular
subject like BA (Hons) History
or BSc (Hons) Psychology,
go to openuniversity.co.uk/
courses.
13WHEN AND HOW
YOU CAN PAY
We offer great value FUNDING – ENGLAND –– Welsh Government Learning
AND WALES Grant – a non-means tested
for money, giving you
If you live in England or Wales maintenance grant of up to £750
an excellent standard
the best way to fund your studies, –– Special Support Grant – a means
of teaching at a highly regardless of age or income, tested maintenance grant of up
competitive price. And might be with a student loan to £3,750. This is in addition to
we’ll always help you find from Student Finance England the non-means tested grant.
or Student Finance Wales. It’s
a way of paying that suits the most popular way to pay and ALREADY HAVE A DEGREE?
your circumstances. you only start paying it back when You might still qualify for a student
you earn more than the income loan. You need to be living in
FOR UNDERGRADUATE threshold (currently £25,000). England or Wales and looking
to study an eligible qualification.
You’ll pay on a module-by-module
EXAMPLE REPAYMENT AMOUNTS
basis, rather than for your whole For more information go to
qualification at the start. See INCOME EACH MONTHLY openuniversity.co.uk/quals.
YEAR BEFORE TAX REPAYMENT
below to get an idea of costs.
Up to £25,000 £0 FUNDING – NORTHERN IRELAND
LIVING IN ENGLAND If you live in Northern Ireland you
£27,000 £15
CREDITS COST
could be eligible for a Part-Time
EACH YEAR PER YEAR 1 £34,000 £67.50 Fee Grant of up to £1,230 to help
towards your fees. The amount
30. £1,464 £49,000 £180
depends on how much you earn
60. £2,928 and your study intensity (the
To qualify for a loan you need to be
number of credits you study).
120. £5,856 studying at least one module worth
If you’re not eligible for a Part-Time
30 credits or more and be registered
1
2018/19 prices; fees normally increase Fee Grant or if your Part-Time Fee
to study for a qualification.
annually in line with inflation and the Grant does not cover the full
University’s strategic approach to fees. If you get a loan: cost of your tuition fees, you can
In England, the cost for a 360-credit –– you won’t have to pay anything apply for a Part-Time Tuition Fee
honours degree based on today’s back for up to four years Loan. See our website for more
prices is £17,568. –– repayments are based on what information or call 028 9032 3722.
you earn, not what you owe
LIVING IN NORTHERN IRELAND,
FUNDING – SCOTLAND
–– payments are deducted
SCOTLAND OR WALES If you live in Scotland and your
automatically from your salary
personal income is £25,000 or
CREDITS COST
–– you can pay off the loan less, or you’re on certain benefits,
EACH YEAR PER YEAR 2
early without any penalties and you’re studying at least 30
30. £492 credits, you could qualify for a
–– any balance outstanding after
60. £984 30 years will be written off. Part-Time Fee Grant to cover all
of your course fees. It isn’t a loan
120. £1,968 ADDITIONAL SUPPORT – WALES and you won’t need to repay it.
2
2018/19 prices (exceptions apply); fees From September 2018, new
normally increase annually in line with students studying part time can STUDY SUPPORT AND
inflation and the University’s strategic
also apply for financial support
DISCRETIONARY FUNDS
approach to fees.
to help with living costs. There If your annual income is less
In Northern Ireland, Scotland are two new grants available than £25,000, you might be
and Wales, the cost for a typical and both are non-repayable: eligible for additional means-
360-credit honours degree based tested funding for study-related
on today’s prices is £5,904. costs, such as travel, childcare
and internet access.
14EXPLORE THE OU
SELF-FUNDED STUDY –– be studying a masters degree If you get a loan:
It’s easy to pay for your studies which can be completed in –– you’ll start repaying your
using a debit or credit card or no more than three years loan the April after you’ve
by bank transfer. Or spread the –– not currently have a masters graduated or left the course
cost with an Open University degree or equivalent –– repayments are based on what
Student Budget Account – see –– be studying your qualification you earn, not what you owe. You
below for more information. from the beginning. only start paying it back when
If you get a loan: you earn more than the income
GET SPONSORED threshold (currently £17,775)
See whether your company –– you’ll start repaying your
loan the April after you’ve –– payments are deducted
or organisation would want automatically from your salary.
to help you learn and develop, graduated or left the course
it’s always worth asking. –– repayments are based on what SELF-FUNDED STUDY
you earn, not what you owe. You
It’s easy to pay for your studies
only start paying it back when
FOR POSTGRADUATE you earn more than the income
using a debit or credit card or
by bank transfer. Or spread the
You pay for postgraduate threshold (currently £21,000)
cost with an Open University
qualifications module by module. –– payments are deducted Student Budget Account – see
Please go to our website to see automatically from your salary below for more information.
the fee listed for your qualification.
–– any balance outstanding after
30 years will be written off. GET SPONSORED
FUNDING – ENGLAND
AND WALES See whether your company
FUNDING – NORTHERN or organisation would want
If you live in England or Wales you IRELAND AND SCOTLAND to help you learn and develop,
could be eligible for a maintenance
If you live in Northern Ireland or it’s always worth asking.
loan of up to £10,609 from Student
Scotland you could be eligible for
Finance England or up to £13,000
a fee loan of up to £5,500 towards
from Student Finance Wales.
the fees of your qualification
To be eligible you must: from Student Finance Northern
–– be under 60 years old Ireland or the Student Awards
Agency Scotland.
–– be resident in England or MORE ONLINE
Wales (although some EU To be eligible you must:
To find out more about
students may be eligible) –– be resident in Northern fees and funding, go to
Ireland or Scotland openuniversity.co.uk/ug-fees
–– be studying for an eligible or openuniversity.co.uk/pg-fees
postgraduate qualification. or call an OU adviser on
0300 303 5303.
OPEN UNIVERSITY OUSBA will pay your fees to case, interest does apply.
STUDENT BUDGET The Open University, and you The interest rate is fixed for the
ACCOUNTS LTD repay OUSBA either in a single duration of the course (current
(OUSBA) sum or in monthly instalments. representative APR of 5.1%).
You may repay OUSBA at any As a responsible lender, every
When you enrol with time before the course begins. application made to OUSBA
us, you’ll be offered the In this case, there’s no interest. undergoes a credit and
opportunity to pay your affordability check.
fees through a loan Alternatively, you may repay
from OUSBA. OUSBA in monthly instalments Find out more about OUSBA
payable over up to a year. In this at openuniversity.co.uk/ousba.
1516
UNDERGRADUATE
COURSES
You can register for the 2018/2019 BA or BSc (Hons) Open (QD) 18
academic year for undergraduate
qualifications from 21 March 2018. Diploma of Higher Education Open (W34) 18
We’ve based the qualification Certificate of Higher Education Open (T09) 18
start dates on the first applicable BSc (Hons) Combined STEM (R28) 24
module(s) you can study as part
of your qualification.
Modules listed in this prospectus are those
that are currently available for study – the
exact selection may change over time.
17BA OR BSc (HONS) OPEN
HOW DOES AN OPEN DEGREE WORK?
With a BA or BSc (Hons) Open, you can study
modules from any of the subjects listed below, in any
FREEDOM
combination. So you might combine, for example, TO LEARN
computing and engineering modules with modules Our Open degree
means you can study
from other disciplines, such as the humanities at your own pace, and
or business and management. choose the modules
that interest you most
–– Arts and humanities –– Health and wellbeing
–– Business and management –– Languages
–– Computing and IT –– Law
–– Design –– Mathematics and statistics
–– Education, childhood and youth –– Psychology and counselling
–– Engineering –– Science
–– Environment and development –– Social sciences
–– Health and social care –– Sport and fitness
RELATED If you’re keen to experience These can take less time
QUALIFICATIONS university study but are not to study as they require
ready to commit to a degree, fewer credits but still
DIPLOMA OF HIGHER we also offer you the option offer you the opportunity
EDUCATION OPEN (W34) to study for a diploma or to design a flexible and
openuniversity.co.uk/w34 certificate of higher education. personalised qualification.
The diploma follows the same You can also progress to
CERTIFICATE OF HIGHER
structure as Stages 1 and 2 a degree at a later date,
EDUCATION OPEN (T09)
of the Open degree and the if you decide that’s
openuniversity.co.uk/t09
certificate follows the same what you want to do.
structure as Stage 1.
18The BA/BSc (Hons) Open has three stages, AT A GLANCE
each comprising 120 credits. Stage 1 provides the COURSE CODE QD
underpinning knowledge and skills needed for more
TOTAL CREDITS 360
advanced study at Stages 2 and 3. Throughout the
degree you will be fully supported by our team of START DATES
advisers, who will help you make the best choice Oct 2018
Register by 13 Sep 2018
of modules.
Feb 2019
On successful completion of Many students focus broadly Register by 10 Jan 2019
360 credits you will be awarded on one discipline, such as
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or science or the humanities –
No specific requirements
Bachelor of Science (BSc) honours but there’s nothing to stop
degree. Whether you qualify for a you studying modules from ASSESSMENT
BA or a BSc (Hons) Open will be entirely different subject areas. Depending on the
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
determined by the number of modules you choose
credits you have from modules STAGE 2 to study, you may be
suitable for a BA or for a BSc. 120 CREDITS REQUIRED assessed in any or all
of the following ways:
Study 120 credits of free
OPTIONAL ACCESS MODULE –– Tutor-marked
choice from a wide range assignments
Access modules are designed to of OU level 2 modules. –– Interactive computer-
build your confidence and prepare Having completed Stage 1, marked assignments
you for further study. To find out you may have formed some –– End-of-module
more about starting your Open ideas about the direction you assessments
degree with an Access module, want to follow – if so, you can –– Examinations
see pages 8–9. start to focus on one or two
STUDY DURATION
subject areas and explore
STAGE 1 some of the topics you will
Part time: 6 years
120 CREDITS REQUIRED Full time: 3 years
have encountered at Stage 1
You’ll start with 60 credits in more depth. MODE OF STUDY
from a wide and varied choice As the BA or BSc (Hons)
Equally, you can continue to
of key introductory modules. Open can be made up
be inspired by different subjects
of a range of different
Key introductory OU level 1 especially if you have previous modules, the learning
modules, worth 30 or 60 credits, knowledge or experience. Either materials provided, use
have been specially selected to way, at the end of Stage 2, you of online forums and
develop your subject knowledge will have enhanced your critical inclusion of collaborative
and study skills in preparation thinking and analytical skills. work will depend on the
for OU level 2 study. modules you choose
to study
Although this first module will STAGE 3
provide the foundation for your 120 CREDITS REQUIRED
qualification, having some basic Study 120 credits of free choice
skills before you begin can help from a wide range of OU level 3
you get the best from your studies. modules that, ideally, build on
If, for example, you choose one of your OU level 2 study.
our science, maths or engineering Stage 3 is focused on the study
modules, we recommend that of specialist topics and issues.
you check with us that your IT During this stage you will develop
and mathematical skills are at significantly as an independent
an appropriate level. learner and acquire high-level
Next, you’ll choose 60 credits thinking skills in preparation for
of free choice from a wide range graduate-level employment or
of OU level 1 modules across postgraduate study.
different subject areas.
MORE ONLINE
To find out more about this
course, fees and funding
and how to register, go to
openuniversity.co.uk/qd
or call 0300 303 5303
19PLANNING YOUR STUDIES
Each year, around 300 different modules across
a wide range of subject areas are studied by students
on our BA or BSc (Hons) Open. We recognise that
with so much choice available, you may need some
help deciding which modules to choose.
Before you start considering –– how much time you My employers were
which modules to register for, have available to study fascinated by the
think about: –– when you want to flexibility of my degree,
–– the subjects that interest you start studying. and the ability to study
–– the skills you already have For some subject areas, alongside work was
–– the subjects and/or skills we offer online tools to help something they were
you decide if you’re ready, or
that will help you fulfil your really impressed with.
career or personal ambitions if you could do with some extra
preparation. For more information Claire Proctor,
–– subjects you may
go to openuniversity.co.uk/qd. BSc (Hons) Open
have studied before
MAKING YOUR LEARNING COUNT (YXM130)
This module allows you to count study from open educational
resources (such as OpenLearn) towards one of our undergraduate
Open qualifications. This 30-credit module explores what you’ve
learnt as part of your previous learning and helps you choose
additional free learning courses to complete the required
amount of study for the module. Which subjects you’ll
study is entirely up to you.
Find out more at openuniversity.co.uk/count.
20BUILDING YOUR BA OR BSc (HONS) OPEN
We have developed over 40 suggested routes through different
subjects to help you navigate through the options available.
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
These optional routes bring together coherent combinations of modules that make sense
if you want to focus on one or two specific subjects as part of your Open degree. The routes
recommend 60 credits of study at OU levels 1, 2 and 3 in a particular subject. They’re not
fixed – you’re still free to choose other modules if you feel they better suit your interests.
SO, FOR YOUR OPEN DEGREE, YOU CAN:
Combination of different
1. Select from a wide range subjects (360 credits)
of modules at each stage
in different subject areas.
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
or
Subject one Combination of different
2. Specialise in one subject
(180 credits) subjects (180 credits)
by following one of our
suggested routes through
STAGE 1 + STAGE 1
the degree and combine it
with your own choice of STAGE 2 + STAGE 2
modules at each stage.
STAGE 3 + STAGE 3
or
Subject one Subject two
3. Specialise in two
(180 credits) (180 credits)
subjects by studying
two suggested routes
STAGE 1 + STAGE 1
through the degree.
STAGE 2 + STAGE 2
STAGE 3 + STAGE 3
Following a suggested subject route, or combining two together, can be particularly beneficial
if you’re keen to develop a specialism in a particular subject(s). However, please be aware that the
subject(s) you study won’t be included on your degree certificate or in the name of your degree.
21SUGGESTED SUBJECT ROUTES
If you’re interested in studying particular subjects as part of your
BA or BSc (Hons) Open, here are some examples of modules that you
could choose to combine. Each subject route below totals 180 credits,
the equivalent of half a degree. These are provided just to give you
a few ideas, other subjects and module choices are available.
Key introductory OU level 1 module OU level 2 module OU level 3 module
BUSINESS AND
ART HISTORY BIOLOGY
MANAGEMENT
An introduction to
The arts past and present Science: concepts and practice
business and management
(AA100) – 60 credits (S112)* – 60 credits
(B100) – 60 credits
The biology of survival
Exploring art (S295) – 30 credits Shaping business
and visual culture opportunities
(A226) – 60 credits Cell biology (B207) – 60 credits
(S294) – 30 credits
Renaissance art Biological science: Making sense
reconsidered from genes to species of strategy
(AA315) – 60 credits (S317) – 60 credits (B301) – 60 credits
180 credits 180 credits 180 credits
CHILDHOOD AND
COMPUTER SCIENCE DESIGN
YOUTH STUDIES
Introduction to computing
Introduction to and information technology 1
(TM111) – 30 credits Design thinking: creativity
childhood studies
for the 21st century
and child psychology Introduction to computing (U101) – 60 credits
(E102) – 60 credits and information technology 2
(TM112) – 30 credits
Object-oriented Java
programming
Childhood (M250) – 30 credits Design essentials
(E212) – 60 credits Algorithms, data structures (T217) – 60 credits
and computability
(M269) – 30 credits
Data management
and analysis
Issues in research with (TM351) – 30 credits Innovation:
children and young people designing for change
(EK313) – 60 credits Interaction design (T317) – 60 credits
and the user experience
(TM356) – 30 credits
180 credits 180 credits 180 credits
22ECONOMICS ENGINEERING ENVIRONMENT
Engineering: origins, methods,
context (T192) – 30 credits Environment: journeys
Investigating the social world
Engineering: framework, through a changing world
(DD103)* – 60 credits
analysis, production (U116) – 60 credits
(T193) – 30 credits
Core engineering A Energy and sustainability
Running the economy (T271) 30 credits (T213) – 30 credits
(DD209) – 60 credits Energy and sustainability Environmental management 1
(T213) 30 credits (T219) – 30 credits
Renewable energy
Renewable energy
Doing economics: people, (T313) – 30 credits
(T313) – 30 credits
markets and policy Engineering small worlds:
(DD309) – 60 credits Environmental management 2
micro and nano technologies
(T319) – 30 credits
UNDERGRADUATE COURSES
(T356) – 30 credits
180 credits 180 credits 180 credits
FRENCH HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE LAW
Bon départ: beginners’
French (L192) – 30 credits An introduction to
An introduction to law
French studies 1: language and health and social care
(W101) – 60 credits
culture of the French-speaking (K101) – 60 credits
world (L112) – 30 credits
French studies 2: language and Critical issues in
Public law and criminal law
culture of the French-speaking health and wellbeing
(W203) – 60 credits
world (L222) – 60 credits (K219) – 60 credits
European Union law
Mises au point: Leadership and management (W330) – 30 credits
advanced French in health and social care
(L310) – 60 credits (K313) – 60 credits Law, society and culture
(W340) – 30 credits
180 credits 180 credits 180 credits
MATHEMATICS PSYCHOLOGY
SPORT AND FITNESS
AND STATISTICS AND COUNSELLING
Discovering mathematics
(MU123) – 30 credits Investigating Introduction to
psychology 1 sport and fitness
Essential mathematics 1 (DE100)* – 60 credits (E117) – 60 credits
(MST124) – 30 credits
Mathematical methods
(MST224) – 30 credits Living psychology: from the Sport and conditioning
everyday to the extraordinary science into practice
Analysing data (DD210) – 60 credits (E217) – 60 credits
(M248) – 30 credits
Applications of probability
(M343) – 30 credits Advancing Exploring psychological
social psychology aspects of athletic development
Linear statistical modelling (DD317) – 60 credits (E313) – 60 credits
(M346) – 30 credits
180 credits 180 credits 180 credits
* S112, DE100 and DD103 are not key introductory modules. Students are required to complete 60 credits of key introductory
modules in another subject prior to study of the biology, economics or psychology and counselling routes above.
23AT A GLANCE
COURSE CODE R28
TOTAL CREDITS 360
START DATES
Oct 2018
Register by 13 Sep 2018
Feb 2019
Register by 10 Jan 2019
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
BSc (HONS) No specific requirements
COMBINED STEM ASSESSMENT
Depending on the
modules you choose
to study, you may be
STEM stands for science, QUALIFICATION assessed in any or all
of the following ways:
technology, engineering STRUCTURE –– Tutor-marked
and mathematics. The assignments
flexibility of our BSc (Hons) –– Interactive computer-
STAGE 1 120 CREDITS
Choose 60 credits from a wide marked assignments
Combined STEM degree range of OU level 1 key introductory –– End-of-module
allows you to build your STEM modules assessments
–– Examinations
own degree from a wide
range of STEM modules STUDY DURATION
and study routes, including Choose 60 credits from a wide Part time: 6 years
range of OU level 1 modules Full time: 3 years
psychology and sports
MODE OF STUDY
science – this means you
As the BSc (Hons)
can build a qualification Combined STEM degree
that’s unique to you. can be made up of a range
STAGE 2 120 CREDITS
of different modules,
the learning materials
Choose 60 credits from a wide
LOANS FOR DEGREE provided, use of online
range of OU level 2 STEM modules
HOLDERS IN ENGLAND forums and inclusion of
collaborative work will
If you already hold an depend on the modules
honours degree (or higher- you choose to study
level qualification) and you’re
Choose 60 credits from a wide
looking to re-skill or up-skill range of OU level 2 modules
in STEM subjects, you could
still be eligible for a student
loan to fund this degree.
For more information go to
STAGE 3 120 CREDITS
openuniversity.co.uk/quals.
Option modules
Choose 120 credits from a wide
Awarded qualification
range of OU level 3 STEM modules
MORE ONLINE
BSc (HONS) COMBINED STEM
To find out more about this
course, fees and funding
Qualification delivery, module availability and and how to register, go to
qualification structure are subject to change.
openuniversity.co.uk/r28
or call 0300 303 5303
24POSTGRADUATE
COURSE
To work towards a MA or MSc Open Masters (F81) 26
postgraduate qualification,
you first need to choose and
register on a module that counts
towards that qualification.
Modules featured in this prospectus
are those that are currently available
for study – the exact selection may
change over time.
25MA OR MSc
OPEN MASTERS
This masters degree allows you to create a personalised
qualification across a range of disciplines. You’ll expand
your discipline-related knowledge at masters level, gain
broader subject-specific knowledge and pursue further
professional development in areas that align with your
employment needs and professional aspirations.
Studying with the OU has
given me a remarkable
amount of confidence in
my own ability and opened
so many doors for me.
Jane Williams,
MSc Advancing
Healthcare Practice
26AT A GLANCE
There are two routes through COURSE CODE F81
this 180-credit qualification:
TOTAL CREDITS 180
ROUTE 1
START DATES
You can study 180 credits and specialise within
Oct 2018
one of the following broadly related study areas:
Nov 2018
–– Arts, Humanities, Music and Language Feb 2019
May 2019
–– Education, Psychology, Health Science and Healthcare
–– Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
–– Business, Finance, Human Resources and Law. Entry to this qualification
will typically require a
bachelors degree or
ROUTE 2
equivalent qualification
You can choose to study 120 credits, specialising within relevant to your intended
one of the study areas (as above) and take up to 60 credits specialist area of study.
POSTGRADUATE COURSE
from any of the other study areas, with the addition of: If you have other study
or experience that you
–– Further professional development modules. believe equips you to take
this qualification you can
still apply, but must supply
evidence of your study
QUALIFICATION STRUCTURE or experience.
STUDY DURATION
ROUTE ONE ROUTE TWO Part time: 3 years
PLUS 60 credits
Study 180 credits Study 120 credits, from any other study
specialising within one of the within one study area (including
following broad study areas: area:
+ Further professional
development modules):
Arts, Humanities,
Arts, Humanities, Arts, Humanities, Music and Language
Music and Language Music and Language
Education, Psychology,
Health Science and
Education, Psychology, Education, Psychology, Healthcare
Health Science and Health Science and
Healthcare Healthcare
Science, Technology,
Engineering and
Mathematics
Science, Technology, Science, Technology,
Engineering and Engineering and
Mathematics Mathematics Business, Finance,
Human Resources
and Law
Business, Finance, Business, Finance,
Human Resources Human Resources Further professional
and Law and Law development modules
MA OR MSc MA OR MSc
OPEN MASTERS OPEN MASTERS
27MA OR MSc OPEN ARTS, HUMANITIES, MUSIC SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY,
AND LANGUAGE MODULES ENGINEERING AND
MASTERS MODULES MATHEMATICS MODULES
MODULE CREDITS CODE
MODULE CREDITS CODE
PLANNING YOUR STUDIES MA Art History part 1 60 A843
Some restrictions or pre-requisites Information security 30 M811
MA Classical
may apply to certain modules 60 A863
Studies part 1. Digital forensics 30 M812
within this qualification. You
MA Creative Software development 30 M813
should refer to individual module 60 A802
Writing part 1.
entry requirements and module Data management 30 M816
descriptions to ensure that you MA English part 1 120 A815
Analytic number
are adequately prepared before MA History part 1 120 A825 30 M823
theory 1.
you register for this qualification.
MA Music part 1 60 A873 Applied complex
To help you plan your studies variables
30 M828
on this qualification we strongly MA Philosophy part 1 60 A853
advise that you use our study plan Advanced
Introduction to mathematical 30 M833
available from openuniversity.co. translation theory 60 L801 methods
uk/f81 – to map a route through and practice
the qualification that best suits Molecules in medicine 60 S807
your educational and career
Earth science: a
objectives and study duration. EDUCATION, PSYCHOLOGY, 60 S808
systems approach
Advisors can provide support and HEALTH SCIENCE AND
offer you advice to help you make HEALTHCARE MODULES Space science 60 S818
an informed decision about your Finite element
MODULE CREDITS CODE
education and future career. analysis: basic
30 T804
Children and young principles and
people’s worlds: applications
60 E807
frameworks for
integrated practice Manufacture
30 T805
materials design
Educational
leadership: agency, Advanced routing
60 EE811 30 T824
professional learning –CCNP 1 .
and change
Network security 30 T828
Addressing inequality
and difference in 60 EE814 Environmental
educational practice monitoring 30 T868
and protection
Applied linguistics and
60 EE817 Making environmental
English language 30 T891
decisions
Technology-enhanced
learning: foundations 60 H880
and futures
Openness and
60 H817
innovation in elearning
Leading healthcare
60 K827
improvements
Introduction to mental
60 S826
health science
Principles of social and
60 DD801
psychological inquiry
28BUSINESS, FINANCE,
Management beyond
HUMAN RESOURCES the mainstream
15 BB847
AND LAW MODULES
Leadership and
MODULE CREDITS CODE management in 15 BB848
intercultural contexts
Introduction to
30 B858
corporate finance
POSTGRADUATE COURSE
The critical
researcher:
Financial strategy: educational 30 H819
valuation, governance 30 B859 technology
and ethics in practice
Research methods Project management 30 M815
30 B860
for finance
Managing
The human technological 30 T848
30 B863
resource professional innovation
Managing research Strategic capabilities
30 B865
in the workplace for technological 30 T849
innovation
Employment
relations and Managing for
30 B866 30 T867
employee sustainability
engagement
Development:
Workplace learning 30 T877
context and practice
with coaching 30 B867
and mentoring Capacities
for managing 30 T878
Exploring development
30 W820
legal meaning
Conflict and
Exploring the 30 T879
development
boundaries of 30 W821
international law Thinking strategically:
systems tools for 30 TU811
managing change
FURTHER PROFESSIONAL Managing systemic
DEVELOPMENT MODULES change: inquiry, 30 TU812
action and interaction
MODULE CREDITS CODE
Institutional
Investment 30 TU872
development
and portfolio 30 B861
management Continuing
professional
Derivatives and 30 U810
30 B862 development
risk management in practice
Sustainable creative Module availability is subject to change.
15 BB842
management
Marketing in
15 BB844
the 21st century
MORE ONLINE
To find out more about this
course, fees and funding
and how to register, go to
openuniversity.co.uk/f81
or call 0300 303 5303
2930
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INFORMATION
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31OUR OTHER
PROSPECTUSES
Are you interested in other OTHER WAYS
Open University qualifications? TO READ THIS
PROSPECTUS
Download or order one of our other prospectuses:
openuniversity.co.uk/prospectus. You may find it easier
to access information
SUBJECT-SPECIFIC OTHER PROSPECTUSES
PROSPECTUSES –– Access Modules
from our website at
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ngineering, Design
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and Technology
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32BEFORE YOU GO WHAT’S NEXT? Get in touch or go 0300 303 5303 online to find out more: openuniversity.co.uk
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