YOUR 2021/2022 POSTGRADUATE PROSPECTUS - THE OPEN UNIVERSITY
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FREE
YOUR
AMBITION
Your 2021/2022
POSTGRADUATE
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
is the start of The Open University ― 72% of the OU's research
your journey and We’ve pioneered distance is ranked as world leading
or internationally excellent
learning for over 50 years.
will cover: This pioneering spirit is why according to the most
we are experts in delivering recent Research Excellence
distance education, both in Framework (REF) assessment.
the UK and across 157 countries ― An OU qualification is widely
worldwide, and why we lead respected by businesses,
what you can study the way for innovative teaching with 77% of FTSE 100
and research. companies sponsoring
staff to study with us.
how long it’ll take Every day, we support our
students to achieve their goals ― OU postgraduate tutors are
around other important things consistently rated ‘excellent’
how distance in their lives. It’s what we do. in national Teaching Quality
learning works The Open University was Assessments. They're all
established by Royal Charter subject specialists, with
your funding on 23 April 1969. We’ve come many of them practising
a long way since then, constantly professionally in their fields.
options innovating at every step to make ― More CEOs and Managing
sure that our founding mission – Directors of UK companies
how to register. enabling access to education for have studied with us than
all – remains as relevant now as any other UK university.
it did 50 years ago.
― 86% of our alumni say studying
with us helped them achieve
their career goals.
2
STEP ONE – FREE YOUR AMBITION
Bringing university to you, wherever you are 4
How do we compare with other universities? 5
Achieve your goals with us 6
Enhance your career prospects 7
STEP TWO – EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
What you can study 8
Building your qualification 9
How long does a postgraduate qualification take? 10
How we support you 11
How you’ll learn 12
STEP THREE – FEES AND FUNDING
Your fees and funding options 14
STEP FOUR – FIND A COURSE
Find a postgraduate course 16
STEP FIVE – ACHIEVE YOUR AMBITION
How to register 40
Useful information 41
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 and
we’ll use a blend of written a member of our students
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 other visit openuniversity.co.uk/ For more information, visit
life commitments. pg-assessment. openuniversity.co.uk/ousa.
― You can fund your studies in a
Additional study Get social with us
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.
The OU is very flexible because they realise
balancing a full-time job, family life and
studying, you sometimes need help. Fitting
my study around the job was a challenge, but
it was worthwhile, because it develops you
personally. You learn self-discipline.
Tillmann Henssler
MBA
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
Studying with the OU allows
you to work as you learn and
apply your new skills and Plan your time and take advantage of the resources
knowledge in the real world.
available to you. Be realistic and prepared to
There’s no such thing as a typical
OU student. You’ll decide how
change. Be ambitious. Set your goals, but don’t
and when you want to study. be afraid of failure. For me, the OU has been
Our tutors and Student Support
Teams are used to helping
life-changing, and it can be for you, too.
students balance study with Eric McKinnon
other commitments. MSc in Environmental Management
We’re a thriving
community
You’ll be joining one of the
MORE INFORMATION
most diverse, dynamic and
inclusive student communities. Find out more about
Whatever your goals, we’re The Open University.
here to help and champion
Visit
you to fulfil your ambition.
openuniversity.
More than 170,000 students co.uk/pg-learning
study with us each year.
Now it’s your turn to join them. 5
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 accessible learning, whatever
you and your life your circumstances
realise their potential.
use technology and teaching access to world-class
methods that enhance your resources, whenever you
study experience need them
support you every step of qualifications that are
the way. respected by employers
around the world.
My OU experience has taught me a lot: I'm extremely
disciplined, given that I managed distance learning
and was able to stay focused and driven with regards
to meeting assignment and other deadlines. It has
also shown me that I'm capable of progressing
to more senior professional roles.
Martina Ahern
Master of Education
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
6
ENHANCE YOUR
FREE YOUR AMBITION
CAREER PROSPECTS
Research shows that employers highly value Open University
students for the skills, strengths, and knowledge gained during their
studies. 85% of alumni that completed the Employability of Qualifiers
Survey 2020 agree that their OU study has helped them achieve their
career goals. Our qualifications really do boost your job prospects.
From day one, you’ll discover Once you’re registered to start
opportunities you might not your qualification, you’ll get
have realised were possible. access to:
You’ll get exclusive access
to our online platform,
― a team of experienced careers At Capita our aim is to
professionals for individual
OpportunityHub, where
guidance, group workshops create better outcomes
employers like the BBC, Teach
First, BMW and HMRC come to
and self-service resources – Open University
recruit Open University students ― a range of careers guides, students come from
for virtual internships, work career learning events,
placements, graduate schemes discussion forums, webinars
all walks of life and are
and permanent roles. and Facebook Live chats able to use their life
With such a diverse student ― handy, bite-sized resources experience, knowledge,
population, careers and such as podcasts and
employability support at the OU on-demand videos
and skills to continuously
has been developed to support strive for better.
a wide range of students with ― online interview practice, CV
differing needs and from all building and review tools with
backgrounds across the UK. built-in artificial intelligence Tiffany Barmby
― ways to connect with Capita Technology Solutions
employers, such as virtual
site visits, OU Online
TalentConnect careers fairs,
panel events, employer
showcases and workshops
Postgraduate study
― online Careers Café and
will build the skills you LinkedIn peer-to-peer support
gained at undergraduate and networking communities.
level even further, For more information, visit Step one,
complete.
openuniversity.co.uk/careers.
enhancing your value
for employers, whether
Little steps add up to huge
you aim to progress achievements and, by
your current career or reading this prospectus,
you’ve already taken the
change direction. first one.
Make the change, continue
Ellen Cocking reading and begin exploring
Head of the OU’s Careers your ambition.
and Employability Services
7
WHAT YOU
CAN STUDY
Whatever inspires Postgraduate Entry requirements
or excites you, our certificate Typically, you’ll be expected to
have a degree. But you might
tutors will introduce Ideal for professional and career
development, this is the first have professional experience,
you to world-class step towards a masters degree other qualifications or prior
university-level study that’ll help
research and ideas. as well as being a valuable
qualification in its own right. set you up for success. What
We offer three types matters is that you’re able to:
Postgraduate
of postgraduate diploma
― find and understand research
material written for experts
qualification.
Work towards a widely
― critically analyse your findings
recognised qualification that
is equivalent to two-thirds of ― follow academic convention
a masters degree. when presenting findings,
ideas, bibliographies
Masters degree and references
Study modules towards ― reflect on different theories
an internationally respected and relate them to your
qualification while gaining own studies.
specialist academic, professional,
or technical skills. Our qualification descriptions
will tell you what you need.
For more information, visit
open.ac.uk/pg-ready.
I began working in the pharmaceutical industry
and found I needed to get up to speed with it pretty
quickly. The OU has helped my life by giving me the
FIND OUT MORE
confidence in an industry I had previously no idea Find the course to match
about. It has allowed me to grow and develop and your ambition.
I can’t wait for my next challenge! Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
Katharine Boulton
pg-course-types
MSc in Medicinal Chemistry
8BUILDING YOUR
EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
QUALIFICATION
You gain a postgraduate 60 credits
qualification by building at postgraduate level.
up a set number of credits.
Here’s how it works: Postgraduate certificate
The credits you need
A further 60 credits
― You’ll need 60 credits to gain at postgraduate level, totalling 120 credits.
a postgraduate certificate.
― 120 credits to gain a postgraduate diploma.
Postgraduate diploma
― 180 credits to gain a masters degree.
Credits are gained by successfully
completing modules. A further 60 credits
at postgraduate level, totalling 180 credits.
Modules
With each module you successfully complete, you’ll
earn a set number of credits. Modules are either Masters degree
compulsory or chosen from a range of options.
You’ll choose the modules you want to study,
year by year.
Getting started
All you need to do is choose which qualification you
want to study and register on a module that counts
towards that qualification.
9HOW LONG DOES
A POSTGRADUATE
QUALIFICATION TAKE?
How long it will take to get your qualification
depends on which qualification you’re working For more information
on finding time to
towards. Most of our postgraduate students study, and to use our
study part time, taking 60 credits a year. time planner tool,
visit openuniversity.
The guide below gives you an idea of how long it could take co.uk/time.
you to gain your qualification.
Part time | 60 credits a year | 16–20 study hours a week
Postgraduate certificate1
(60 credits)
Postgraduate diploma1
(120 credits)
Masters degree1
(180 credits)
0 1 2 3
Years to complete
1
Some qualifications follow a different pattern of study. See individual descriptions on our website for more information.
Have you
studied before?
If you’ve studied at university level before,
you could count this study towards an OU
qualification. This could save you time and
money by reducing the number of modules
you need to study.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/
pg-credit
10EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
HOW WE
SUPPORT YOU
You’re never alone when you’re studying
with The Open University. Your community
There is a community
of expert tutors and fellow students are
at The Open University.
here to support you every step of the way.
Everyone supports
For each module, you’ll have a dedicated tutor who'll be your first each other. One tutor
port of call for any queries. They'll lead regular tutorials, mark your that really inspired me
assignments, provide detailed written feedback, and give support
over the phone, through email, or online. was Michael. His words
Our Students Association, OU Community forums and range
of encouragement
of societies and groups mean you’re connected to one of the gave me a confidence
UK’s largest student communities.
boost. My grades 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/
pg-community
11HOW YOU’LL
LEARN
With regular tutorials The virtual learning environment What you need
or ‘module website’ contains all
and an online hub the online study resources you’ll To study with us, you'll need:
to manage your need, including:
― a computer with internet
access. Don’t worry if you
studies, you'll have ― a week-by-week study planner
haven’t got access to one
everything you ― an assessment section, giving right now – you could receive
details of your assignments financial support to help
need to succeed. and their due dates you buy one
― the tutorial booking system ― an appropriate level of
Once you’ve registered, you’ll
― your online tutorial room and proficiency in English. (You
have access to StudentHome,
your tutor’s contact details can check your English skills
your online hub where you’ll
at openuniversity.co.uk/
be able to:
― module forums where you englishlanguage.)
― see an overview of your can discuss topics with other
course and the modules students and complete
you're studying collaborative work online
― submit your assignments ― PDF and accessible formats
of your module materials
― choose and enrol on your and resources.
next module
― visit our online Help Centre
― 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.
12EXPLORE YOUR AMBITION
13YOUR FEES AND
FUNDING OPTIONS
With The Open University, ― The money is paid directly to you. ― You’ll automatically get a
a world-class postgraduate £1,000 non-repayable grant,
― You’ll get your first instalment
qualification is an investment rising to £6,885, depending on
after you’ve paid for your first
you can afford. Whatever your your income.
module and started studying.
circumstances, we’ll help you find
― Loans are non-means-tested,
a funding method that suits you. ― Payments are spread across two
so eligibility isn’t based on
or three years.
How much does it cost? your income.
― Repayments only start when
― The money’s paid directly to you.
You’ll fund your studies on a you earn more than the income
module-by-module basis, which threshold (currently, £21,000). ― Payments are made in
means you won’t have to pay instalments, spread across
for your whole qualification up ― You’ll repay 6% of your income
however long you’re studying.
front. To find the total fee for your over £21,000. So, for example, if
qualification, visit our website. you earn £25,000, you’ll repay ― You’ll get your first instalment
only £240 that year (6% of after you’ve paid for your first
WHAT’S INCLUDED? £4,000). That’s just £20 a month. module and started studying.
Your module materials, tuition, ― Payments are deducted ― Loan repayments only start
assessment and exams are all automatically from your salary. when you earn more than
included in our module fees. the income threshold
― Any balance outstanding after
(currently, £21,000).
There are some additional costs 30 years will be written off.
that aren’t included. ― You’ll repay 6% of your income
To be eligible you must:
over the threshold – so, for
― You’ll need your own computer ― be under 60 years old example, if you earn £25,000,
and internet access. you’ll repay only £240 that year
― be a resident in England (6% of £4,000). That’s just £20
― For some modules, you may
need to buy additional set ― be studying a masters degree a month.
books, such as fiction or that can be completed in no To be eligible you must be:
theory books. more than three years
― a resident in Wales
― You may need to pay for travel ― not currently have a masters
to tutorials or exams. degree or equivalent ― studying for a masters degree
― A handful of our modules ― be studying your qualification ― under 60 years old.
include a residential school. For from the beginning.
Wales STEMM bursary
these, you’ll need to fund the If you study towards an eligible
cost of travel to the residential WALES
Science, Technology, Engineering,
school venue. There may also If you live in Wales, you can apply Mathematics, or Medicine
be additional costs for meals for financial support over the (STEMM) masters, you might
and accommodation. duration of your qualification. also be eligible for an additional
And if you’re studying towards £2,000 to help with study or
Funding your studies
an eligible science-related living costs.
ENGLAND qualification, or are aged 60+
Wales 60+ bursary
when you start your studies, you
Postgraduate loan If you’re aged 60 or over at the
could be eligible for additional
If you live in England, you could start of your masters’ seasonal
bursary funding.
be eligible for a maintenance loan academic year, you could receive
of up to £11,570 from Student Learning grant and a non-repayable bursary of up
Finance England. maintenance loan to £4,000 towards study or
― You could access up to £18,025 of living costs.
― Loans are non-means-tested, maintenance grants and loans.
so eligibility isn’t based on
your income.
14FEES AND FUNDING
NORTHERN IRELAND of your life, you may be eligible OPEN UNIVERSITY
AND SCOTLAND for a bursary of £250 to support STUDENT BUDGET
you with your study costs. ACCOUNT (OUSBA)
Postgraduate loan
If you live in Northern Ireland or Disabled Students’ Allowance When you enrol with
Scotland, you could be eligible You could access financial us, you’ll be offered the
for a tuition fee loan of up to support towards study opportunity to pay your fees
£5,500 from Student Finance costs incurred as a result through a loan from OUSBA.
Northern Ireland or the Student of your disability.
Here’s how it works
Awards Agency Scotland.
Employer sponsorship OUSBA will pay your fees
― Loans are non-means-tested, Your employer could partially or to The Open University and
so eligibility isn’t based on fully pay for your module fees. then you can choose to
your income. repay OUSBA:
Grant funding
― There’s no upper age limit. We offer access to a database of ― in a single sum before
over 600 non-OU funding bodies your course starts. There’s
― Payments are spread over
offering grants for postgraduate no interest to pay with
either two or three years,
students studying, or looking this option
depending on your chosen
to study, a masters, PGCE or
qualification. ― in monthly instalments
research degree.
of up to a year. With this
― Repayments only start when
OU bursaries option interest does apply.
you earn more than the
Available only to OU honours
income threshold (currently, The interest rate is fixed for
graduates, our bursaries could
£19,390 in Northern Ireland the duration of the course
help lower the cost of your
and £25,000 in Scotland). (representative APR 5.1%).
postgraduate study.
If you’re worried about
― You’ll repay 9% of your income
Study related costs affordability or a poor credit
over the threshold – so, for
If you’re on a low household history, you can apply for a
example, if you earn £27,000
income, or receive certain joint loan application with
and live in Scotland, you’ll
benefits, you might be eligible a third party. This could be
repay only £180 that year (9% of
for additional funding for study- with a partner, sibling or
£2,000). That’s just £15 a month.
related costs, such as travel, friend, for example.
― Payments are deducted childcare and internet access.
As a responsible lender,
automatically from your salary.
Self-funded study OUSBA carries out
To be eligible you must be: affordability checks as part
If you’re not eligible for loan or of the application process.
― a resident in Northern Ireland grant funding, we offer a range
or Scotland of other funding options. To find out more
about OUSBA, visit
― studying for an eligible OUSBA loan openuniversity.co.uk/
postgraduate qualification. Pay your fees in instalments ousba.
with a loan from Open University
Other support Student Budget Accounts Ltd.
Carers' Bursary See right for more information.
If you provide unpaid care Card payments
for a friend or family member Pay for each module with
who cannot cope without your a debit or credit card in one
FIND OUT MORE
support, you may be eligible quick, simple payment. Find out more about
for a bursary of £250 to support postgraduate fees and funding.
you with your study costs. Mixed payments
Combine your payment options Visit
Care Experienced Bursary to fund your studies the way openuniversity.co.uk/
If you have been in the care of you want. pg-fees
a Local Authority at any stage Call 0300 303 5303
15FIND A COURSE
In this section you POSTGRADUATE COURSES
can find information
MA/MSc Open 17
about the specific
qualifications that Arts and humanities 18
we offer. There’s Business and management 20
a wide range of Childhood and youth studies 22
fascinating subjects
Computing and IT 23
to choose from.
Education 24
Engineering and technology management 26
Environmental management
28
and global development
Health and social care 30
Languages 32
Law 33
Mathematics 34
Science 36
Social science and psychology 37
Systems thinking in practice 38
16POSTGRADUATE
P
PO
MA/MSc
OSSTTGR
GRA
OPEN
AD
DUUA
ATTE
E COURSES
C
COOUR
Do you want the freedom to
URSSE
create a personalised course of
ESS
study across a range of academic
disciplines? Then our MA/MSc
Open is ideal.
Not all postgraduate students want to specialise
in the traditional way. This is where our innovative
masters degree is different.
Why choose the MA/MSc Open? Whatever your reason for
postgraduate study, choosing
Put simply, the MA/MSc Open the MA/MSc Open will
gives you choice. It allows you demonstrate your flexibility
the freedom to choose from in approaching different
a variety of modules across subjects and the breadth
different subject areas. of knowledge you’ve gained
You can: in related disciplines. You’ll
develop a richer world-view
― Tailor your qualification to suit in the learning process, bringing
your needs. with it a set of desirable skills
― Choose modules from a wide and attributes you can apply to
range of subject areas. your personal and professional
life, including:
― Study to suit your evolving
career ambitions or ― adaptability
personal interests. ― critical thinking
― Open up your career prospects. ― analysis and problem solving.
― Count previous study towards
your qualification.
Subjects Masters degree
Choose modules from a wide range of
academic disciplines:
― Arts, humanities, music and languages
― Education, psychology
MORE ONLINE
and health science F81 (MA/MSc)
Discover more and register online.
― Science, technology, engineering
and maths Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/f81
― Business, finance, human
resources and law
17ARTS AND
HUMANITIES
The study of human Join almost 2,000 students Many of our postgraduates have
currently engaged in our diverse continued into academic and
cultures and histories programme, which covers many research careers, going on to
gives us a deeper fascinating aspects of historical complete MPhil and/or PhDs.
and contemporary cultures. OU Some publish books and articles
insight into the world masters degrees are designed resulting from their dissertation
we live in and how to stretch your abilities and research. Others have used their
refine your research and newly acquired skills to help take
we got here. Seek analytical skills. You’ll gain their career to a more senior
intellectual challenge credible credentials both for level in areas such as teaching,
the world of employment and journalism, media and public
and invigorate for higher-level qualifications. sector employment.
your passion for The table below shows the
the arts with OU postgraduate qualifications
we currently offer in arts
postgraduate study. and humanities.
Advanced academic
Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
achievement, Subjects
certificate diploma degree
enhanced career
Art history F33 (MA)
opportunities and
personal fulfilment: Classical studies F27 (MA)
just a few of the
Creative writing F71 (MA)
rewards you’ll get
from studying English F58 (MA)
with us.
History F28 (MA)
Humanities C20 D35
Music F32 (MA)
Philosophy F30 (MA)
18POSTGRADUATE COURSES
MA in Art History (F33) inspiring activities. By sharing, MA in Music (F32)
reading and critiquing work in
Deepen your understanding This fascinating introduction
progress, your writing practice
of art, architecture and visual to the methods and materials
will be honed as you progress
culture with our online MA, build used for music research will
towards producing a substantial
your analytical and critical skills, suit professionals working in
piece of your own work to a
and develop the skills needed a wide range of music-related
professional standard.
for independent study and settings and is also applicable
research. You’ll start by exploring MA in English (F58) if you have a leisure interest
the core concepts and recent in music. Your studies will be
developments that have shaped This online MA offers you a based in the digital humanities
art history from Renaissance rich and exciting experience of using creative technologies to
Italy to the contemporary higher-level literary study and develop your research skills and
Caribbean, before expanding enables you to develop your critically analyse a variety of
your understanding of visual independent skills in literary musical sources. You’ll encounter
and material objects. research, culminating in a a number of musical topics,
dissertation on a topic of your themes and repertoires from
MA in Classical Studies (F27) choice. You’ll investigate the different periods and styles –
variety of ways in which major as you engage with Western,
Develop your knowledge of
literary figures and narratives non-Western and popular
the ancient Graeco-Roman
have circulated and been music – and will be able to tailor
world with our online MA, and
rewritten, broadening your your studies according to your
prepare for independent study,
knowledge and appreciation musical interests.
culminating in a dissertation.
of different genres, periods,
You’ll investigate classical studies
techniques and writers – from MA in Philosophy (F30)
as a multidisciplinary field,
Genesis to J. M. Coetzee.
examining texts, artefacts and This online MA will hone your
other surviving evidence through MA in History (F28) ability to think clearly, reason
a range of theoretical and logically, and develop your essay
methodological perspectives. Develop your research and writing, research and analytical
These include options in classical writing skills through a close skills. You’ll put forward and
archaeology, language and analysis of major themes evaluate arguments while
reception, and a module and sources in the local and exploring current debates and
based around the body regional history of Britain issues in philosophy – engaging
in classical antiquity. and Ireland 1750–1950 with with a wide range of fascinating
our online MA. You’ll gain philosophy texts and areas of
MA in Creative Writing (F71) practical experience of planning contemporary enquiry with
projects, finding and analysing discussions on environmental
This online MA offers an exciting
sources and constructing aesthetics, consciousness, global
opportunity to develop your
evidenced arguments through justice and political philosophy.
skills as a writer in fiction,
the completion of your own
poetry, creative non-fiction
independently researched
and scriptwriting. You’ll write
dissertation.
in a genre of your choice and
experiment with at least one MORE ONLINE
other through practical and Discover more and register online.
Visit
openuniversity.co.uk/pg
19BUSINESS AND
MANAGEMENT
Business and Upgrade your qualifications Our Business School is one of an
and broaden your management elite group of schools worldwide
organisations skills, or seek opportunities that are accredited by the three
are a vital part of to move from a professional, leading international accrediting
functional or technical role bodies – the Association to
modern life, global into a more senior or general Advance Collegiate Schools
economies, politics management position. of Business (AACSB); the
Whatever your starting point Association of MBAs (AMBA);
and cultures. or end goal, gain an extra edge and the European Foundation
Studying them and with a postgraduate qualification for Management Development,
from The Open University through its EQUIS programme –
the people who Business School. hallmarks of quality of
are involved in them teaching, learning materials
and qualification impact.
is rewarding in many
The table below shows the
ways. Apart from postgraduate qualifications
strengthening your we currently offer in business
and management.
intellectual abilities,
it can enhance
Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
your career Subjects
certificate diploma degree
and contribute Business
C66 E80 F61 (MBA)
to society. administration
Finance K24 E83 F67 (MSc)
Human resource
K25 E84 F68 (MSc)
management
Technology
F69 (MBA)
management
We have almost
27,000
successful MBA graduates
in 119 countries
20POSTGRADUATE COURSES
Selected highlights MSc in Finance (F67) organisational and management
context. Whether you’re at
MBA (F61) This qualification is designed
the start of your career in
to support professional
HR, aspiring to enter the HR
This internationally recognised development and practice in
profession or a line manager,
MBA is designed for practising a wide range of roles in finance
it will give you up-to-date
managers aspiring to higher – whether you’re developing in
knowledge of organisational
positions. The emphasis for your career or aspiring to enter
theory and behaviour and
your learning is directly rooted the sector. It provides a thorough
the specialist skills essential
in management practice. You’ll grounding in areas such as
to practitioners.
focus on strategic analysis corporate finance, financial
and interdisciplinary skills – decision-making, financial You’ll explore HR strategy
building on a solid foundation reporting and governance. both within organisations
of core disciplines, including You’ll develop competences (including issues such as
human resource management, in applying statistical and employee relations and
organisational behaviour, econometric techniques employee engagement,
accounting and finance, and gain knowledge of the learning and development, and
marketing and operations. fundamentals of Islamic finance employee resourcing and talent
and behavioural finance. management) and in relation
MBA (Technology to the external environment
Management) (F69) You can choose to specialise
(including globalisation and
either in derivatives and
If you’re looking for an MBA international forces, social
financial risk management
with a focus on technology, and technological change,
or in investment and portfolio
this is the qualification and government policies
management, and will complete
for you. It’s applicable to and regulation).
your qualification with a
technology management and dissertation on a finance topic Completing the MSc, and
technological innovation in a of your choice that is relevant the related residential school
wide variety of contexts and to your interests or chosen module, provides a route to
sectors, including: information career development. professional membership of the
technology/information Chartered Institute of Personnel
systems, telecommunications, This qualification has been
and Development (CIPD).
computing, engineering, accepted into the CFA Institute
manufacturing, transport University Affiliation Program.
and logistics, retailing, energy
MSc in Human Resource
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production and supply, defence
and security, management and Management (F68) Discover more and register online.
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welfare and leisure. resource (HR) management
with a broader exploration of its
21CHILDHOOD AND
YOUTH STUDIES
Our interdisciplinary Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
approach to certificate diploma degree
postgraduate Childhood and
K32 E93 F55 (MA)
youth studies
study in the field
of childhood and advanced qualifications will Postgraduate Diploma
youth draws upon significantly enhance your in Childhood and Youth
aspects from career prospects. Studies (E93)
childhood and youth The table above shows the The postgraduate diploma
postgraduate qualifications comprises the first two modules
studies; sociology; we currently offer in childhood from the MA in Childhood
health and social and youth studies. and Youth.
care; psychology; MA in Childhood and Youth (F55) Postgraduate Certificate
in Childhood and Youth
and education. This masters degree delivers
Studies (K32)
an interdisciplinary approach to
studying childhood and youth, The postgraduate certificate
Our teaching approach
covering aspects of theory, policy comprises the first module from
encourages students to link
and practice. It’s well suited if you the MA in Childhood and Youth.
theory to practical application
work with, or aspire to work with,
and policy. You’ll improve your
children and young people. Or, if
knowledge, critical reflection
you want to advance academically You may also be interested
and insight into working with
or in your profession. It’s designed in our QUALIFICATIONS IN
children and young people
for graduates in childhood and EDUCATION see page 24
on each module.
youth studies; sociology; health
This subject is particularly and social care; anthropology;
relevant if you’re a graduate psychology; or education.
working in (or aspiring to
The MA comprises three
work in) early-years provision,
60-credit modules: Children
education, social work, nursing,
and young people’s worlds
psychology, healthcare, youth-
(E808); Frameworks for critical
work settings, youth justice
practice with children and
or the voluntary sector. You can
young people (E809); and
build up your study from the
a dissertation module (E822).
certificate towards the masters
degree. Achievement of these
22COMPUTING
POSTGRADUATE COURSES
AND IT
Stay at the forefront Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
of computing certificate diploma degree
and IT with OU Advanced networking K39
postgraduate study.
Professionals with Computing K22 E81 F66 (MSc)
a strong skill set Cyber security E96 F87 (MSc)
and advanced
knowledge are very Postgraduate Diploma Postgraduate Diploma in
much in demand. in Computing (E81) Cyber Security (E96)
This flexible diploma enables This industry-relevant
We work with employers and computing practitioners to qualification gives a rigorous
sector-skills councils to offer pursue their career goals. You’ll approach to the study and
industry-relevant qualifications. gain advanced knowledge, skills application of cyber security.
We map our study to sector-skills and techniques, and develop It covers a range of topics and
frameworks to ensure you’ll have a professional approach to incorporates transferable skills
the skills employers need. the study and application of for professional development.
computing. You can choose It’s also the first two-thirds
The table above shows the
modules to meet the varied of our MSc in Cyber Security.
postgraduate qualifications
requirements of industry
we currently offer in Postgraduate Certificate
and your own career. Or focus
computing and IT. in Advanced Networking
on information security and
forensics, networking, or (CCNP Enterprise) (K39)
MSc in Computing (F66) software engineering.
Focused on current and in-
This qualification covers a demand industry certification
range of topics, incorporating MSc in Cyber Security (F87)
from Cisco, this qualification
transferable skills applicable Cyber security is a growing offers a route into a masters
to professional development. concern. There’s currently programme as well as attractive
Choose between four routes. a major skills gap and global commercial accreditation. The
A flexible route lets you choose demand for cyber security certificate fully incorporates the
modules to suit your needs. Or professionals. Our MSc will Cisco CCNP Enterprise discipline
choose between the Information develop the skills needed to (Cisco Certified Network
Security and Forensics route, pursue a career in the industry. Professional). It takes a systemic
the Networking route or the You’ll cover a range of topics technology-focused approach to
Software Engineering route that include information security, enterprise-based infrastructure
to develop in-depth specialist digital forensics and other network management, as well as
knowledge. Finish with an fundamental concepts, and offering a route into a computing
independent project on complete your masters with an masters degree.
a topic of your choice. independent project on a cyber
security topic of your choice.
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23EDUCATION
Whether you’re The Masters degree in For those living or working in
Education (and its associated Wales and looking to move into
an experienced Postgraduate Certificate and teaching, our Postgraduate
practitioner or Diploma in Professional Studies Certificate in Education in Wales
in Education) allows you to offers a flexible way to progress
looking to move choose subject content most from classroom support to
into an education- appropriate to your professional qualified teacher in just 2 years.
area of interest. You can choose from teaching
related role, our primary or secondary level in a
Subject areas include:
qualifications range of subjects, either part or
― applied linguistics full time, and you can learn in
offer flexibility for English or Welsh – it’s up to you.
your professional ― inclusive practice
No matter what you decide
development and ― leadership and management to study, your postgraduate
study will develop your
the opportunity ― learning and teaching.
capacity to reflect critically
to gain career The Postgraduate Certificate and constructively with
in Online and Distance others in a learning community,
credentials to Education provides hands-on engage with the ideas and
help you establish experience of a range of learning frameworks presented in
technologies. This enables you the modules and apply them
yourself as a leader to develop specialist professional to your practice. You’ll also
in your field. expertise in the latest teaching acquire skills and experience in
approaches relevant to digital tackling and solving problems.
learning and global education.
The table below shows the
postgraduate qualifications
we currently offer in education.
Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
certificate diploma degree
Education K27 E88 F70 (MA/MEd)
Online and distance
C23
education
Postgraduate
certificate in K36
education in Wales
24POSTGRADUATE COURSES
Masters degree Postgraduate Certificate
in Education (F70) in Online and Distance Develop your
Education (C23) teaching skills with
This flexible qualification a microcredential
offers four specialist routes. Study the theory and practice
Your choice of route lets you of online and distance education, Our new microcredentials
engage with issues, concepts and the innovative use of new offer practical work-
and debates that support your media and technologies. related skills, cutting-edge
professional development. knowledge, and university
Choose from applied linguistics; Postgraduate Certificate in credit in just 10–12 weeks.
inclusive practice; leadership Education in Wales (K36)
These sector-endorsed
and management; and learning
This PGCE allows those living courses help you develop
and teaching. You’ll expand your
or working in Wales to achieve expertise in topics
research and communication
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). specifically relevant to
skills through a dissertation.
It will equip you with all the skills online teaching and teacher
and experience you need to start development, such as
Postgraduate Diploma
in the teaching profession. creating courses for adult
in Professional Studies
in Education (E88) learners, embedding mental
health in your curriculum,
The postgraduate diploma You may also be interested accessibility and inclusion.
comprises the first two-thirds of in our MA IN TRANSLATION
the Masters degree in Education. (page 32) or MA IN Explore the microcredentials
CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH we offer and what they
Postgraduate Certificate STUDIES (page 22) could do for you at
in Professional Studies in openuniversity.co.uk/
Education (K27) microcredentials.
The postgraduate certificate
comprises the first third of the
Masters degree in Education.
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25ENGINEERING AND
TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT
Qualified engineers Imagination and the ability Accreditation
to integrate technologies into
and technologists an organisation’s products,
Our MSc in Engineering
fulfils the Engineering Council’s
now rank among processes and services are in
educational requirements
great demand throughout public
the highest paid and voluntary sectors. As well
for Chartered Engineer
(CEng) status under UK-SPEC 1,
professionals, as private business and industry.
and is accredited by the
according to The table below shows the Institution of Engineering
postgraduate qualifications we and Technology (IET).
EngineeringUK. It's currently offer in engineering 1
UK-SPEC (UK Standard for Professional
an innovative sector and technology management. Engineering Competence) sets out the
at the forefront requirements for UK engineers to achieve
professional status.
of environmental
and technological Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
advancements. certificate diploma degree
Engineering E22 F46 (MSc)
Technology
C49 E08 F36 (MSc)
management
26POSTGRADUATE COURSES
Selected highlights
MSc in Engineering (F46) MSc in Technology
Management (F36)
The MSc is a milestone
on the route to becoming This MSc provides the
a Chartered Engineer (CEng). knowledge and skills to
You’ll develop a professional make decisions about
approach to your work and technology strategy, innovation
extend your engineering skills. and management. You’ll focus
You’ll also develop a range on the operational aspects
of transferable skills, such of managing technological
as creative problem solving, innovation and change. You’ll
effective communication, go on to explore a range of
project management and capabilities that are key to the
concept realisation. strategic development and
management of technological
Postgraduate Diploma in innovation. Finally, you’ll
Engineering (E22) conclude with an in-depth
investigation of a topic or
Combine modules from
problem of your choice.
engineering analysis and
technology management
to shape a qualification that
suits your career aspirations.
You’ll broaden and deepen your
understanding of professional
engineering and work
collaboratively on a project.
The diploma is the first step
on the route to Chartered
Engineer status and is the
same in structure as the
first two-thirds of the MSc.
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27ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT AND
GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT
We live in an age Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subject
dominated by certificate diploma degree
concerns about Environmental
K19 E79 F65 (MSc)
the environment, management
sustainable
development, Environmental Accreditation
management
cultural conflict, Both our MSc and Postgraduate
Complying with environmental Diploma in Environmental
poverty and war. legislation. Improving the Management are accredited
competitive edge of a business. by the following professional
Individuals, organisations Addressing the global challenges institutions:
and governments are being of climate change and energy
― Chartered Institution of
challenged to think more conservation. Environmental
Water and Environmental
proactively about the local management is becoming
Management.
and global impact of their increasingly important
actions. This shift has made to everyone. ― Institute of Environmental
the importance of finding Management & Assessment.
If you’re interested in designing,
sustainable solutions to these
managing and participating
issues even more vital.
in effective environmental
management, our postgraduate
Selected highlight
qualifications are for you.
MSc in Environmental
Our student body is diverse
Management (F65)
and experienced – drawn
from local government, Expand your knowledge
consultancies, industry, and skills needed for effective,
commerce, non-governmental informed and creative
organisations and communities. environmental management.
The table above shows the You’ll examine current local
postgraduate qualifications and global concerns in
we currently offer in areas such as environmental
environmental management. protection, legislation and
policy, and natural resource
management. Developing your
skills in analysing the issues
and improving environmental
performance in all sectors.
28POSTGRADUATE COURSES
Global development
Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
Global development gets ever certificate diploma degree
more complex as more agencies
become involved. The right Global development K37 E86 F86 (MSc)
of ‘beneficiaries’ to participate
in their own development is Global development
K38
increasingly asserted. New goals management
emerge, complementing and
confronting existing ones. The
MSc in Global the credits gained on this
global development agenda is
Development (F86) qualification could be used
currently dominated by the UN’s
towards the postgraduate
Sustainable Development Goals This masters degree focuses on
diploma and masters degree
– 17 targets that UN member alternative approaches, policies
in global development.
states have committed to and actions to address global
achieve by 2030. These include development challenges and Postgraduate Certificate
reducing poverty and taking promote sustainable futures. in Global Development
action on climate change. Management (K38)
You’ll improve your
Our global development understanding of modern Aimed at development
curriculum will allow you to development challenges professionals, this postgraduate
address these complexities. by exploring historical certificate takes a practical
Doing so will strengthen and contemporary contexts. approach to development
your policy development and Through critical reflection, interventions. It’ll develop your
project management skills, you’ll learn to better understand skills to negotiate development
enhancing your capacity the theories behind current effectively in contexts affected
to build the organisational approaches, and build the by conflicting interests, values
relationships needed for truly skills needed to negotiate and agendas.
sustainable development. development effectively. You’ll
relate these skills to your current On completion, you’ll also be
The table above shows able to use this qualification as
work, enabling you to grow
the postgraduate qualifications a pathway to the postgraduate
professionally and bring about
we currently offer in diploma and masters degree
sustainable development.
global development. in global development.
Postgraduate Certificate in
Global Development (K37)
On this postgraduate certificate,
you’ll explore the historical and
contemporary theories about
development and its impact.
You’ll use real-world case studies MORE ONLINE
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in challenging contexts, and Discover more and register online.
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Whilst developed as a
standalone qualification,
29HEALTH AND
SOCIAL CARE
The health and social Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subjects
care sector offers a certificate diploma degree
wealth of rewarding Advanced clinical
K33 E95 F85 (MSc)
opportunities for practice
professional learning. Social work E85 F80 (MA)
Our practice-focused
qualifications enable Social work Postgraduate Diploma in
Social Work (E85)
you to build on This programme – consisting of
existing professional a diploma and a masters degree This is a professional social work
qualification which will enable
– is interdisciplinary, with subject
experience to matter derived from psychology, you to apply for registration
progress your career sociology, social policy, law and as a qualified social worker
with Social Work England
social work studies.
in the area you’re (SWE) or the Scottish Social
most interested in. MA in Social Work (F80) Services Council (SSSC). The
qualification combines academic
This course will enhance and practice-based learning.
The table above shows the your knowledge of social work It includes two substantive
postgraduate qualifications theory and legislation, apply work-based practice placements
we currently offer in health your learning to practice, and will equip you to engage
and social care. and develop your critical and in critical and reflective
analytical skills as a qualified professional practice.
We also offer a Professional practitioner. It includes an
Doctorate in Health and Social embedded, professionally The postgraduate diploma
Care, to find out more, visit qualifying postgraduate includes a compulsory residential
openuniversity.co.uk/dhsc. weekend or online alternative,
diploma in social work.
and three practice skills
workshops in addition to the
work-based practice placements.
30POSTGRADUATE COURSES
Advanced MSc in Advanced Clinical Postgraduate Certificate in
clinical practice Practice (F85) Non-Medical Prescribing (K33)
This programme provides This qualification develops the This qualification enables you
a flexible path for registered skills and knowledge required to gain the knowledge and skills
health professionals to develop to allow experienced, registered required for safe, appropriate
into autonomous and leadership allied health professionals, and effective prescribing
roles in advanced clinical nurses and pharmacists to take practice. You will also become
practice. It includes a masters on expanded roles and scope eligible to apply for the
degree in advanced clinical of practice. By focusing on annotation to your regulator
practice, a postgraduate diploma the four pillars that underpin register as an Independent
in enhanced clinical practice advanced clinical practice – and/or Supplementary
and a postgraduate certificate leadership and management, Prescriber. You’ll become
in non-medical prescribing. education, research, and clinical equipped and ready to be
practice – you’ll develop your responsible and accountable
Partial or full funding for core capabilities and clinical for the assessment of
the MSc may be available competence to work as a highly patients with diagnosed and
through healthcare employers. autonomous practitioner across undiagnosed conditions, with
Additionally, there are some the health care sector. the decision-making skills
charitable organisations required in clinical management.
who also offer financial Postgraduate Diploma
support for continuing in Enhanced Clinical
professional development, Practice (E95)
for example, the Florence
Nightingale Foundation. This diploma is designed for
experienced, registered allied
health professionals, nurses and
pharmacists who are employed
in clinical roles and are seeking
to develop enhanced practice
roles. It will help you develop the
clinical knowledge, leadership
and assessment skills needed
to work in enhanced clinical
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31LANGUAGES
With increasing Postgraduate Postgraduate Masters
Subject
global demand certificate diploma degree
for translators and
Translation K30 E92 F79 (MA)
language specialists,
our postgraduate
MA in Translation (F79) part in online open translation
qualifications will projects, giving you options
This qualification will develop
provide you with the your skills as a translator,
to choose what you translate
and connect with established
knowledge and skills equipping you to work in the
translation communities.
fast-growing translation-services
to embark on a career industry. You’ll experiment Postgraduate Certificate in
as a translator. with different genres through Translation (K30)
practical translation activities
and hone your practice through The postgraduate certificate
An immensely rewarding
peer review. You’ll gain hands-on comprises the first module of
profession, translation is
experience of the tools used in the MA. The certificate enables
for those with an interest in
this evolving area, for example, you to start developing your skills
languages and communication.
audiovisual translation and as a translator. You’ll engage
It encompasses a wide
cloud-based translation tools. in authentic translation tasks
and growing range of areas
You’ll underpin your work with to develop useful employability
including audiovisual
an understanding of translation skills, explore different
translation, advertising and
theories and debates, which approaches to translation
website localisation. It also
you’ll demonstrate when and develop an understanding
covers semi-specialised
producing a dissertation or of the links between theory
and specialised translation.
extended translation project. and practice. Focusing
You can study French, German, on recent research and
Italian, Spanish, Modern Postgraduate Diploma in technologies, you’ll develop
Standard Arabic, or Mandarin Translation (E92) an awareness of wider cultural,
Chinese – in combination ethical and professional contexts.
The postgraduate diploma
with English.
comprises the first two modules
The table above shows the of the MA. The diploma builds
You may also be interested
postgraduate qualifications on the work covered in the
in our MA IN EDUCATION
we currently offer in languages. postgraduate certificate and
(APPLIED LINGUISTICS)
progresses your translation
(see page 24)
practice through hands-on
experience of translation
technology. You’ll also take
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