If you are thinking about why you should study with The Open University (OU) then here are six good reasons to start you off.
1In Northern Ireland, The Open University has been voted the top-rated university by their students for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey for 12 years running.
2The Open University has a dedicated team of people who are there to support students over the phone or face-to-face in their Belfast office. The Open University is a leading expert in flexible higher education; few understand how adults learn better than their staff, who help who can succeed to succeed every step of the way. You are never on your own with The Open University. You will learn from your tutor, with students in your tutor group and the wider student community.
3The Open University’s unique flexible methods mean you don’t have to put your life on hold to get qualifications. Depending on your own commitments students can take as little as three years or take longer if needed. 74% of OU students already fit their studies around a job so one of the advantages of studying with The Open University is that you can earn while you learn. You can study at home, in the workplace or on the move – Open University course materials can be accessed through apps and mobile devices.
4Undertaking your course with The Open University can be an investment in a better future and more affordable way to study. Nearly half of Northern Ireland students receive financial support towards their fees and in 2017-18 there are new part-time and postgraduate loans schemes available to apply to, depending if you are eligible. The fee for a typical 30-credit module is £479, and for a typical 60-credit module it's £958. An experienced team can advise on the financial support options specifically available to you.
5An OU qualification enhances your employability and increases your earning potential as many Open University modules and qualifications are accredited by leading professional bodies and developed to industry standards. Nearly three quarters of Open University students here are already in work while they study – developing their skills and knowledge to apply to their jobs, or to boost their career prospects.
6The Open University combines teaching with research excellence. It ranks in the top third of UK universities in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework, with 72% of its research deemed world-leading or internationally excellent. OU space scientists play key roles in iconic missions, such as Rosetta, the first landing on a comet. Using cutting-edge technology, they are unlocking the secrets of the universe and are helping to overcome practical challenges here on earth.
The Open University is hosting an Open Week in its Belfast National Centre at 110 Victoria Street, from Monday, June 19 to Saturday, June 24. Over the course of the week you can drop in to meet a member of staff and get your questions about Open University study answered.
For more information please visit www.open.ac.uk/Belfastcall 028 9032 3722 or email northernireland@open.ac.uk
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