It is a huge commitment to do the OU with a full time job. I am in year two of a Master's finishing in January. Well done to everyone who completes it it is a huge commitment. To pick up books and study after a day of work.
Darn, and just when I was considering an MA myself! Oh, well, there's always the beach I suppose... Oh, and alcohol, musn't forget that... :) and ice-cream...
As a bright person, you may find yourself later in life, more financially stable, in management, very comfortable but not intellectually challenged enough by your job. Having your 2.1 in a Math/STEM degree will keep doors open for you for postgraduate study or even just quantitative jobs that others can't do. Having a science but less math-y undergrad degree made this sort of pivot later much harder for me.
In 2015 I started at a brick university and up until 2018 when I left I had only achieved 165 credits in 3 years as I failed. I got a Certificate of Higher Education. I had a year out and was working a job I was not happy with. My life was over. But then I saw a advert for open University and decided to join in September 2019. I got 120 credits for the first year transferred and 30 credits that counted towards the second year. I’m studying BSc Hons Biology. I decided to do 3x30 credit modules as then with the 150 already and 90 with open university I would of achieved 240 credits altogether and I wouldn’t waste 1 whole year if i split up the modules into 2 years. I just got my result last week and have passed all my modules. I now have 240 credits and will be starting my final year in October 2020. At the moment i have the equivalent of a HND/FdSc (I know the ou doesn’t offer FdSc so I mean equivalent). The OU saved my life and I’m so proud to have 240 credits/2 years of university under my belt 🙌🏼 p.s I was not going to join the OU but I watched your old videos and decided to take this route.
@Waqif News hello, to do a degree it is not free but if you live in the U.K. you can get tuition loan from Student finance England. However the open university does offer some free courses to acquire some skills. I went to a brick university for 3 years and was not able to get more student loan for a full time brick uni if I was to carry on or start a bachelors degree again at another brick uni. But with open university no matter how much loan you have acquired before it doesn’t matter as long as you have not got a bachelors already you can join the Open University and get up to 16 years of student Loan to study with the open university as it counts as a part time loan. You can study 30, 60, 90 or the full 120 credits in one school year and it will still count as a part time loan. Also this is 100% correct the information I am giving you as I have literally gone through this whole process and been on the phones to student finance England for hours :)
I am getting tired of it too. I will be completing my last level 2 module in 2020. Unlike you, I love the math modules but not so much the physics. I hated S217 but I'm hoping I will enjoy level 3 physics better. My strategy is to only take 30 credits of level 3 modules per year. Yes, it will take me 4 more years but I have a full-time job and other things going on in my life so this is the best option for me. But for you... Hang in there! You're almost done 🙂
Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms?
The most important thing is to not lose the passion you have for physics through this experience. Keep up and you'll get there. Sending positive vibes.
I always feel sad when I hear those who find Maths a 'chore'. I know this is nearly two years on and perhaps you've finally overcome your lack of enthusiasm for those parts of your course. I did two degrees with the OU - (one in Mathematics). The degrees were a cinch to study because I enjoyed all those subjects that I enrolled for. I had started postgrad study, a Masters degree in Engineering when I suddenly 'lost' my ability to commit to studying. Maybe it was because I didn't enjoy those subjects like I did with my previous undergraduate courses? Perhaps a rest is needed and maybe - I will restart later. But if not, 'hey-ho' I enjoyed most it. I hope you get your mojo back, but it's OK if you don't. Don't kick yourself.
Thanks for the comment! Yeah definitely haven’t been as excited as when I first started and also have become busier at my job etc so I feel like I have to put a lot more effort into it, but I now only have 1 month left of the degree so there’s light at the end of the tunnel
John for me maths is very interesting, but when I have to narrow a concept into an equation (I never did equations in 1996,it just wasn't a thing in my schools I attended), I never was shown equation, if you have any basic rules for a tired brain, I would be much appreciated
I just did a video about balancing work life with studying. Its so hard to get the balance. Trying to schedule time in and cram it in. I considered doing it part time but am trying 3 years full time mainly because i cant stick at things! I really get what you are saying about the modules you just dont enjoy. I am trying to plug through with one of them now! I hope it all works out for you.
Hello Lucia, why did you choose "Mathematics and Physics" instead of just pursuing a "Physics" degree? While both degrees involve a significant amount of mathematics, the Physics degree tends to have a stronger emphasis on the physics aspect. I am asking because I am considering starting a Physics degree this year. I have already completed a bachelor's degree in Material Engineering at a "normal university," but it's not really my area of interest. Thank you 😁
Also did you know that an almost identical kind of university exists here in India as well, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). It's run by the government and is very cheap. We also get weekend classes in regular colleges (although most of them aren't worth it, but helps you make new friends) I started with BSC.Physics (Hons), but lost interest in between (coz I figured out I wasn't gonna go in Pure Scientific Research anyways) and converted most of the courses to Biology(Life Sciences) ones. This was a pretty interesting and fun to learn kinda experience.......Also we had laboratory courses, which although fun were very frustrating too because of the college administration. Now I'm done with everything and waiting for the results. Would probably be a graduate before the end of this year! Have some govt. job exams lined up after that. Hope you get your degree soon as well! All the best for the future!
You've hit the OH nail on the head Lucia; it's exhausting, and at times, downright de-motivational. I'm about to start year SIX! and have had enough. At times I've hated studying despite having got good grades throughout. And that doing a 'vanity degree' (art history). How you've stuck at it to get a 'proper' degree is beyond me. Honestly, very well done. Give yourself a pat on the back and get down the shops for some self-congratulatory retail therapy...
Thank you! Yes, it was very tiring (mentally a and physically) at times and now I can’t even remember how I had the time and drive to study almost every day. But it was worth it!
I had the exact same feelings about the maths as you. I was on the Maths degree, got all the way to M208 (pure maths) and was just not remotely interested - spent half the time looking forward to the physics modules. Ended up switching to straight physics!
Although you don’t want to work in the feild I would still aim for a 2:1 because in the future you may want a career change and go on to do a masters or a graduate programme most require a 2:1
I got a 2:2 in mathematics and physics (with hons) and I went on to do a fully-funded master by research in turbulence modelling/marine turbine engineering. Many masters (even funded research projects) will take on 2:2 graduates, and will look at your transcript and areas of study.
@@77oxf well actually while they state this whenever you email them they will say that while typically they require this, they will always look at an individual application - ie not cast them out on that basis alone.
I'm finishing a BA (Hons) in business management, it took me 4 years to complete and cost roughly £9,000. In my opinion, if at all possible you should go through a brick-and-mortar learning provider. The OU mark a lot harsher than traditional universities but do not provide the same level of tuition. The tutors are inattentive and underpaid and therefore strike regularly. The degrees are not accredited the same i.e. you do not receive a 2:1 or First in your relevant subject, rather a 'grade 2 pass' etc. This has confused some people when graduating and I assume it may also raise some eyebrows during a job interview. All in all, I wouldn't have studied through the OU if it wasn't my only option. In short PROs - low academic barriers to entry, slightly cheaper than traditional universities, the flexibility of learning CONS - Lower quality tuition, lack of social learning, harder to receive decent grading, differences in final grading terminology, and complete lack of transparency of how assignments are marked and incoherent guidance to students. In summary, if it's your only option go for it. If you have any way of attending a traditional uni then I would strongly advise it! It's slightly more expensive, but it's well worth it to get proper tuition and to gain from the social aspect of learning.
I agree it wouldn’t be my first option for a first degree, but good for a second degree or for those who aren’t able to afford or attend a “regular” university. I have a journalism degree from a regular university and didn’t find I had more help from my professors in most cases, so in my experience the attention to detail and the student wasn’t too dissimilar.
There are many accredited degrees offered by the OU, for example Engineering is accredited by the Institute of Engineering & Technology and more professional bodies. The OU awards First, Upper Second, Lower second and a Third Honour degrees. Pass 1 to 4 is a grade awarded for each successfully completed module.
Lucia, I wish you good luck in the rest of your degree. You should be glad that you have gone this far and I am sure that you will do well. Did you take the Stars, Planets, and Galaxy course? My MA in Classical Studies was expensive with the First part costing over 2,000 euros which was over $5,000 in Canadian money and the Second Part of my MA costing over 5,000 euros which was over $11,000 in Canadian money. I am definitely not doing anymore degree at the Open University because it is too expensive and it is a lot of work and effort. If I want to study at the OU, I would just take short courses or OpenLearn and FutureLearn courses.
All I will say is, as long as you do not hate your current job... Also, it is never too late to change careers. I have peers that did their OU degrees in their 30s and are now active research scientist postdocs close to their 40s. Not only that, but, your degree can open up many different avenues, not just in science :-). Use the OU's careers service for advice, it will be worth it ;-).
Our world is changing at an incredible pace. Do check out the series called "The Giant Leap" by Bloomberg. Computing enabled space exploration is coming in the decades ahead. There may yet be an unexpected opportunity to use the Astrophysics knowledge combined with the Communications experience. All the best in finishing what you started.
@@LuciaMontesEN Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms?
Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms? And even space law possibly in the future?
Lucia I can understand your problem and I give you a big thumbs up of being able to learn anything while you are under the stress of all that money dissipating continuously. I think I have the solution for you. My father began to write a book on fluid dynamics which is expressed in differential geometry and vector calculus except for boundary equations which remain Eularian. Its original target was the OU but they refused funding. Now besides this I have a booklet of model Bsc physics exam answers. It seems clear to me, anybody with comprehension of both items would be worth a master's degree. And fluid dynamics is going to play a major part in astrophysics.
in hindsight would you say it would have been better to do a straight Physics degree, which I guess includes necessary mathematical methods modules without going deep into mathematical proofs etc. rather concentrate on the physics as this is most interesting?
Have you considered changing to Q64 physics track? also heard that OU is developing an IOP accredited BSc Honours Physics degree (not named Physical Science but probably the same modules as the current IOP accredited track from Q64) I'm doing Q77 like you, but I enjoy the mathematics.
Hi Lucia, I'm starting S382 this year and looking forward to it but like you, I'm enjoying the physics more than the maths. Im not too sure what mathematics modules to pick for stage 3. What maths modules have you studied and what would you recommend?
For stage 3 I’ve done applications of probability and I liked it. It started off a bit too fast for me so I was a bit frustrated with it at first but once I took my time it was actually quite enjoyable and not difficult on the maths side
Thanks Lucia, I was thinking of doing the fluid dynamics and stochastic dynamics next year but im hearing both of these modules are very difficult so maybe doing Probability with one of the them might be a bit better.
Yo también estoy en la OU pero haciendo psicología y la verdad a veces me siento un poco perdido porque siento que no te proporcionan mucha información en ciertas cosas....Por cierto me alegra saber que hay otra española en londres haciendo la OU!
mucho ánimo! La verdad que es muy solitario por decirlo de alguna forma pero ayuda si te unes a grupos en Facebook o whatsapp para cada uno de tus módulos
I was contemplating Maths & Physics. However, you have to choose 2 physics and 2 maths Level 3 modules. Amongst the Maths modules the fluid dynamics one looked good, but all the others (optimization, graphs, stochastic etc) just didn't appeal. So I think i'm just going to stick with Physics R51 degree.
Yes, I agree. I struggled to pick level 3 maths modules because the physics ones looked more interesting. Ended up with the fluid dynamics one and the probability one.
@@LuciaMontesEN Thank you, just really interested to hear what a real student thinks of the actual content, its ridiculous that OU don't give info on the actual content and reading resources
You may be able to switch to an Open degree or a combined STEM degree & transfer all of your modules to it & then only enrol onto subsequent physics modules, you innately want to attempt. However, it’s best in your interest to call up the SST to discuss about your academic options in further detail.
Lucía, genial tu vídeo! Yo lo estudiaría para entender teorías de la física que de manera autodidacta, sin refrescar y ampliar mis matemáticas especializadas (soy ingeniero) no llegaré a entender. Necesito hacerlo para desarrollar mi otro interés: Filosofía del Tiempo y Espacio. Un par de preguntas: - Comentaste que la matemática estudiada no se relacionaba mucho con los cursos de física; ese divorcio me preocupa, puedes ampliar? - Investigaste UNED? Cómo las compararías para esta carrera? -
Muchos de los estudios de matemáticas vienen bien para los de física pero las rutas de las asignaturas son completamente diferentes (los módulos de matemáticas no están pensados para ser aplicados directamente a la física). En cuanto a la UNED, la verdad es que no miré mucho porque me interesaba más estudiar todo en inglés.
I got my degree from the OU. I finished it in 2 and half years, and got a 2:1. I did it primarily to get a better career. It has done absolutely jack shit for me, it was a complete waste of time. The fact that some people still ask “is it a real degree, though?” says it all. Even if it technically is a real degree, so many employers look down on it. For anyone reading this: If you want to get a degree, and maybe you didn’t get A levels or whatever, do an Access to HE course, which will get you the credits to go to an actual brick and mortar university. The OU is only for people who want to do a degree for fun or self-improvement, not for career reasons. I’m 31 with a degree but no job prospects. I can’t go to a university either because I already have a degree so I can’t get a student loan. I’m essentially fucked.
What course did you study? Also thanks for the advice... most people i spoke to and some previous employers say an OU degree is not really valid especially when your competing with other people who went to top universities
I see where you're coming from, at 31 there's no way to leave your job and go to a brick Uni so the OU is one of the main options. I did my Physics degree at a good brick when I was a youngster and much later a Math degree from the OU, but I was already working in the computer industry so did it for fun. I can tell you that the workload was harder due to full time work and I felt the quality was as good as my brick uni degree, maybe not as much choice but my Physics is much stronger now with the enhanced Math. If you want to work in the IT industry for example, don't bother with a degree - get the industry certifications with loads of hands on. Having sat on many interview boards we always valued OU degrees, regardless of what the subject actually was. Many people who start an OU degree don't complete it, it's a real grind.
Can I just ask what is the problem With working full time whilst doing OU? Because I’ve seen a lot of comments say that’s very hard work etc but if there is a time limit of 16 years what’s the rush?
The problem for me has only been while studying level 3 courses as they’re more difficult and require more time to study and understand. That said, if you’re not worried about the time it takes you to complete it, you can do 30 credits per year instead of 60 (for level 3 courses) which would make it easier and less time consuming.
I'm thinking of enrolling on to OU and doing a combined language degree. What happens if you don't pass the exam on modules? You have the opportunity to retake it? When I did A level you only had one opportunity and that was it!
great video! maybe you just need to take a break? to be honest its really impressive seeing someone this far into their course, most OU videos on here are from people who have just started their studies whereas you are almost through it! and it doesn't matter if you never work in a science related field, you're going to be able to walk around with your head held high for the rest of your life knowing you completed one of the hardest degree subjects in existence ha! And you did it all without the support of a traditional brick University.
Thank you!! Yes, you’re right, maybe I just need a break. And yes, I feel like I’ll be really proud once it’s all over, it’s just hard and stressful at the minute
@@LuciaMontesEN One of my best friends is now doing his PhD in particle physics, but I remembered he took a few years away from physics after his undergrad degree (and a short break again after his master's, and again soon). It sounds like you could use a break, but suspect in the long term you won't regret it if you finish. No kidding about the cost though, I wish I'd done my first degree in Scotland!
It depends on what you want it for but I’d say yes. If it’s something you’re interested in and you’re willing to commit the time then go for it. A lot of “normal” universities are doing more online in the past year, so in that sense the OU has more experience.
@@LuciaMontesEN I wanted to pursue my masters in a STEM subject :) and didn't have educational background and getting the degree for strengthening my fundamentals 🙏
@@sukhamritsingh3420 if you want to take a master in STEM it is a wonderful degree to have (but applied stats route not pure math) Or you can consider computing with stats, and data science.
@@nilesc9184 can you please let me know which one would benefit me more of the OU degrees available as there's no applied statistics , there's only data science separately !!
@@sukhamritsingh3420 i mean maths and stats degree there are two pathways . Go the stats/applied math pathway. It depends what master are you getting. STEM is a broad category....
It is, yes. But that’s life sometimes, and I can’t complain about having a job that pays well with everything that’s happening in the world. I’ll try to use my new science skills on side projects so I can get satisfaction from it.
A degree is still a degree. Spanish degrees probably aren’t as good as British degrees. Once you leave you can say you have a degree and use it for whatever job you want to go into
Great video! :) I am in a similar situation and I am wondering whether I should go for Natural Sciences (Physics) or Maths and Physics as I particularly enjoy physics. May I ask you why you didn’t pick Natural Science degree? x
Hello 👋. It’s funny I want to study the same. 🤔 Luckily i found your video. But for me it’s the opposite. I had kind of the life you now life and now know I want to try to live you planed to do.
It is a huge commitment to do the OU with a full time job. I am in year two of a Master's finishing in January. Well done to everyone who completes it it is a huge commitment. To pick up books and study after a day of work.
Good luck with your Masters!
Darn, and just when I was considering an MA myself! Oh, well, there's always the beach I suppose... Oh, and alcohol, musn't forget that... :) and ice-cream...
As a bright person, you may find yourself later in life, more financially stable, in management, very comfortable but not intellectually challenged enough by your job. Having your 2.1 in a Math/STEM degree will keep doors open for you for postgraduate study or even just quantitative jobs that others can't do. Having a science but less math-y undergrad degree made this sort of pivot later much harder for me.
That is a very good point, thank you!
In 2015 I started at a brick university and up until 2018 when I left I had only achieved 165 credits in 3 years as I failed. I got a Certificate of Higher Education. I had a year out and was working a job I was not happy with. My life was over. But then I saw a advert for open University and decided to join in September 2019. I got 120 credits for the first year transferred and 30 credits that counted towards the second year. I’m studying BSc Hons Biology. I decided to do 3x30 credit modules as then with the 150 already and 90 with open university I would of achieved 240 credits altogether and I wouldn’t waste 1 whole year if i split up the modules into 2 years. I just got my result last week and have passed all my modules. I now have 240 credits and will be starting my final year in October 2020. At the moment i have the equivalent of a HND/FdSc (I know the ou doesn’t offer FdSc so I mean equivalent). The OU saved my life and I’m so proud to have 240 credits/2 years of university under my belt 🙌🏼 p.s I was not going to join the OU but I watched your old videos and decided to take this route.
That’s amazing to hear!! Congratulations! I’m also starting my last year in October 😊
Lucia Montes good luck to us both and everyone who is studying with the OU 😊
@Waqif News hello, to do a degree it is not free but if you live in the U.K. you can get tuition loan from Student finance England. However the open university does offer some free courses to acquire some skills. I went to a brick university for 3 years and was not able to get more student loan for a full time brick uni if I was to carry on or start a bachelors degree again at another brick uni. But with open university no matter how much loan you have acquired before it doesn’t matter as long as you have not got a bachelors already you can join the Open University and get up to 16 years of student Loan to study with the open university as it counts as a part time loan. You can study 30, 60, 90 or the full 120 credits in one school year and it will still count as a part time loan. Also this is 100% correct the information I am giving you as I have literally gone through this whole process and been on the phones to student finance England for hours :)
I am getting tired of it too. I will be completing my last level 2 module in 2020. Unlike you, I love the math modules but not so much the physics. I hated S217 but I'm hoping I will enjoy level 3 physics better. My strategy is to only take 30 credits of level 3 modules per year. Yes, it will take me 4 more years but I have a full-time job and other things going on in my life so this is the best option for me. But for you... Hang in there! You're almost done 🙂
I loved s217! Haha yes, I would say 30 credits per year for level 3 is good, the modules expect a lot more from you at that level
Thank you for this comment. Im having a full time job and im looking to get a degree with time flexibility
Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms?
@@呀你可 It depends where you want to work. In the United States you can become a patent lawyer with a science degree. 你是从中国来的吗？
@@TheBorgChick from China currently in HK, expect to take the California bar in a year!
The most important thing is to not lose the passion you have for physics through this experience. Keep up and you'll get there. Sending positive vibes.
Thank you! 💕
I always feel sad when I hear those who find Maths a 'chore'. I know this is nearly two years on and perhaps you've finally overcome your lack of enthusiasm for those parts of your course. I did two degrees with the OU - (one in Mathematics). The degrees were a cinch to study because I enjoyed all those subjects that I enrolled for.
I had started postgrad study, a Masters degree in Engineering when I suddenly 'lost' my ability to commit to studying. Maybe it was because I didn't enjoy those subjects like I did with my previous undergraduate courses?
Perhaps a rest is needed and maybe - I will restart later. But if not, 'hey-ho' I enjoyed most it. I hope you get your mojo back, but it's OK if you don't. Don't kick yourself.
Thanks for the comment! Yeah definitely haven’t been as excited as when I first started and also have become busier at my job etc so I feel like I have to put a lot more effort into it, but I now only have 1 month left of the degree so there’s light at the end of the tunnel
John for me maths is very interesting, but when I have to narrow a concept into an equation (I never did equations in 1996,it just wasn't a thing in my schools I attended), I never was shown equation, if you have any basic rules for a tired brain, I would be much appreciated
I just did a video about balancing work life with studying. Its so hard to get the balance. Trying to schedule time in and cram it in. I considered doing it part time but am trying 3 years full time mainly because i cant stick at things! I really get what you are saying about the modules you just dont enjoy. I am trying to plug through with one of them now! I hope it all works out for you.
Seeing how much you’re passionate about astrophysics was so beautiful and encouraging
:)
Hello Lucia, why did you choose "Mathematics and Physics" instead of just pursuing a "Physics" degree? While both degrees involve a significant amount of mathematics, the Physics degree tends to have a stronger emphasis on the physics aspect. I am asking because I am considering starting a Physics degree this year. I have already completed a bachelor's degree in Material Engineering at a "normal university," but it's not really my area of interest. Thank you 😁
Also did you know that an almost identical kind of university exists here in India as well, Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). It's run by the government and is very cheap. We also get weekend classes in regular colleges (although most of them aren't worth it, but helps you make new friends)
I started with BSC.Physics (Hons), but lost interest in between (coz I figured out I wasn't gonna go in Pure Scientific Research anyways) and converted most of the courses to Biology(Life Sciences) ones. This was a pretty interesting and fun to learn kinda experience.......Also we had laboratory courses, which although fun were very frustrating too because of the college administration.
Now I'm done with everything and waiting for the results. Would probably be a graduate before the end of this year! Have some govt. job exams lined up after that. Hope you get your degree soon as well! All the best for the future!
Its the same thing in my country, we have 'Open University of Mauritius' and there are face-to-face classes every saturday....
You've hit the OH nail on the head Lucia; it's exhausting, and at times, downright de-motivational. I'm about to start year SIX! and have had enough. At times I've hated studying despite having got good grades throughout. And that doing a 'vanity degree' (art history). How you've stuck at it to get a 'proper' degree is beyond me. Honestly, very well done. Give yourself a pat on the back and get down the shops for some self-congratulatory retail therapy...
Thank you! Yes, it was very tiring (mentally a and physically) at times and now I can’t even remember how I had the time and drive to study almost every day. But it was worth it!
@@LuciaMontesEN I've now started the dreaded year SIX...and my brain is already melting! Dates, facts, arguments: they're all one to me. Lol.
I had the exact same feelings about the maths as you. I was on the Maths degree, got all the way to M208 (pure maths) and was just not remotely interested - spent half the time looking forward to the physics modules. Ended up switching to straight physics!
Yeah the pure maths ones are not as enjoyable!
Although you don’t want to work in the feild I would still aim for a 2:1 because in the future you may want a career change and go on to do a masters or a graduate programme most require a 2:1
hello! may i ask what is a 2:1? I am a foreigner interested in the Open University.
I got a 2:2 in mathematics and physics (with hons) and I went on to do a fully-funded master by research in turbulence modelling/marine turbine engineering. Many masters (even funded research projects) will take on 2:2 graduates, and will look at your transcript and areas of study.
@@merlethe Congrats on your achievement but most decent masters degrees typically require a 2.1. I'm saying this so nobody reading is mislead.
@@77oxf well actually while they state this whenever you email them they will say that while typically they require this, they will always look at an individual application - ie not cast them out on that basis alone.
I'm finishing a BA (Hons) in business management, it took me 4 years to complete and cost roughly £9,000. In my opinion, if at all possible you should go through a brick-and-mortar learning provider. The OU mark a lot harsher than traditional universities but do not provide the same level of tuition. The tutors are inattentive and underpaid and therefore strike regularly. The degrees are not accredited the same i.e. you do not receive a 2:1 or First in your relevant subject, rather a 'grade 2 pass' etc. This has confused some people when graduating and I assume it may also raise some eyebrows during a job interview. All in all, I wouldn't have studied through the OU if it wasn't my only option. In short
PROs - low academic barriers to entry, slightly cheaper than traditional universities, the flexibility of learning
CONS - Lower quality tuition, lack of social learning, harder to receive decent grading, differences in final grading terminology, and complete lack of transparency of how assignments are marked and incoherent guidance to students.
In summary, if it's your only option go for it. If you have any way of attending a traditional uni then I would strongly advise it! It's slightly more expensive, but it's well worth it to get proper tuition and to gain from the social aspect of learning.
I agree it wouldn’t be my first option for a first degree, but good for a second degree or for those who aren’t able to afford or attend a “regular” university. I have a journalism degree from a regular university and didn’t find I had more help from my professors in most cases, so in my experience the attention to detail and the student wasn’t too dissimilar.
There are many accredited degrees offered by the OU, for example Engineering is accredited by the Institute of Engineering & Technology and more professional bodies. The OU awards First, Upper Second, Lower second and a Third Honour degrees. Pass 1 to 4 is a grade awarded for each successfully completed module.
Lucia, I wish you good luck in the rest of your degree. You should be glad that you have gone this far and I am sure that you will do well. Did you take the Stars, Planets, and Galaxy course? My MA in Classical Studies was expensive with the First part costing over 2,000 euros which was over $5,000 in Canadian money and the Second Part of my MA costing over 5,000 euros which was over $11,000 in Canadian money. I am definitely not doing anymore degree at the Open University because it is too expensive and it is a lot of work and effort. If I want to study at the OU, I would just take short courses or OpenLearn and FutureLearn courses.
Yes I agree it’s too expensive
All I will say is, as long as you do not hate your current job... Also, it is never too late to change careers. I have peers that did their OU degrees in their 30s and are now active research scientist postdocs close to their 40s.
Not only that, but, your degree can open up many different avenues, not just in science :-). Use the OU's careers service for advice, it will be worth it ;-).
Very true, thank you!
You're welcome! If you want a chat about this, more than happy to find time around my thesis writing.
I'm 41, single and thinking of doing a Maths BSc. Its gonna take 6 years. I'm not sure what to do.
Our world is changing at an incredible pace. Do check out the series called "The Giant Leap" by Bloomberg. Computing enabled space exploration is coming in the decades ahead. There may yet be an unexpected opportunity to use the Astrophysics knowledge combined with the Communications experience. All the best in finishing what you started.
I’ll check it out, thank you!
@@LuciaMontesEN Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms?
Hi how would this degree in math and physics help in law career? I have passed the bar exam. Say I got the licence, would it help to get me into the crypto, blockchain area of law practice in law firms? And even space law possibly in the future?
Lucia I can understand your problem and I give you a big thumbs up of being able to learn anything while you are under the stress of all that money dissipating continuously. I think I have the solution for you. My father began to write a book on fluid dynamics which is expressed in differential geometry and vector calculus except for boundary equations which remain Eularian. Its original target was the OU but they refused funding. Now besides this I have a booklet of model Bsc physics exam answers. It seems clear to me,
anybody with comprehension of both items would be worth a master's degree. And fluid dynamics is going to play a major part in astrophysics.
in hindsight would you say it would have been better to do a straight Physics degree, which I guess includes necessary mathematical methods modules without going deep into mathematical proofs etc. rather concentrate on the physics as this is most interesting?
Yes, definitely
you've come this far so finish it. A degree in mathematics is well sort after .
Yes, I’ll definitely finish it, I just wish I was more excited about it
Thanks, Lucía for sharing your story and point of view, and how you feel at this moment xx
is it possible to enter a master's degree at another university after completing a bachelor's degree in mathematics at OU?
yes, the Open University degree is a normal degree and valid to enter a master's degree
@@LuciaMontesEN what about the quality of teaching? OU university takes a distant place in the rankings, it has no prestige
Have you considered changing to Q64 physics track? also heard that OU is developing an IOP accredited BSc Honours Physics degree (not named Physical Science but probably the same modules as the current IOP accredited track from Q64) I'm doing Q77 like you, but I enjoy the mathematics.
I thought about it but I think I’ve gone too far now, I don’t want to do extra years at this point
Hi Lucia, I'm starting S382 this year and looking forward to it but like you, I'm enjoying the physics more than the maths. Im not too sure what mathematics modules to pick for stage 3. What maths modules have you studied and what would you recommend?
For stage 3 I’ve done applications of probability and I liked it. It started off a bit too fast for me so I was a bit frustrated with it at first but once I took my time it was actually quite enjoyable and not difficult on the maths side
Thanks Lucia, I was thinking of doing the fluid dynamics and stochastic dynamics next year but im hearing both of these modules are very difficult so maybe doing Probability with one of the them might be a bit better.
Hello it’s Tariqul so i want to do a Course under open University at madrid, but i Don't have recidance so can do any course please
Yo también estoy en la OU pero haciendo psicología y la verdad a veces me siento un poco perdido porque siento que no te proporcionan mucha información en ciertas cosas....Por cierto me alegra saber que hay otra española en londres haciendo la OU!
mucho ánimo! La verdad que es muy solitario por decirlo de alguna forma pero ayuda si te unes a grupos en Facebook o whatsapp para cada uno de tus módulos
I finished q77 last year. By the end I hated it. It started off so well. But they just took all the fun out of it.
That’s what I’m thinking with my last Maths module 😂
I was contemplating Maths & Physics. However, you have to choose 2 physics and 2 maths Level 3 modules. Amongst the Maths modules the fluid dynamics one looked good, but all the others (optimization, graphs, stochastic etc) just didn't appeal. So I think i'm just going to stick with Physics R51 degree.
Yes, I agree. I struggled to pick level 3 maths modules because the physics ones looked more interesting. Ended up with the fluid dynamics one and the probability one.
The maths one are really good to go in big data/AI field tbh.
Very good honest video, would have liked for you to discuss the content of modules
Thank you! It’s a lot to discuss but I’ll make a new video once I’m finished this year with an overview of all the modules
@@LuciaMontesEN Thank you, just really interested to hear what a real student thinks of the actual content, its ridiculous that OU don't give info on the actual content and reading resources
You may be able to switch to an Open degree or a combined STEM degree & transfer all of your modules to it & then only enrol onto subsequent physics modules, you innately want to attempt. However, it’s best in your interest to call up the SST to discuss about your academic options in further detail.
Thank you! I’ll have a look
Lucía, genial tu vídeo! Yo lo estudiaría para entender teorías de la física que de manera autodidacta, sin refrescar y ampliar mis matemáticas especializadas (soy ingeniero) no llegaré a entender. Necesito hacerlo para desarrollar mi otro interés: Filosofía del Tiempo y Espacio.
Un par de preguntas:
- Comentaste que la matemática estudiada no se relacionaba mucho con los cursos de física; ese divorcio me preocupa, puedes ampliar?
- Investigaste UNED? Cómo las compararías para esta carrera?
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Muchos de los estudios de matemáticas vienen bien para los de física pero las rutas de las asignaturas son completamente diferentes (los módulos de matemáticas no están pensados para ser aplicados directamente a la física). En cuanto a la UNED, la verdad es que no miré mucho porque me interesaba más estudiar todo en inglés.
I got my degree from the OU. I finished it in 2 and half years, and got a 2:1. I did it primarily to get a better career. It has done absolutely jack shit for me, it was a complete waste of time. The fact that some people still ask “is it a real degree, though?” says it all. Even if it technically is a real degree, so many employers look down on it.
For anyone reading this: If you want to get a degree, and maybe you didn’t get A levels or whatever, do an Access to HE course, which will get you the credits to go to an actual brick and mortar university. The OU is only for people who want to do a degree for fun or self-improvement, not for career reasons.
I’m 31 with a degree but no job prospects. I can’t go to a university either because I already have a degree so I can’t get a student loan. I’m essentially fucked.
What course did you study? Also thanks for the advice... most people i spoke to and some previous employers say an OU degree is not really valid especially when your competing with other people who went to top universities
I see where you're coming from, at 31 there's no way to leave your job and go to a brick Uni so the OU is one of the main options. I did my Physics degree at a good brick when I was a youngster and much later a Math degree from the OU, but I was already working in the computer industry so did it for fun. I can tell you that the workload was harder due to full time work and I felt the quality was as good as my brick uni degree, maybe not as much choice but my Physics is much stronger now with the enhanced Math. If you want to work in the IT industry for example, don't bother with a degree - get the industry certifications with loads of hands on.
Having sat on many interview boards we always valued OU degrees, regardless of what the subject actually was. Many people who start an OU degree don't complete it, it's a real grind.
Whether you use it or not its still character building!
Completely agree!
Can I just ask what is the problem
With working full time whilst doing OU? Because I’ve seen a lot of comments say that’s very hard work etc but if there is a time limit of 16 years what’s the rush?
The problem for me has only been while studying level 3 courses as they’re more difficult and require more time to study and understand. That said, if you’re not worried about the time it takes you to complete it, you can do 30 credits per year instead of 60 (for level 3 courses) which would make it easier and less time consuming.
Appreciate your videos! How is Open University in general?
In general it’s great, I would say. A great opportunity to go back and learn more if you’re older or can’t go back to a normal university
How many hours would you estimate it takes,per week, to do the work (at 1.1 level) for q77?
I'm thinking of enrolling on to OU and doing a combined language degree. What happens if you don't pass the exam on modules? You have the opportunity to retake it? When I did A level you only had one opportunity and that was it!
@@elb3960 You do have an opportunity to retake. Maybe consult your exam help section on your module website.
great video! maybe you just need to take a break? to be honest its really impressive seeing someone this far into their course, most OU videos on here are from people who have just started their studies whereas you are almost through it! and it doesn't matter if you never work in a science related field, you're going to be able to walk around with your head held high for the rest of your life knowing you completed one of the hardest degree subjects in existence ha! And you did it all without the support of a traditional brick University.
Thank you!! Yes, you’re right, maybe I just need a break. And yes, I feel like I’ll be really proud once it’s all over, it’s just hard and stressful at the minute
@@LuciaMontesEN One of my best friends is now doing his PhD in particle physics, but I remembered he took a few years away from physics after his undergrad degree (and a short break again after his master's, and again soon). It sounds like you could use a break, but suspect in the long term you won't regret it if you finish.
No kidding about the cost though, I wish I'd done my first degree in Scotland!
I'm planning to take bsc mathematics and statistics from Open University UK. Is it worth taking that degree in 2021 ? Please help
It depends on what you want it for but I’d say yes. If it’s something you’re interested in and you’re willing to commit the time then go for it. A lot of “normal” universities are doing more online in the past year, so in that sense the OU has more experience.
@@LuciaMontesEN I wanted to pursue my masters in a STEM subject :) and didn't have educational background and getting the degree for strengthening my fundamentals 🙏
@@sukhamritsingh3420 if you want to take a master in STEM it is a wonderful degree to have (but applied stats route not pure math)
Or you can consider computing with stats, and data science.
@@nilesc9184 can you please let me know which one would benefit me more of the OU degrees available as there's no applied statistics , there's only data science separately !!
@@sukhamritsingh3420 i mean maths and stats degree there are two pathways . Go the stats/applied math pathway. It depends what master are you getting. STEM is a broad category....
Do you have to attend a Lab school for physics?
You don’t, it’s all done online
Are you spanish? Your accent is flawless!
Yes, I am Spanish
How many disciplines do you study in 1 year at the OU?
It all depends on the degree you choose and the credits you choose to do that year, it’s quite flexible
This is sad that your mortgage and commitments are preventing you from doing a job/career you'd rather be in.
It is, yes. But that’s life sometimes, and I can’t complain about having a job that pays well with everything that’s happening in the world. I’ll try to use my new science skills on side projects so I can get satisfaction from it.
A degree is still a degree. Spanish degrees probably aren’t as good as British degrees. Once you leave you can say you have a degree and use it for whatever job you want to go into
Is there a time limit to get the degree or do you learn at your own pace
Chimdalu Onwualu you have 10 years to complete a degree
You learn at your own pace but there is a time limit of 16 years for the degree I’m doing
Great video! :) I am in a similar situation and I am wondering whether I should go for Natural Sciences (Physics) or Maths and Physics as I particularly enjoy physics. May I ask you why you didn’t pick Natural Science degree? x
I was into theoretical physics more but I do regret it now
Natural Sciences (Physics) isn't the same as R51 which is just Physics.
@@77oxf What are the differences bwteem pure math, pure physics, and math-physics the degree wise?
@@77oxf how to find out the difference of these courses so that to choose from?
@@呀你可 I'd suggest Google/look at the Open University website.
Hello 👋. It’s funny I want to study the same. 🤔 Luckily i found your video. But for me it’s the opposite. I had kind of the life you now life and now know I want to try to live you planed to do.
May I asked you if you studied physics or the maths/physics degree?
I'm doing the maths and physics degree
@@stefanluginger3682 same question here. What would be the difference between them?
Is the open university accredited
Yes, it is
en espanol?
I love your videos😍😍😍😍 me ayudan para aprender english
This was 4 years ago now, is your boyfriend now your husband?
The courses seem to be extremely expensive
They are cheaper than a normal university in the UK but more expensive than Spain, for example.
you are really handsome