Part-time Study

Studying part time offers a realistic option for many young people and may mean that you can earn and learn without getting into thousands of pounds of debt.

Around 40 per cent of higher education students do part-time or flexible courses.

Many universities and colleges offer part time or distance-learning options - see individual university and college websites and part time prospectuses for course details.

The Open University (OU)

• The OU is the biggest provider of part time higher education study with over 15,000 of all their new students aged under 25.
• Around 10,000 of OU students have a disability or additional requirement and 70% of OU students are working full or part time.
• Part time Foundation Degrees and certificate or diploma courses are quicker to complete than traditional degrees studied part time and can often be 'topped up' at a later date.
  
• On some courses, such as those offered by the OU, you build up credits at your own pace until you have enough for a qualification. 
• Learning is offered at a much lower cost and because they are so flexible it means that you can start your career and earn a real salary while you learn.
• Open University courses are not an option that will suit everyone. You will need to have the drive and motivation to succeed as well as good time management skills. There's lots of support, contact with tutors and students online plus the opportunity to meet up in person for study days and residential events.
• You may qualify for financial support - many students are able to study for free with the OU. They are not interested in what your parents earn.
  
• Unlike other universities there are no formal entry requirements as long as your English is good enough and no interviews or application criteria.
• For the last four years the OU has been rated in the top two universities in the national Student Survey.