Social Sciences Prospectus

Social Sciences
Prospectus
2009/2010
INSPIRING LEARNING
The OU has changed my
whole view of life – simply
by helping me rediscover the
utter joy of learning.
Toni Hourahane, OU student
Be everything you want to be with The Open University

Over the last 40 years, we’ve transformed the lives of more than two million people by
giving them the inspiration, means and support to discover their dreams.
The opportunity is yours, come and join us…
• You’ll be part of Europe’s largest academic community with over 210,000 students
learning with us each year. Our broadcast programmes engage the world and our
research projects shape it.
• Be inspired by our huge range of fascinating and challenging subjects across all levels
from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees.
• Our courses are created by some of the finest minds of their generation. We invest
millions of pounds to ensure we lead the way in educational technology and our
courses are delivered to you in the most unique and compelling way.
• You can study in a flexible way that works for you – at home, at work or on the move.
We call this approach supported ‘Open Learning’.
• We’re right behind you all the way and you’re never alone. With many courses you’ll
benefit from unrivalled one to one support from your tutor. Whether via email, phone
or face to face, this support is available to you even during evenings and weekends.
• We are local to you. We have 13 national and regional centres alongside 350 study
centres across the UK with our staff always ready to help you.
• Enjoy the support of your fellow students. There’s a whole community to meet in
tutorials, online forums or to network with socially.
• Not only are we the biggest UK university, but our students also continuously vote
us one of the best. For the last four years The Open University has been rated in
the top two universities for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey.
• Businesses see the benefits of using us to educate their employees and over
75 per cent of FTSE 100 companies have sponsored staff on our courses.
• To ensure everyone is given the opportunity to learn and achieve, you can qualify
for help with study costs even if your household income is as high as £30,0001.
Last year we helped over 38,000 people.
Be part of something extraordinary
1
Depending on number of points of study and where you live.
Introduction
1
Contents
�
Introduction 1 Where do I start? 31
Welcome 2
Courses 32
Your OU experience 4
Openings – introductory courses

Your guide to qualifications 7
to build your confidence 32
Building your qualification 8

Openings courses 33
Your career 11
Short courses 34
Your next steps 13

Longer, broader courses 36
Criminology 38
Qualifications 14
Economics and financial studies 38
Foundation degrees 15
Environment 40
Certificate and diploma of higher education 17
Geography 41
Degrees 19
International studies 42
Other qualifications you might be interested in 28
Media studies 43
The Open Programme 29
Politics 44
Frequently asked questions 30
Psychological studies 45
Social policy 46
Sociology 47
Becoming an OU student 48
Applying to the OU 48
How much will it cost? 48
Financial support 50
If you have a disability, health condition,
mental-health disability or specific
learning difficulty 51
Studying outside the UK 52
What else you should know 54
Contact points for advice and registration 56
Ordering other prospectuses 57
Open access: other ways to read this publication

�
You may find it easier to access information from our website www.open.ac.uk
If you would like this publication electronically please call
+44 (0)845 300 60 90 or email us at general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
quoting ‘Alternative format’ in the subject box.
Other alternative formats are available on request.
Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90
2 Introduction
Welcome
�
Across the curriculum new courses

are appearing in all subjects.
The Faculty of Social Sciences at the OU is the largest in the UK, and
a world leader in fully supported Open Learning. We have a superb
record of excellence in the Teaching Quality Review process, with all
six social sciences departments achieving ‘excellent’ ratings.
This teaching quality is supported by top-class research where we have
major successes hosting large Economic and Social Research Council
(ESRC) and European Union funded programmes and our Geographer
researchers achieving the top (5*) rating in the last Research
Assessment Exercise (RAE). This success in research feeds directly into
our teaching and helps us to produce courses that are clearly attractive
to study, and which reflect developments at the frontiers of research and Dr Simon Bromley
scholarship. One of our hallmarks is that we do our utmost to ensure our Associate Dean (Curriculum Planning)
research informs course production, so our students benefit from that
leading edge in research.
Building on this success we are continuing with the development of our
curriculum and this year sees the launch of new Openings and Short
courses to complement our larger courses. We have recently launched
a number of exciting new qualifications including foundation degrees
in counselling and financial studies, a new degree in social policy and
criminology, and a certificate and diploma of higher education which
form pathway qualifications toward some of the degrees described in
this prospectus.
We have nearly 30,000 students studying our courses each year and this
year sees the launch of our new Level 1 course Introducing the social
sciences (DD101). We think this will prove to be an innovative renewal
of our curriculum which will provide students with an interesting and
enjoyable experience of Level 1 study in the social sciences, as well
as preparing them for study at Level 2 in any of our subject areas.
Our new courses and qualifications offer an ever richer menu of choices
for you to study. You can test the waters with Openings or Short courses
or step straight into studying one of the bigger courses, though we
strongly recommend that you begin at Level 1 if you have not studied in
higher education before. Students who gain a firm grounding in higher
level study at Level 1 are better prepared to face the exciting challenges
of Levels 2 and 3.
All of our courses are supported by a network of experienced and
committed academic tutors across the country who will provide
guidance and tuition appropriate to the type of course you choose.
The skill and enthusiasm of our tutors makes a great contribution to the
success of the teaching and learning of students in the faculty.
Whether you join us for a Short course for fun or with a view to gaining
one of the many exciting qualifications we offer, I wish you every
success in your studies and hope you enjoy your time with us.

Introduction
3
We’re built on millions of

moments of personal inspiration
The experiences of self-discovery and transformation, enjoyed by over
two million of our students across four decades, are what drive us.
We are passionate about sharing learning with anyone who has the desire
to improve their mind and enhance their life.
Our unique, world-leading approach to study It’s your motivation we’re interested in
is called supported ‘Open Learning’. It’s ‘open’
because you learn in your own time and place and – not your previous qualifications
‘supported’ because you’re never alone. As the I always wondered what it took to achieve a
UK’s biggest university the range of our courses degree – and now I am starting to find out.
is something that most other universities can It’s a really exciting adventure.
only dream of. We’ll challenge you, stretch your Sharon Dee, OU student
understanding and make you question ideas that

Our doors are open to everyone. In fact, over 40 per
you’ve always taken for granted – it’s truly world-
cent of new OU students in the UK don’t have the
class learning.
qualifications to enter a campus-based university.
We’ll connect you with the things that inspire you, So if you don’t have a conventional educational
wherever you are and wherever you’ve come from. background it certainly won’t hold you back.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to study with us,
then so do we. We’ll help you fit your
We’ll give you as much studies around your life
If you’re committed to fitting something into
support as you need your life, it’s surprising to learn just how
One of the greatest revelations about much free time you actually have.
learning with the OU is discovering the tutors Garry Greenland, OU student
really are on your side and they really want you
Over 70 per cent of OU students are working full or
to succeed.
part time during their studies. There’s no doubt that
Chris Latham, OU student
studying with us takes real self-discipline, but our
We’re a strong community, and many of our students courses are designed to be highly flexible so you
receive more individual tutor support than at campus- can work at a pace that suits you.
based universities. Whether it’s via email, the phone
or at one of our tutorial sessions – your tutor will be We’ll provide you with a
on hand to give you feedback, answer your questions
and offer you support if you need it.
world-class education
The course materials were absolutely
We’ll help you find a way amazing. The DVDs, the books – everything
was always perfect, so well presented and laid out.
to afford your studies I always got exactly the right stuff, there was never
I always thought that because I work full anything missing.
time I wouldn’t receive any financial support, Sarah Witts, OU student
so I was very surprised to find I could get most of
Our qualifications are highly respected by employers
my undergraduate fees paid for.
and other academic institutions. In fact, there isn’t a
Jason McDonagh, OU student
university in the land that doesn’t use OU teaching
We help more people with the cost of study than methods and materials.
anyone else – over 38,000 people received financial
support last year. And even if you don’t qualify So isn’t it time you followed
for financial support we’ll help you manage your
payments by spreading them out in instalments.
your inspiration?
The OU helped me get back on track; it was
one of those really golden moments when
everything seemed to come together.
Mickey Poland, OU student

4 Introduction
Your OU experience
�
As an OU student, you’ll need to apply yourself and put in the time and
effort. But it will prove to be an unforgettable learning experience.
What sets us apart from other universities is that All our courses are designed so you can fit studying
we’re not campus based. Instead we deliver high- around your work and other commitments. You can
quality materials and resources directly to our study in your own way, at home, in the office, or
students. The work is just as rigorous and our wherever suits you.
qualifications are well regarded, and there are plenty
of opportunities for our students to get involved. Our 13 regional and national centres, alongside
350 tutorial venues in the UK alone, ensure you won’t
You’ll meet some great people, build up your skills feel isolated.
and knowledge, and thoroughly enjoy yourself in
the process. About 80 per cent of OU students
FACT: work while they study.
An excellent reputation
Our courses are widely recognised as being
Top-class teaching
innovative and of the highest quality. In recent We have an enviable network of around 9000 course
Teaching Quality Assessments, the Faculty of Social tutors across the UK, many of whom are practising
Sciences was one of the few nationally to be awarded professionals with strong academic backgrounds,
an ‘excellent’ grading in all its subject courses. sector specific skills and practical experience. Our
course materials are written and developed by OU
Our teaching is fed by the very latest research.
Many of our academics are actively involved in academics who are experts in their specialist fields
highly regarded OU research groups, such as the and in supported Open Learning.
Centre for Citizenship, Identities and Governance, We provide leading-edge teaching, born out of
and the International Centre for Comparative extensive research and close links with partners
Criminological Research. such as the BBC.
The value of our innovative teaching materials is
recognised by many professional bodies, and
By supporting broadcast favourites because of our rigorous academic standards, OU
FACT: Coast and Child of Our Time as well qualifications are universally recognised, at home
as one-off series such as Meet the Immigrants and abroad.
and Lenny’s Britain, we take social science ideas
into the community and onto television screens. Continual support
We also provide additional features, reviews and Before you register you can get information from our
discussion forums on www.Open2.net advisers who can answer your questions and provide
guidance on a host of subjects, such as choosing
courses, the career implications of study, course
preparation, study arrangements or difficulties, how
Choice and flexibility to get help with your fees, and tutorial support. All
Are you studying to assist your career, to become this help is available through our Student Registration
qualified for a new career or simply for pleasure? Are & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90. Staff
you working full time, part time or not at all? Whatever there will either help you directly, or refer you on for
your circumstances, we can provide a solution. further guidance.
OU programmes tend to be less rigid than those Once you register we’ll send you a welcome pack,
at campus-based universities, so you can mix and which will include an introductory booklet on studying
match courses to build towards a qualification, or just with the OU. Your first course mailing will include
take a single course and not commit yourself any materials specially developed for your course. These
further – it’s entirely up to you. contain an appropriate combination of manuals,
If you would like to study for a degree you can resource books, DVDs and textbooks.
choose from a number of courses in a particular You’ll also receive a study calendar, designed to
subject area to work towards a degree in a named help you pace your study alongside family, work and
subject – for example, an honours degree in the other commitments.
social sciences. Or you can mix and match courses
from different subjects based on personal interest
or career development to build towards an Open
degree, see page 29.

Introduction
5
As an OU student you’ll enjoy full support throughout

your studies, with a course tutor or study adviser to
Employer sponsorship
guide you and offer comprehensive feedback on – make out a good case
your coursework. Support is also offered by other OU
Your employer may support your studies in some way.
staff and by fellow students at tutorials, or as part of Highlighting some of the key advantages of studying
the global community of OU students who can be with us will strengthen your case:
reached through online forums.
• our programmes deliver practical and relevant
Over 37 per cent of OU Social Science learning, giving you skills and knowledge that
FACT: students have below two A Levels you can apply immediately in the workplace and
when they start to study. making a real difference to your performance
Value for money • you can continue to work full or part time
The materials we provide are of the highest • our courses promote greater confidence
internationally renowned quality, and may include: • most programmes are modular, allowing you to
• specially written textbooks or workbooks pace your studies alongside work commitments
• many courses are suitable for professional
• online teaching materials
development and can count towards a
• CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs and other computer software recognised qualification
• audio and visual recordings. • you’ll receive high levels of support from us,
helping you to succeed in your studies and career.
Sometimes there will be books you have to buy
yourself or borrow from a local library, but we’re We can help you make out a case for sponsorship.
careful to limit the cost as far as we can. For more information please call our Student Registration
& Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
The only additional costs will be for your own personal
equipment, such as a computer and its consumables.
You’ll also be responsible for any telephone or internet
Students with a disability
service provider charges your suppliers may make. or additional requirements
We also recommend that you budget for travel, for Our expertise in supported Open Learning, combined
example to tutorials or examinations. with a wide range of multimedia materials and
To find out exactly what you receive and what you personal support, means that we offer a much more
need to acquire for a specific course, click accessible system than traditional forms of study.
www.open.ac.uk/study and go to the detailed If you have a disability, health condition, mental
course description. health disability or specific learning difficulty (such as
Costs vary from course to course, dyslexia) that affects your ability to study, to attend a
FACT: but unlike some other institutions, residential school or to take examinations, we may be
our course fees include relevant materials, tuition, able to adapt our services to meet your specific needs.
assessment and any residential schools including We recommend that you contact us to discuss the
overnight accommodation. requirements and accessibility of the course you
intend to study before you register. You may also be
Financial support eligible for a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
Depending on your current circumstances, even A summary of our services is provided in our leaflet
if you’re in employment, you could be eligible for Open to Your Needs available from our Student
financial support to help pay towards your course Registration & Enquiry Service.
fees, study costs and other expenses. For more information, see page 51 or click
See pages 50–52 or click www.open.ac.uk/disability
www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport where you can
use our calculator to find out if you are eligible.
Over 38,000 financial awards were Around 10,000 of our students have
FACT: made to OU students last year. FACT: a disability or additional requirement.
6 Introduction
Course materials elearning and computers

and teaching methods Information and communication technology (ICT)
plays a big part in our programmes. So, to study
Our interactive teaching and multimedia materials with us you’ll need regular and reliable access to the
and workbooks bring a new dimension to learning. internet and a computer (unless you’re studying an
The materials we provide are yours to keep and to Openings course).
refer to whenever you wish.
You’ll find that collaboration with students and tutors
Everyone has a different pace and method of via online workshops supports and builds on your
learning, so we’ll do our best to cater for yours. course materials. You’ll also be able to take full
As part of your study, you may need to spend time advantage of our online services, including an OU
at a residential school. Most students say that this is email account, online forums and our vast online OU
one of the highlights of their learning experience. Library. See page 54 for more information.
Get a feel for OU study FACT:

We’re one of the first universities to offer
free downloadable course materials via
www.open.ac.uk/openlearn offers free access to iTunes. It’s the most convenient way to learn yet.
some of the OU’s course materials for you to try for For more information click www.open.ac.uk/itunes
yourself. Units can take between three and 15 hours
of study and you can: Using the OU Library
• follow a structure or dip in and out of materials As an OU student you’ll have free access to a world-
• get support as part of an online learning community class online library at www.open.ac.uk/library where
information is available to you via the internet, rather
• use innovative elearning tools. than you having to visit in person. This means you
Although it is free to use the site, it will still be can access quality information 24 hours a day, seven
necessary to apply separately to the OU if you days a week, whenever you need it and wherever you
wish to study the full course with a tutor and formal are. You can also visit the library at our Milton Keynes
assessment, and to gain qualifications. campus if you’re close enough.
The website acts as a gateway to a wide range of
How your work is assessed online information resources to support your learning.
Your assignments could be written work marked by These resources include thousands of ejournals for
your tutor, multiple choice questions marked by a accessing up-to-date articles in your subject area,
computer, or a combination of both. There may also ebooks and databases of reference material and
be project work or practical work to complete. Some multimedia resources.
courses will have an exam on a scheduled date at a The resources available through the library website
local venue, although in some areas in the UK you are specially selected and quality assured –
may be required to travel further to your exam. extremely useful for investigating subjects or in-depth
English as an research, providing information for your assignments

or projects, background and further reading for your
additional language course, or for keeping up to date with your subject.
Our courses are taught in English, so your spoken
and written English needs to be appropriate for the
When you get your qualification
�
level of study. If you’re worried about your English, Once you’ve gained your qualification, you can join
we can help in a number of ways. See English as an the OU Alumni Association, our vibrant and active
additional language on page 54. alumni community with 280,000 members worldwide.
You will enjoy many membership benefits, including
Developing your study skills regular newsletters, good networking opportunities
and access to the Alumni website.
If you’re worried about taking notes, writing essays,
organising yourself and studying, we can help in lots
of ways. See Developing your study skills on page 54.
Openings courses are also ideal for brushing
New for 2009
up on your study skills. See pages 32–34 for Platform is the OU’s new social media website
more information. which gives you the chance to get a flavour of
OU life before you sign up for a course. You will
find expert comments on issues of the day as
well as having the opportunity to meet and chat
to the OU community. To visit the OU’s virtual
campus, click www.open.ac.uk/platform

Introduction
7
Your guide to qualifications

The thought of studying with a university can be daunting if you haven’t
studied at this level before or you’re returning after a long period of time.
We’re here to help. With the OU you can study Depending on the subjects you choose to study
almost anything you like so you can choose the path we offer two different types of degree; a degree
that supports your learning at the pace you need. in a named subject – either a Bachelor of Arts (BA)
or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) – or our popular
Not sure which qualification Open degree.
is right for you? Degrees in a named subject

There’s no need to decide your long-term learning For a degree in a named subject, for example in
goals at the outset. A qualification with the OU is built social sciences or psychology, you’ll study mainly
up gradually by earning credit points for each course in your chosen subject, although you can usually
you take, so you can change your mind along the way. include some courses from other subjects too.
You just need to be sure that the courses you choose, Almost all these degrees are ‘honours degrees’.
particularly the first ones, are right for you in terms of An honours degree is awarded for study at an
level, study commitment and meeting your aims. advanced level; they are divided into four ‘classes’
(like grades): 1 (first – the highest level),
You can follow a focused course pathway to gain 2.1 (upper second), 2.2 (lower second) or 3 (third).
a degree in a named subject, such as an honours
degree in social sciences, or mix and match courses Foundation degree/diploma
from different subjects to achieve an Open degree. of higher education
So if you want to take criminology with management,
Foundation degrees are designed and developed
or geography with business studies, you can. with external partners, and in some cases you will
need to be working either as a paid employee or as
Entry requirements a volunteer in a related work setting. We also offer a
For undergraduate courses in social sciences, you new Diploma of Higher Education in Social Sciences
don’t need any formal qualifications, or to pass an (E50) – equivalent to the first two years of a full-time
entry test to study with us. Our undergraduate courses degree. See page 18 for more information.
are open to all because we believe anyone who is
keen to succeed should have the opportunity to study. An Open degree
Unlike a degree in a named subject, this type of
If, however, you have successfully completed some
degree lets you choose the combination of courses
higher-education level study before, you may be you study. For further information please see page 29
able to count some of it towards an OU qualification or click www.open.ac.uk/study-open
(see information about credit transfer on page 10).
Qualifications explained If you need some guidance to decide

which qualification is best for you,
Certificates and diplomas please don’t hesitate to contact us:
A certificate is a first-step qualification in its own
right, or a stage to mark your achievements on the Click www.open.ac.uk/study-socsci
way to a degree. A diploma involves more study than Call +44 (0)845 300 60 90
a certificate – usually at a higher level – specialising
We’re here to help.
in one area of study.
In social sciences, we offer a certificate and diploma
of higher education that have a different structure
Postgraduate and research study
to most other OU certificates and diplomas.
See pages 17–18 for further details. If you enjoy studying, why stop at
undergraduate level? We have more than 22,000
Undergraduate degrees students studying at postgraduate level. Click
An undergraduate or bachelors degree is a widely www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate-socsci for
recognised higher-education qualification that can information on our postgraduate opportunities
help you progress in your career. Even if you don’t in social sciences.
intend to use a degree for your career, the skills you
develop will help you take your interests further or
develop them in new directions.

8 Introduction
Building your qualification
OU study helps professional and personal development. With each course

you can earn a set number of credit points, so you can build up your points
total as well as building your knowledge and confidence on the way to
achieving your qualification.
What are courses? The table below shows how OU levels correspond
to the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) framework
To work towards a qualification, you first need used in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, to
to choose a course that counts towards that the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework
qualification (our courses work like modules). (SCQF), and to the National Framework of
There are different options depending on your Qualifications in the Republic of Ireland (NFQI).
starting point. See page 31 for details.
What are course levels? OU

course
Typical level of
learning
QAA SCQF NFQI
level level level
‘Levels’ are used in education to give an indication of level
‘how difficult’ a course is. The various courses you’ll
take towards your qualification are set at different – Entry qualification for 3 6 6
levels. For our undergraduate courses these are at higher education
Levels 1, 2 and 3, and these are roughly equivalent Level 1 First stage of higher- 4 7 7
to studying in the first, second and third year at a
education study
campus-based university. The study required at the
final stage of an undergraduate degree, for example, Level 2 Last stage of a 5 8 or 9 7 or 8
is at Level 3. foundation degree;
middle stage of a
We strongly recommend that you work progressively
bachelors degree
through the levels to build up your knowledge and
skills. Usually, students begin at Level 1. Our Student Level 3 Last stage of a 6 10 8
Registration & Enquiry Service can suggest the best bachelors degree
starting point for you, see page 56. Alternatively, you Masters Masters degree 7 11 9
can find out which courses can be studied at each
level by going to www.open.ac.uk/study Doctoral Doctorate 8 12 10
QAA, SCQF and NFQI levels If you have an NVQ

A number of bodies across the UK and the Republic If you have an NVQ level 4 or above, you may be able
of Ireland, which advise higher education institutions, to count it towards an OU qualification (see page 10).
use various systems to define and describe the
‘levels’ of courses in higher education. Although If you have NVQs at levels 1, 2 or 3, you can still
different frameworks express complexity in different study with the OU, but you won’t be able to count
ways, they are broadly comparable. these towards your OU qualification. You should start
at Level 1, and probably with an Openings course
(see pages 32–34).
What are credit points?

Some students are Credit points measure the student workload required
concerned they’ll fit for the successful completion of a study programme
the study in around other or qualification – one credit point represents about
commitments, but it’s 10 hours of study. The number of credit points
precisely these sorts of describes the amount of credit you can count
people with busy lives that towards a qualification. At the OU, you’ll be awarded
The Open University Sue Bailey credit points after you have successfully completed
serves so well. OU tutor a course. For example, if you study a 60-point course
and successfully pass it, you will be awarded the full
60 points.
The credit points system used by the OU is aligned
to the national Credit Accumulation and Transfer
Scheme (CATS) system. This helps you to move the

Introduction
9
credit points you accumulate from one institution to Of these, at least 180 must be above Level 1 and, of
another. So if you have completed some previous those, at least 60 must be at Level 3.
study at another institution, you may be able to count
The table below shows the typical number of
it towards your OU qualification, see page 10.
credit points required at each level for the majority
of OU qualifications. Click www.open.ac.uk/study
Academic credit in Europe for details of individual qualifications.
If you are looking to use your Open University credit
in Continental Europe, you may be interested to know
of the existence of the European Credit Transfer OU Credit Credit Credit Total
System (ECTS). This is the system commonly used qualification points points points
in the EU for measuring study workload. Since the required required required
systems don’t compare like with like, and ECTS at Level 1 at Level 2 at Level 3
doesn’t take account of academic level, direct Certificate 60 normally from Level 1 60
comparisons are difficult to make. However, broadly, courses but can be at any level
at any given level, 60 OU credit points would be
worth 30 ECTS points, and 30 OU points would be Diploma – 120 from Level 2 120
worth 15 ECTS points. and/or Level 3
If you have completed study elsewhere, that is Certificate 120 – – 120
recorded in ECTS points, and you want to count this of higher
towards your OU qualifications, please contact the education
Credit Transfer Centre for advice. Diploma 120 120 – 240
of higher
How many credit points do you education
need for a certificate? Foundation 120 120 – 240
You’ll usually need 60 credit points from specific degree
courses to gain a certificate, although for the Certificate Degree 120 120 60 300
of Higher Education, 120 points are required. without
honours
How many credit points do you
Degree with 120 120 120 360
need for a diploma? honours
For most of our undergraduate diplomas you’ll need
120 credit points from specific courses at Levels 2
and/or 3. We offer a wide range of subjects, from How much time does it take?
English language studies and music to German Our study programmes are designed to be flexible.
and religious studies, and even some that have So if you want to vary the amount of time you spend
been designed with particular professions in mind on study from year to year, or even take a break for a
(although they’re also open to non-professionals). while, you can.
But all of them can help you in some way to get a job There is no time limit for completion of many OU
or develop your career. undergraduate degrees, although the courses that
contribute to them may change over time. Degrees
How many credit points do you need with time limits are usually those where either the
for a foundation degree or diploma subject matter of the courses is liable to date, such
as computing or information and communication
of higher education? technologies, or where there are professional
You’ll need 240 credit points for a foundation degree requirements to complete within a given timescale,
or a diploma of higher education: 120 points at Level such as law.
1 and 120 points at Level 2. This is equivalent to two
It’s easy to underestimate the time and commitment
years’ full-time study, and for a foundation degree
needed for part-time study by supported Open
up to half of your learning will be on work-based
Learning methods, so it’s a good idea not to take on
courses. In some cases, a foundation degree must
too much at first. As you become more experienced
be sponsored by an employer.
and confident you can always take on more.
How many credit points do you We strongly recommend that students take only one
course at a time. Most of our courses are worth
need for an undergraduate degree? either 30 or 60 points. A nine month 30-point course
For an honours degree you will need 360 credit will take about seven to eight hours of study a week
points. These will include no more than 120 points and a six month 30-point course around 12 hours
at Level 1 and at least 120 points at Level 3. The of study a week; a nine month 60-point course will
remaining 120 points must be above Level 1. require approximately 16 hours a week.
An Open degree can be awarded either with or
without honours. For an Open degree without
honours you need at least 300 credit points.
10 Introduction
The tables below give you an idea of the

timescales involved.
Counting previous study
towards an OU qualification
OU courses Number of Average time to Any higher-education level studies you’ve successfully
credit points complete a course1 completed elsewhere may count towards your OU
Openings 10 Approximately 6–8 degree or other qualification. We enable you to do
course hours a week for up this by awarding you a certain number of points of
to 5 months ‘transferred credit’. By transferring credit gained from
previous study, you can reduce the number of points
Residential- 10–15 1 week at residential
you need from OU study to achieve your qualification.
school school (plus a few
course hours’ study before In 2008, over 12,500 students received
and after) FACT: credit transfer awards.
Short course 10–15 5–7 hours a week
for up to 5 months How to claim credit transfer
(part-time study) or When you register we will send you a claim form and
10–15 hours a week notes about how to make your claim. You can claim
for approximately 10 transferred credit at any stage of your studies but
weeks (full-time study) you are advised to do it as soon as possible as the
outcome might affect your choice of courses.
30-point 30 7–8 hours a week for
course a 9-month course, or
12 hours a week for a To find out whether you are able to use any of
6-month course your previous study to count towards your OU
60-point 60 16 hours a week for qualification, contact our Credit Transfer Centre.
course 9 months
Click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer
OU Number of Average time to Call +44 (0)1908 653077

qualifications credit points complete1 Email credit-transfer@open.ac.uk
Certificate 60 2
9 months
Certificate 120 2
2 years (part-time
of higher study) or 1 year To sum up:
education (full-time study)
• 1 credit point = approximately 10 hours
Diploma 1202 2 years (part-time of study
study)
• you normally need 60 credit points
Foundation 240 4 years (part-time for a certificate
degree or study) or 2–3 years

• diplomas and degrees are obtained by
diploma (full-time study)

studying a combination of courses
of higher
education • 120 credit points are needed for a certificate
of higher education or most diplomas
Degree 300 5 years (part-time
without study) or 3 years • 240 credit points = a foundation degree or a
honours (full-time study) diploma of higher education
Degree with 360 6 years (part-time • 300 credit points = a degree without honours
honours study) or 3–4 years • 360 credit points = a degree with honours
(full-time study)
• you may be able to get credit for higher
1
The timings assume full-time study is similar to that education already completed
of full-time education (120 points per year), with • remember that any of our courses can be
part-time study at half this rate. taken on their own as part of personal or
2
Some certificates and diplomas differ – please career development.
check your particular qualification on our website

at www.open.ac.uk/study or with our Student
Registration & Enquiry Service (see page 56).

Introduction
11
Your career
Your route to self improvement, skills development
and career enhancement.
Why study social sciences? Combining work and study shows that OU
students are ambitious and have a strong
Social science graduates are found in almost every
work ethic. They are evidently keen to develop
occupational field and national statistics show that
themselves and are managing to do this whilst
63 per cent found full time employment within
juggling a busy work or home life which is no
6 months of graduating. (What Do Graduates Do?
mean feat. The competencies which OU students
2008 HECSU/AGCAS).
therefore develop during their degree become
On a personal level, exploring society’s fundamental invaluable to us.
values, structures and institutions and political and Emma Beadle, Graduate Recruitment Manager,
economic forces will enable you to make more sense Unilever
of what’s happening in our rapidly changing world.
On a professional level, the study of social sciences Career opportunities
equips you with a range of skills that will appeal Social sciences provides an excellent background
to potential employers and enhance your for a wide range of careers and it is important to
career prospects. remember that you can apply for a large number of
graduate-level jobs without any specific postgraduate
Transferable skills training as 70 per cent are open to graduates of any
disciplinary background.
The skills and experience that OU students bring
to the workplace are often more important than the Opportunities can be found across all sectors and
particular subject of their qualification. Your studies in a number of occupations. Education, central and
will help you develop a broad set of skills and local government, finance, health and social care,
abilities that appeal to prospective employers. law, the media, public services, campaigning and
research are frequent career choices.
As well as the specific knowledge gained from
studying an OU qualification, students develop many Within the public sector, openings can be found
transferable and work related skills that are highly in all areas of the criminal justice system such
valued by employers (often called ‘employability skills’) as the police, prison and probation services and
administration and management of social services.
For social sciences graduates these include the
Positions within civil and diplomatic services and
ability to:
local government are also popular choices.
• put together reasoned arguments
Other careers include:
and question assumptions
• banking and finance
• understand the processes of change in society
and its institutions • politics
• draw together, analyse and critically • journalism and broadcasting
evaluate information
• law
• communicate concisely, clearly and accurately
• teaching
with others
• social work
• use IT to research, identify and present information
• accountancy
• meet deadlines and take on responsibility for your
own development • business management
• interpret, use and evaluate data. • advertising and marketing.
We advise you to thoroughly research your career
choices as early as possible, particularly in relation
to required experience, differences depending on
where you live or where choice of courses may affect
future opportunities.
Continued on page 12

12 Introduction
Continued from page 11
You should also be aware that for some careers you Some companies relevant to social sciences
may need to undertake further study or training. graduates on the Virtual Employer Fair are:
To explore career opportunities related to your • Co-operative Group • Unilever
subject click www.prospects.ac.uk/links/options
• Enterprise • Waitrose
where you can see examples of job roles and get
information for further research. • Heinz • Royal Mail Group
If you live in Ireland look at the Graduate Careers • KPMG • Tesco.
Ireland (GCI) information which includes sector career
Online vacancy service – find a job through our
guides at www.gradireland.com/publications.aspx
Careers Advisory Service and Prospects.
For ideas on volunteering opportunities you may
find the national volunteering database useful at Information about all of these services can be found
www.do-it.org on our careers website.
Destination statistics OU Careers Advisory Service website

Our award-winning careers website
All UK graduates are invited to complete the
www.open.ac.uk/careers provides information on
Destinations of Leavers Survey six months after they
all aspects of career planning, from deciding on the
have graduated. Of graduates on the OU social
right career for you, to writing a CV and interview
sciences degree who responded to the 2006/7 survey:
techniques. You can also read real stories from
• 84 per cent were in work. OU students about the ways OU study changed or
helped progress their careers.
• When asked about the importance of their degree
qualification, 57 per cent of those who had The OU Careers Advisory Service
changed to a new employer reported that their FACT: website won the HE Careers Service
qualification was either a formal requirement or an Website of the Year Award 2008.
advantage in obtaining their employment.
One in five respondents were taking further study. Overseas support
The most popular type of qualification undertaken Our careers advisory service is predominantly
was a taught higher degree or masters which was UK and Ireland based, but if you are a student in
studied by 29 per cent of the graduates who went Continental Europe we can help in providing:
on to further study. Subjects being studied included: • sources of career information and guidance
teaching, social work, social science research,
probation work and the clergy. • help to gain recognition of OU qualifications in
European countries
OU Careers Advisory Service • general information on career planning and
Our careers advisers can help you to consider how job-seeking skills and strategies.
OU study might help you achieve your career goals.
Our publication OU Study and Your Career looks at
reasons why people study with the OU, the value
of OU qualifications, the issues you may want to
consider when choosing your course and how to
explore your career ideas. You can request a copy
from our Student Registration & Enquiry Service or
view it on the Careers Advisory Service website at
www.open.ac.uk/careers
Once you become an OU student you will be given
access to our full range of services including:
Careers consultation – contact and talk with a
careers adviser.
Online forums – get guidance on career matters
through topic or subject-based forums where you
can ask questions and receive replies from a careers
adviser and support from other OU students.
Virtual Employer Fair – find out about employers who
are keen to recruit OU graduates.

Introduction
13
Your next steps

The OU will support you all the way. Here’s how you can
We can offer you financial support, become an OU student
help with the study skills you need
to succeed in higher education, Step 1: Browse
and advice to help you develop or Take some time to read this prospectus to discover
what studying social sciences with the OU means
change your career. The next step and how it all works.
is to choose which courses and If there’s anything you’re not sure about, please
speak to one of the advisory staff in our Student
qualifications you want to study. Registration & Enquiry Service +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
The following pages of this prospectus provide

information to help you make your choice, but if you Step 2: Choose
want more detailed information, you’ll find it online at
www.open.ac.uk/study Decide on the course that’s right for you. This
See the table below on how to find the information prospectus will give you information on choosing
you need. your course.
If you want to search online for a qualification Step 3: Register

or course you can do this by typing the
qualification or course code into the search box It pays to register well before your course start
on our website. For example, type B06 into the date. You can register:
search box to find out more about the BA/BSc online at www.open.ac.uk/study
(Hons) Social Sciences (B06).
or by phone
Enter the qualification or course code here: England, Scotland, Wales, the ChanneI Islands,
the Isle of Man, British Forces Post Office (BFPO)
Search the prospectus addresses outside the UK and all other countries,
except the EU and Switzerland:
B06 +44 (0)845 300 60 90
Note: The first number in a course code Northern Ireland: 028 9032 3722
generally indicates the course level. Republic of Ireland: (01)6785399 or
For example, Sociology and society (DD201) is +44 28 9032 3722
a Level 2 course.
Other EU countries and Switzerland:
+44 191 477 6100
or by post
If a form is enclosed, complete it and return it
to the address on the form.
Step 4: Pay your fees

Either when registering, or at the start of your
course, or by instalments.
See our enclosed Course Fees leaflet, or click
www.open.ac.uk/study for more information.
See pages 49–52 for the different payment
methods and help available to meet study costs.

14 Qualifications
Qualifications
�
Thousands of students take social sciences courses with the OU each year.
The appeal is broad because the many subjects that come under the social
sciences umbrella provide fascinating insights into everyday life in our
communities, families and workplaces.
Qualifications
Foundation degrees
Foundation Degree in Counselling (G14) NEW 15
Foundation Degree in Financial Services (G16) NEW 16
Certificate and diploma of higher education

Certificate of Higher Education in Social Sciences (C95) NEW 17
Diploma of Higher Education in Social Sciences (E50) NEW 18
Degrees
BA or BSc (Hons) Social Sciences (B06) 19
BA or BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychological Studies (B48) 21
BA or BSc (Hons) Social Policy and Criminology (B57) NEW 21
BA or BSc (Hons) Economics and Mathematical Sciences (B15) 22
BA (Hons) Politics, Philosophy and Economics (B45) 23
BA or BSc (Hons) Environmental Studies (B19) 24
BA or BSc (Hons) International Studies (B11) 25
BA (Hons) Philosophy and Psychological Studies (B43) 26
BSc (Hons) Psychology (B07) 27
Other qualifications you might be interested in 28
The Open Programme 29
Whatever qualification you’re thinking of, the best The qualifications in social sciences are built to
place to start – for almost everybody – is with a enhance your development and enable you to
Level 1 course. It’s study like you’d do in the first graduate with highly relevant and work-related skills
year at a campus-based university, and you wouldn’t and knowledge. ICT and independent learning skills
expect to skip that! Level 2 study is demanding, are features of all our qualifications and are highly
and we find our students are most successful valued by employers.
when they’ve done the groundwork that Level 1 is
The new certificate in higher education (C95) and
specifically designed to cover.
diploma in higher education (E50) offer a clear and
The social sciences curriculum is vibrant, exciting supported structure towards a degree, and can
and innovative. We’ve recently introduced new also meet your needs if you want to stop short of
curriculum offerings that allow you to follow well- completing a full degree.
structured pathways to recognised qualifications, as
The new Foundation Degrees in Counselling (G14)
well as offering you choice and flexibility.
and in Financial Services (G16) are innovative
qualifications which enable you to build on your work-
related learning to gain a recognised degree.

Qualifications
15
Foundation degrees Start with

The CPCAB Level 41 Diploma in Therapeutic
Counselling (120 points) available from your Further
Foundation Degree
New Education provider.
in Counselling (G14)
For this 240-point foundation degree you must
This new foundation degree will directly qualify you to take the following CPCAB courses which provide
practise as a professional counsellor in a wide variety 150 points towards this foundation degree
of settings from the statutory to voluntary sector. (see www.cpcab.co.uk for more details):
What will it cover? Compulsory CPCAB course

You will be provided with all the necessary knowledge Course title Points
and skills to practise effectively as a counsellor in line CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in 120
with current professional requirements. Therapeutic Counselling
The foundation degree is provided in partnership with Optional CPCAB courses
the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding
CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in 30
Body (CPCAB), and consists of 150 points of CPCAB
Psychotherapeutic Counselling
work-based study, and 90 points of Open University
knowledge-based study. The CPCAB courses are or
delivered through a network of Further Education CPCAB Level 5 Certificate in 30
colleges and other registered training providers. Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic
The first part of the CPCAB study is the CPCAB Level Skills and Theory
41 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (120 points). And 30 points from the following OU compulsory
At your FE provider you will be taught the theory Level 2 course:
and practice of counselling in small groups over the Course title Code Points Page
course of two years part-time study. The second part
of the CPCAB study requires either the CPCAB Level Counselling: exploring D240 30 p
51 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling or the fear and sadness

CPCAB Level 51 Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural And 60 points from the following OU optional Level
Therapeutic Skills and Theory which will count as 30 2 courses:
points toward the foundation degree.
Challenging ideas K272 30 p
To gain the foundation degree you will also need in mental health
90 points of OU study from our Level 2 courses, Child development ED209 60 p
comprising the new compulsory 30-point Level 2
course Counselling: exploring fear and sadness Death and dying K260 30 p
(D240) planned for first presentation in May 2010, Diverse perspectives K225 30 p
plus a further 60 points from a specified range of on mental health
optional courses in psychology and mental health.
Exploring psychology DSE212 60 45
The work-based (CPCAB) and the knowledge-based Psychology of mental SDK228 30 p
(OU) components can be taken in any order to suit health and ill-health
your convenience. Planned for first
On completion of the foundation degree there are presentation in
opportunities for professional development including November 2010
the possibility of continuing your studies to receive You will need to claim credit for your CPCAB study.
an honours degree. You can find out more on our Credit Transfer site,
1
CPCAB awards are described within the click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer for
Qualifications and Curriculum Authority’s National more information.
Qualification Framework, which is applicable to p Course descriptions can be found online.
qualifications taught by Further Education colleges. Click www.open.ac.uk/study
The CPCAB Level 4 diploma described here has
been assessed as equivalent to the OU’s higher
education (HE) Level 1 study, and the Level 5 CPCAB
qualifications at OU (HE) Level 2.

16 Qualifications
Foundation Degree in Financial For this 240-point foundation degree you require:
New
Services (G16) 70 points from the following Level 1 compulsory
courses:
Learn about personal finance – including concepts Course title Code Points Page
such as financial planning, portfolio management,
investment classes and techniques – and the You and your money: DB123 30 37
changing economic and social context for financial personal finance in context
decisions and financial services products. Students Introduction to BD131 10 p
who wish to have their qualification recognised in financial services
Scotland might prefer to study the Diploma of Higher
Working and learning: BU130 30 p
Education in Financial Services (E54).
developing effective
performance at work
What will it be good for?
This new foundation degree will provide you with a And 30 points from the following optional Level 1
broad and deep understanding of the knowledge courses:
and skills that you will need to progress with a career An introduction to B120 30 p
in the financial services industry. business studies
Managing in the workplace B121 30
What will it cover?
p
And 90 points from the following Level 2

You’ll get a broad understanding of business
compulsory courses:
organisations and their structures and cultures;
wider considerations such as environments, markets Business organisations B201 60 p
and processes; and how all these work together to and their environments
contribute to organisational success in the financial Personal investment DB234 30 39
services industry. in an uncertain world
You’ll also get… And 30 points from the following optional Level 2
courses:
The foundation degree will give you an insight into
essential business functions such as marketing, Management accounting B291 30 p
accounting and finance, and their relevance to – planned for

working life. You’ll also develop relevant practical November 2010
skills, in particular in information and communication or 30 points from a new course in economics
technologies (ICT), numeracy, study and thinking skills. planned for November 2012
And a further 20 points from the following optional
Start with Level 1 courses, including only one of Y159, Y162
The 30 point course You and your money: personal and Y165:
finance in context (DB123) or the 10-point Level 1
course Introduction to financial services (BD131) Beyond Google: working TU120 10 p
– planned for May 2010. with information online

Introduction to B190 10 p
bookkeeping and
accounting
Being a small place Learning to change Y165 10 34

Orkney has limited Starting with maths Y162 10 p
further and higher Understanding Y159 10 p
education provision but I management
still wanted a degree so
The Open University
p Course descriptions can be found online.
suited me perfectly. Click www.open.ac.uk/study
Lorraine
I could study without even Cormack
leaving my house! OU student
Qualifications
17
For this 120-point certificate you require:

Certificate and diploma
60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses:
of higher education
Course title Code Points Page
Certificate of Higher Education Introducing the DD101 60 36
New social sciences
in Social Sciences (C95)
or
How does society work? This certificate provides
Introducing the social DD131 30 37
you with a broad grounding in social sciences
sciences – part one and
that can lead onto further study for a BA or BSc
honours degree. Introducing the social DD132 30 p
sciences – part two
What will it be good for? or
If you are awarded this certificate, you will have
completed study equivalent to the first year of a full
time degree. You will have achieved a sound basis
upon which to progress to further study in the social You and your money: DB123 30 37
sciences or a wide range of other subjects such as personal finance in context
business studies, environment or psychology. And a further 60 points from the following optional
Level 1 courses:
What will it cover? An introduction to B120 30 p
The certificate offers a broad introduction to how business studies
society is structured and works, providing fascinating
insights into everyday life in our communities, An introduction D171 15 34
personal lives and workplaces, using ideas from to counselling 1
sociology, social policy, psychology or politics. The An introduction to health K101 60 p
optional courses in the certificate will provide you and social care
with an opportunity to broaden your experience by
Contemporary Wales1 D172 15 35
studying subjects that provide skills or knowledge
related to social sciences – such as history, health Environment: journeys U116 60 37
and social care, English or mathematics. through a changing world
The certificate forms the Level 1 requirement of the Ethics in real life 1 A181 15 p
Diploma of Higher Education in Social Sciences Exploring sport online 1

Y164 10 p
(E50). These two qualifications provide a study route Introducing the social DD132 30 p
leading toward the BA or BSc (Hons) Social Sciences sciences – part two 2
(B06) or, if you choose the right combination of
courses, towards a BA or BSc (Hons) Criminology Make your U122 30 p
and Psychological Studies (B48) or a BA or BSc experience count

(Hons) Social Policy and Criminology (B57). Networked living: T175 30 p
exploring information
Start with and communication
Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the technologies
equivalent pairs of 30-point courses either DD131 Open mathematics MU120 30 p
and DD132, or DD131 and DB123). Are you new to
university study and looking for a gentle introduction? Rules, rights and justice: W100 60 p
Start with an Openings course – Understanding an introduction to law

society (Y157) see page 33. Starting with maths 1 Y162 10 p
Starting with psychology 1

Y163 10 33
Start writing family history 1 A173 10 35
The arts past AA100 60 p
and present
Understanding children 1 Y156 10 p
Find more detailed information Search the prospectus

Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter any qualification or course code DD101
into the search box on our website e.g. Introducing the social sciences
(DD101) enter ‘DD101’ here.
18 Qualifications
Course title Code Points Page For this 240-point diploma in higher education
Understanding health 1
Y158 or 10 or p
you require:
Y178 15 120 points from the following qualification:
Understanding SK183 10 35 Qualification title Code Points Page
human nutrition 1 Certificate of Higher C95 120 17
Understanding society 1 Y157 10 33 Education in
Using mathematics MST121 30 p
Social Sciences
You and your money: DB123 30 37 And 60 points chosen from the following optional
personal finance Level 2 courses in list A and a further 60 points
in context chosen from optional Level 2 courses from either
list A or B:
1
You may not count more than 30 points from
10 or 15-point courses towards your qualification. List A – Level 2 optional courses
p Course descriptions can be found online. Course title Code Points Page
Click www.open.ac.uk/study Applying psychology DSE232 15 p
Biological psychology: SD226 30 p

exploring the brain
Diploma of Higher Education
New Economics and DD202 60
in Social Sciences (E50)
economic change
What will it be good for? Child development ED209 60 p
If you are awarded this new diploma in higher Economics and DD202 60 39
education, you’ll have completed study equivalent economic change
to the first two years of a full-time degree. This Environment U216 60 40
qualification, following on from the Certificate of
Higher Education in Social Science (C95), can be a
staging post on a study route towards a BA or BSc Exploring psychology DXR222 15 p
(Hons) Social Sciences (B06) or, if you choose the project or

right combination of courses, towards a BA or BSc DZX222
(Hons) Criminology and Psychological Studies (B48) Family meanings D270 15 35
or a BA or BSc (Hons) Social Policy and Criminology
Governing Europe DD200 or 60 42
(B57).
DDZX200
What will it cover? International U213 60 42
By studying this diploma you’ll gain a good development:
knowledge and understanding of society and how it challenges for a
is structured, handling concepts, evidence and ideas world in transition
from a range of specialist disciplines within social Islam in the West: the AD252 30 p
sciences such as sociology, social policy, psychology, politics of co-existence
politics, criminology, geography and economics.
Living in a DD205 60 41
Some of the optional courses in the diploma provide globalised world
you with an opportunity to broaden your experience Politics, media and war: D271 15 36
by studying subjects that provide skills or knowledge 9/11 and its impacts
related to social sciences – such as history, health
and social care, English or mathematics. Power, dissent, DD203 60 44
equality: understanding
Start with contemporary politics
This diploma follows on from the Certificate of Higher Sociology and society DD201 60 47
Education in Social Sciences (C95), which forms the Understanding AD281 60 p
Level 1 requirement of this qualification. We strongly global heritage
recommend that you complete the requirements of
the certificate before you take Level 2 courses. Understanding media DA204 60 43
Welfare, crime DD208 60 38
and society

Qualifications
19
List B – Level 2 optional courses For this 360-point honours degree you require:
Course title Code Points Page 60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses:
Childhood U212 60 p Course title Code Points Page
Exploring the U211 60 p Introducing the DD101 60 36
English language social sciences
Working with children K204 60 p or
and families Introducing the social DD131 30 37
p Course descriptions can be found online. sciences – part one and
Click www.open.ac.uk/study Introducing the social DD132 30 p
Degrees or
BA or BSc (Hons) Social Sciences (B06) sciences – part one and
You and your money: DB123 30 37
How does society work? And how does it change? personal finance
Studying social science can change the way you look in context
at the world forever.
And 60 points from the following optional
Level 2 courses:
Developing a knowledge and understanding of Applying psychology DSE232 15 p
society and the ability to analyse key social science Biological psychology: SD226 30 p
concepts will put you in a good position for a variety exploring the brain
of careers – in the business world, media, education Child development ED209 60 p
and caring professions.
Economics and DD202 60 39
What will it cover? economic change
This degree explores issues such as changes in Environment U216 60 40
family, work and identity, risk and the environment, Exploring psychology DSE212 60 45
and the impact of globalisation. You can choose to
specialise in up to two areas, including economics; Exploring psychology DXR222 15 p
project or
environment; geography; media studies; politics;
DZX222
psychological studies; social policy; and sociology.
Family meanings D270 15 35
Start with Governing Europe DD200 or 60 42
Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the DDZX200
equivalent pairs of 30-point courses either DD131 International U213 60 42
and DD132, or DD131 and DB123). Are you new to development:
university study and looking for a gentle introduction? challenges for a world
Start with an Openings course – Understanding in transition
society (Y157) or Starting with psychology (Y163)
see page 33. Islam in the west: the AD252 30 p
politics of co-existence
You’ll also get… Living in a DD205 60 41
You can also achieve a certificate or diploma of globalised world
higher education in social sciences, or the Diploma Personal investment in DB234 30 39
in Social Policy and Criminology (D56), depending on an uncertain world
which courses you choose.
Politics, media and war: D271 15 36
9/11 and its impacts
Power, dissent, DD203 60 44
contemporary politics
Sociology and society DD201 60 47
Understanding AD281 60 p
global heritage

20 Qualifications
Course title Code Points Page And 60 points, either from the list of optional
Understanding media DA204 60 43 courses above or from the following optional
Level 3 courses:
Welfare, crime DD208 60 38
and society Course title Code Points Page
And 60 points, either from the list of optional Communication in K309 60 p
courses above or from the following optional Level health and social care
2 courses: Managing care K303 60 p
Care, welfare and K202 60 p Promoting public health K311 60 p

community The art of English E301 60 p
Childhood U212 60 p
Youth: perspectives KE308 60 p
Effective practice K208 60 p and practice
in youth justice Any remaining points (maximum 60) can be from
Exploring the U211 60 p any OU courses that count towards a bachelors
English language degree, bearing in mind the overall requirements
Working with children K204 60 p
for an honours degree which specify that at least
and families 120 points must be at Level 3.
Youth justice: theory, K209 60 p

If you have studied with us before, you can see
research and policy the discontinued courses that count towards this
qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study
And 60 points from the following optional Level 3
courses:
Click www.open.ac.uk/study
A world of DU301 60 43
whose making?
Combining social sciences
or
with another subject
Making the international DU321 30 p
You can combine a standard BA or BSc (Hons)
Cognitive psychology DD303 60 46 Social Sciences (B06) degree with up to two of eight
Crime and justice DD301 60 38 other subjects:
Earth in crisis: DU311 60 40 • with Economics
environmental policy in • with Environment
an international context
• with Geography
Film and television history AA310 60 44
• with Media studies
Living political ideas DD306 60 44
Making social worlds DD308 60 47 • with Politics
Personal lives DD305 60 46 • with Psychological studies

and social policy • with Social policy
Religion today: tradition, AD317 60 p
• with Sociology.
modernity and change
For further details of these degrees see
Research with children EK310 60 p
www.open.ac.uk/study-socsci
and young people
Social psychology: DD307 60 45
critical perspectives
on self and others
The environmental web U316 60 40
Doing economics: DD309 60 39
people, markets
and policy
Understanding cities DD304 60 41
Qualifications
21
BA or BSc (Hons) Criminology

� And 120 points from the following compulsory
Level 3 courses:
and Psychological Studies (B48)
�
Our society is fascinated by crime and punishment. Crime and justice DD301 60 38
This degree will help you understand the issues
behind the headlines. Social psychology: DD307 60 45
critical perspectives
What will it be good for? on self and others
You’ll develop skills that are relevant to a broad range Any remaining points (maximum 60) can be from
of careers, including all areas of the criminal justice any OU courses that count towards a bachelors
system such as the police and youth-offending degree, bearing in mind the overall requirements
teams. These skills will also be of use in areas such for an honours degree which specify that at least
as social services, administration and management. 120 points must be at Level 3.
What will it cover? the discontinued courses that count towards this
You will start your studies with a broad introductory qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study
course which will equip you with the skills and p Course descriptions can be found online.
knowledge needed to progress to more
specialised courses.
You will then study the criminology course Welfare,
crime and society (DD208) and the psychology BA or BSc (Hons) Social Policy
New
course Exploring psychology (DSE212) before going and Criminology (B57)
on to complete the honours level courses Social
psychology: critical perspectives on self and others This degree will provide you with the opportunity to
(DD307) and Crime and justice (DD301). understand and apply social science concepts and
theories to social policy and criminology.
Start with
Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the What will it be good for?
equivalent two 30-point courses DD131 and DD132). This degree provides thorough and critical
Are you new to university study and looking for a understandings of the relationships between social
gentle introduction? Start with an Openings course inequality, social justice, criminality and social policy.
– Starting with psychology (Y163) or Understanding It develops analytical and written skills that are
society (Y157) see page 33. transferable to research, policy and management
positions in welfare, government, public health
For this 360-point honours degree you require: and criminal justice agencies. In addition, the skills
60 points from the following compulsory developed throughout this degree are relevant to
Level 1 courses: management and policy positions in the commercial
services sector.
Introducing the DD101 60 36 What will it cover?
social sciences You will explore key concepts and theories relevant
or to the study of social policy and criminology,
both historical and contemporary. There will be a
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 critical examination of the increasing overlaps and
sciences – part one and connections between social policy and criminology
Introducing the social DD132 30 p both in theory and in practice expressed in
sciences – part two institutions, policies and practice. Recognition of the
contested nature of social policy and criminology
or
and the ways in which social interests and values
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 impact on policy and practice – at both a global and
sciences – part one and local level – runs through all the core courses.
personal finance Start with
in context Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the
equivalent pair of 30-point courses either DD131
And 120 points from the following compulsory
and DD132, or DD131 and DB123). Are you new to
Level 2 courses: university study and looking for a gentle introduction?
Welfare, crime and society DD208 60 38 Start with an Openings course – Understanding
Exploring psychology DSE212 60 45 society (Y157) see page 33.

22 Qualifications
For this 360-point honours degree you require: BA or BSc (Hons) Economics
60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses: and Mathematical Sciences (B15)
You’ll gain a good grounding in a broad range of
Introducing the DD101 60 36 mathematical, statistical and computational skills
social sciences as well as an understanding of economic theory
or and issues.
This degree will equip you with the mathematical
Introducing the social DD132 30 p
and economic skills and knowledge required for a
sciences – part two range of jobs in government, business, accountancy,
or banking, management and administration, the
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 voluntary sector and teaching.

What will it cover?
After our introductory courses, compulsory
personal finance
economics courses include Economics and
in context
economic change (DD202) which you should
And 60 points from the following compulsory complete before going on to do Doing economics:
Level 2 courses: people, markets and policy (DD309). Compulsory
Welfare, crime DD208 60 38 mathematics courses include Analysing data (M248)
and society which leads on to Linear statistical modelling (M346).
There is a range of options for you to choose from to
And 60 points from the following optional complete the remaining requirements of the degree.
Level 2 courses:
Care, welfare K202 60 p Start with
and community The compulsory course Using mathematics (MST121)
Effective practice K208 60 p or, if you feel your maths is a little rusty, Starting
in youth justice with maths (Y162), Open mathematics (MU120)
or Discovering mathematics (MU123), see
Sociology and society DD201 60 47
http://mathschoices.open.ac.uk for more details.
Working with children K204 60 p
and families For this 360-point honours degree you require:
Youth justice: theory, K209 60 p 30 points from the following compulsory
research and policy Level 1 course:
And 120 points from the following compulsory Course title Code Points Page
Level 3 courses: Using mathematics MST121 30 p
Crime and justice DD301 60 38 And at least 30 points from the following optional
Personal lives DD305 60 46 Level 1 courses:
and social policy Engineering the future T173 30 p
Any remaining points (maximum 60) can be from or

any OU courses that count towards a bachelors
degree, bearing in mind the overall requirements Introducing the DD101 60 36
for an honours degree which specify that at least social sciences
120 points must be at Level 3. or
If you have studied with us before, you can see Introducing the social DD131 30 37
the discontinued courses that count towards this sciences – part one and
qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study Introducing the social DD132 30 p
p Course descriptions can be found online. sciences – part two
Click www.open.ac.uk/study or

Qualifications
23
Course title Code Points Page BA (Hons) Politics, Philosophy

Networked living: T175 30 p and Economics (B45)
exploring information
and communication This is an internationally recognised combination of
technologies subjects that will help you analyse the world.
or
A degree in politics, philosophy and economics
personal finance in context
is recognised as providing skills relevant for many
And 90 points from these compulsory Level 2 areas of public service, including civil and diplomatic
courses: services and local government. It will also prepare
Analysing data M248 30 p
you for a wide variety of other careers, including
banking and finance, politics, journalism and
Economics and DD202 60 39 broadcasting, law, industry, teaching, social work,
economic change accountancy, business management, management
And 90 points from these compulsory Level 3 consultancy and advertising.
courses:
Linear statistical M346 30 p
What will it cover?
modelling After our introductory social science courses,
you’ll study one course from each of the subject
Doing economics: DD309 60 39
areas: Power, dissent, equality: understanding
people, markets
contemporary politics (DD203) or Governing Europe
and policy
(DD200 or DDZX200); Philosophy and the human
And 90 points from one of the following options: situation (A211) and Economics and economic
Option 1 change (DD202). At Level 3, you’ll choose to study
two of the three subjects.
Mathematical methods MST209 60 p
and models Start with
Optimisation M373 30 p Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the
Option 2 equivalent two 30-point courses DD131 and DD132).
Mathematical methods MST209 60 p Are you new to university study and looking for a
and models gentle introduction? Start with an Openings course,
Applications of M343 30 p
for example Understanding society (Y157), see
probability page 33.
Option 3 For this 360-point honours degree you require:

Mathematical methods MST209 60 p 60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses:
and models Course title Code Points Page
or Introducing the DD101 60 36
Pure mathematics and M208 60 p social sciences
Graphs, networks MT365 30 p or
and design Introducing the social DD131 30 37
Any remaining points (maximum 30) can be from sciences – part one and
any OU courses that count towards a bachelors Introducing the social DD132 30 p
degree, bearing in mind the overall requirements sciences – part two
for an honours degree which specify that at least
120 points must be at Level 3. Open mathematics or
(MU120), Discovering mathematics (MU123) Introducing the social DD131 30 37
or Exploring mathematics (MS221) is highly sciences – part one and
recommended.
p Course descriptions can be found online. personal finance
Click www.open.ac.uk/study in context
the discontinued courses that count towards this Continued on page 24
24 Qualifications
And 120 points from the following compulsory fuels; sustainability; and global trade, this degree
Level 2 courses: gets to the heart of environmental matters that are
often the source of political and scientific conflict.
Course title Code Points Page The compulsory courses Environment (U216) and
Economics and DD202 60 39 The environmental web (U316) provide a complex,
economic change interdisciplinary treatment of environmental
concerns and enable you to engage with important
Philosophy and the A211 60 p
contemporary environmental debates.
human situation
And 60 points from one of the following politics You’ll also get…
Level 2 courses: Along the way, you can also achieve a Certificate in
Governing Europe DD200 or 60 42 Natural Sciences (C26) or a Diploma in Environment
DDZX200 and Development (D21), depending on which
or courses you choose.
Power, dissent, DD203 60 44 Start with

If you’re new to study or to the OU, you may wish
to start with the Openings course Introducing
And 120 points from the following optional Level 3 environment (Y161). You should also complete
courses: at least one 60-point Level 1 course chosen from
A world of DU301 60 43 Environment: journeys through a changing world
whose making? 1 (U116), Exploring science (S104) or Introducing
the social sciences (DD101) (or the equivalent two
Living political ideas1 DD306 60 44 30-point courses DD131 and DD132). You can count
Doing economics: DD309 60 39 any of these towards your degree.
people, markets
and policy For this 360-point honours degree you require:
Thought and AA308 60 p 60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses:
experience: themes in Course title Code Points Page
the philosophy of mind
Environment: journeys U116 60 37
1
Please note you can only study one of these through a changing world
courses.
or
Exploring science S104 60 p
the discontinued courses that count towards this
qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study or
p Course descriptions can be found online. Introducing the DD101 60 36
Click www.open.ac.uk/study social sciences
or
BA or BSc (Hons) Environmental

� Introducing the social DD131 30 37
Studies (B19)
�
This exciting and topical degree integrates science, sciences – part two
technology, and social sciences to help you develop And 60 points from the following compulsory
an understanding of the environment. Level 2 course:
What will it be good for? Environment U216 60 40
Environmental studies graduates are found working And at least 60 points from the following optional
in public, voluntary and private sector occupations Level 2 courses:
including environmental management, environmental Energy for a T206 60 p
policy and information systems. sustainable future
What will it cover? Environmental control T210 60 p

and public health
By making sense of subjects such as global
climate change; air pollution; waste management; Environmental science S216 60 p
genetically modified food; over-fishing; renewable

Qualifications
25
Course title Code Points Page BA or BSc (Hons) International Studies (B11)
International U213 60 42
development: challenges We live in a world that is politically divided into many
for a world in transition nation states. Yet it is increasingly interconnected.
Relationships between individuals, groups, cultures,
Living in a DD205 60 41 cities and nations extend across regions and
globalised world the globe. This degree addresses the political,
Our dynamic planet S279 30 p economic and cultural issues that these complex
Understanding systems: T214 60 p
interconnections create.
making sense of
complexity
You’ll develop a broad understanding of
And 60 points from the following compulsory contemporary international issues; of key political,
Level 3 course: economic and cultural aspects of the international
The environmental web U316 60 40 order; and of the dynamics of the international
And at least 60 points from the following optional system. International studies graduates are found
Level 3 courses: in a wide range of professions in the private and
public sectors, including international agencies and
Doing economics: people, DD309 60 39 government bodies, both national and European. If
markets and policy you choose to include a language course, you’ll have
Earth in crisis: DU311 60 40 a grounding in another language that may add to
environmental policy in your professional opportunities.
an international context
Ecosystems S396 30 p
What will it cover?
Uniting themes from a range of disciplines, including
Environmental change: SXR369 10 p
social sciences, economics, environmental studies
the record in the rocks and technology, you’ll explore some of the most high
Environmental T308 60 p profile issues of our time. Compulsory courses cover
monitoring, modelling development (International development: challenges
and control for a world in transition (U213)) and the contemporary
global order (A world of whose making? (DU301)). You
Innovation: designing for T307 60 p
can also choose to study a language within this degree.
a sustainable future
Managing complexity: T306 60 p Start with
a systems approach Introducing the social sciences (DD101) (or the
Oceanography S330 30 p equivalent two 30-point courses DD131 and DD132)
The geological record of S369 30 p
or Environment: journeys through a changing world
environmental change (U116). Are you new to university study and looking for
a gentle introduction? Start with an Openings course –
To complete the 360 points needed for an honours Introducing environment (Y161).
degree, the remaining points up to a maximum
of 60 points can be from any OU undergraduate Continued on page 26
courses. You must ensure that you have the

required number of points at each level.

Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter any qualification or course code B11
into the search box on our website e.g. BA or BSc (Hons) International
Studies (B11) enter ‘B11’ here.
26 Qualifications
For this 360-point honours degree you require: Course title Code Points Page
60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses: Power, dissent, DD203 60 44
Course title Code Points Page equality: understanding
Introducing the DD101 60 36
social sciences Viento en popa: upper L204 60 p
intermediate Spanish
or
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 Level 3 course:
A world of DU301 60 43
whose making?
And at least 60 points from the following optional
or Level 3 courses:
Environment: journeys U116 60 37 A buen puerto: fast L314 or 60 p
through a changing forward in Spanish LZX314
world
Earth in crisis: DU311 60 40
or environmental policy in
Networked living: T175 30 p an international context
exploring information Europe: culture and AA300 or 60 p
and communication identities in a contested AAZX300
technologies and continent
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 Living political ideas DD306 60 44
sciences – part one
Nouvelles mises L310 60 p
And 60 points from the following compulsory au point
Level 2 course:
Religion in history: AA307 60 p
International U213 60 42 conflict, conversion
development: and co-existence
challenges for a world
in transition Understanding cities DD304 60 41
And at least 60 points from the following optional Variationen: German L313 60 p
Level 2 courses: language and society
Childhood U212 60 p
To complete the 360 points needed for an honours
degree, the remaining points up to a maximum
Economics and DD202 60 39 of 60 points can be from any OU undergraduate
economic change courses. You must ensure that you have the
Environment U216 60 40 required number of points at each level.
Envol: upper L211 60 p If you have studied with us before, you can see
intermediate French the discontinued courses that count towards this
Exploring history: A200 60 p
medieval to modern p Course descriptions can be found online.
1400-1900 Click www.open.ac.uk/study
Governing Europe DD200 or 60 42
DDZX200
BA (Hons) Philosophy and
Introducing religions A217 60 p
Psychological Studies (B43)
Islam in the west: the AD252 30 p
politics of co-existence Study both philosophical arguments and texts, and
the human brain and behaviour.
Living in a DD205 60 41
globalised world
Motive: upper L203 60 p
By studying philosophy and psychology in
intermediate German combination, you’ll have learned to read and
Politics, media, war: D271 15 36 understand complex texts; to construct and analyse
9/11 and its impacts arguments; to understand and analyse statistical

Qualifications
27
information; and to express your ideas clearly and To complete the 360 points needed for an honours
logically. These skills are relevant to a broad range degree, the remaining points up to a maximum
of careers opportunities, including advertising of 60 points can be from any OU undergraduate
and marketing, social services, administration courses. You must ensure that you have the
and management. required number of points at each level.
What will it cover? If you have studied with us before, you can see
After the compulsory psychology course – Exploring
psychology (DSE212) – you can choose to study
either cognitive or social psychology. Compulsory p Course descriptions can be found online.
philosophy courses include Philosophy and the Click www.open.ac.uk/study
human situation (A211) and Thought and experience:
themes in the philosophy of mind (AA308).
BSc (Hons) Psychology (B07)
Start with
Our BSc (Hons) Psychology is a professionally
Depending on your interests, either The arts past
recognised degree that qualifies you for further
and present (AA100) or Introducing the social
professional training in psychology.
sciences (DD101) (or the equivalent two 30-point
courses DD131 and DD132). New to university study If you’re fascinated by human behaviour and what
and looking for a gentle introduction? Start with an goes on in our brains, this is the degree for you.
Openings course – Starting with psychology (Y163)
see page 33. What will it be good for?
You’ll learn to understand ideas, theories, methods
For this 360-point honours degree you require:
and debates in psychology; to analyse and evaluate
60 points from the following optional Level 1 courses: psychological concepts and theories; and to assess
Course title Code Points Page different kinds of evidence including, quantitative
and qualitative data. Psychology graduates have
The arts past AA100 60 p
skills and knowledge relevant to careers in education,
and present industry, the health professions, management and
or social services.
Introducing the DD101 60 36 This degree is accredited by the British Psychological
social sciences Society (BPS) as conferring eligibility for the
or Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR). This is the first
step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.
sciences – part one and Please note that those who started their degree from
September 2006 onwards will need at least a lower
second-class honours to be eligible for GBR from
the BPS.
courses: What will it cover?
Level 2 compulsory courses Your first psychology course after your Level 1 study
Philosophy and the A211 60 p
– Exploring psychology (DSE212) – introduces a
human situation wide range of psychological approaches, including
biological, social, and cognitive psychologies. It looks
Exploring psychology DSE212 60 45 at areas such as identity, memory, consciousness,
Level 3 compulsory course and learning, and you’ll also learn how to do
different types of psychological research. Before
Thought and experience: AA308 60 p
progressing to Level 3 courses on cognitive and
themes in the philosophy
social psychology, you’ll study courses on child
of mind
development and biological psychology.
And 60 points from the following optional Level 3
courses: You’ll also get…
Cognitive psychology DD303 60 46 You can also achieve a Certificate in Natural Sciences
Social psychology: DD307 60 45 (C26) along the way, if you choose Exploring science
critical perspectives on (S104) as your first Level 1 course.
self and others Continued on page 28

28 Qualifications
Start with To complete the 360 points needed for an honours

Depending on your interests, either Exploring science degree, the remaining points can be from any OU
(S104) or Introducing the social sciences (DD101) undergraduate courses. You must ensure that you
(or the equivalent two 30-point courses DD131 and have the required number of points at each level.
DD132) or a combination of DD131 and DB123. Are In addition to the recommended Level 1 courses
you new to university study and looking for a gentle noted above, other courses that we particularly
introduction? Start with an Openings course recommend to make up the points for your degree
– Starting with psychology (Y163) see page 33. are Applying psychology (DSE232) (highly
recommended), Human biology (SK277), or Signals
For this 360-point honours degree you require: and perception: the science of the senses (SD329).
60 points from the following recommended Level 1 If you have studied with us before, you can see
optional courses: the discontinued courses that count towards this
Course title Code Points Page qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study
Exploring science S104 60 p
or
Introducing the
social sciences
DD101 60 36 Other qualifications
or you might be interested in
Introducing the social DD131 30 37 Degrees
sciences – part one and • BA (Hons) Business Studies with Economics (B04).
• BA (Hons) Humanities (B03).
• BSc (Hons) Computing with Psychological
or
Studies (B49).
sciences – part one and Certificates and diplomas
You and your money: DB123 30 37 • Diploma in Psychology (Conversion for
personal finance Postgraduates) (D15).
in context
• Diploma in Social Policy and Criminology (D56).
Click www.open.ac.uk/study to find out about
Level 2 courses:
these qualifications.
Exploring psychology DXR222 15 p
project or
DZX222
Biological psychology: SD226 30 p
exploring the brain
Child development ED209 60 p

Level 3 courses:
Cognitive psychology DD303 60 46
Social psychology: DD307 60 45
critical perspectives on
self and others

Qualifications
29
courses and for some career paths you will need an

The Open Programme honours degree, so it is important to study the right
level of Open degree.
Are you:
If you’re not sure whether you want to gain a BA or
• unsure about the right OU degree for you, but
BSc Open degree, or whether you should opt for an
want to develop skills in social sciences as part of
Open degree with or without honours, you can make
your degree?
these decisions after you’ve studied a number of
• thinking about completing studies you started at OU courses.
another university?
• keen to keep your options open and get a degree
Where do I start?
by studying a combination of courses from For you to successfully study social sciences
different subjects? courses, you need to have the appropriate
background. Therefore, it is really important to build
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of the questions above on your social sciences skills and knowledge level by
then an Open degree might be the ideal OU degree level. See page 31 for more information.
for you.
How social sciences courses can
The Open degree (BD)
be used within your Open degree
What exactly is an Open degree? If you’ve studied social sciences at Level 1, you
may want to look at other social sciences subjects
An Open degree is a qualification that gives you a
at Level 2. For example, if you are interested in how
huge amount of choice in terms of the subjects and
different parts of the world are connected through
courses that you study to make up your degree.
a process that geographers call globalisation, you
Giving you more flexibility than a named degree,
might consider studying the Level 2 course Living in
an Open degree allows you to combine a variety
a globalised world (DD205). If you were considering
of subjects that suit your personal interests, career
going on to study at Level 3 then this would provide
needs or both.
a good pathway for your next geography course,
There are two main types of Open degree – a Understanding cities (DD304), which considers the
Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science changes and challenges to cities in the context of
(BSc). Each year, more than 40 per cent of all OU population movements and constraints on resources.
students graduate with an Open degree and many of
them are students who have chosen to study social Diplomas as part of an Open degree
sciences courses as part of their degree. If you discover a subject that really interests you,
There are hundreds of undergraduate courses and find you would like to pursue it more thoroughly,
available at the OU so studying an Open degree means you have the option to either switch to a named
you can take advantage of this mix. You can also degree in that subject or, you might consider
include short courses as part of your Open degree. completing a named diploma while working towards
Click www.open.ac.uk/study for more information. your Open degree.
To qualify for a BA or BSc Open degree without We are currently reviewing our range of diplomas.
honours you will need: Please click www.open.ac.uk/study for more
information.
• 300 points, of which at least 180 points must be
above Level 1 and, of these, at least 60 points must Receiving credit for previous study
be at Level 3. Often, students find they can transfer more credit to
For a BA or BSc Open degree with honours you an Open degree than they can to a named degree
will need: in social sciences.
• 360 points, of which at least 240 points must be To find out more visit www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer
above Level 1 and, of these, at least 120 points
must be at Level 3. Open degree website
For more information about the Open degree,
Should I study an Open degree including frequently asked questions, click
www.open.ac.uk/study-open
with honours or without honours?
Studying an Open degree without honours can take
less time and cost less to study than an Open degree
with honours, but for entry onto postgraduate level

30 Qualifications
Frequently asked questions

�
When can I start? Will I need a computer
This depends on your chosen course. Some and access to the internet?
start several times a year. See individual course
Yes, access to a personal computer and the internet
descriptions for start dates.
is essential (unless you’re studying an Openings
course). To find the computer specification
Do I have to pass an entry test? needed for your course, click
No. Our undergraduate courses in the social www.open.ac.uk/personal-computing
sciences are open to all because we believe that
everyone who is keen to succeed should have an How does multimedia fit into my studies?
equal opportunity to study.
Audiovisual and other multimedia materials are an
important part of our courses.
Do I need a qualification already?
No, you don’t need any formal qualifications for most Can I get financial help?
of our undergraduate courses.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able
to apply for financial support to help pay towards
How much time do I need your course fees and study costs – see page 50 for
to set aside for study? further details. This year, we expect that over 38,000
Our courses are valued according to a nationally OU students will receive some kind of financial
agreed system of credit points in which one credit support towards the cost of their studies.
point equals 10 hours of study. See page 9 for details.
How much will it cost?
Can I finish my degree more Costs vary from course to course, depending on
the subject you choose and the level of study. For
quickly if I study full time? more information about fees, other costs, payment
It is possible to finish your degree more quickly if methods and financial support, see pages 48–52.
you study full time, however, you must plan your work
carefully as some courses only run at certain times Can I start my study at any level?
of the year.
It is advisable to follow levels in sequence in order to
build up appropriate skills to tackle the challenges of
How can my friends and family higher level courses. OU Levels 1 to 3 equate to the
support me? levels of a conventional full-time honours degree, so
Students often tell us that support from their friends starting with Level 2 study is comparable to starting
and family is really important, so it’s a good idea to in the second year of a degree course, and is not
talk with them about what you want to do. That way advised unless you have already completed some
you can plan and negotiate family or social time. higher level study.
For further information, click www.open.ac.uk/family
Will I have to sit exams?
Can I prepare for OU study? The table at the start of each course description
Yes. Depending on your experience of higher shows how that course will be assessed. Some
education, we offer a range of courses and study courses have an end-of-course assessment instead
packs to help you prepare. For those who have little of an exam, but either way, your coursework will help
or no experience of study, we offer introductory you to prepare. If you do have an exam, your tutor will
Openings courses, see page 32. be on hand to give you guidance on exam technique.
Can I count previous study

towards a qualification?
If you have successfully completed some study
at higher education level elsewhere, you may be
able to count it towards your OU degree or other
qualification. See page 10.
Is OU study lonely?
You’ll mostly be studying at home, or wherever you
choose, but you’re never alone. See page 4 for how
we can offer continual support.

Where do I start?
31
Where do I start?
There are many different places that you can start your study of the social sciences and this prospectus will
help you make that decision. The table below gives you an idea of where might be the best place to start
depending on your experience of study. Credit points from Openings and Short courses can count towards
OU qualifications, for example in the free-choice element if you’re studying a degree.
Which Level 1 course is right for me?
Need to build your Confident but not sure Ready to commit to a

confidence? about studying this way? longer course?
Start with one of our specially Start with one of our Level 1 Start with a longer, broader
designed Level 1 Openings short courses, for example Level 1 course, for example
courses, for example Introduction to counselling Introducing the social sciences
Understanding society (Y157). (D171). (DD101).
A great place to start: We offer short courses in These Level 1 courses will
introductory courses, with subjects relevant to the social give you a firm foundation for
lots of help from tutors who’ll sciences at Level 1 which are more specialist study at Levels
support you all the way, and taught online over a 12-week 2 and 3. These usually take
no examinations. period. six to nine months to complete
and are a common first step
You’ll develop the study skills If you’re ready for study at
towards a qualification.
you need, gain confidence higher-education level these
and explore a subject that courses will give you a flavour To find the Level 1 course for
interests you. of OU study before you your subject of choice – see
commit yourself to a longer the Start with sections in the
See pages 32–34 for more
course. See pages 34–35 for qualification descriptions.
information.
more information. See pages 14–29.
Afterwards, you’ll be Study another short You’re now

ready to move on course or move on on your way to
to a longer, broader to a longer, broader a qualification
Level 1 course. Level 1 course.
How do I decide the best option for me?

The best option for you is one that: So before you decide:
• is pitched at the right level and pace of learning • read through this prospectus
• fits in with the number of hours you can study • select a subject or qualification that interests you.
each week
Alternatively, click www.open.ac.uk/study
• matches your study goals. or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90 for further
information and advice.

32 Courses
Courses
�
In our courses you’ll engage with some
of the most compelling and contested
questions in contemporary society:
How do we communicate with each
other? Why do places carry meaning
for people? What are our rights as
citizens? Why are we so fascinated
by crime? What shapes our identity
and why?
Courses
Openings courses 32
Short courses 34
Longer, broader courses 36
Criminology 38
Economics and financial studies 38
Environment 40
Geography 41
International studies 42
Media studies 43
Politics 44
Psychological studies 45
Social policy 46
Sociology 47
Openings – introductory courses How Openings courses work

to build your confidence Openings courses are perfect for new learners
with little or no special knowledge or experience of
These introductory-level courses have been studying. You start with your own general knowledge
specially designed to help you: find out what and interests – taking examples from everyday life –
it’s like to study with us; get a taste of a subject and gradually build up to the kind of work you could
area; develop your learning skills; and build expect at the beginning of a longer Level 1 course.
your confidence.
Key features include: activities that encourage you
You can use them to prepare for your chosen to link the discussions in the course to your own
course, or to help you decide what to study next. experience; core questions and key points that help
They use the same top quality teaching materials you to remember what you’re reading; and learning
and study support that we’re famous for, but they’re skills sections that enable you to develop your skills
shorter, and pitched at an introductory level. including how to reflect on how you’re learning.
They’re also fascinating and fun to do!

Preparing for OU study
33
Timing Openings courses

We’ve made our Openings courses as flexible The Openings courses featured here are most likely
as possible: to be of interest to social sciences students. More
• Start dates are June, September, November and information about all of our Openings courses is
March each year. Course registrations close up to available online at www.open.ac.uk/openings and
two weeks before your chosen date but places go in the Openings Prospectus (to order a copy see
quickly so we advise you to book early. page 57).
• Each course lasts a maximum of 20 weeks.

• You can fit the course in with your other
Openings courses – Level 1
commitments, as long as you can find
approximately six hours a week for study. Understanding society
• You don’t have to go anywhere – tutorials are all Code: Y157
done by phone.
Points: 10
Tuition and assessment Level: 1 (SCQF level 7)
During the course you’ll do three short pieces of written Are you interested in people and how they live their
work. Your tutor will send you feedback, and discuss lives? Do you wonder about how society is changing,
the course material with you in telephone tutorials. and how your life connects with the lives of other
You may also be able to keep in touch by email. people across the world? This introductory course
At the end of the course, you’ll talk about your explores questions like these, starting with family life in
progress with your tutor and work together to produce the UK and ending with worldwide social movements.
a review of your study plans. If you complete one or You’ll learn about key social science concepts, and
more of the assignments, you’ll get a Statement of develop your knowledge of how social scientists work
Course Participation at Level 1. There are no exams – while developing learning skills that provide a sound
with Openings courses. You gain 10 credit points if basis for further academic study. You’ll also develop
you do well enough in the final assignment, which you your understanding of social issues and debates that
may be able to count towards an OU qualification. dominate the news, in the UK and elsewhere.
How to register Starting with psychology

If you apply and we have a place on the course
you want to study, we’ll accept you. Openings Code: Y163
courses are available only to students living in the Points: 10
UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or those who
Level: 1 (SCQF level 7)
have a British Forces Post Office (BFPO) address.
For information about registering, call our Student Why do people behave in certain ways? What is
Registration & Enquiry Service, visit our website or going on in other people’s minds? What influences
request the Openings Prospectus – see page 57. our thoughts, feelings, abilities and behaviour? This
Openings course introduces some of the key ideas
involved in studying psychology. You’ll consider how
Cost aspects of our biology, ways of thinking, important
relationships, and social identity combine to make us
Each Openings course costs £110 (increasing
who we are; how psychologists gather their evidence;
to £115 from September 2009)1. There are free
and the type of work that psychologists can do.
places (on a first-come, first-served basis) for
The course is ideal if you’re a beginner or returning
those who rely on state benefits as their main
to study. It will also help you to develop your study
source of income and for those who have a
skills and become a confident learner.
household income of less than £16,510
per annum2.
1
If you are resident in the Channel Islands or the
Isle of Man you will have to pay a higher course
fee which is £510, increasing to £535 from
September 2009 (see page 52).
2
For students living in England, Wales or
Northern Ireland, financial support based on
income is available only if you have little or no
previous experience of higher education. In
Scotland, this condition does not apply.

34 Courses
Learning to change Short courses

The assessment key table below explains what the
Code: Y165 abbreviations in the course description tables mean.
Points: 10
Assessment key
TMA Tutor-marked assignment
This introductory course is for people who are ECA End-of-course assessment
thinking about making changes in their lives, such
as returning to study or taking a different direction at
work. It will help you build on what you already know;
consider the choices open to you; use your skills
Short courses – Level 1
and qualities to achieve change; and make plans for We offer a number of short courses which are
the future. There are opportunities to develop your relevant to the social sciences, and several of
learning skills, such as active reading and using these can count as optional courses towards social
evidence, as well as your everyday skills, such as sciences qualifications such as the Certificate of
communication, problem solving and organisation. Higher Education in Social Sciences (C95).
These Openings courses may also interest you, click These Level 1 short courses are ideal if you want to
www.open.ac.uk/openings for more information: try out OU study or wish to study for personal interest
• Introducing environment (Y161). at a faster pace than an Openings course. If you are
unsure about studying you might wish to start with an
• Making sense of the arts (Y160). Openings course first (see pages 32–34).
• Starting with maths (Y162).
• Understanding children (Y156). New Introduction to counselling
• Understanding health (Y158). Code: D171
• Exploring sport online (Y164). Points: 15
Assessment: 2 TMAs
Start: Oct 2009, Apr 2010
Length: 12 weeks
Register by: Course start date
The tremendous expansion of counselling over the
last 20 years reflects the changing nature of society,
an increase in the number of people perceiving a
need for professional help with their problems, and a
growing recognition of the value of such support. This
12-week online course provides an accessible and
interesting introduction to the theory and practice of
counselling. While the course is primarily theoretical,
it also develops some awareness of the basic skills in
counselling practice. You will get a good grounding
in key topics in counselling, including its cultural and
historical origins; different theoretical orientations; and
the vital role of the counselling relationship.

Short courses
35
New Contemporary Wales Understanding human nutrition

Code D172 Code SK183
Points: 15 Points: 10
Level: 1 (SCQF level 7) Level: 1 (SCQF level 7)
Assessment: 2 TMAs Assessment: 1 ECA
Start: May 2010 Start: Sep 2009, Nov 2009,
Length: 12 weeks Feb 2010, May 2010
Course start date Length: Up to 5 months

Register by:
With the arrival of devolution in the UK, Wales
and Welshness have become more visible. What This course will provide a useful background for you
is distinctive about Wales and what are the core if you are interested in your own and your family’s
features of this small nation? What does it mean to diet, or if you are involved in the nutrition and health
be Welsh and what are the divisions within Wales? of others, e.g. in schools, hospitals or residential
The course examines everyday life in contemporary care. You’ll learn about the components of the human
Wales and will equip you with an understanding of diet, and how food is processed in the body as well
the Welsh economy, politics, society and culture. as exploring the links between nutrition and health for
Case studies include the icons of chapel, rugby people of all ages and a range of lifestyles.
and the language, but also call centres, inequalities
and ‘race’. It examines some of the major national Short courses – Level 2
institutions, including the National Assembly and
the National Museum and explores whose Wales Our Level 2 short courses can be quite demanding
is represented in these bodies and how notions of if you haven’t studied before, but they offer an ideal
Welshness are contested. opportunity to study something new; are also an ideal
transition between Level 1 and Level 2 study; and
More details on this course will be available from
can be counted towards several qualifications.
autumn 2009 on our website www.open.ac.uk/study
Start writing family history Family meanings

Code: D270
Code A173
Points: 15
Points: 10
Assessment: 1 TMA, 1 ECA
Assessment: 2 TMAs
Start: Oct 2009, Apr 20101
Start: Oct 2009
Length: 12 weeks
Length: 12 weeks
Register by: 6 weeks before course start date
Family lives are constantly being scrutinised, but
This 12-week online course helps you to interpret
debates seem to sidestep the question of what
and write about family history. It offers a guide to the
‘family’ means. This 12-week online course provides
principles of studying history that are a foundation
a strong grounding for any student who is interested
for more advanced historical studies. You will learn
in exploring families and personal relationships, and
about historical sources – interpreting evidence and
the connections between ‘family’ and wider social
selecting suitable examples – and develop your
concerns. You will focus on what ‘family’ means in
appreciation and understanding of family history
our everyday lives, in family research and statistics,
and the ways in which the past is remembered and
and policy and professional practice – drawing on
represented. Using sources from different historical
varied social science, historical and comparative
periods, you will investigate the changing nature of the
perspectives. The course will develop your skills
family and, putting the principles of historical research
in interpreting research data and equip you to
into practice, write about your own family history.
approach family studies and interventions with a
This course will be presented for the last time in sound foundation and new insights.
October 2009. 1
This presentation of the course is subject to
University approval.
36 Courses
Politics, media and war: 9/11 and its impacts Longer, broader courses
Whatever you’re thinking of studying, we strongly
Code: D271 advise starting with a Level 1 course. Level 2
Points: 15 study is demanding and, like second year study
at any university, would be a very challenging
Level: 2 (SCQF level 8) place to start. Our students are most successful
Assessment: 1 TMA, 1 ECA when they’ve done the groundwork that Level 1 is
Start: Oct 2009, Apr 20101 specifically designed to cover.
Length: 12 weeks
Longer, broader Level 1 courses
Previously, war (or its threat) was posed at inter-state These Level 1 courses are designed to be the
level, but now the means of large scale political foundation study for many of the degrees offered in
violence is held by transnational actors below the social sciences. They provide you with the skills and
knowledge needed to progress successfully to study
level of the state. Accompanying this shift is the
at Levels 2 and 3 and offer a broad introduction to
resurgence of religious belief as a cause of war,
social sciences. Please check the requirements of
and the drive for power over territories and nations.
individual qualifications to see which courses count
Political leaders, as ever, are at the forefront – the towards the area you are interested in.
mediation of war and political violence raise crucial
questions about legitimacy, democracy and the
means of prosecuting war. This 12-week online New Introducing the social sciences
course introduces contemporary, cutting edge
Code: DD101
issues in international politics and media studies, by
exploring the geopolitical causes and consequences Points: 60
of 11 September 2001. Level: 1 (SCQF level 7)
1
This presentation of the course is subject to Start: Oct 2009, Jan 2010
University approval.
Assessment: 7 TMAs
Length: 9 months
Register by: 11 Sep 2009 for Oct 2009 start
16 Dec 2009 for Jan 2010 start
This course is an ideal introduction to the social
sciences – psychology, social policy and criminology,
geography and environment, politics and international
studies, economics and sociology – through study of
contemporary UK society. Using a blend of text, audio,
DVD and online materials, you’ll explore a wide range
of topics, including questions of society’s relationship
to the environment, questions of identity and issues of
social order and governance – all considered in their
national and international contexts – that will equip you
with a range of skills for independent study and for
your personal and working life.

Longer, broader courses
37
Introducing the social sciences Environment: journeys through

New – part one New a changing world
Code: DD131 Code: U116

Points: 30 Points: 60
Level: 1 (SCQF level 7) Level: 1 (SCQF level 7)
Assessment: 4 TMAs Assessment: 7 TMAs, 1 examination
Start: May 2010 Start: Oct 2009, Feb 2010
Length: 6 months Length: 9 months
Register by: 09 Apr 2010 Register by: 11 Sep 2009 for Oct 2009 start
16 Dec 2009 for Feb 2010 start
This course, along with Introducing the social
sciences – part two (DD132), presents mostly the Our world is changing fast – we are experiencing
same course materials as the 60-point Level 1 pressure from climate change, growing demands
course DD101, but allows you to work at a more for finite resources and the extinction of many
gradual pace. Both parts tackle everyday issues in plants and animals. Environment: journeys through
an approachable way, so that you can build on what a changing world introduces you to environmental
you already know and gain a solid grounding in study studies and the issues arising from environmental
techniques and social science skills and debates. change. It shows how people are seeking positive
You must take DD131 before DD132. solutions to environmental challenges where you
Introducing the social sciences - part two (DD132) is live, in the Arctic, Africa, the Amazon and China. It
planned for first presentation in November 2010. also develops the key skills and concepts needed to
understand our changing world. You do not need any
prior knowledge to study this course, just an interest
You and your money: in the future of our planet.
personal finance in context
Code: DB123
Points: 30
Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 ECA
Start: Nov 2009, May 2010
Length: 6 months
Register by: 16 Oct 2009 for Nov 2009 start
09 Apr 2010 for May 2010 start
Are you interested in making more informed
decisions about your personal finances? You
and your money: personal finance in context is a
practical course that will develop your financial skills
and improve your understanding of the changing
social and economic environment in which financial
decisions are made. You’ll explore questions such
as: Why do people borrow so much? How can I plan
for my retirement? By the end of the course, you’ll
have a detailed understanding of some key personal
finance issues that affect people’s lives, and the
skills and knowledge needed to improve your own
financial capability.

Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter any qualification or course code DB123
into the search box on our website e.g. You and your money: personal
finance in context (DB123) enter ‘DB123’ here.
38 Courses
Criminology Criminology Level 3

Crime and the fear of crime are two of the
We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies
biggest challenges of modern society. From the
at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff.
actions of petty thieves to the threats of terrorist
organisations, crime affects us all to a greater or
lesser extent. New Crime and justice
But why are some actions defined as criminal or Code: DD301
anti-social, while others are not? And who defines
Points: 60
them? Criminology looks not only at crime, but at
punishment too, questioning the effectiveness of Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
imprisonment and rehabilitation. Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
You can learn more about various aspects of crime Start: Oct 2009
and the criminal justice system through a range of
Length: 9 months
OU courses. You may want to study these for general
interest, as useful background for your job, or as Register by: 11 Sep 2009
part of a wider OU certificate, diploma or degree Crime, disorder, and justice are increasingly pressing
programme. A qualification that includes criminology concerns across the world. Fear of crime and
can lead to career opportunities in areas such as proliferating global threats contribute to an increasing
education, journalism, the legal profession, the sense of insecurity. Local concerns – for example
police, prison and probation services, research, and street crime – are now accompanied by twenty-first
youth and social work. century global concerns about human trafficking,
cyber-crime, terrorism and human rights violations
Criminology Level 2 to name but a few. These ‘threats’ have implications
for justice, as the boundaries between crime control
Welfare, crime and society and civil liberties are being increasingly redrawn.
You’ll explore crime and justice in both global and
Code: DD208 local contexts, and in particular the way that crime
and justice are being continually redefined by global
Points: 60
economic, social and political change.
Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
Oct 2009
Economics and financial studies
�
Start:
Active international trade and low inflation,
Length: 9 months interest rates and unemployment are all signs
Register by: 11 Sep 2009 of a healthy economy.
This course examines the relationships between the Equally, if your personal finances are in good shape
worlds of social welfare and crime control. It focuses it’s probably down to sound economic management.
on policy interventions and responses in the UK Whether it’s planning for your future, managing public
and around the world to issues such as anti-social services, or running a multinational business, the
behaviour, poverty, discrimination, hate crimes, child allocation of resources between competing forces is
labour, health and disease, families, slums, ghettos a fine and constantly shifting balancing act.
and gated communities. Using multi-media teaching Because economics directly relates to everyday life
materials, the course is organised by four conceptual it’s a fascinating subject to study.
themes - surveillance, social justice, security and
community. It will equip you with the skills you need OU courses take you from the basic theories and
to select and evaluate evidence in relation to social principles, through to more in-depth debate and insight
science arguments and social policy. into key issues, such as who wins and loses from
globalisation, and ask whether continued economic
growth is compatible with environment protection.
An economics qualification opens up career
opportunities in accountancy, finance and
management, although the skills you acquire will be
valued and rewarded by many organisations. In fact,
research shows that the earnings premium attached
to an economics degree is second only to law.

Courses
39
Economics Level 2 Economics Level 3

Economics and economic change at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff.
Code: DD202
Doing economics: people,
Points: 60 New markets and policy
Code: DD309
Points: 60
Start: Feb 2010
Length: 9 months
Register by: 16 Dec 2009
Start: Jan 2010
This introduction to contemporary economics explores
Length: 9 months
national and global debates such as: Are we living
through a new, ICT-led industrial revolution? What are Register by: 16 Dec 2009
the economic outcomes of globalisation? Is capitalism This course teaches economic theories that explain
environmentally sustainable? Do governments really the behaviour of people in households, firms,
have the will and capacity to redistribute income? You markets and governments. It presents alternative
will investigate a wide range of issues in economic economic explanations stemming from different fields
theory including innovation; economic policy and social sciences that will enable you to make your
and competition; firms’ decision making; market own critical judgements of which alternative serves
structures; the changing role of the state; poverty which purpose best. The course also equips you
and international trade; unemployment and inflation; with the research skills that you’ll need to conduct
economic forecasting; and managing the national your own project on a subject you want to know more
economy. The course will also enhance your ICT skills about. At the end of the course, you should have
through its innovative, multimedia teaching approach, developed a more critical view of the socio-economic
which includes a ‘virtual classroom’. and financial world in which you live.
Financial studies Level 2 These courses might also interest you

We also offer a number of other courses that are
Personal investment in closely related to this subject, which you may be
New an uncertain world interested in studying. For further information click
www.open.ac.uk/study
Code: DB234
Level 1
Points: 30
• An introduction to business studies (B120)
• Discovering mathematics (MU123)
• Introduction to bookkeeping and accounting
Start: May 2010
(B190) NEW
Length: 6 months
• Open mathematics (MU120)
Register by: 09 Apr 2010
• Using mathematics (MST121)
Why, where and how should I invest? How are these
decisions affected by economic uncertainty? What • You and your money: personal finance in context
is the relationship between risk and return? These (DB123) (page 37).
are some of the questions addressed in Personal
investment in an uncertain world. Investment
Level 2
planning requires financial decisions about the • Analysing data (M248).
allocation of resources in a world of uncertainty.
And these uncertainties affect the value of pensions, Level 3
shares and bonds. You’ll learn how to understand the • Accounting for strategy implementation (B321).
sources of uncertainty, the way that financial service
providers adapt to it and how individuals form
personal strategies to manage it.

40 Courses
Environment Environment Level 3

In an age when the spotlight is on sustainability,
environmental literacy is a great asset both
personally and professionally.
With the OU you can develop a broader Earth in crisis: environmental
understanding of the principles involved in New policy in an international context
environmental analysis, policymaking and action,
and how large-scale human activity impacts on Code: DU311
the environment. For example, what are the effects
of agriculture, resource extraction, energy supply, Points: 60
transport and urbanisation on natural and modified Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
ecosystems, and how can they be managed? Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
Start: Feb 2010
Environment Level 2
Length: 9 months
Environment Register by: 16 Dec 2009
This innovative course explores the causes
Code: U216
and consequences of a range of international
Points: 60 environmental problems and resource conflicts,
Level: 2 (SCQF level 8) including loss of biological diversity, water
allocation and urbanisation. Particular attention is
Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination paid to climate change. You’ll learn how political
Start: Jan 2010 divisions, inequalities and contentions over values
Length: 9 months and knowledge can hinder policy responses to
environmental problems, and evaluate what can
Register by: 16 Dec 2009 and should be done in the future at both political
Environmental concerns are broad ranging. They and individual levels. The course is ideal if you
include global climate change; anxieties about food, wish to develop a policy-relevant understanding
polluted air, management of waste, squandering of international environmental problems for either
natural resources, disappearance of species and personal interest or career development.
habitats; concerns over the consequences of our
actions for future generations; and disquiet over the The environmental web
genetic modification of living organisms. This exciting
and innovative course provides an introduction Code: U316
to the scientific, technological and social factors Points: 60
that are important in informing your approaches
to these concerns. Drawing on a wide range of Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
issues, it encourages you to understand and debate Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 ECA
environmental changes and responses, and to Start: Feb 2010
consider why it is that environmental questions are
often the source of political and scientific contests Length: 9 months
and conflict. Register by: 16 Dec 2009
This interdisciplinary course examines contemporary
issues such as biodiversity and climate change in
order to develop your environmental literacy, and
enable you to take part in informed debate and
As soon as I started
action. It draws on a wide variety of disciplines
with the OU it broke
to investigate environmental changes, their
down many of my barriers
consequences, and implications for action. You will
to learning and inspired me
explore environmental materials on the web used to
not only to continue my
publish data, implement policy, debate issues, and
degree, but also to study
Ann Marriott promulgate views – learning how to navigate, analyse
in other places.
OU student and evaluate such information. Some knowledge of
the environment is assumed – for example, from our
course Environment (U216).

Courses
41
These courses might also interest you Geography Level 2

closely related to this subject, which you may be
interested in studying. For further information click Living in a globalised world
Code: DD205
Level 1 Points: 60
• Environment: journeys through a changing world Level: 2 (SCQF level 8)
(U116) (page 37)
• Networked living: exploring information and
Start: Feb 2010
communication technologies (T175).
Length: 9 months
Geography Register by: 16 Dec 2009
Geography goes far beyond locations and It is commonplace now to say that the world has
landscapes. From climate change and cultural gone global. Whenever we buy food and clothes,
differences to politics and populations, geography’s listen to music, or watch the news, we can see
diversity is its strength and makes it one of the most how different parts of the world, often thousands
stimulating subjects you can study. of miles apart, are connected together. And with
these multiple and various connections comes a
Geography at the OU will answer many of your most sense of the world as being a complex and exciting
searching questions about how our complex world place. This course will help you to understand that
is changing. You’ll understand more about how complexity, giving you some key geographical
places develop a distinctive character, why places concepts which help to make sense of the processes
are meaningful to people, and how the processes and patterns shaping our globalised world.
of globalisation influence places in a variety of ways
across the world.
Geography Level 3
If you’re interested in exploring the relationship
between social change and the environment, you We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies
might also like to consider linking your geography at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff.
studies with courses from our environment,
development and international studies programme Understanding cities
see www.open.ac.uk/study for further information.
Code: DD304
As a geographer, you’ll have a number of different
career opportunities. Your background is attractive to Points: 60
many employers, but particularly to development and Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
aid agencies, and organisations involved in heritage, Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 ECA
the environment, leisure, tourism, and town and
transport planning. Start: Feb 2010
Length: 9 months
For the first time in human history, more than half
the world’s population will be living in cities. Huge
influxes of people are entering cities, often in poor
countries with few resources. This challenges not
only how cities are to be understood, but also
how people are to survive and thrive in cities. This
multidisciplinary social science course offers a fresh
look at cities as the world attempts to grapple with
the problems and possibilities they present.

42 Courses
These courses might also interest you International studies Level 2

closely related to this subject, which you may be
interested in studying. For further information click International development:
www.open.ac.uk/study challenges for a world in transition
Level 1 Code: U213
• Environment: journeys through a changing world Points: 60
(U116) (page 37).
Level 2 Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
• Governing Europe (DD200) (this page) Start: Feb 2010
• Environment (U216) (page 40). Length: 9 months
Level 3
• A world of whose making? (DU301) (page 43) International development in its many manifestations
presents the world with some of its most pressing
• Earth in crisis: environmental policy in an challenges. This course explores the nature
international context (DU311) (page 40). of those issues and responses to them, in the
context of changing global, political and economic
circumstances. The emphasis is on development
International studies needs wherever they arise, with their broadest global
Do the problems, challenges, and opportunities of our implications. The course looks critically at ideas about
inter-connected world make you want to understand inequality and justice at both local and global levels,
more about the contemporary international political, and the relationship between these levels. After an
economic and cultural landscape? introduction to core debates and a discussion of
transitions in the global economy, you’ll have the
Are you interested in a career where you engage chance to explore in depth topics like sustainability,
directly with real-world issues in an international displacement, poverty, inequality and technology.
setting – perhaps working in the civil or diplomatic
service, overseas development, journalism, the
Governing Europe
private sector or research? Do you want to be a
‘good global citizen’ with a well-rounded knowledge Code: DD200 or DDZX200
of the international agenda and the challenges that
are increasingly important to our future? Points: 60
Either way, taking an international studies course
with the OU is an excellent place to start. You’ll gain Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
a broad appreciation of key aspects of the global Start: Feb 2010
order, as well as the dynamics of the international
Length: 9 months
system; cultural diversity; world poverty and
inequality; and international institutions. You’ll also Register by: 16 Dec 2009
gain a critical understanding of what is being done to
What exactly do we mean by ‘Europe’? Whether we
address these challenges. define it as a geographic, economic or political term,
it’s constantly changing. This freshly-updated course
studies the origins and motives behind the creation
of the EU and takes you through the fascinating
history of successive EU enlargements. It offers a
cutting-edge approach to the study of social change,
politics and economics within the European Union. If
you have ever wondered about the Euro, immigration,
the preservation (or not) of national identity within the
EU, the EU Constitution, and the evolving EU agenda,
you should take this course.
This course is presented with conventional means of
tuition and assignment submission and marking. It is
also offered electronically; the course code for that
version is DDZX200.

Courses
43
These OU courses don’t aim to equip you with the

International studies Level 3 technical or specialist training needed for some
careers in the media, but they will give you valuable
background and skills for jobs in the creative, media
and cultural industries, public relations, and voluntary
and campaigning organisations.
A world of whose making?
Code: DU301 Media studies Level 2
Points: 60
Level: 3 (SCQF level 10) Understanding media
Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 ECA Code: DA204
Start: Feb 2010 Points: 60
Length: 9 months Level: 2 (SCQF level 8)
Register by: 16 Dec 2009 Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
How can we best understand and analyse Start: Jan 2010
international developments such as the role of the
Length: 9 months
World Trade Organisation, the power of the USA, or
global contests over religion, culture and rights? What Register by: 16 Dec 2009
are the main features of international order, how are The communications media (newspapers,
they changing, and what can we expect in the future? photography, radio, film, television, popular music,
This interdisciplinary course provides the tools of advertising and the internet, to name only a few)
political and economic analysis needed to answer have profoundly transformed the way we live.
such questions. You will also review and debate The main aim of this course is to equip you with
the power politics of dominant states; struggles for a robust understanding of the main issues facing
identity and justice in a global civil society; states and media businesses, governments, and ourselves,
security; economic and technological developments; as consumers of the media and citizens living
and how world order is changing. in societies saturated by media messages. This
understanding is grounded in detailed and rigorous
This course might also interest you media analysis. A wide variety of media is used on
Level 3 the course, including DVD-ROM, audio CDs, DVD,
the web, textbooks and study guides.
• Earth in crisis: environmental policy in an
international context (DU311) (page 40).
Media studies
We are surrounded by the media – it fills our leisure
time and shapes our cultural, social and political
interests. Film images, magazines and newspapers,
posters, the internet and radio and television
broadcasts: these all influence our thinking
and actions.
Through OU study you can explore many aspects
of how the new multimedia cultural industries
have come to dominate our lives. Understanding
more about how the media affects our senses,
the organisations that control output, and how
censorship works, will help you to take a more critical
view of the media you engage with every day.

Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter any qualification or course code DA204
into the search box on our website e.g. Understanding media (DA204)
enter ‘DA204’ here.
44 Courses
Media studies Level 3 Politics Level 2

at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff. Power, dissent, equality:
understanding contemporary politics
Film and television history Code: DD203
Code: AA310 Points: 60
Points: 60 Level: 2 (SCQF level 8)
Level: 3 (SCQF level 10) Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination Start: Oct 2009
Start: Feb 2010 Length: 9 months
Length: 9 months Register by: 11 Sep 2009
Register by: 16 Dec 2009 Tumultuous events like 9/11 and the war in Iraq have
Cinema came into its own in an era dominated by reminded people how vital – and sometimes how
the USA, so American cinema is of paramount deadly – the world of politics can be. Even at the very
importance in film history. The American films you’ll local level, the everyday politics of petitioning, local
study span a broad period, from those made in the council debate, and of schools and hospitals affects
‘golden age’ of Hollywood, such as Stagecoach and people’s lives. This course invites you into the world
Now, Voyager, to Titanic and the films of the Coen of politics in a fresh and accessible way, using a
Brothers. You will also study British films of the 1950s wide variety of case studies drawn from the UK and
and 1960s; West German, French and Italian films beyond. It sheds light on the inner workings of power,
since the early 1970s; and soap operas, single plays, decision making and protest, and it covers politics
literary adaptations, science fiction, adventure series from parliament to the street, and the politics of ideas
and mini-series from the world of television. as well as institutions.
Politics Politics Level 3

Regardless of whether or not you’re a political We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies
animal, politics plays a crucial part in our lives. at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff.
Our rights as citizens, the development of the
European Union, and the outcome of a global ‘war’ Living political ideas
against terrorism all depend on government policy.
Code: DD306
Your OU studies will help you understand more about
Points: 60
some of the biggest political challenges and changes
in modern society, and how decisions are made, Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
implemented and regulated. For an international Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 project
perspective on important issues, such as inequality,
Start: Oct 2009
power and authority, you might also like to look at
courses in our environment and international studies Length: 9 months
programme. Click www.open.ac.uk/study-edis for Register by: 11 Sep 2009
more information.
Should religious beliefs shape how politics are
Studying politics can give you a head start if you’re conducted in the contemporary world? Does violence
looking to develop a career in politics itself. But have a role in politics? Should animals as well as
the analytical, research and presentation skills humans be represented in politics? What do bodies
you’ll develop through your studies will be of real and sexuality have to do with politics? Living political
advantage for roles in the civil service, finance, ideas is an exciting Level 3 politics and international
journalism, management training, advertising, PR studies course that debates these and similar
and market research. questions. It demonstrates the relevance of political
ideas for understanding contemporary issues in
national and world politics. Course materials include
software, video, audio, websites and print.
Click www.open.ac.uk/study-edis or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Courses
45
These courses might also interest you Psychological studies Level 3

We also offer the following courses that are closely
related to this subject, which you may be interested We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies
in studying and which are listed under International at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff.
studies, see page 42.
Social psychology: critical
Level 2 perspectives on self and others
• International development: challenges for a world
in transition (U213) (page 42). Code: DD307
• Governing Europe (DD200) (page 42). Points: 60

Level 3 Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination
• A world of whose making? (DU301) (page 43).
Start: Jan 2010
Length: 9 months
Psychological studies Register by: 16 Dec 2009
An important element of the social sciences is an
understanding of what makes people tick: how they This Level 3 course uses traditional and cutting-edge
think, act and interact with others, and how they social psychological theories to explore some of the
perceive and process information. most exciting and pressing issues we face in our
complex, fast changing world. Topics in the course
Linking your study of social sciences with courses include emotions, conflict, relationships, the body,
from our psychology programme will help you explore personality, prejudice and group processes. Working
the fascinating connections between the individual with multimedia materials, you will develop advanced
and the social world. academic skills of critical evaluation and argument
There’s more information about psychology on and will have the opportunity to conduct your own
www.open.ac.uk/study-psychology independent research project – consolidating and
deepening your understanding. The course will
also contribute to your personal development by
Psychological studies Level 2 encouraging you to reflect on your life in the light of
social psychological evidence.
Exploring psychology
Code: DSE212
Points: 60
Start: Oct 2009
Length: 9 months
Register by: 11 Sep 2009
How humans think, develop, and experience the
world around us has been fascinating psychologists
for over 100 years. Using a historical and
biographical framework, this course introduces
you to a wide range of psychological approaches,
including biological, social, and cognitive
psychologies. It looks at areas such as identity,
learning, memory, and language. But you won’t just
learn about psychological theories, you’ll learn how
to do different types of psychological research too.
You’ll undertake practical work using quantitative
and qualitative research methods and learn to
analyse data using SPSS software. All in all, Exploring
psychology will give you a thorough overview of
psychology, relevant to your daily life.

46 Courses
Cognitive psychology Social policy

Crime, domestic violence, homelessness, inequality,
Code: DD303 poverty and unemployment are among a long list of
Points: 60 matters of national concern.
Level: 3 (SCQF level 10) Setting social policy is all about how we as a society
decide who receives support, what form it takes, and
who delivers it to the individuals who are thought to
Start: Jan 2010 be vulnerable and in need. Should it be the state, the
Length: 9 months market, charities or families?
Register by: 16 Dec 2009 As an OU student studying social policy you’ll
explore a variety of issues that are defined as social
How does memory work? How do we understand problems and learn how governments tackle them.
language? How do we think? These are just some You’ll appreciate how issues like disability, race and
of the questions related to everyday experience sexuality influence the development of social policies
you’ll address on this course. Beginning with core and welfare practices. From a career perspective,
topics – perception and attention; categorisation you’ll find your studies will be of particular value if
and language; and memory, thinking and you’re involved in, or plan to work in the criminal justice
reasoning – you’ll then explore wider issues, such system, health care, housing, local government, public
as emotion and consciousness, topics that have services, social welfare, or the voluntary sector.
presented a challenge to the cognitive approach.
Throughout, you’ll be asked to examine theories,
evidence and arguments as well as the methods of Social policy Level 2
cognitive psychology, including neuropsychology
and neuroimaging. Using a computer, you’ll also Welfare, crime and society (DD208)
be guided through techniques of data analysis,
experimentation, and cognitive modelling, and will Please see course description on page 38.
engage in your own project work.
Social policy Level 3
These courses might also interest you
We offer a number of other courses that are closely
related to this subject, which you may be interested
in studying. For further information click
www.open.ac.uk/study Personal lives and social policy
Level 2 Code: DD305

• Biological psychology: exploring the brain (SD226) Points: 60
• Child development (ED209) Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
• Exploring psychology online project (DZX222) Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 ECA

Start: Oct 2009
• Exploring psychology project (DXR222).
Length: 9 months
How has social policy influenced ideas and values
about parenthood? How far can we legitimise locking
children in secure accommodation in order to ‘care’
for them? How have ‘welfare to work’ initiatives
changed the meaning of ‘work’ in social policy? How
does social policy construct the lives of refugees and
asylum seekers? This course uses four key themes –
Sexualities, Care, Work, and Citizenship – to explore
how individuals shape and are shaped by policy
making and welfare practices and how social policy
is organised, represented and experienced - opening
up challenging questions about the policymaking
process both in the past and in contemporary society.

Courses
47
Sociology Sociology Level 3

Think how things have changed in the last 50 years.
Societies are more multicultural, family structures are
more fluid, employment is more mobile and transient.
And while the gap between the rich and the poor Making social worlds
may have widened, the great divide between
generations seems to have narrowed. Code: DD308
Sociology’s broad scope and a strong perspective Points: 60
on our world make it a highly popular subject with OU Level: 3 (SCQF level 10)
students. You’ll understand more about how societies
develop and the compelling forces that shape our Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 project
behaviour, values and identity. And, in making more Start: Oct 2009
sense of the world we live in, you’ll come to know
Length: 9 months
yourself better.
Our courses and qualifications promise a rich
learning experience. As well as enabling you to In order to survive, human beings live in social
contribute to debates on many different topics, you’ll worlds which create security, foster stable attachment
develop career skills that are useful in areas such as between individuals and things, and regulate
central and local government, charity, commerce, behaviour. This accessible, vocationally relevant
education, human resources, the voluntary sector course demonstrates how sociological approaches
and welfare services. can be applied to make sense of these processes –
investigating how they work and how they sometimes
fail. Through topics such as immigration, medicine,
Sociology Level 2 family, money and reality television, you will explore
how social experience is shaped by nature and
Sociology and society the material world, and made meaningful through
culture and the media. The course is ideal if you have
Code: DD201 previously studied the social sciences or arts and
Points: 60 want to consolidate your understanding of sociology.
This course might also interest you
Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination For further information click www.open.ac.uk/study
Start: Oct 2009
Length: 9 months
Level 2
• Islam in the west: the politics of co-existence
(AD252).
This lively introduction to contemporary sociology
contains four modules, beginning with Understanding
everyday life, which illuminates everyday aspects
of the social world, including the home and pub.
Next, Social divisions and differences examines the
social divisions of race, class and gender, exploring Suddenly I knew what
their relationship to debates about citizenship and everyone was talking
social justice. Social change introduces an historical about! It made me so much
perspective by considering changes in the temporal more confident.
and spatial organisation of social life, in nations and
Lee Sterrey
cities, for example. Finally, The uses of sociology
OU student
introduces different approaches to doing sociology,
including methods.

Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter any qualification or course code DD308
into the search box on our website e.g. Making social worlds (DD308)
enter ‘DD308’ here.
48 Becoming an OU student
Becoming an OU student
�
If you’re studying full time at another institution, you
Applying to the OU must get written permission from its principal to study
At the OU, you study individual courses. You can with us.
gradually build these up and work towards a You will not be allowed to study more than 120
qualification – a certificate, a diploma or a degree. course points at any one time (including examination
resits, deferrals and resubmissions), unless you’re
For most of our courses, the process of applying is
attending up to two additional and related stand-alone
very simple:
residential school courses; or if course presentations
• choose the course you want to study overlap by no more than one month; or both.
• register for it
Counting previous study
• pay your fees.
towards an OU qualification
Ways to register If you’ve successfully completed some higher-
education study elsewhere, we may be able to give
Online at www.open.ac.uk/study
you credit for it. You may then need fewer OU courses
Complete the personalised form (if enclosed) to achieve your chosen qualification. Transferred
Phone an OU hotline: credit is awarded only for periods of relevant study
that have been formally assessed and can be verified
• In England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands, as successfully completed. Attendance at a course
the Isle of Man, British Forces Post Office (BFPO) that is not formally assessed would not entitle you to
addresses outside the UK and all other countries, claim for transferred credit. For more information,
except the EU and Switzerland: +44 (0)845 300 60 90 click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer
• In Northern Ireland: 028 9032 3722
• In the Republic of Ireland: How much will it cost?
(01)6785399 or +44 28 9032 3722 Course fees depend on what you study and where you
• In other EU countries and Switzerland: live – please see the separate Course Fees 2009/2010
+44 191 477 6100 leaflet, click www.open.ac.uk/study or, for information
about studying outside the UK, see page 52.
To sponsor a group of students, email corporate
enquiries@open.ac.uk or call +44 (0)845 366 6053. UK fees apply if you meet the criteria
For help or advice before registering contact our set out below:
Student Registration & Enquiry Service (see page 56)
UK national
or your OU country representative (page 53).
You are entitled to pay the UK course fee if you are
When to apply ‘settled’ 1 in the UK (excluding Channel Islands and
Isle of Man) on the first day of your course and you
Registering well before the closing date means
have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the three
we can allocate you a tutor and send you course
years prior to the course start date.
materials and, where appropriate, tutorial details in
plenty of time before your course starts. Remember If you are temporarily and unavoidably working
to let us know if you plan to move to another country outside the UK for a period of less than three years
after you’ve registered as this may affect your you will still be classified as ‘ordinarily resident’ in the
fees. For more information see individual course UK and therefore eligible to pay UK course fees.
descriptions in this prospectus, click If you are currently resident outside the UK, using
www.open.ac.uk/study, or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90. a BFPO address as you are either a member of the
You should register well in advance of the closing British Armed Forces or a UK diplomat then you can
date if you wish to apply for financial support (see pay UK course fees for the total time spent outside the
page 50) or if you want to make a claim for credit UK. If you work for the Foreign and Commonwealth
transfer (see opposite). Office and were appointed to your post whilst resident
within the UK and are currently working abroad and
Entry and study requirements using a BFPO address then you will also be eligible to
pay the UK course fees if you have not been resident
There are no formal academic requirements or outside the UK for more than three years.
selection procedures for most of our undergraduate
courses, but it’s a good idea to prepare yourself for If you are ordinarily resident in the Channel Islands
study at the appropriate level. For further details, or the Isle of Man then you are not eligible to pay UK
click www.open.ac.uk/study or call us on course fees.
+44 (0)845 300 60 90.

49
European Economic Area (EEA),

Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,
Agreed Overseas Territory or Swiss nationals
Portugal, Republic of Ireland, Romania, Slovakia,
You are entitled to pay the UK course fee if you are Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom
ordinarily resident in the UK, will be resident in the (excluding Channel Islands and Isle of Man).
UK on the first day of your course and have been 3
Agreed Overseas Territories:
ordinarily resident in the EEA2, Switzerland or an Anguilla; Aruba; Bermuda; British Antarctic
Agreed Overseas Territory 3 for at least the three Territory; British Indian Ocean Territory; British
years prior to the start date of your course and you Virgin Islands; Cayman Islands; Falkland Islands;
are a national of one of these countries. Faroe Islands; French Polynesia; French Southern
Dependants and family members of nationals and Antarctic Territories; Greenland; Mayotte;
from one of the territories mentioned above Montserrat; Netherlands Antilles (Bonaire, Curaçao,
Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten); Pitcairn,
If you are ordinarily resident in the UK, will be
Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands; South Georgia
resident in the UK on the first day of your course
and the South Sandwich Islands; St Helena and
and have been resident in the EEA2 for the three
Dependencies (Ascension Island and Tristan da
years prior to the start date of your course and are
Cunha); St Pierre et Miquelon; The Territory of New
a dependant of a national from one of the above
Caledonia and Dependencies; Turks and Caicos
territories, you will be eligible to pay UK course fees
Islands; Wallis and Fortuna.
so long as the person on whom you are claiming
dependency is ordinarily resident in the UK, is
resident in the UK on the first day of the course and
You may also need to budget for:
have been resident in the EEA2 for the three years
prior to the start date of your course. Please note: travel to tutorials and residential schools – we
residence in the UK purely for educational purposes can sometimes offer a choice of sites but you
cannot be counted as part of your three years. may need to travel some distance.
set texts – for most courses, the main teaching
Nationals of areas not mentioned above
texts are included in the fee. Sometimes, those
If you are not a national of any of the above texts are supported by books that you have to
mentioned territories but have been granted buy yourself or borrow from a local library, but
‘exceptional leave to enter or remain’ or ‘indefinite we’re careful to limit the cost as far as we can.
leave to remain’ in the UK (i.e. not on a temporary
visa), have been resident in the UK for at least three equipment – for some courses you may need
years prior to the course start date (excluding any use of a television; video, DVD or audio-CD
time spent in the UK on a student visa), and will be player; or a scientific calculator. See also,
resident in the UK on the first day of your course, elearning and computers on page 54.
then you will be eligible to pay the UK course fee.
Please note that if you have applied for asylum and
your case has been approved by the Home Office
How to pay
so that you now have official refugee status, then you Depending on your income you may qualify for some
only need to have been given the ‘indefinite leave financial support – in fact many of our students are able
to remain in the UK’ to be eligible to pay UK course to study for free (see Financial support overleaf).
fees. You do not need to have also been resident in If you are paying some or all of the cost yourself,
the UK for three years prior to the course start date. you can pay in full when you register, by credit or
You will be required to send in relevant documentation debit card, or by cheque – in EU currencies, Swiss
to support your application to pay UK course francs or US dollars. Alternatively, UK, EEA and
fees for any of the above scenarios. Acceptable Switzerland students can defer or spread the cost
documentation will include copies of visas, passports with a loan from Open University Student Budget
with visa/refugee/asylum seeker details stamped on, Accounts Ltd (OUSBA):
or letters of official documentation from the UK Home
Register now, pay later – OUSBA pays your full fee
Office providing details of the above.
direct to us. You repay OUSBA interest-free and in full
If you are not sure if you are eligible to pay UK fees, just before your course starts.
contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Pay by instalments – OUSBA pays your full fee
on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
at registration and you repay the loan in monthly
1
Normally and lawfully resided in the UK from choice
instalments (usually around the 5th of each month)
without any immigration restriction on the length of
over the length of your course, starting a month after
your stay in the UK.
your course begins. Interest is charged at 8.5 per
2
EEA countries:
cent (APR 8.8 per cent), reducing to 5 per cent
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic,
(APR 5.12 per cent) from August 2009.
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,


If you would like to pay via OUSBA you will need OU gift vouchers
to complete a separate credit agreement for
each course you wish to study. The type of credit OU vouchers make an inspiring present, ideal
agreement you need to complete depends on the if you’re looking for an unusual gift for someone
length of the course you are studying: special. Or ask family and friends to support your
own study by buying vouchers for special occasions.
Courses that are more than five months in duration To buy or redeem vouchers, click
If your course is longer than five months in duration www.openuniversity.co.uk/vouchers
you will receive two pre-printed credit agreements
with your registration agreement after you have made Tesco Clubcard Deals tokens
a reservation. If you wish to charge your fees to An innovative partnership between the OU and
OUSBA you must sign, date and return the ‘Original’ Tesco allows shoppers to exchange their Clubcard
agreement with your registration form. The ‘Copy’ vouchers for Deals tokens, worth four times their
of the agreement that displays a customer copy value, to pay for part or all of any OU undergraduate
watermark must be kept for your records. course. For every £10 of Clubcard vouchers, Tesco
If your course is longer than five months and you shoppers will receive £40 in Deals tokens towards
only want to pay for part of your fees using OUSBA paying for their course. To find out more about the
and the rest of your course fees are not being paid terms and conditions of this scheme – running
using a credit/debit card (e.g. OU gift vouchers), in the UK and the Republic of Ireland – click
please call +44 (0)845 300 60 90 before making a www.openuniversity.co.uk/clubcarddeals
reservation so that the OUSBA agreement can be
amended prior to despatch to you. Sponsorship
Courses that are five months in duration or less If you’re studying for vocational reasons your employer
may be willing to pay part or all of your fees. Your
If your course is five months or less in duration you
registration pack includes information on sponsorship.
will need to complete the following form: ‘Agreement
for courses five months in duration or less’ which
you can download from the OUSBA website Financial support
www.open.ac.uk/ousba or request by calling
+44 (0)845 300 60 90. You should complete an The OU and the relevant governments of the UK fund
agreement for each course you are applying for a range of financial support services to help you
and return them with your completed registration with the costs of studying. This year we expect over
agreement. 38,000 students to receive some kind of financial
support for their OU studies.
Applying for an OUSBA account online
The type and level of support available depends on
Continuing students who have previously paid for your household income, whether you receive certain
a course using OUSBA can apply for an OUSBA state benefits and where you live (see below). If
account online during registration. Students who
you’re a UK, EEA or Switzerland student you need to
are currently in debt or arrears to OUSBA, or the
have been resident in the UK for three years or more.
University, will not be able to use this facility. If you
are a new student or have not used an OUSBA Click www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport where you
account before, you will only be able to register can use our calculator to find out if you’re eligible.
online if you are paying your fees in full by credit or
debit card. If you live in the UK and would like apply for financial
support to study one of our Openings or Short
courses, you’ll need to complete the application
When we confirm your acceptance for an
form printed in the back of the relevant prospectus.
OUSBA account you will receive a separate
To order your copies, see page 57 or click
Direct Debit mandate (CATI instruction for
www.open.ac.uk/prospectus
overseas students) for each course you are
registered for – these must be completed and

If you live in England, Wales
returned to OUSBA.
or Northern Ireland
OUSBA credit agreements are regulated by the If you are studying an OU undergraduate course
Consumer Credit Act 1974. and have a household income of up to £30,000, or
Find out more at www.open.ac.uk/ousba or by more if you have dependants, you could qualify for
calling +44 (0)8457 697937. Calls to this line are financial support to put towards your course fee and
charged at the UK local rate when calling from the cost of your study.
a UK landline.

51
Allowances are given for a partner and dependent • ILA Scotland £500 learner account – If your
children. These are £2000 for a partner, £2000 for your personal income is £18,000 or less a year, or you’re
first child and £1000 for each further child. If you live on certain benefits, you can claim up to £500 a
with your parents, their income will not be included in year towards the course fee if you are studying at
any assessment of your household income. least 60 credit points a year, equivalent to studying
for at least 50 per cent of the time needed to
For example, if you have a partner and two children
complete a full-time course.
who are financially dependent on you, you could
have a household income of up to £35,000 and be • ILA Scotland £200 learner account – If your
entitled to receive some financial support. personal income is £18,000 or less a year, or you’re
on certain benefits, you can claim up to £200 a
Depending on your income and your course of study,
year towards a wide range of courses, where the
you’ll be eligible to apply for:
amount of study is less than 60 points.
Fee grant and course grant – If you are on certain
The threshold amounts and regulations for using ILA
benefits or have a household income below £30,000
learner accounts may change. For the most up-to
(plus allowances, where applicable) you can apply
date information, click www.ilascotland.org.uk
for support towards your course fees and study
costs. You will need to be studying between 30 and Other help – For help with study-related expenses
90 points worth of courses to qualify. For current (such as computers, cost of broadband,
details of income thresholds and grant amounts, childcare, travel to tutorials or residential schools)
click www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport discretionary funds may be available to students
who have financial difficulty in meeting these costs.
Access to Learning Fund – Students with a
Discretionary funds cannot be used to pay fees.
household income below £27,505 plus allowances
can apply for assistance from the Access to Learning Keeping up to date
Fund. This fund is provided to assist students who To find the most up-to-date information on the financial
are facing higher than expected costs as a result of support available to students in Scotland – particularly
their study. It cannot be used to pay for course fees, any changes to income thresholds – please see
but will support course-related costs such as travel, our website www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport.
childcare, computer purchase and internet access. Alternatively, contact The Open University in Scotland
on 0131 226 3851, or email Scotland@open.ac.uk.
Funding may be limited and is allocated on a first-
come, first-served basis. For more information and
application forms call 0845 300 60 90 or email If you have a disability, health
general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
condition, mental-health disability
If you live in Scotland or specific learning difficulty

�
In Scotland, there are currently two schemes which
If you register for a place on a course, we’ll ask
help students with the cost of their course fees.
you whether you have a disability, health condition,
Part-time fee waiver – If you are studying an OU mental-health disability or specific learning difficulty
undergraduate course and are on certain state (such as dyslexia) that might affect your studies or
benefits or have a household income of under examinations. If you do, we’ll send you the booklet
£16,510 (or more if you have dependants) you could Meeting Your Needs, which provides more detailed
qualify for a course fee waiver, which will cover the information about the services we offer and the
total cost of your course fees so you pay nothing. nature of OU study.
Allowances are given for a partner and dependent To get more detailed information and advice about
children. These are £2000 for a partner, £2000 for all services for students with disabilities, click
your first child and £1000 for each further child. www.open.ac.uk/disability. A summary of our
services is also provided in our leaflet Open to Your
For example, if you have a partner and two children
Needs, which you can get in various formats from our
who are financially dependent on you, you could
Student Registration & Enquiry Service (see page 56).
have a household income of up to £21,510 and the
fee waiver scheme will pay your fees. If you are eligible for a Disabled Students’ Allowance
(see below) the University will only provide study
ILA Scotland Learner Accounts – ILA Scotland is
support that cannot be provided by the allowance.
a Scottish Government scheme for anyone aged 16
or over living in Scotland studying at undergraduate
level. The funds in the learner accounts are not a loan Our Disability Equality Scheme and Action Plan
so you don’t have to pay any of it back. There are two describes our policy and commitment and is
different learner accounts. The Open University in available on our website, click
Scotland is an approved ILA provider. You will need www.open.ac.uk/our-student-policies
an ILA Scotland account before you register with us.

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) For more information please contact either your
OU country representative (see opposite) or the
– UK students only applicable OU office (see page 56).
Disabled Students’ Allowances help with costs that
result directly from your disability or specific learning Fees
difficulty. Allowances are not means-tested and If you’re not eligible to pay a UK course fee (see
may go towards specialist equipment (such as an page 48), your fee will be higher than the UK fees.
adapted computer), non-medical study support (for Fees for students in the UK are substantially less than
example, a sign-language interpreter; a note-taker or the full cost of teaching because the UK government
a dyslexia support worker) or other related expenses. gives the OU a grant which covers the majority of
Eligibility and allowances depend on where you those costs; this grant can only be used to support
live and what you’re studying. In England, Wales or the teaching of citizens of the European Economic
Northern Ireland you may be eligible for a DSA if Area (EEA), Switzerland and Agreed Overseas
you’re studying at least 30 credit points towards an Territories who are resident within the UK. It cannot
OU undergraduate qualification that lasts for more be used to meet the costs of teaching students who
than one year. In Scotland you must be studying at are resident elsewhere.
least 60 credit points towards an OU undergraduate
Fees for students resident in the Irish Republic are
qualification that lasts for more than one year. All
lower than those for residents in other EU countries
students, wherever they live, are required to complete
because the teaching costs are lower. Students in the
their qualification in no more than twice the time of a
Channel Islands and the Isle of Man also pay higher
full-time student.
fees. These territories are not part of the EEA and
You can also apply for help with study-related travel their citizens do not pay UK tax, so a UK government
costs that directly result from your disability. grant cannot be used to contribute to the costs of
Students in Scotland are not eligible for travel costs teaching students there.
to attend tutorials, but may receive help with travel to To work out how much your course will cost, please
integral residential schools. click www.open.ac.uk/study or refer to the separate
Course Fees 2009/2010 leaflet.
If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
For students who have studied with the University
• Call our DSA Office on 01908 654136 (voice before, we accept payment by bank transfer in all
telephone) 01908 659955 (textphone) European currencies, Swiss francs or US dollars
• Fax on 01908 659956 and use the exchange rate which applies on the day
we process your registration. Please note that you
• Email DSA-Queries@open.ac.uk
must quote your Open University Personal Identifier
number on all bank transfer requests. Failure to do so
If you live in Scotland
will result in your registration being severely delayed.
• Call our Disability and Additional Requirements
Team on 0131 226 3851 Tuition outside the UK
• Email Scotland@open.ac.uk We can offer tutorial support by post and possibly
by phone, fax, online forums or email. There may
be an opportunity for a face-to-face tutorial meeting
Studying outside the UK depending on the number of students in your area,
and you may also be able to organise your own
Residence informal student support group. Once we know how
Most of our courses are open only to residents many students are registered on your course we can
of the following countries: confirm tutorial arrangements.
If English isn’t your first language please see page 54.
Austria France Netherlands
Belgium Germany Poland Using the OU Library
Bulgaria Gibraltar Portugal You’ll be able to use our online library service –
please see page 6 or click www.open.ac.uk/library
Channel Greece Republic of
Islands Ireland
Hungary Course software
Cyprus Isle of Man Romania
Some course software for use with Microsoft
Czech Italy Slovakia Windows is tested only on UK English versions.
Republic Slovenia If you experience any problems please email
Latvia
Denmark Spain OU-computing-helpdesk@open.ac.uk or call the
Lithuania
Estonia Sweden Computing helpdesk on +44 (0)1908 653972.
Luxembourg
Finland Switzerland. Please also see the elearning and computers section
Malta
on page 54.

53
Examinations The overseas examination fee will be £191 for

examinations held before 31st July 2009. After 1st
Not all courses have an examination, but for most of
August 2009, this fee will be £198.
those that do there’s at least one examination centre
in the countries listed on page 52. If you take your See also How your work is assessed on page 6.
examination at this centre, you will not have to pay an
additional overseas examination fee. In exceptional Relevance
cases you may be able to sit an examination at an Some courses deal with issues and settings that are
additional centre closer to your home, but you would particularly relevant to the UK. Please click
have to pay the overseas examination fee for this service. www.open.ac.uk/study to check the full descriptions
If you move to a country other than those listed on of the courses you’re interested in.
page 52 after course registration, you’ll need to pay
the appropriate overseas examination fee as well as
your initial fee. If you’ve paid UK fees but want to sit
an examination in a centre in an agreed study area,
you’ll also have to pay the overseas fee.
OU representatives France Italy

outside the UK Open University Coordinator Open University Coordinator
Phone 01 47 58 53 73 Phone and fax 02 813 8048
OU country representatives
Fax 01 47 58 55 25 Email Italy@open.ac.uk
can give you more information
Email France@open.ac.uk
and advice, and coordinate Luxembourg
arrangements for tutorials Germany (North) Open University Coordinator
and exams. Open University Representative Phone 44 40 91 801
Phone 040 42883 2478 Fax 44 40 91 650
Republic of Ireland
Fax 040 42883 2651 Email Luxembourg@open.ac.uk
The Open University in Ireland
Email Germany-North@open.ac.uk
Enquiry and Advice Centre, The Netherlands
Dublin Germany (Central) Open University Coordinator
Phone (01)6785399 Open University Coordinator Phone and fax 070 360 7443
Fax (01)6785442 Phone 0221 1626 235 Email Netherlands@open.ac.uk
Email Ireland@open.ac.uk Fax 0221 1626 350
Spain
Email Germany-Central@open.ac.uk
Austria Open University Coordinator
Open University Representative Germany (South) Phone (91)577 7701
Phone 01 533 2390 Open University Coordinator Fax (91)435 8635
Fax 01 533 3073 Phone 089 4583 5354 Email Spain@open.ac.uk
Email Austria@open.ac.uk Fax 089 4488 896
Switzerland
Email Germany-South@open.ac.uk
Belgium Open University Coordinator
Open University Coordinator Greece Phone and fax 022 361 5774
Phone (02)644 3372 Open University Coordinator Email Switzerland@open.ac.uk
Fax (02)644 3368 Phone and fax 22970 26069
Email Belgium@open.ac.uk Email Greece@open.ac.uk
Enquiries from students in other countries

If you live in other EU countries, please contact The Open University in Europe (see page 56).
If you live elsewhere, click www.open.ac.uk/contact or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Wherever you are in the world, you may be able to study some of our courses directly with the OU or
through one of our educational partners or by buying our course materials from a local distributor. Click
www.open.ac.uk/worldwide to find out what is available in your area and how much it will cost.

What else you should know Using the OU Library

Our online OU Library is available at
www.open.ac.uk/library
Equality and diversity
We are committed to promoting a culture which The Library Services Helpdesk Team can give you
encourages equality and diversity. We aim to be advice on how to use this service either online,
a truly inclusive organisation where individual over the phone (+44 (0)1908 659001) or by email
differences are respected and valued, and where (Library-Help@open.ac.uk).
everyone is able to achieve their potential. See page 6 for what the library has to offer.
English as an additional language elearning and computers

Our courses are taught in English. If you’re not To study with us you’ll need regular and reliable
sure whether your English skills are good enough, access to the internet and a computer (unless you’re
there is some help and guidance at studying an Openings course).
www.open.ac.uk/skillsforstudy/english-for-learning
For most courses you will be expected to spend
In addition, in order to gain an understanding of the at least a couple of sessions a week working on
level of English required, you can view some OU computer-based activities and some of this work
course materials at the OpenLearn website, click may be assessed. We’ll also ask you to provide an
www.open.ac.uk/openlearn email address so that we can send you important
If you would like to find out more about the support information relevant to your studies. If you don’t have
that is available, please get in touch with our Student an email account of your own we can provide one
Registration & Enquiry Service (see page 56) or your for you.
OU country representative (page 53). Financial support may be available to purchase a
computer, depending on your income. See page 50
Developing your study skills for further information.
University-level study involves skills of critical thinking
Your welcome pack will include the computer
and forming well supported arguments. You will be
specification and details of the online needs for your
helped to develop these skills during your studies
particular course.
but, if you would like to prepare yourself, click
www.open.ac.uk/skillsforstudy For further information, advice and support,
please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry
The Open University Students’ Service, your regional or national centre or
country representative, or click
Association (OUSA) www.open.ac.uk/personal-computing
You automatically become a member unless you
choose to opt out – for more information, click Computing helpdesk
www.ousa.org.uk
Our experts can help you to get the most from our
computing resources, and offer technical support for
The OU Careers Advisory Service access to OU software and online materials.
See page 12 for more information or visit our award-
winning website at www.open.ac.uk/careers • Phone +44 (0)1908 653972
• Fax +44 (0)1908 652193
Getting a qualification
• FAQs site www.open.ac.uk/computing-helpdesk
To ensure that your course credits are counted
towards your qualification, please remember to
include your particular qualification code (for
Do you have caring responsibilities?
example, BD or C33) either on your application Our booklet Studying While You Care, available from
form or registration agreement. If you decide not to our Student Registration & Enquiry Service, explains
register for a qualification immediately, you can still the support services available.
do it at any time, either via your StudentHome web
page or by contacting our Student Registration &
Enquiry Service.

55
The admission of students If you don’t want to receive any further OU

information or take part in research please:
under the age of 16
• phone our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Very exceptionally, the University will consider
on +44 (0)845 300 60 90;
applications from particularly gifted students who
are under the age of 16. Our courses have been • email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk or
designed with the adult learner in mind, and it may • write to:
be the case that some courses are considered
inappropriate for those of such a young age. Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Applicants and enquirers who are under the age of The Open University, PO Box 197
16 will be invited for an informal interview with their Milton Keynes MK7 6BJ, UK
parent/guardian/carer at their nearest regional or
national centre to discuss their wish to study with us. Recording phone calls
Acceptance will be at the discretion of the Regional We may record our phone calls with you to make sure
or National Director. that we’ve carried out your instructions correctly and
to help us improve our services through staff training.
Our statements of service
These cover careers advice, complaints, queries and Freedom of information
appeals against our decisions, support for disabled Information about the University can be found in our
students, general student support and guidance, and publication scheme, click www.open.ac.uk/foi
equal opportunities. To download your copies, click
You have a general right of access to non-personal
www.open.ac.uk/our-student-policies
information we hold that is not in our publication
If you have any problems with any of our services, scheme. Please write to:
please get in touch with the area that provides the
Freedom of Information Office
service or our Student Registration & Enquiry Service.
The Open University, PO Box 497
Buying study packs Milton Keynes MK7 6AT, UK
You can order study packs, DVDs and CD-ROMs by or email Freedom-of-Information@open.ac.uk for
calling +44 (0)1908 858793. We accept most major more details.
credit and debit cards including Visa, MasterCard
and Maestro. For more details, click www.ouw.co.uk Events near you
Come and meet us at one of our events in the UK and
Data protection Europe, where you can find out from OU staff what
We record your personal information when you it’s like to study with us, and what courses we have to
contact us and use this to manage registration, suit your needs. At some events you can view learning
study, examination and other student services. It may materials and talk to subject specialists. For details of
also be used to help plan and improve our services events near you click www.open.ac.uk/events
– we may contact you directly or ask external
research agencies to do so. When you register, we’ll
tell you more about how we process and use your Open access
personal information. We welcome comments or suggestions on how
The data controller is The Open University. Under the we can improve access, please email
Data Protection Act 1998, you can request a copy of communications@open.ac.uk
any personal information we hold about you. Please
write to the:
Data Protection Coordinator
The Open University, PO Box 497
Milton Keynes MK7 6AT, UK
You’ll need to pay a small fee (currently £8).

Contact points for advice In Northern Ireland and

and registration the Republic of Ireland
For further information or to register for a course:
In England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel
Islands, the Isle of Man, British Forces or
Post Office (BFPO) addresses outside the In Northern Ireland
UK and all other countries, except the EU Call our office in Belfast on 028 9032 3722
and Switzerland In the Republic of Ireland
For further information or to register for a course: Call our Enquiry and Advice Centre in Dublin
on (01)6785399 or our office in Belfast on
+44 28 9032 3722
or
Email Ireland@open.ac.uk
Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
You can also register by using the personalised
on +44 (0)845 300 60 90
registration form if one is enclosed. Please post
Lines are open (UK time): your completed form to:
Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00 The Open University in Ireland
40 University Road
Saturday 09:00 to 17:00
Belfast BT7 1SU, UK
Calls are charged at the UK local rate when
calling from a UK landline.
Email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
In other EU countries and Switzerland
You can also register by using the personalised For further information:
registration form if one is enclosed. Please post
your completed form to: Click www.open.ac.uk/study
Student Registration & Enquiry Service Email Europe@open.ac.uk

The Open University, PO Box 8357 For advice before you study contact your
Clarendon Park, Clumber Avenue country representative (see page 53) or The
Sherwood Rise, Nottingham NG5 1WW, UK Open University in Europe on +44 191 477 6100
To register for a course, call The Open University
in Europe on +44 191 477 6100
Openings and Short courses
You can also register by using the personalised
Apply online or by phone using the contacts registration form if one is enclosed. Please post
above. However, to apply for financial support your completed form to:
you’ll need to complete the forms in the relevant
prospectuses which you can order online (see The Open University in Europe
opposite) or by phone, as above, or by writing to Baltic Business Quarter,
the address on the back cover. Abbots Hill, Gateshead NE8 3DF, UK
For Welsh speakers I siaradwyr Cymraeg

If you would prefer to discuss your study needs Os ydych yn siarad Cymraeg a byddai’n well
in Welsh, please contact: gennych drafod eich anghenion astudio drwy
gyfrwng y Gymraeg, cysylltwch â’n canolfan
The Open University in Wales
yng Nghaerdydd:
18 Custom House Street, Cardiff CF10 1AP
Y Brifysgol Agored yng Nghymru
Phone 029 2047 1170
18 Heol y Tollty, Caerdydd CF10 1AP
Fax 029 2038 8132
Email Wales@open.ac.uk Ffôn 029 2047 1170
Ffacs 029 2038 8132
Ebost Wales@open.ac.uk
Ordering other prospectuses

57
Ordering other prospectuses

This prospectus is one of a series describing our programmes of study.
If you would like to find out more about our other qualifications and
courses, and you’re living in the UK or any of the countries listed on
page 52, please order one of our prospectuses listed below:
Undergraduate Undergraduate and Postgraduate

Undergraduate Prospectus Childhood and Youth Prospectus
An introduction to studying with The Open University
Education Prospectus
Openings Prospectus
Engineering and Technology Prospectus
Introductory courses to build your confidence
Health and Social Care Prospectus
Short Course Prospectus
Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus
Arts and Humanities Prospectus
The Open University Business School Prospectus
Computing and ICT Prospectus
Environment, Development and
International Studies Prospectus Postgraduate
Languages Prospectus Postgraduate Prospectus
Law Prospectus Postgraduate Prospectus for Professionals

in Computing and Technology
Psychology Prospectus
Postgraduate Qualifications in Online
Science Prospectus and Distance Education and Academic Practice
Professional Graduate Certificate
in Education Prospectus
Research Degrees Prospectus
To order or download a prospectus...

www.open.ac.uk/prospectus
�
Alternatively, call
+44 (0)845 300 60 90

�
or email: general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
INSPIRING LEARNING
�
The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter
(RC 000391), an exempt charity in England and Wales
and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302).
While we have done everything possible to make sure the

information in this publication is accurate, it may change due to
regulations or policy or because of financial or other changes.
Designed by d4b design for business, Harrow.
Printed by Belmont Press, Northampton.
Images courtesy of Karen Parker, Andy Hendry, Fourninety,

Richard Learoyd, Andy Pini, John Birdsall, David Hatfull,
Julian Calverley, Ian Winstanley, Luke Beaman, Andy Lane. quality standard for information
advice and guidance services
approved by the matrix Accreditation Body
Copyright © 2009 The Open University. The Open University Student Services

Student Registration & Enquiry Service
The Open University
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ
United Kingdom
Contact points for advice and registration

Please visit our website:
or, students in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man,
British Forces Post Office (BFPO) addresses outside the UK
and all other countries, except the EU and Switzerland,
please call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on:
+44 (0)845 300 60 90

Our lines are open (UK time):
Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00
Saturday 09:00 to 17:00
Calls to this line are charged at the UK local rate
when calling from a UK landline.
Email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
For further information and for study in the EU
and Switzerland, please see page 56.
Cert no. TT-COC-2168
SUP 008459
Social Sciences
Course Fees
2009/2010
INSPIRING LEARNING
Course title Start UK Republic Other
Course Fees 2009/2010 dates fee of countries
The fees for all the courses described in the (£) Ireland fee (£)
Social Sciences Prospectus are supplied in this fee (£)
leaflet.
A world Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
For advice choosing the right course and of whose
qualification for you, visit www.open.ac.uk/study making?
or call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service (DU301)
on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 (Monday to Friday 08.00 Cognitive Jan 2010 1045 1745 1925
to 20.00 and Saturday 09.00 to 17.00 UK time) psychology
or email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk. (DD303)
We’re here to help. Contemporary May 2010 225 515 620
Wales (D172)
All prices shown are in pounds sterling.
Crime and Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
justice
How to pay (DD301)
We have several ways to help you pay fees – please Doing Jan 2010 630 1330 1510
see page 49 of the Social Sciences Prospectus. economics:
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able people,
to take advantage of our financial support services markets
and apply for a grant for your course fees and for and policy
help with study costs – please see page 50 for full (DD309)
details. Earth in crisis: Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
environmental
Studying outside the UK policy in an
If you’re not eligible to pay a UK course fee (please international
see page 48 of the Social Sciences Prospectus), context
your fee will be higher. This is because we don’t (DU311)
receive UK government funding for you. Economics Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
and economic
We accept payment in currencies of all European
change
Union countries, in Swiss francs or in US dollars.
(DD202)
Students who have studied with the University before
can also pay by bank transfer; you must quote your Environment Jan 2010 630 1330 1510
Open University Personal Identifier number on all (U216)
bank transfer requests. Failure to do so will result Environment: Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
in your registration being severely delayed. We’ll journeys Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
use the exchange rate which applies on the day we through a
process your registration agreement. changing
world (U116)
Exploring Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
psychology
(DSE212)
Family Oct 2009 225 515 620
meanings Apr 2010 225 515 620
(D270)
Film and Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
television
history
(AA310)
Course title Start UK Republic Other Course title Start UK Republic Other
dates fee of countries dates fee of countries
(£) Ireland fee (£) (£) Ireland fee (£)
fee (£) fee (£)
Governing Feb 2010 630 1330 1510 Power, dissent, Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
Europe equality:
(DD200 or understanding
DDZX200) contemporary
International Feb 2010 630 1330 1510 politics
development: (DD203)
challenges Social Jan 2010 630 1330 1510
for a world psychology:
in transition critical
(U213) perspectives
Introducing May 2010 360 795 915 on self and
the social others (DD307)
sciences Sociology Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
– part one and society
(DD131) (DD201)
Introducing Oct 2009 630 1330 1510 Start writing Oct 2009 155 362 420
the social Jan 2010 630 1330 1510 family history
sciences (A173)
(DD101) Starting with Jun 2009 £110 N/A N/A
Introduction Oct 2009 225 515 620 psychology Sep 2009 £115 N/A N/A
to counselling Apr 2010 225 515 620 (Y163) Nov 2009 £115 N/A N/A
(D171) Mar 2010 £115 N/A N/A
Learning to Jun 2009 £110 N/A N/A Jun 2010 £115 N/A N/A
change (Y165) Sep 2009 £115 N/A N/A The Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
Nov 2009 £115 N/A N/A environmental
Mar 2010 £115 N/A N/A web (U316)
Jun 2010 £115 N/A N/A Understanding Feb 2010 630 1330 1510
Living in a Feb 2010 630 1330 1510 cities (DD304)
globalised Understanding Sep 2009 150 360 415
world (DD205) human Nov 2009 150 360 415
Living political Oct 2009 630 1330 1510 nutrition Feb 2010 150 360 415
ideas (DD306) (SK183) May 2010 150 360 415
Making Oct 2009 630 1330 1510 Understanding Jan 2010 630 1330 1510
social worlds media (DA204)
(DD308) Understanding Jun 2009 £110 N/A N/A
Personal May 2010 360 795 915 society (Y157) Sep 2009 £115 N/A N/A
investment in Nov 2009 £115 N/A N/A
an uncertain Mar 2010 £115 N/A N/A
world (DB234) Jun 2010 £115 N/A N/A
Personal Oct 2009 630 1330 1510 Welfare, crime Oct 2009 630 1330 1510
lives and and society
social policy (DD208)
(DD305) You and Nov 2009 360 795 915
Politics, Oct 2009 225 515 620 your money: May 2010 360 795 915
media and Apr 2010 225 515 620 personal
war: 9/11 and finance
its impacts in context
(D271) (DB123)
While we’ve done everything possible to make sure the information in this price list is accurate, it may
change due to regulations or policy or because of financial or other changes.
Student Registration & Enquiry Service, The Open University, PO Box 197, Milton Keynes, MK7 6BJ
www.open.ac.uk/study SUP 008460

Social Sciences Prospectus

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Social Sciences

Be everything you want to be with The Open University

Openings – introductory courses

Building your qualification 8

Your next steps 13

Economics and financial studies 38

Certificate and diploma of higher education 17

Other qualifications you might be interested in 28

The Open Programme 29

Frequently asked questions 30

How much will it cost? 48

If you have a disability, health condition,

mental-health disability or specific

Studying outside the UK 52

What else you should know 54

Contact points for advice and registration 56

Ordering other prospectuses 57

Open access: other ways to read this publication

If you would like this publication electronically please call

+44 (0)845 300 60 90 or email us at general-enquiries@open.ac.uk

quoting ‘Alternative format’ in the subject box.

Other alternative formats are available on request.

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Across the curriculum new courses

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

We’re built on millions of

understanding and make you question ideas that

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

As an OU student you’ll enjoy full support throughout

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Course materials elearning and computers

Get a feel for OU study FACT:

English as an research, providing information for your assignments

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Your guide to qualifications

is right for you? Degrees in a named subject

Qualifications explained If you need some guidance to decide

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Building your qualification

OU study helps professional and personal development. With each course

What are course levels? OU

QAA, SCQF and NFQI levels If you have an NVQ

What are credit points?

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

The tables below give you an idea of the

OU Number of Average time to Call +44 (0)1908 653077

Diploma 1202 2 years (part-time of study

Foundation 240 4 years (part-time for a certificate

degree or study) or 2–3 years

diploma (full-time study)

honours (full-time study) diploma of higher education

check your particular qualification on our website

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Continued from page 11

Destination statistics OU Careers Advisory Service website

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Your next steps

The following pages of this prospectus provide

If you want to search online for a qualification Step 3: Register

Step 4: Pay your fees

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90