Open University Natural Sciences

Hi everybody !

I'm thinking about studying with the Open University in October 2015, hopefully their Natural Sciences degree . A few things that I'm a bit unsure about though that I am hoping somebody can shed some light on .

In regards to laboratory work, how does that work with the open university? I've had a look around online and on the website but I cant find what im looking for , and im just wondering if there is no laboratory work involved how do you partake in experiments etc. ? Am I right in thinking that I could get some lab experience outside of my degree as a job or volunteer work , and would that be enough if I wanted to then do a post-grad at a Brick University ?

Also , has anybody else done the Natural Sciences specialising in Biology route full time , while also working part time and with kids ?! I'm excited to get going but slightly worried I might be taking too much on and setting out to fail.

Lastly , is the BSc Natural Sciences with the Open University still as well respected as a brick university degree , considering that it could potentially not contain any hands on lab work ? I'm thinking that it probably is , but I would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks guys !

Reply 1

BestProfileName

Original post by esmerelda94

Some experiments you can carry out in your home, but that's hardly enough to impress postgraduate people. You'll have to see what someone else has to say regarding the lab stuff.

The degree will be as respected as an average degree in the sense that it is a degree, but the lack of lab-work (there will be much less of it in this degree) would leave you at a disadvantage when applying for an MRes or a PhD - you'd be fine for an MSc.

You can get experience by asking around universities until they eventually let you - better chance if you do it during the Summer, in between academic years.

Open University

Milton Keynes

Reply 2

chloe_spencer

I know this is an old thread now but did you ever pursue with the degree with OU? I'm just starting mine and hoping to go down the Chemistry route just wondered how you're finding it and if you had any tips??

Reply 3

Lambert87

Original post by chloe_spencer

I've finished my chemistry degree at the OU now.. What would you like to know?

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Reply 4

Lizvegas

Lambert87 - how did you get on? Did you have a job in the field already or have you gone on to get one? Did you find ways to get lab time? Is there anything you would do differently or recommend somebody do?

Reply 5

Lambert87

Original post by Lizvegas

I'm now a teacher... A few of my friends have gone on to brilliant chemistry jobs though (they didn't have one to begin with)

Get lab experience.. Email your local labs and universities as they are usually more than happy to help... What course you on now?

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Reply 6

balthazar123

Original post by Lambert87

I thought you were only applying to be a teacher, I saw you over on the PGCE forum! Must be silly old me getting confused!

Reply 7

Lambert87

Original post by balthazar123

I thought you were only applying to be a teacher, I saw you over on the PGCE forum! Must be silly old me getting confused!

My PGCE is in September but I'm currently a "cover supervisor" basically teaching. If you want that experience sign up with a recruitment agency.. They are crying out for people!!

Sorry if I confused you

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Reply 8

balthazar123

Original post by Lambert87

Ahh! So when did you finish your degree? How did you find the chemistry project module!

Reply 9

Lambert87

Original post by balthazar123

Ahh! So when did you finish your degree? How did you find the chemistry project module!

Last year..

The project is hard work.. The critical analysis is hard. What module you on?

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Reply 10

balthazar123

Original post by Lambert87

Last year..

The project is hard work.. The critical analysis is hard. What module you on?

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S317, Its a biology one and in its first presentation, so at least you didn't have to worry about that!

What class did you get for your degree in the end, do they send it to you once you get the result of your last module?