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Comment by neverminder | Hacker News Reader

Surprised nobody has mentioned Open University which just happens to be one of the largest in the world - http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/qualifications/q62

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I studied for a few years with the Open University, first in maths and then a specialism which allowed me to change careers. It was fabulous, the course materials were great, the tutors helpful and available. My Wife used it to gain entry to full-time study and gained her degree. I followed on with professional study in my field with an expensive professional study provider and the materials sucked, the support was terrible and I stalled. My wife found full-time study at a real uni never came close in terms of materials. When I started OU people in the UK on modest incomes got it for free, since 'The Cuts' this is not true and it is a shame, as it changed my life.

I am getting a BSc in Mathematics there and enjoying is a lot. The first year was easy, but to the third year it has become really serious.Tons of support with forums, tutors, videos, great learning materials.

I'd be interested in hearing more about your experience, as someone who likes math amateurly. How expensive is it and what's the process been like for you?

The application process is pretty easy, they do not require high school diploma or something to start. The main thing is to manage your study, build routine. Most people just leave on the way not because the topics are super hard - the first year is easy - self study require self organisation and discipline, particularly if you work full time. First year I took 120 points like to cover full time first year study. Next years I took just half 60 points thus making left 2 years into 4. It is much more manageable.

On the third year you can choose from the variety of subjects: applied maths like fluids, optimisation, etc., pure maths, statistics related, and physics related. Very fun, but challenging.

How much ?

5000 GBP for Germany per year x 3 years. If you are in the UK it is cheaper. Now I am on my last year doing it half time since I work and it is demanding, and I pay 2500 GBP per year, but spead one year course in 2.

I did the same, I graduated about four years ago. Luckily I was on the old fee scheme so it was inexpensive.

The course materials were excellent as were tutors, I think Mathematics has always been a priority for them.

I have always fancied philosophy. Do you think do MS in philosophy online will be a good idea?

OU offers a course in it which starts Oct of the next year. I have BE in computers.

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