The graduates of Open University Business School (OUBS) programmes are their best ambassadors: 85 per cent of students complete the programme, compared to the national average for distance learning of less than 50 per cent. And though the remote nature of the course makes it attractive to those who cannot afford to or do not want to take a sabbatical from work, the philosophy of the course is all about close contact via the latest technology, such as CD Roms, computer conferencing and the Internet, as well as video and audio.

The great emphasis at OUBS is on supported distance learning, or 'self-directed learning', where students have regular contact with tutors and a huge amount of support in terms of course materials. All students are assigned a tutor who stays in close contact via telephone, post, fax or e-mail, as well as tutorials and seminars.

OUBS works in partnership with corporate clients around the world such as IBM, SmithKline Beecham and the United Nations, looking at their specific needs and those of their managers. Many collaborative projects are also undertaken with other education providers around the world to bring OUBS management development programmes to emerging economies and thriving business communities alike.

Just like many other business schools, contacts made during programmes often provide important opportunities for networking and continually improving professional development. Graduates can join the Alumni Association which organises events to maintain contact between former students.

Many go back to OUBS for further study and there can be no greater endorsement for the School than that.

• The Open University Business School (OUBS) arrived in 1983 and since then has helped 115,000 managers work through 225,000 programmes at certificate, diploma and MBA level.
  

Carl began studying with the OUBS in October 1994. His aim was to develop his managerial skills to progress his career opportunities. At the beginning of the course Carl was sent a full range of learning materials including workbooks and audio cassettes and a copy of The MBA Handbook.

'My first impression of OUBS was its flexible approach to study. Having just become a father, time was precious. I knew that the MBA course at the OUBS would suit my lifestyle: it provided the benefit of allowing me to get on with my job while studying.'

The OUBS online facility also proved 'an extremely useful way to network with other students in different fields and exchange thoughts and ideas,' says Carl. Carl spent on average eight to 12 hours a week studying, depending on deadlines for assignments. 'If commitments at work became too intense, my tutors were very understanding and allowed me the flexibility I needed,' added Carl.

The topics covered provided Carl with a new way of approaching business problems and developing effective solutions. One of Carl's final assignments for the Strategic Marketing module focused on developing a robust strategy for the organisation. Carl used the model taught to help implement the strategy for real.

Carl believes the benefits gained from his MBA are also a major benefit to his employer.

'Studying for an MBA has allowed me to achieve my potential much quicker than if I had just continued receiving managerial training while at work. I can now make a contribution at a higher level more confidently and know that senior people will actually take notice of what I say.' Carl has been promoted to Corporate Affairs Manager.

See the ExpressExec 8 step guide to getting an MBA.

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