I’ve nearly completed one term as a Distance Learner. So I thought I’d put together a small list about what you should be/have/do in order to make it through. Obviously this could change after a year of doing this.

1. Give up your social life. 

I’m not joking a Masters is hard enough but doing it via Distance Learning is even harder. Give up an semblance of anything other than working and studying and possibly going to the gym.

2. Sleep is an option not a necessity

Really think about how much sleep you need. I’ve managed to function on 7.5 hours a night now on 14 hour days. Fitting in studying AND working full-time isn’t a 70/30 split it’s more like 50/50.

3. Your tutors will not appreciate that you have a full-time job.

They say they do/will but they won’t. The timing of assignments and ‘chats’ on Sunday nights will prove that.

4. The People on your course are Not Your Friend.

You will exchange comments with them via the aforementioned chats and various forums. Don’t be fooled. These people are not ever going to talk to you about anything other than the course. No new friends here folks!

5. People won’t get it.

‘Oh so you’re a Distance Learner, with the OU?’ Not really no. It’s not ‘one module per time period’ It’s essentially what it says on the tin you are working and studying full time at the same time.

Other gems – you won’t be able to see your boyfriend/girlfriend, your parents will beg you to leave you desk every now and again, your idea of a good time will be not being anywhere near your computer. Skin will go downhill, bags under the eyes. People who have fun and go out during the week will make you cry – but not for too long because you could be using that time to study or sleep.