FAQ

• Section A – GENERAL INFORMATION
• What is Open University of Mauritius?

​Open University of Mauritius, also referred to as “OU”, is a public university established on 12 July 2012 under the Open University ACT 2010.

• Are OU programmes/courses recognised?

(iii) Association of Commonwealth Universities​

 

• Where are the headquarters of the Open University of Mauritius situated?

​The headquarters of OU are in Réduit and they comprise the Academic Affairs Division, Admissions Unit, Examinations Unit, Graphics, Publishing and Printing Dept, Marketing and Public Relations Unit, Central Administration, Library, Finance, Stores and Procurement Dept, Audiovisual Production Unit, Engineering Services Unit, IT Unit, Student Affairs Unit and HR Unit.

• Where is the Campus of OU situated?

​OU campus is at Curepipe at: Louis Pasteur Street, Forest Side (near stadium).

• What are the main objectives of the OU?

​The objectives of OU are to:

• Advance and disseminate learning and knowledge through a diversity of means, with emphasis on information and communication technologies;
• Provide wider opportunities for education and training to the population, through open and distance learning, and promote lifelong learning;
• Encourage the use of open and distance learning at all levels of education and training.

• What is distance education?

​It is the acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction. This process is carried out through print medium and/or other technologies to transmit content, to provide tuition and to conduct assessment or measure outcomes.

 

• Which other terms are associated with distance education?

​Open & distance learning, flexible learning, home study, independent study, distributed learning, self-study, technology-based education, mediated-education, e-learning, online learning, correspondence education, electronic learning, blended learning, technology enhanced learning (TEL),etc.

 

• Is E-learning different from distance education?

​E-learning is also a distance learning process whereby you learn through the mediation of such technologies as computers, mobiles and tablets connected to Internet.

 

• What are the main advantages of studying at a distance?
  
• ​The flexibility of ODL enables you to continue your personal as well as your professional activities. You learn where and when you want, at your own pace.
• Through distance learning, the problems associated with physical distance are overcome for learners not wishing to travel and attend daily lectures.
• Distance education can help in solving time or scheduling problems for learners busy with family commitments and full-time work.
• Distance education systems can accommodate large numbers of learners. There is no limit regarding the number of learners to be enrolled on Open and Distance Education programmes/courses.
• The fees for Open and Distance education programmes/courses are usually more affordable.

 

• How do you learn at the Open University of Mauritius?

• What kind of study materials are provided by OU?

​When you enrol on an OU programme, you receive your study packs in soft copies (unless otherwise stated).

• What is the general system of assessment at OU?

​The OU system of assessment is based on:

• Self-assessed activities – These activities are meant to help you in your learning process. Guidelines are provided for these activities and you do not need to send them to your Tutors.
• Tutor – marked activities, namely assignments, portfolios and dissertations.
• Examination – However, you are advised to check on the assessment approach of the course on which you are enrolling.

• How does OU support learners?

​At the start of each academic year, OU organises Induction Sessions to offer registered learners necessary information about the university, giving them study techniques, outlining procedures to be followed and also providing relevant guidelines to enable learners to progress successfully at OU during their studies. Learning materials are also distributed at the Induction Session.

• Tutorial Support

• Facilities for Peer Group Interaction

 

• What are the different levels of programmes available at OU?

​The following are available at OU:

• Doctoral programmes – PhD and Doctor in Business Administration (DBA)
• Master’s level Programmes
• Undergraduate Programmes
• Foundation Courses
• Employability Skills Courses

• What foundation courses are offered by OU?

​Foundation courses aim at upgrading the knowledge and skills of learners who do not have the prerequisites to enrol on degree programmes. Through their learning experience, learners are prepared to face the challenges of higher education. On successfully completing four foundation courses (8 modules) including English through Open Distance Learning (ODL), you can join degree programmes at OU.

​

Foundation Courses

1	Biology
2	Chemistry
3	English
4	French
5	Physics
6	Sociology
7	Spanish
8	Economics
9	Accounting
10	Mathematics
11	Travel and Tourism
12	German

 

• How many foundation courses should I take?

​To enrol on a degree programme at OU, you should take 4 foundation courses, including English.

• Why should I enrol on the foundation courses?
• For your own personal development
• To enhance your career prospects
• For further studies

 

• Which courses should I choose?

This will depend on the reasons for which you are enrolling on the courses. However, you must also take into consideration your areas of interest and your own strengths. You may discuss with OU staff in case you wish to have some advice regarding your choice of subjects. However, English course is compulsory.

• What are the minimum qualifications to enrol on Foundation Courses?
• SC/GCE O-level with 3 credits + 1 A-Level (for applicants under 25 years old).
• Mature (25 years old or above) candidates will be considered on their own merit.

 

• What is the general structure of the Foundation Course?

Each foundation course consists of 2 modules. Each module will be covered during one semester.

• How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through

• Assignments 30%
• Examinations 70%
• Overall pass 40%

 

• What is the duration?
• The minimum duration is one year.
• The maximum duration is two years.

​

Section C – UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMMES

• Which are the undergraduate programmes on offer?

​

Undergraduate Courses

1	BA (Hons) Business Accounting and Finance
2	BSc (Hons) Finance and Taxation
3	BSc (Hons) Business Management
4	BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management and Development
5	BA (Hons) French
6	BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Multimedia
7	BA (Hons) Library and Information Science (entry at Certificate, Diploma and Degree levels are possible)
8	BA (Hons) English
9	BSc (Hons) Marketing Management
10	BSc (Hons) Business Entrepreneurship
11	BSc (Hons) Correctional Services Management
12	BSc (Hons) Business Management with Specialisation in either Human Resources/Marketing/Tourism Management/ Financial Services/Financial Risk Management/ Investment/Taxation/Real Estate/Hotel Management
13	BA (Hons) Communication, Media and Journalism
14	B Ed (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care
15	BSc (Hons) Applied ICT with Specialisation in Networking/ Software Engineering/Business Informatics/Security/Web Development
16	BSc (Hons) Finance and Law
17	BSc (Hons) Management with Law
18	BSc (Hons) Criminology
19	BSc (Hons) Economics, Finance and Banking
20	BSc (Hons) Management (Top-Up)
21	B Ed (Hons) Primary Education (Top-Up)

 

 

• What are the entry requirements for an undergraduate degree?

​In general, 2 HSC/A-levels or equivalent are required. Please see specific programme documents online at https://www.open.ac.mu for more detail.

• What are the entry requirements for Top Up programmes?

​These are meant primarily for learners who completed IGNOU’s BA English and BCom programmes as well as those having a Diploma in Management.

• What is the duration of the Top Up programmes?

​The Minimum duration is one year. Maximum duration: 2 years (This varies depending on the Top Up programme.

• How do I choose which undergraduate degree to study?

​You may consider your abilities, personal interests and career prospects.

• Are payment facilities available?

​Payment may be made in instalments. Please refer to detailed payment facilities at https://www.open.ac.mu under “Prospective Student” and “Fees in detail”.

 

​Section D – THE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMMES

• Which Master’s degree programmes are on offer?

​

Master’s Degree Programmes

1	MSc Finance and Investment
2	MSc Financial Management and Taxation
3	Commonwealth Executive Master of Business Administration (CEMBA)
4	Commonwealth Executive Master of Public Administration (CEMPA)
5	MBA General
6	MBA with Specialisation in Marketing Management/HRM/Financial Services/Tourism Management /Financial Risk Management/Public Administration/Investment/Taxation/Property Management/Hotel Management
7	MBA Educational Leadership
8	Master of Public Health
9	Postgraduate Diploma in Web and Mobile Applications Development

 

• Who should enrol on OU’s Master’s degrees in the field of Finance?

​These programmes have been designed to meet the needs of graduates who wish to develop their skills in applying appropriate techniques to face the challenges of a career in the world of finance.

• What is the general programme structure of the Master’s degrees in the field of Finance?

​These programmes consist of 13 modules with 7 modules to be covered during the first year and 6 modules including the dissertation during the second year.

• What are the different exit points for the Master’s degrees in the field of Finance?
• ​A postgraduate certificate
• A postgraduate diploma
• An MSc

 

• Who should enrol on an MBA programme?

​The MBA programmes of OU have been designed to develop leaders who want to advance personally and professionally.

• How to choose my area of specialisation for the MBA?

​Your choice of MBA will be determined as much by where your career is now as where you want it to go in the future. Obviously, you should consider your interests, skills and your academic strengths before taking a decision.

• What is the general structure of an MBA programme?

​An MBA programme comprises 15 modules as follows:

• Eight of the nine Core Modules
• Two Specialist Compulsory Modules
• Three Elective Modules
• Two Required Modules

 

• What are the minimum qualifications required to enrol on the Master’s degree in Finance programme and the MBAs?

​A Bachelor’s degree with at least second class from a recognised university or alternative qualifications, including professional qualifications, acceptable to the Open University of Mauritius. Candidates must have a good mastery of English Language. Prior Learning and Prior Experiential Learning may be considered by the University for Admission to this programme. Applicants may be asked to pass an entry test.

• What is the duration for the MBA and MSc programmes?
• ​A minimum of 2 years (4 semesters) and a maximum period of 4 years for the MSc programmes.
• A minimum of 2 years and a maximum period of 5 years for the MBA programmes.

​Section E – DOCTORAL PROGRAMMES

• Which Doctoral programmes are on offer?
• ​Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)
• PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

 

• What is the difference between a DBA and a PhD?

​The DBA differs from a PhD. The DBA is a professional doctorate that focuses on business issues and contributes to workplace practice, policies and strategies through research carried out in the context of professional practice. A PhD aims at making a significant contribution to an area of knowledge.

• What are the entry requirements for a DBA?
• ​A Master’s-level degree, either an MBA or a specialist MA or MSc in a related area.
• Evidence of substantial management or professional work experience, including within the academic profession.
• Prior Learning and Prior Experiential Learning may be considered by the Open University of Mauritius for admission to this programme.

 

• What are the entry requirements for a PhD?

​A Master’s-level degree in the related area. Applicants with undergraduate degrees may be considered but they would only be allowed to register for an M.Phil/PhD degree. They can eventually request for a transfer from M Phil/PhD to PhD.

• What is the Programme Duration for DBA and PhD?  

​

	Minimum	Maximum
DBA	3 years	6 years
PhD	3 years	8 years

• What is the Course Structure for DBA?

The structure consists of five taught modules aimed at developing learners’ expertise in the use of research in order to explore professional practice.

• What are the special support structures for doctoral programmes at OU?

​You will have a personal supervisor/mentor who will guide you during the whole process and you will also benefit from the administrative support of the university.

• What is the course structure for the PhD programme?

​The programme starts with Research Methodology and Literature Review modules during the first semester to help the learner embark confidently on the development of a Project Proposal and further planning of research activities for the development of a thesis during the following years of study.

​

Section F – EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS

• What are employability skills?

​These are the competences, aptitudes and attitudes beyond academic know-how which enhance employee behaviour and performance. Some of these skills are: communication, presentation, public speaking and negotiation, etc.These courses are run in the open distance learning mode as well. A specific Induction session is conducted for those enrolled on Employability Skills Courses.

• What are the employability modules offered by OU?

Employability Skills

1	Body Language
2	Interview Skills
3	Job Search Skills
4	Presentation Skills
5	Public Speaking Skills
6	Fundamentals of the Principles and Practice of Quality Management
7	Time and Priority Management
8	Negotiation Skills
9	Internet & Social Media Course for Beginners
10	Education in Nutrition : Healthy Eating Habits
11	Education in Nutrition : Non-communicable Diseases and Nutrition
12	Education in Nutrition : Food Safety and Hygiene
13	Education in Nutrition : Nutrition and Life Stages
14	How to Write and Read Mauritian Kreol
15	English for Effective Communication

​

• Are Employability Skills courses examinable?

Currently some are examinable while others are not. However, as from January 2016, all Employability Skills Courses shall become examinable. A certificate is awarded at the end of any examinable course.

• Who is eligible to receive free employability skills courses?

​Students enrolled on Undergraduate or Postgraduate programmes at OU are eligible for TWO free Employability Skills Courses of their choice (one per year) and they must indicate their options at the time of Induction.

 

​Section G – APPLICATION/ADMISSION & PAYMENT

• Is there an age limit for application?

There is no age limit. The Open University operates within a framework of opening access to education through the use of distance learning.

• What must be done if I am not too sure whether or not I satisfy the entry requirements?

Do not feel discouraged. Just contact the staff of the Admissions Office of OU (on 403 8222) and you will be given the proper advice.

• Can I apply if I am not in Mauritius?

Yes you can do so online at https://www.open.ac.mu . (Application is online at OU)

• Where are examinations held?

OU conducts its own examinations which are generally held on its campus at Curepipe. If you are an international student, arrangements will be made by OU so that you can have your exams in a recognised Exams centre in your own country.

 

 

• Will my application be considered if I miss the deadline by a few days?

​It could still be considered if all other applications have not yet been processed. Additional processing fee may be charged.

• What are the procedures for application/registration?

You will need to apply online when enrolment opens, generally as from the beginning of February and around mid August, every year.

 

 

• Exemption: will my previous study count towards an OU qualification?

​This will be as per the rules and regulations of OU.

• Can I enrol on a programme without sitting for an examination?

​Yes, but the fees will be the same.

• What are the facilities and procedures for the payment of fees?

​As soon as you receive your letter of offer, you will also receive a link to register for the first semester modules. You need to print your payment voucher and produce this voucher to effect payment either at the Cash Counter of the Open University in Réduit or at any SBM branch.

• Are there facilities for the payment of fees?

​Yes. Fees are payable on a semester basis and for a particular semester, you can pay in 4 instalments.

• How much are the fees for the programmes/courses?

​See our fee structure on our website at https://www.open.ac.mu, by clicking on “Prospective Students” and on “Fees in detail”.

• Will I get a refund if I change my mind after enrolment?

Refund shall be as per OU regulations for refund of fees. It will depend on when you decide to drop from the programme/course. For our full refund policy, refer to Appendix 7 (P 41) of the General Rules and Regulations of the Open University of Mauritius.

• What happens after the payment of fees?

​You will be invited to attend the Induction Session and this marks the beginning of the programme/course.

• Further information on the OU Programmes/Courses

​Detailed programme documents for each programme can be downloaded from https://www.open.ac.mu, by clicking on “Prospective student”.

• Does OU offer any scholarship?

​Scholarships are offered to ONE undergraduate and ONE postgraduate student after first year of studies at OU, based on merit.

• Who is eligible to receive a free tablet?

​Students enrolled either on undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.

• Does OU offer any discount if I pay the full programme fee?

​A 5% discount is offered on the total fee, to anyone who pays the full programme fee at registration time.

• How to contact the Open University of Mauritius?

​You may contact or visit OU at:

 

 

 

August 2015

 

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