At the U.S. Open University the Quest For Knowledge Is As Easy As Logging On To The Internet; Non-Credit Courses Make Learning a Personal Lifelong Investment.

Business Editors & Education Writers

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 21, 2001

United States Open University (USOU) is not just for the degree-seeking student. Many students enrolled in the distance-learning institution just want to continue to learn and are enrolling in non-credit courses for their own personal growth.

Most popular for the non-credit student are the Arts and Humanities and Information Technology (IT) courses. The courses vary greatly in subject matter and encompass both traditional and non-traditional courses. A student may wish to investigate the intricacies of a great novel in Studying the Novel. Another student's interests may be piqued with the Varieties of Enlightenment, a course that covers the intellectual movement that flourished in mid-18th Century Europe. Learning In Cyberspace offers a student the opportunity to understand their computer and the World Wide Web -- even if the goal is just to communicate better with kids or grandchildren.

Whether your interest lies in the meaning of Shakespeare's plays, the effects of civil engineering on the American city or the evolution of politics in America, USOU has a course to satisfy your quest for knowledge. There is something for everyone.

Arts and Humanities non-credit classes cost $495 per course. This fee includes all required materials, fees and tuition. Non-credit IT courses cost $195 per course.

Even though many traditional universities have closed enrollment for Fall 2001, students may still apply to USOU. Enrollment close dates vary so the prospective student should find a schedule that is suited to their needs.

"Many institutions offer limited opportunities for the lifelong learner," stated Richard Jarvis, USOU Chancellor. "At USOU, we strive to meet the needs of all non-traditional students whether their goal is personal growth, career advancement or simply keeping up with their children."

For additional information on non-credit courses, or to apply and enroll in United States Open University, visit the USOU website at www.open.edu, or call toll free 800/232-7705.

United States Open University is accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council and is the sister institution of The Open University, chartered over 30 years ago in the United Kingdom. Recognized as the world's leader in part-time education and training for working adults, The Open University has become a model for distance-learning programs throughout the world and currently has more than 200,000 students in over 41 countries.

For more information, visit www.open.edu or call 800/232-7705.