The Open University

The Open University is an expert in flexible higher education that fits around your working life.

We don’t make you choose between a degree and a salary – more than 76% of our students are in full or part time work, while 86% FTSE 100 companies have funded staff on OU courses.

When you join the OU, you gain a vast international network of support from university staff, alumni and fellow students (including more than 15,000 overseas) with a truly global reach. Wherever you are based, we offer flexible study with structure and support and we have been rated in the top ten UK universities for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey since its foundation in 2005.

Our commitment to distance learning and access to education enables us to cater for the widest range of students - not only those who are in paid work but also the retired, those returning to education, registered carers, single parents and more disabled people than any other UK-based university.

The Open University

Research at The OU

The People's Choice Awards 2022 | The Open University

OU Informed Podcast

OU Research and Societal Impact Showcase 2023

The Open University Inaugural Lectures

Sustainability at The Open University

Sustainability at The Open University

Getting Started at The OU

How To Register For OU Study

Funding Options For OU Study

Videos

Stepping into Leadership: Charis's Skill Up Journey

My 5 tips for caring while studying

Exploring the Motherhood penalty with The Open University

The launch of free Return-to-Work Toolkits | Tackling the Motherhood Penalty

Poole Degree Ceremony Highlights, May 2025

Poole Degree Ceremony, Friday 9th May 2025 PM

The OU in Wales

The Open University in Wales | Y Brifysgol Agored yng Nghymru

Created playlists

Academic Snapshots: Videos for Curious Minds

Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

Mumentum

From Students, For Students: Study Advice You Need

Open University Research Students

The Open University Degree Ceremonies 2025

Other Open University channels

Shorts

Just found out you’re neurodivergent? You’re definitely not alone! 💡

Partnerships with The Open University in Scotland #openuniversity #upskilling

Union Partnerships with The OU in Scotland #openuniversity #upskilling

Local Authority Partnerships with The OU in Scotland #openuniversity #upskilling

Business and Industry Partnerships at The OU in Scotland #openuniversity #upskilling

Third Sector Partnerships with The OU in Scotland #openuniversity #upskilling