The Open University (Development Policy and Practice)

The Open University has pioneered distance learning for over 50 years. We are proud to welcome all students, regardless of age or background, and have continued to widen access to education throughout 2019/20.

As an employer and educator, diversity and inclusivity are values we cherish. It promotes educational opportunity for all by providing high-quality university education to those who wish to realise their ambitions.

Nearly all undergraduate courses have no formal entry requirements, enabling people who have missed out on education to fulfil their potential and achieve a university-level qualification. It is the UK's largest university, a world leader in flexible part-time education combining a mission to widen access to higher education with research excellence, transforming lives through education.

Uniquely we operate within the four nations of the UK, with nation offices in Belfast, Dublin, Cardiff and Edinburgh and our head office in Milton Keynes. The OU's distance learning teaching is specifically designed to be delivered online. Students study where and when they choose, to fit in with jobs, families and other commitments. They are allocated a personal tutor for each module who provides academics expertise, guidance and feedback. They attend online and face to face tutorials (temporarily suspended due to Covid) and have the support of specialist advisers to help with other aspects of OU study. They meet other students at tutorials, day schools (also temporarily suspended) and informal study groups; and through online conferencing, study networks and course forums. 

Through its additional platform OpenLearn https://www.open.edu/openlearn/ The Open University provides 1000s of courses for free.