About
The Open University is a world leader in flexible, distance learning, making higher education accessible to millions globally. It's renowned for its innovative teaching methods and comprehensive online resources, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across faculties like Arts & Social Sciences, Business, Technology, and Health. For international students, the experience is entirely online, allowing study from anywhere in the world with robust virtual support, English-taught programs, and dedicated online student services to ensure a smooth academic journey. While there's no traditional campus experience, its global community and flexible structure are ideal for those balancing studies with other commitments. Its distinctive characteristic is its pioneering role in open-access, distance education, breaking down barriers to learning.
Background
The Open University (OU) is a public research university and the largest university in the United Kingdom by number of students. The majority of the OU's undergraduate students are based in the United Kingdom and principally study off-campus; many of its courses (both undergraduate and postgraduate) can also be studied anywhere in the world. There are also a number of full-time postgraduate research students based on the 45 ha (110-acre) university campus at Walton Hall in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, where they use the staff facilities for research, as well as more than 1,000 members of academic and research staff and over 2,500 administrative, operational and support staff. The OU was established in 1969 and was initially based at Alexandra Palace, north London, using the television studios and editing facilities which had been vacated by the BBC. The first students enrolled in January 1971. The university administration is now based at Walton Hall, but has administration centres in other parts of the United Kingdom. It also has a presence in other European countries. The university awards undergraduate and postgraduate degrees...
Read more on WikipediaLocation
Quick facts
Nearby universities
Also in United Kingdom
- Oxford Brookes University · Oxford
- Queen Mary, University of London · London
- Royal College of Art · London
- Royal Holloway and Bedford New College · Egham
- Royal Holloway University of London · Egham
- Runshaw College · Leyland
- School of Advanced Study, University of London · London
- School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London · London
- School of Pharmacy, University of London · London
- Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) · Edinburgh
Wondering if Open University is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.
Wondering if Open University is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.