The Open University

• Faculty of Arts

  The Arts Faculty was rated by a Times Higher Education survey as one of the best 100 institutions in the world for the study of the arts. While we're noted for the strength of our interdisciplinary approaches, our scholars of international standing also teach and research a very wide range of topics and themes in specific subject areas. These include art history; classical studies; creative writing; English; history; music; philosophy; and religious studies. The Faculty also has validated partnerships with several important institutions in the UK and other parts of the world. The head of the Faculty is the the Interim Executive Dean of Arts and Social Sciences, Professor Richard D. Brown.

  The Faculty consists of the following departments:

  • History of Crime and Policing
  • Cross-Cultural Identities
  • Digital Humanities
  • Empire and Postcolonial Studies
  • African and Asian Studies
  • Gender in the Humanities
  • Literature and Music
  • Material Cultures
  • Creative Writing
  • Book History

• Faculty of Education and Language Studies

  The research powerhouse of the Faculty of Education and Language Studies is our multidisciplinaryCentre for Research in Education and Educational Technology (CREET). Our emphasis is on outward-looking, collaborative research that impacts radically on learning practices, policies and public debates, in the UK and globally. As one of the UK’s largest and best-respected educational research centres we offer a stimulating environment for postgraduate research. In addition to MRes and PhD we run an innovative and highly regarded Doctorate in Education (EdD) programme for working education professionals. 

  The Faculty consists of the following departments:

  • Childhood Studies
  • Education Futures
  • Language and Literacies
  • Technology Enhanced Learning

• Faculty of Health and Social Care

  Research in The Open University's Faculty of Health and Social Care is at the heart of our mission to transform lives through education and health and social care practice. We investigate challenges arising at different stages in the human life course. Our research underpins our world-class teaching.

  Seventy-three per cent of our social work and social policy research was assessed as deliering impact that is 'outstanding' or 'very considerable' in terms of its reach and significance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014.

  We are noted for our innovative and participative research methodologies, and our strong tradition of partnership with external organisations and of putting research into practice.

  Our postgraduate research students benefit from the opportunity to develop advanced, high-level and transferable skills, working on diverse national and international projects.

  The Faculty consists of the following departments:

  • Ageing and later life
  • Children, young people, parenthood and families
  • Death, dying and bereavement
  • Living with disability and long term conditions
  • Reproduction, sexualities and health

• Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology

  The Open University’s Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology (MCT) is providing industry and society with the capabilities to meet tomorrow's challenges, through high-quality research in our core disciplines of Computing and Communications,  Engineering and Innovation, and Mathematics and Statistics.

  We focus on innovation in the real world: solving problems that are complex and challenging, and whose solutions require technological advances, behavioural transformation and enhancements in policy and practice. 

  At our heart is a commitment to interdisciplinary research, grounded in outward-looking, sustainable academic communities that engage fully with impactful teaching, research and scholarship and that maintain strong links with professional bodies and communities of practitioners.

  The breadth and excellence of the Faculty's research can be measured by its contribution to the Research Assessment Framework (REF) 2014. We contributed to nine Units of Assessment, with a very high proportion of our research receiving the highest assessments of world-leading or internationally excellent.

  The Faculty consists of the following departments: 

  • Computing and Communications
  • Engineering and Innovation
  • Mathematics and Statistics

• Faculty of Science

  The Faculty of Science has a distinguished record of internationally leading research. It is one of Europe’s premier research centres in Planetary, Space and Astronomical Sciences, noted for its contribution to space missions such as ROSETTA.

  Our research is focused on successful groups in three departments: the Department of Physical Sciences, the department of Environment, Earth and Ecosystems, and the department of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences. The Faculty of Science also advances science education through eSTEeM, run jointly with the Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology.

  In the Research Excellence Framework 2014, we had one of the largest submissions to Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences placing us in the UK top 10 by research power ranking.  In addition, 100% of our research in Allied Health Professions, and more than three-quarters of our research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences, was assessed as delivering impacts that were 'outstanding' or 'very considerable' in terms of their reach and significance. Science faculty staff also made key contributions to the OU's Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials, and to Education submissions.

  Our researchers enjoy state-of-the-art equipment, including world-leading analytical facilities and a comprehensive suite of biosciences laboratories, on the University’s 40 hectare campus.

  The Faculty consists of the following departments:

  • Physics, Planetary and Space science, and Astronomy
  • Biomedical, Analytical and Materials sciences
  • Environmental, Earth science, and Ecosystem science
  • Science education

• Faculty of Social Sciences

  The Faculty of Social Sciences engages with some of today’s most significant social, political and ethical issues,  with an emphasis on creative, innovative, interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research that has an impact on society.

  Our key research themes are citizenship, identities and governance; criminology; international development; human geography; social policy and sociocultural change.

  Our research culture fosters innovation and working across disciplinary boundaries. Our six academic departments: Economics; Geography; Politics and International Studies; Psychology; Social Policy and Criminology; and Sociology – benefit from collaboration in five centres of research excellence.

  The Faculty consists of the following departments:

  • Citizenship, identities and governance
  • Harm and evidence research
  • Innovation, knowledge and development
  • Open space - geographical and environmental research
  • Sociocultural change

• Business School

  Research at The Open University Business School ranks amongst the highest in the UK for impact – 16th out of 101 in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014.

  Our research is informed by our unrivalled engagement with large numbers of practising managers, our wide exposure to international perspectives and our value-driven emphasis on responsible management and social responsibility.

  We have an international reputation for research in: social marketing; international management practice; power and control; strategic decision-making; surveillance; behavioural finance; public and third sector management; entrepreneurship; and scholarship and pedagogy.

  The Open University Business School is home to four specialist research centres and a vibrant research degrees programme.

  The School consists of the following departments:

  • Centre of Innovation in Teaching and Learning (InTeL)
  • The True Potential Centre for the Public Understanding of Finance (PUFin)
  • Centre for Research into Information, Surveillance and Privacy (CRISP)
  • Institute for Social Marketing at The Open University (ISM-Open)

• Law School

  The Open University Law School is home to a number of research-active academics with a variety of research interests, including: neurolaw (neuroscience and the law); the law relating to religious freedom; law and theology; law and philosophy; access to justice; transitional justice; gender issues and gender-based violence; international law; trafficking in human beings; equality.

The Open University (OU) is a public research university in the United Kingdom that specializes in distance learning. It was established in 1969 and received its Royal Charter on 23 April 1969. The idea for the university was first proposed by Prime Minister Harold Wilson in the 1960s as part of a vision to provide higher education opportunities to people who could not attend traditional universities. The university was designed to be open to all, regardless of previous educational qualifications, making it a pioneer in open and distance learning.

The first students enrolled in 1971, and the university quickly gained a reputation for its innovative teaching methods, which included the use of television and radio broadcasts. The OU was one of the first institutions to use multimedia learning, combining printed course materials with audiovisual content. Over the years, the university expanded its offerings, introducing online learning and digital resources to support students worldwide.

The Open University has played a significant role in widening access to higher education. It has provided opportunities for millions of students, including those with disabilities, those in remote locations, and those balancing education with work or family commitments. The university has also been involved in research and has contributed to various fields, including science, technology, and social sciences.

Today, the Open University is one of the largest universities in the UK by student numbers, with thousands of students studying from different parts of the world. It continues to innovate in distance education, using modern technology to enhance learning experiences. The university remains committed to its founding principles of openness and accessibility, ensuring that higher education is available to all who wish to pursue it.

The Open University (OU) in the United Kingdom has an open entry policy, meaning that most courses do not have formal entry requirements. This makes higher education accessible to a wide range of students, including those who may not have traditional qualifications. However, some courses, particularly higher-level qualifications or specialized programs, may have specific entry requirements.

General Admission Requirements:

1. No Formal Qualifications Required – Most undergraduate courses do not require prior academic qualifications. However, students should ensure they have the necessary skills to complete the coursework.
2. Age Requirement – Students must generally be at least 16 years old at the time of registration. Some exceptions may apply for younger students under special circumstances.
3. English Language Proficiency – Since courses are taught in English, students should have a good command of the language. While there is no formal English language test for most courses, students should be confident in reading, writing, and understanding academic English.
4. Course-Specific Requirements – Some programs, particularly in fields such as science, engineering, or healthcare, may have specific prerequisites. These could include prior study in a related subject or relevant work experience.

Application Process:

1. Choosing a Course – Prospective students should browse the Open University’s website to find a suitable course or qualification. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
2. Registration – Unlike traditional universities, OU does not have a competitive application process. Instead, students register directly for their chosen course. Registration typically involves providing personal details, selecting a course, and arranging payment.
3. Funding and Payment – Students can pay for their courses upfront or apply for financial support, such as student loans or employer sponsorship. UK students may be eligible for government funding.
4. Study Materials and Support – Once registered, students receive access to study materials, online resources, and tutor support. The OU provides flexible learning options, allowing students to study at their own pace.
5. Assessment and Progression – Courses typically include assignments, online activities, and exams. Successful completion of modules contributes to the overall qualification.

The Open University’s flexible learning model makes it an attractive option for students balancing education with work or personal commitments.

The Open University (OU) in the United Kingdom is a fully accredited and recognized institution of higher education. It was established in 1969 and received its Royal Charter, which grants it the authority to award degrees. The university is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS), the independent regulator for higher education in England, ensuring that it meets high academic and quality standards.

The Open University is a member of Universities UK (UUK), the collective voice of universities in the UK, which advocates for the sector and ensures that institutions maintain high educational standards. Additionally, the OU is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), an international network of universities that promotes excellence in higher education.

The university's degrees and qualifications are widely recognized by employers and academic institutions worldwide. The OU is also subject to external quality assurance reviews by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), which evaluates the standards and quality of UK higher education institutions.

Furthermore, the Open University Business School holds triple accreditation from the three leading international accrediting bodies: the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). This triple accreditation is a mark of excellence and places the business school among the top institutions globally.

The Open University is also recognized by various professional bodies, depending on the subject area. Many of its courses are accredited by organizations such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the British Psychological Society (BPS), and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), among others.

As a public university, the Open University operates under the governance of the UK government and adheres to national higher education policies. Its qualifications are equivalent to those awarded by traditional UK universities, making them highly respected in both academic and professional settings.

In summary, the Open University is a fully accredited institution with recognition from multiple regulatory and professional bodies. Its degrees are widely accepted, and its commitment to quality education is demonstrated through its affiliations and accreditations.

The Open University (OU) offers a unique student life experience, as it primarily provides distance learning opportunities. Unlike traditional universities, OU students do not attend physical lectures on a regular campus. Instead, they study remotely, using online resources, printed materials, and tutor support. This flexibility allows students to balance their education with work, family, and other commitments.

One of the key aspects of student life at the Open University is independent learning. Students are responsible for managing their own study schedules, completing assignments, and participating in online discussions. The university provides a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), where students can access course materials, submit assignments, and interact with tutors and fellow students.

Despite being a distance-learning institution, the Open University fosters a strong sense of community. Students can join various online forums, social media groups, and student associations to connect with peers. The OU Students Association (OUSA) plays a vital role in representing students and organizing events, both online and in-person.

The university also offers support services, including academic guidance, career advice, and mental health resources. Tutors provide feedback on assignments and are available for consultations via email, phone, or online meetings. Additionally, students can access the OU Library, which offers a vast collection of digital resources.

For those who want to engage in extracurricular activities, the Open University has various clubs and societies. These groups cover a wide range of interests, from academic subjects to hobbies and social causes. Some students also participate in residential schools, which provide short-term, in-person learning experiences.

Overall, student life at the Open University is flexible, independent, and well-supported. While it differs from the traditional university experience, it offers a rich and engaging learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

The Open University (OU) provides a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their studies beyond lectures and seminars. These services are designed to enhance the learning experience and ensure that students have access to the necessary resources for academic success.

One of the key facilities available to students is the OU Library, which offers extensive online resources, including e-books, academic journals, and research databases. The library also provides guidance on research skills, referencing, and information literacy, helping students develop essential academic competencies.

The university also offers a dedicated student support service, which includes academic advisors, career guidance, and mental health support. Students can access one-on-one advice on study planning, time management, and career development. The OU Careers and Employability Services provide resources such as CV writing assistance, interview preparation, and job search tools to help students transition into the workforce.

For students with disabilities or additional learning needs, the OU provides specialized support through its Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) and other accessibility services. These services ensure that all students have equal access to learning materials and assessments, including alternative formats and assistive technologies.

The OU Students Association (OUSA) is another important resource, offering opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, join clubs and societies, and participate in student-led events. The association also represents student interests and provides a platform for students to voice their concerns and suggestions.

Additionally, the university provides access to online study forums and discussion groups, where students can interact with peers, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects. These forums help create a sense of community among distance learners and provide opportunities for networking and academic discussions.

Technical support is also available to assist students with any issues related to the university’s online learning platforms, ensuring that they can access course materials and participate in virtual learning activities without difficulty.

Overall, the Open University offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities to support students in their academic journey, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources for a successful and fulfilling learning experience.

The Open University (OU) in the United Kingdom is a world leader in flexible distance learning, offering high-quality education to students globally. One of the key reasons to choose the Open University is its accessibility. Unlike traditional universities, OU does not require formal qualifications for most undergraduate courses, making higher education available to a wider range of students.

Another significant advantage is the flexibility of study. OU allows students to learn at their own pace, making it ideal for those who have work or family commitments. With part-time and full-time study options, students can tailor their education to fit their lifestyle.

The university is also known for its innovative teaching methods. OU uses a combination of online resources, printed materials, interactive assignments, and tutor support to ensure students receive a comprehensive learning experience. The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) provides access to course materials, discussion forums, and online tutorials, creating an engaging and supportive learning atmosphere.

Additionally, the Open University has a strong reputation for research and academic excellence. It is ranked among the top universities in the UK for student satisfaction and research impact. Many of its courses are developed in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring that students gain relevant and up-to-date knowledge.

OU also offers strong career support, helping students develop skills that are highly valued by employers. Many graduates have successfully advanced in their careers or transitioned into new fields after completing their studies.

With over 50 years of experience in distance learning, the Open University continues to be a top choice for students seeking a flexible, high-quality education that fits their personal and professional goals.