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About us

Welcome to the home of distance and online learning

Achieve a career-boosting qualification with the experts in high-quality distance learning. For over 50 years, we’ve pioneered a more flexible way to learn, helping students fit their university education around their lives.

With the OU, you have the freedom to earn a respected university qualification on your terms. You can study whenever suits you best, balancing learning with your job, family, and social life. Throughout your journey, you’ll get expert support from a dedicated tutor, access free career advice, and become part of the UK’s largest student community.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as ‘University of the Year for Teaching Excellence 2025’ (Daily Mail University Guide). We’re also globally recognised for our outstanding teaching and proud to be among an elite group of universities awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework.

Whatever your goals, we’re here to help you make them a reality.

The Future is Open

Ready to open up your future? We’ve continuously developed our teaching methods for over 50 years so that you can fit a high-quality university education around your busy life. We’re dedicated to giving you the very best experience and are proud to be recognised for our teaching – we’re the Daily Mail University of the Year for Teaching Excellence and were awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework.

What makes us different

An OU qualification is just as rigorous and respected as one from a traditional university. What’s different is that the OU allows you to study around your job or other commitments.

Learn on your terms

Our courses are designed to flex around your life so you can study in a way that suits you best. It’s just one of the reasons why we’re the most popular university for undergraduate students in the UK.

Supported at every step

OU study is truly flexible. Access your course materials 24/7 and study anytime, anywhere you like. You’ll have the support of a dedicated tutor, plus our student support and careers teams are ready to guide you as soon as you start studying.

Spark your imagination

See your favourite subjects brought to life with the latest in learning innovation. From textbooks to virtual learning environments and home experiments to award-winning state-of-the-art remote labs, you’ll learn through dynamic, hands-on experiences designed to challenge, excite, and deepen your understanding.

Course locations

Main Site

Student Recruitment Team, PO Box 197, Milton Keynes, MK7 6BJ

Distance Learning

Student Recruitment Team, PO Box 197, Milton Keynes, MK7 6BJ