Distance and online courses

Welcome to the home of distance learning and online courses – for over 50 years The Open University has helped over 2 million learners to open up their futures.

Find an OU course that’s respected by employers, can help with career progression and gives you the flexibility to earn while you learn.

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More to explore

Getting started is easier than you think, but if you've got questions, we have the answers. Check out the essentials to study at The Open University.

More to explore

Getting started is easier than you think, but if you've got questions, we have the answers. Check out the essentials to study at The Open University.

What is distance learning?

We're dedicated to distance learning, but what does that mean? Find out how, what, when and where you'll study with our series of short guides on being an OU student.

Can I do it?

We don't believe in barriers, so if you're prepared to put the work in, we'll help you succeed. And if you don't know the best place for you to start, we can help with that too.

How to apply

Choose the right course, find the best funding option and apply at the right time. This guide leads you through the process of becoming an OU student from start to finish.

Fees and funding

More than 80% of our students use a loan with Student Finance England to fund their studies; it's the most popular way to pay. Check out your funding options today.

Get ahead with credit transfer

Previous study can count towards a qualification – even if you didn't complete the course. 20% of OU graduates use Credit Transfer to save time and money when studying.

Already have a degree?

If you live in England you may still qualify for a student loan, even if you already have a degree from another university. Find out if your qualification is eligible.

Be inspired

For me, the biggest benefit of the OU is that I can earn whilst I learn. With bills on the rise, I have friends who don’t know how they’re going to cope with the cost of living away from home. As well as funding my studies, I’m also gaining valuable work experience. This degree is going to change my life and inevitably is going to better my future.

KiannaBusiness Management student

I studied at full time intensity while working in mental health. The route I took isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it’s really paid off – I’m in such a brilliant position with my career. With over four years of experience in a related field to my degree, I’ve already built up a professional network and have a huge advantage over recent graduates.

JoePsychology graduate

I couldn’t find a course [at a brick university] I liked which still offered me the flexibility to work and remain living at home. Studying via distance learning isn’t a lonely experience. I’ve made life-long friends and spend my spare time travelling the country visiting them. It’s been refreshing to find like-minded people who love books as much as I do!