What is Click Start with The Open University?

Click Start with The Open University offers flexible, part-time learning experiences tailored for busy adults. The programme has been designed for individuals aged 18-30, but all adults are welcome. Combining The Open University’s educational expertise with real-world insights from employers, this programme equips you with the knowledge, confidence, and employability support needed to enter digital roles, advance in your current job, or pursue further education. 

With self-directed online learning, forum support, and regular webinars from experts, employers, and career coaches, you can learn at your own pace. While we suggest learning pathways, you control which courses you take and when you study – just be sure to plan your time so you finish before the project ends.

This programme is part of the nationwide Click Start training initiative, developed by the Institute of Coding (IoC) and funded by Nominet. There’s no cost to participate.

What will I learn?

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and automated, understanding cyber security and Artificial Intelligence becomes crucial for all of us.

Our programme begins with Cyber foundations and Getting started with generative artificial intelligence (AI) courses, helping you earn digital badges as you build essential knowledge.

You can then choose to advance your skills with the:

• Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity courses: These courses provide a strong foundation in entry-level cyber security concepts and topics.

and/or

• PCEP: Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer course: Learn the essentials of programming concepts using Python, a versatile and easy-to-learn coding language. After completing the course, you can apply your new skills through practical lab activities.

We also offer Career Skills courses to support your career development. You can select from a variety of options tailored to help you thrive in the evolving world of work.

Watch the video below to help you plan your learning journey and get the most out of the programme:

What could completion of this programme lead to?

A recent Microsoft study found that 82% of jobs now require digital skills. By 2025, the UK is expected to see three million new tech jobs, with 60% of employers anticipating a greater need for advanced digital skills.

This programme equips you with in-demand skills to enhance your career prospects and adaptability:

• Interested in pursuing a tech career? Completing one or both of our pathways prepares you for entry-level roles and apprenticeships in fields such as cyber security, software development or data analysis. All courses are badged, however, the CCST and PCEP courses align with internationally recognised entry-level industry certifications, should you opt to take the self-funded certification exam. You’ll also have opportunities to hear directly from employers about what it’s like to work in tech and the roles they are hiring for.
• Interested in developing digital skills to enhance your current career? Digital skills are increasingly vital across all sectors.  Our courses will give you the tools to integrate cyber security, AI, and coding into your existing career, making you more versatile and future-ready.
• Interested in securing your dream career move? We offer courses that build professional skills, such as teamwork, resilience, and communication. With webinars from career coaches and resources like CV writing and interview tips, you’ll gain the confidence and behaviours needed to advance in your career.

Entry requirements

To apply, you must be able to answer ‘yes’ to all three of these questions:

• Are you aged 18 or over?
• Can you commit to completing at least one course (minimum 3 hours)?
• Can you commit to participating in short surveys? Our funder wants to track how the programme helps you to develop skills and confidence, so we will ask for your feedback occasionally.

Technical requirements

• Internet: You’ll need a reliable internet connection.
• Devices: The Cyber foundations, Getting started with generative artificial intelligence (AI) and professional skills courses are optimised for mobile viewing. For the labs, CCST and PCEP courses, you’ll need regular access to a desktop or laptop computer to engage with the activities. Any supported Windows or Mac device will work; if using Linux, Ubuntu is recommended. Note that some simulations and labs won’t function on Chromebooks.

Academic requirements

• English proficiency: Courses assume proficiency equivalent to Level 2 Functional Skills in English (England), Level 2 Essential Skills in Communication (Wales/Northern Ireland) or National 5 English (Scotland).
• Maths proficiency: Whilst maths concepts are explained as needed, proficiency at the equivalent of GCSE Grade 4/C or National 5 C or higher will be beneficial for the Python PCEP course and labs.

When does the programme start and end?

Applications for this programme closed on 31^st August 2025.

If you applied on or before 31^st August and are an existing Click Start with The Open University learner, you have until the programme ends on 30^th September 2025 to complete your learning and download any badges and certificates you’ve earned. Please plan accordingly to ensure you have enough time to complete the courses and access the content you’re interested in.

This Open University programme is part of the nationwide Click Start training initiative developed by the Institute of Coding (IoC) and funded by Nominet. There’s no cost to participate.