About The Open University in Ireland

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Opening up education across Ireland

The Open University has been transforming lives through learning for over 50 years. We are a globally recognised, flexible, online-supported university – open to anyone, anywhere. Our approach makes high-quality higher education accessible to people from all backgrounds and at every stage of life.

In Ireland, we partner with government, employers, education providers and communities to widen access to higher education and support lifelong learning that fuels personal growth, workforce development and inclusive social progress. 

Our mission in Ireland

At The Open University in Ireland, we are driven by the belief that education changes everything  - for individuals, families, workplaces and society. 

Our mission in Ireland is to:

  • Expand access to quality higher education for people of all ages, locations and backgrounds.
  • Support national skills priorities through flexible and work-based learning opportunities.
  • Build partnerships with public, private and community organisations to deliver innovative education solutions.
  • Share free open learning resources that promote lifelong learning and inclusion.
  • Contribute to research and policy that supports Ireland’s social and economic development.

Our presence and impact

Since 1969, The Open University has supported more than 31,000 learners in Ireland, helping individuals gain qualifications, confidence and new opportunities through flexible study that fits around work and life commitments.

Each year, nearly 1,000 students across Ireland study with us – many are adult learners, career changers or professionals seeking to upskill and grow.

Our open learning platforms, including OpenLearn and OpenLearn Ireland, offer free online courses and resources for anyone wishing to explore new subjects or develop new skills, supporting lifelong learning across the country.

Meet the leadership team

 

 

A picture of John D'Arcy, he is bald and has thick black glasses and is smiling wearing and suit and tie

John D'Arcy

Director, Ireland

A picture of Michael bower who has fair short hair and is smiling and wearing a suit

Michael Bower

Assistant Director, Student Services & Employer Engagement

A picture of Tara Craig who has dark hair and is smiling wearing a grey sweater

Tara Craig

Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications

 
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Strategy

Our work in Ireland aligns with The Open University’s broader strategic goals to expand access, deepen impact and support learners through flexible, evidence-based education.

 

 

Three men looking at a laptop on a desk

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We recognise the value that diversity brings – to learning, to workplaces and to society.

 

 
a group of three people standing chatting to each other

Work with us

We offer opportunities for talented professionals to join a dynamic, mission-driven team that supports transformational learning.

 

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Sustainability

The Open University in Ireland is committed to environmental sustainability and has published sustainability pledges that align with regional and international goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

 

A woman with brown hair and headphones on writing on an ipad to her right while working on a laptop.

Accessibility Statement

The Open University is committed to making its websites and mobile applications accessible, you can read our accessibility statement via the link above.