About The Open University in Ireland

image of Dublin City CentreFor over 50 years, The Open University (OU) has been transforming lives through learning. We are the UK's largest university and a world leader in flexible, online-supported learning — open to anyone, anywhere.

In Ireland, we work with government, employers, education providers and communities to widen access to higher education and lifelong learning. Our mission is to support Ireland's ambition for a skilled, inclusive and knowledge-driven society.

Our mission in Ireland

The Open University is built on a powerful mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas.

In Ireland, that means:

  • Expanding access to quality higher education for people of all backgrounds and stages of life.
  • Supporting national skills priorities through flexible, work-based learning,
  • Partnering with public and private organisations to deliver innovative education solutions.
  • Sharing open learning resources that promote lifelong learning and inclusion.
  • Contributing to policy and research that supports Ireland's social and economic development.

Our presence in Ireland

Since 1969, The Open University has supported over 31,000 learners in Ireland, helping individuals gain new qualifications and confidence through flexible study.

Each year, almost 1,000 students in Ireland study with the OU, balancing their learning with work and family life. Many of our students are adult learners, career changers or professionals seeking to upskill.

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

Meet The Open University in Ireland Directorate

 
 

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

 
Someone talking with their hands at a desk in front of a computer

Strategy

Find out more about The Open University's strategic plan and objectives.

 

 

Three men looking at a laptop on a desk

Equality and Diversity

At The Open University we recognise the value of diversity and the strength that it brings and we challenge under-representation and differences in outcomes through positive action programmes

 

 
a group of three people standing chatting to each other

Work with us

Find out more about working with The Open University.

 

A lightbulb standing upright on a mound of soil, in the lightbulb a green plant is sprouting.

Sustainability

The Open University in Northern Ireland is committed to achieving 'net zero' greenhouse emissions by 2050. Learn more about our sustainability pledges

 

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.