OpenLearn Ireland

At The Open University in Ireland, we are proud to offer a diverse range of free online learning opportunities tailored to the unique context of Ireland.  OpenLearn Ireland is your gateway to exploring a variety of subjects, from history and culture to science and technology, all designed to enrich your knowledge and skills.

Explore our Courses

Our OpenLearn platform provides high-quality educational resources that are accessible to everyone.

A black-and-white digital illustration of a group of young men and an older man, all depicted with expressive facial features and varied hairstyles, set against a bold yellow background. The older man, positioned in the front left, has a beard and wears a collared jacket, while the younger men wear casual clothing, including hoodies and jackets. The illustration has a hand-drawn, sketch-like style with strong lines and shading.

Why riot? Community, choices, aspirations

A free resource for young people to help them think critically about the choices they make about how to act positively for change, around the issues they care about.

A collage-style image featuring a close-up of a transparent cassette tape overlaid on top of declassified government documents marked

Ceasefire anniversary in Northern Ireland: 30 years of an impossible peace

A story of change, drawing on the thoughts of some of those who made the ceasefires and the political agreement in Northern Ireland possible.

a map of Great Britain and Ireland on a blue background

National identity in Britain and Ireland, 1780–1840

This free course explores how the United Kingdom of Britain and Ireland was formed.

an image of rolls of linen

The Belfast linen industry

A trip to the tailors reveals the true fabric of Belfast history.

a scene of Belfast buildings

20 things you might not know about Belfast

Belfast is a fascinating place.  Here are some facts about the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland.

a picture of an American city where the river is turned green

Adaptation and Assimilation: The Irish Catholic Experience in America

Despite experiencing discrimination on account of their religion and culture, the Catholic Irish gradually gained accepetance in American society.

Partner hubs

We work with local partners and stakeholders to provide hubs of content which suit their audiences' learning needs.

the Libraries NI logo

Libraries NI learning hub

This hub was prepared in collaboration with Libraries NI and features a collection of free online resources designed to support mental health, well-being and learning and development.

the Irish Congress of Trade Unions logo

Irish Congress of Trade Unions Learning Hub

This hub was prepared in collaboration with the Northern Ireland Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and features free, flexible, distance learning content designed to support employability and upskilling.

the Manufacturing NI logo

Manufacturing NI Learning Hub

A collection of free learning materials designed to support the development of key skills within the manufacturing industry in Northern Ireland.

Get involved

If you are an organisation who would like to partner with us on some valuable free content, then please get in contact.

Explore the full range of courses available on OpenLearn Ireland.  Whether you're a lifelong learner, a student preparing for higher education, or a professional looking to upskill, there's something for everyone.

Start your learning journey today! Explore OpenLearn Ireland