What it's like to study with us

The Open University offers high quality education that can fit around work and family life. Study when and where it suits you, at the pace and level you find best. We will support you every step of the way.

Students and graduates share their OU experiences

We have pioneered distance learning for 50-plus years, supporting over 232,800 students right across Scotland, from Dumfries and Galloway to Shetland, and the Western Isles to Fife. We ranked first in Scotland for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2024. Meet some of our OU community below, and discover more student and alumni stories.

Karie, Glasgow

Karie has combined her textiles career with OU Art History and Visual Cultures studies, plus TV quiz show University Challenge.

Alastair, Edinburgh

Alastair's OU studies sparked a new career path: the Physical Science graduate is now an astronomer and Planetarium Manager. 

Mairi Claire, Barra

A new career was possible for mum-of-two Mairi Claire, upskilling from healthcare assistant to island hospital nurse, with her OU degree.

Accessible learning

Our range of course types includes microcredentials and standalone modules, certificates, diplomas, plus degrees and postgraduate qualifications. For most courses, the only entry requirement is a desire to learn.

• Not studied for a while and want to boost your confidence first? Our Access modules are a great introduction.
• Looking for a tailored qualification? With our Open programme you can pick modules from across subject areas to build your own certificate, diploma and degree level.   
• Interested but not sure what to study or if distance learning is right for you? Try one of over 900 free courses on OpenLearn.

Our students have diverse backgrounds. They can be juggling modules with caring responsibilities, learning in a workplace, or when they travel with their sports team.

We have care experienced students and learners who’ve declared disabilities. Our students might have transferred credit from college study, or be doing an OU qualification while in prison.

Flexible payment and funding options are available: 66% of our students qualify for a grant that covers 100% of undergraduate course fees, enabling them to study for free. 

We have signed up to Scotland’s Digital Inclusion Charter. Our pledge to the Charter encompasses understanding and addressing the impact of digital exclusion, delivering inclusive services, and proactively identifying students’ digital needs.

Quality and expertise

As an OU student you’ll have high quality study materials, an online study portal, a dedicated tutor giving expert advice and regular feedback, student forums, learning events and more. 

Connected students 

Studying with the OU, you don't just have the advantages of flexible distance learning, but you will also have access to the UK’s largest student community.

"Working on projects in groups with other students was really inspiring."

Louise Lyons
Graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Open degree 

Find out more about Louise's OU experience.