The Open University is the UK's largest university, attracting more than 200,000 students each year. It is a world leader in open and distance learning and has been recognised for the excellence of its teaching and the world-class reputation of its research

The University's students come from all walks of life - from Lord Chancellors to lollipop ladies, from MPs to milkmen and from factory workers to fighter pilots. Many have never previously had the opportunity to study at university level or to fulfil their potential through learning.

Most of our students study part-time combining their learning with work and family life. More than 70% remain in full-time employment throughout their studies, and a growing number of 18-25 year olds are choosing to study with the Open University.

The Open University is one of the largest e-learning providers with more than 150,000 learners using on-line facilities as part of their courses, and to communicate with their tutors and fellow students. Overall the University handles some 51,000 connections between 7,000 different users each day.

From its inception the Open University has been at the cutting edge of learning and at the heart of social change. Its unique expertise in study methods, courses, teaching, knowledge media, and research, have helped to drive forward a revolution in lifelong learning.

Its philosophy that higher education should be open to all has inspired over 2 million people to study with the Open University since its foundation in 1969.