- Courses
- What is distance learning?
What is distance learning?
Accessible study resources and expert tutor instruction mean you’ll have the flexibility to study when and where you want. Whatever your circumstances, gain a recognised university qualification.
Achieve your goals through part- or full-time study with The Open University.
WANT TO STUDY BUT WORRIED ABOUT THE COST?
Don't be. Because with a Part-Time Tuition Fee Loan from Student Finance England, you can start studying without paying a penny upfront. You won't have to pay anything back for up to 4 years, and not until you are earning more than £27,295 a year (current income threshold).
How we make distance learning work for you
Distance learning is going to be different to the study you’ve done before – school, college, even university. But it’ll be similar in many ways as well.
With OU distance learning, you’ll have study materials, an online study portal, a dedicated tutor, student forums, learning events and more.
As the only UK university dedicated to distance learning, we want to make sure you know what to expect as an OU student. So we’ve put together a series of short guides on some of the aspects of studying with us.
A guide to our qualifications
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ll give you an idea of what qualifications we offer and how they’re structured.
How will I study?
Learn more about how you’ll learn and the materials and resources unique to OU students.
Tutors and tutorials
Our expert tutors provide support and guidance throughout your module studies. Find out more about their role, tutorials and other learning events.