The Open University is an international provider of part-time distance education for adults, offering study opportunities throughout mainland Britain and Western Europe. The OU offers an enormous range of subjects at many different levels, from non-academic to degree level, Masters degrees and Doctorates. Specialist staff offer individual help and a wide range of services adapted to the needs of individuals, which enable students with disabilities to participate fully. Students are offered information, advice and guidance about all aspects of OU study at the enquiry and admission stage. Students on most courses have a local counsellor as well as a tutor for each module of their studies.
Most programmes are modular and students can use credits to obtain a range of qualifications.
Credit transfer arrangements with other Universities enable students to build up flexible qualifications. Professional recognition is offered in many fields. The Open University has a means tested financial assistance fund, with special provision for the unemployed.