The Open University in Ireland

People study at higher education level for all sorts of reasons. You may want to develop or change your career, or you might just want to know more about a subject that interests you. The Open University will support you in achieving your aspirations and whatever your circumstances; we can provide a solution. Our courses are built around you and your life, where the only entry qualification is your motivation. There are currently over 7000 Open University students throughout Ireland.

Your choice of courses

We can offer you a choice of over 570 inspirational courses (more than any other university) in the areas listed below.

• Arts & Humanities
• Business and Management
• Childhood & Youth
• Computing and ICT
• Education
• English Law
• Environment, Development & International Studies
• Engineering & Technology
• Health & Social
• Law
• Languages
• Mathematics & Statistics
• Psychology
• Science
• Social Science

We provide a range of degrees in specific subject areas, or degrees can be tailor-made by choosing a course portfolio that suits individual personal or professional needs. Career-related degrees are available in a number of professional fields. Flexibility is built into every aspect of Open University study. You can vary the amount of work you do each year and take time out between courses. There's no limit to the time you can take to complete most OU degrees. You don't have to attend regular lectures on a campus, or plan life around term times. Instead, the OU teaching comes to you. You study when and where it's convenient for you, and we provide everything you need to succeed.

Help improve your career prospects

An Open University degree is a great way to boost your career potential. For many OU students, studying with The Open University has made a significant difference to their working lives, helping them work towards a new career or better job prospects. Studying part-time while managing work and personal commitments demonstrates special qualities such as determination, adaptability, motivation and a high level of organizational and problem-solving skills - all of which are recognised and highly valued by employers. Employers take Open University qualifications very seriously - in fact, many sponsor their staff to study with us.

Open University supported open learning

Open University supported open learning combine's self-study using specially designed course materials, with tutor support and access to a range of advisory services. We are committed to developing the potential of every student and are renowned for the level of support we provide.

The OU is a recognised provider of HETAC aligned awards and qualifications within the National Qualifications Framework

When you start depends on your chosen course. We offer short courses up to 4 times a year, so you can choose when you want to start studying. Most of our short courses offer two start dates a year - February and October with most other courses starting in February.

You'll have a personal tutor - a subject specialist who will provide you with academic support throughout the year. You can have regular contact with your tutor by phone, and depending on where you live, you will usually also be in touch with other students at face-to-face tutorials or telephone tutorials or through electronic conferencing. We'll also provide you with ongoing help and advice with areas such as study skills, degree planning and vocational guidance. Courses are developed by top academics using cutting edge research, and delivered using innovative course materials.

Disabled students / students with additional requirements

The Open University has a strong commitment to supporting disabled students and those who have additional requirements because of mental or physical health issues, or a Specific Learning Difficulty (dyslexia). Supported open learning is very often the preferred option in such circumstances as it offers a flexible learning-teaching methodology, together with a range of resources - including a large number of courses in accessible formats - tailored to ensure that individuals can participate fully in study activities.

Costs and financial support

Open University study represents excellent value for money. Fees cover your course materials, the support of a tutor, regular assessment and feedback, as well as tutorials and residential schools where appropriate. You can choose to pay your course fees in instalments through an OU Student Budget Account and you can even use your Tesco Clubcard vouchers. Tax relief is available on courses leading to BA/BSc degrees, postgraduate qualifications and the Certificate/Diploma in Management.

Entry requirement

The Open University has an open entry system which means that there are no entry requirements for our undergraduate courses. If you apply and we have places on the course you want to take, we will accept you; you only need to be aged 18 or over on the day your course begins. If you are under the age of 18 and plan to start a course, there is a requirement to speak to our advisor for young students beforehand. Please note that there are advisors available to answer any queries you may have about registering for a course.

How to enrol for an Open University course

For full information on how to become an Open University student, details of OU courses and qualifications, and advice on choosing courses, phone our Regional Centre or our Dublin Enquiry and Advice Centre for a copy of our undergraduate prospectus or visit our website at www.open.ac.uk

Open days

During the year we run open days and information events in different locations throughout Ireland to give you a chance to speak with OU staff and find out more about what the OU can offer. For details of forthcoming events please call or visit our website http://www.openuniversity.co.uk/events

Contact Us

The Open University in Ireland

Enquiry & Advice Centre

Holbrook House

Holles Street

Dublin 2

Tel: 01 678 5399

Email: ireland@open.ac.uk