The Open University, located online at www.open.ac.uk, is a prominent institution in the education and training sector, renowned for its flexible distance learning programs. The university caters to a broad audience, including working professionals, individuals seeking career advancement or personal enrichment, and those who require the flexibility that traditional campus-based education cannot offer. As a pioneer in distance learning, The Open University provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, leveraging digital platforms to deliver high-quality education accessible from anywhere in the world. The company's approach to education is designed to be inclusive, supporting students from diverse backgrounds and with different levels of prior learning. By offering programs that range from short courses for personal interest to full degrees, The Open University meets the needs of a wide demographic of learners seeking to achieve their educational goals without compromising their personal or professional commitments. This focus on accessibility, flexibility, and comprehensive support makes The Open University a key player in the global education landscape, continuously adapting to the evolving needs of its students.
The Open University receives high praise from many students for its flexible learning options and supportive environment. Reviewers frequently highlight the life-changing opportunities provided by the university, allowing them to balance their studies with work and family commitments.
The quality of course materials and the overall educational experience are also commended, with many expressing satisfaction with the structure and relevance of the modules. However, some consumers express disappointment regarding the decline in tutor engagement and responsiveness compared to previous years, noting that the quality of support can be inconsistent. Despite these criticisms, the majority of feedback reflects a positive sentiment towards the Open University, making it a favorable choice for many learners seeking higher education.
Summary generated with AI from recent reviews
Each source counts by its number of reviews. Only reviews written by people are scored.
| Source | Rating | Reviews | Weight | 6-mo | Fake risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Trustpilot Imported Trustpilot reviews | 4.3 | 60 | 100% | ● Medium |
Monthly average rating from reviews written by people · latest review Nov 2025.
| Month | Average | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 25 | 1.8 | 6 |
| Nov 25 | 4.6 | 54 |
Share of positive (4–5★) and negative (1–2★) reviews mentioning each topic · based on the 60 most recent reviews.
“Excellent, relevent and very intetesting module materials”
“I had a ten year gap between studying at the OU and the difference is striking”
Same method for every company: overall rating, legitimacy checks, the average rating of reviews mentioning each area and the 6-month trend · Education & Training.
| Company | Overall | Legit | Service | Quality | Website & app | Trend | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4.3 out of 5 (good) | 100 out of 100 | 4.1 out of 5 (good) | 4.1 out of 5 (good) | 3.5 out of 5 (good) | — | 60 |
| 4.8 out of 5 (good) | 100 out of 100 | 4.8 out of 5 (good) | 4.2 out of 5 (good) | 4.2 out of 5 (good) | — | 85 | |
| 5.0 out of 5 (good) | 100 out of 100 | 5.0 out of 5 (good) | — | — | — | 57 | |
| 5.0 out of 5 (good) | 100 out of 100 | 5.0 out of 5 (good) | — | — | — | 37 | |
| 4.5 out of 5 (good) | 100 out of 100 | 4.9 out of 5 (good) | — | — | — | 25 |
Bottom line: The Open University is #5 of 5 on overall rating in this group. On service, Truka scores higher (5.0 vs 4.1).
60 reviews of The Open University. Filter by what matters to you.
11 months ago
It was a long journey, but one that ended in 1st Class honours - thank you OU!
Over a year ago
The OU is giving me a chance nobody else was willing to give: to get a BSc while working and caring for my child. There are some rough spots, but overall I'm so happy that they're helping me.
Quick answers to the questions people ask most.
The Open University offers a high degree of flexibility, allowing students to study part-time or full-time, and to adjust their study intensity each year. For more details on program flexibility, visit www.open.ac.uk.
You can pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional degrees across a wide range of subjects. For a full list of available courses and programs, please check our website.
Yes, The Open University is designed to be flexible, allowing you to study at your own pace and time, making it ideal for those who are working or have other commitments.
The Open University provides extensive support through tutors, study materials, and mental health resources. For specific support services, please visit our website or contact student support.
Yes, The Open University offers various resources and support systems for mature students and those with caregiving responsibilities to help balance their studies with personal commitments.
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It was a long journey, but one that ended in 1st Class honours - thank you OU!
It has been a few years since I graduated but I thought I would describe my experience and the benefits from studying at the OU. I started studying a BSc(Computer Science) in 2012, my aim was to improve my career outlook and get a career working in IT, I had always been interested in IT and was the typical go-to guy in the family for anything with an electronic pulse but getting into the work force without any qualifications and poor GCSE's I never really got anywhere. The first couple of years were great, a solid balance between ICT and training into working and writing at a university level and the first 2 years of courses did this perfectly, enough technical teaching to keep you engaged but also a strong focus on writing, reports, research etc. Around 2015, I began seriously applying for IT jobs and managed to secure a contract role within the NHS, I am fully of the opinion that because I had "Studying BSc(Computer Science)" on my CV that it helped because the interview for my first role in IT and all subsequent ones all asked questions about it. 2016, working in a perm role at a private school as a 1st/2nd line technician, I was doing the CCNA Cisco modules so computer networking was very much on my mind, we had some issues at the school I worked at and the seniors above me didn't have the skills to resolve some network issues, I used the knowledge I was learning and was able to resolve all of these issues, this then lead to me getting more and more network relating tasks which ultimate lead to me leaving in 2017 to begin working as a Network Engineer at a new job (Lotus Cars). I continued studying and learned how to program in Java and due to changes returned to the NHS where I started my IT Career as a 3rd line (Infrastructure) technician. I spent 7 years doing this role, learning the ropes and improving my own knowledge whilst using the skills I learned in Java to build PowerShell and C# applications (which I would have never been able to do without the Open Uni Java courses). About 2 months ago, I was promoted to Digital Developer, and I now currently work fulltime as a C# programmer for the NHS. I without a doubt credit the open university for teaching me all the skills I needed to succeed, my only regret is that I struggled to stay interested in some modules, but this is no fault of the OU, however, I still finished in 2022 with a BSc Open. ANYONE who is looking at the OU as a route to better their career options, I strongly recommend it, just make sure you research the field you want to move into, what the entry level points are and then find a course that covers all/most of the skills required and I am sure you will do well, it’s not all about "the bit of paper" at the end but skills you learn should build a solid foundation that can be practically applied, that doesn't mean each course will give you a "how to win" at the end, but it should introduce you to the concepts well enough that you can then manipulate your knowledge to match your needs and do well.
The OU is giving me a chance nobody else was willing to give: to get a BSc while working and caring for my child. There are some rough spots, but overall I'm so happy that they're helping me.
Studying with the OU has been both challenging and rewarding. I've accomplished things I never thought I would and I'm only half way through me degree. I can fit it around the rest of my life and its given me the opportunity to learn things about myself I probably never would have otherwise.
I started with the OU around 15 years ago and it was great! Helpful responsive tutors and good communication. Nowadays it’s just a bit pants to be honest. Tutors are hit or miss (generally miss in my experience) and emails vanish into a black hole. Good luck if you ever try to ring them and be prepared for a looooooooong wait.
Excellent, relevent and very intetesting module materials. Great support from university staff and tutors. Study in your own time at your own pace, so long as you keep up with the well planned study calander.
5 STARS for the 'Open University'! Thank you very much for the invaluable tutoring and support throughout the six years part-time studies and for achieving a successful Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Environmental Management and Technology degree!
I had a ten year gap between studying at the OU and the difference is striking. Ten years ago the tutors were excellent and engaged, marked work correctly and on time and really gave a more engaged and flexible experience than the brick university experiences I had had. I have come back and am in my second (and last) course - two different subjects but both have the same problems. I can't believe the number of incorrect markings I've been given that I have had to question, only to find my original answers in the assignment were correct and they have miscorrected me. It has been confusing, concerning and disappointing. Most tutors don't know what course you're on, assignments are returned way past the 10 day turnaround with no empathy or apology given and its very clear that it now feels like students are part of a side hustle that tutors have. Either that or they're all incredibly overworked. The quality of marking and engagement has dramatically decreased. Tutors also no longer respond to messages - often at all. One of the faculties never responded to an issue I had that they needed to address and the tutor had to respond instead (which they are not supposed to do). With the 10 year gap it has been like studying at two different universities. I used to love and support the OU and had planned to do my post graduate studies there. After my experiences currently and in the last module and the large number of comments and reviews on forums and online generally with people having the same experience, I have decided to do my post graduate and all future study at brick universities and will no longer be recommending it to others. Prices are almost in line with brick universities also, which makes it worse. The decline of a wonderful institution I'm afraid. I can only speak for the two faculties/subjects I'm involved with of course but I am seeing the same problems again and again in discussions online, that line up with my own experiences. Note: I am not providing my details to the OU's request for further information as I am still finishing off my final module and will not be studying here in future.
I really liked how flexible most things were, with the ability to choose part or full time each year and how much study was done each week. Being able to do a whole degree online and not have to go to anything in person if you don't want to was really nice! Most of my tutors were really helpful and available most of the time to talk things through with, and I think the other support provided by the OU team is beneficial too.
I love studying with the OU. The materials you are sent are of great quality. A lot of work goes into the online learning modules. While working full time I can still achieve my study goals. There is lots of different interactions going on every day. You are allocated a tutor who is the main contact throughout your course as well as other student association contacts
I am absolutely delighted with my MBA experience at Open University Business School. The study materials are exceptionally well-structured, comprehensive, and up-to-date, making complex business concepts clear and engaging. The teaching methodology is innovative and flexible, perfectly suited for distance learning while maintaining high academic standards. The quality of the learning resources is outstanding – from interactive modules to detailed case studies, everything supports deep understanding and practical application. I actively extrapolate the theoretical knowledge I’ve gained into my own business and everyday life, which has already brought tangible improvements and fresh perspectives. What truly stands out is the genuine care and attention from the university staff. Tutors and support teams have been responsive, encouraging, and always ready to help, which made a real difference during challenging modules. Thank you, OU Business School, for an enriching and supportive MBA journey. I couldn’t have asked for a better learning experience! ✨
My experience with the Open University has been positive. I really commend them for their high-quality mental health resources, along with their teaching materials. I would highly recommend anyone who is considering higher education to ask them to send you a prospectus to see what courses are available.
I’m in my final year of a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing and I have to say I’ve loved every minute of it. I’m a mature student at 64 and I am very busy but I find it fits in with my schedule especially as I travel a lot.
The Open University has given me the freedom to study on my terms, and the confidence to do it. The whole experience was so amazing that I've returned to study for my master's.
Really enjoyable experience as I like the challenge of achedemic study
Best University to continue your studies while working. Honest and very helpful staff for student support. Tutors are extremely helpful and supportive.Overall the courses are very well designed to learn employability skills.
Exceptional Learning Experience at The Open University Studying with The Open University has been one of the most rewarding decisions I've ever made. The flexibility of their programs allowed me to balance my education, work, and other commitments seamlessly. The course materials are incredibly well-structured, engaging, and accessible. The tutors are knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely invested in student success. I always felt guided and encouraged. The online platform is intuitive and packed with resources—from audio, video and forums to digital libraries and career support. What truly sets The Open University apart is its commitment to inclusivity and lifelong learning. Whether you're pursuing a degree, upskilling, or exploring a new passion, they make higher education achievable for everyone. I wholeheartedly recommend The Open University to anyone seeking a high-quality, flexible, and empowering educational journey.
Studying with The Open University has been an excellent experience. The flexible learning structure allowed me to balance my studies with a demanding management role in the care sector. The module materials are clear, relevant, and strongly linked to real-world practice. Tutor support and feedback have been exceptional, helping me develop both academically and professionally. I highly recommend the Open University to anyone seeking to progress their career through high-quality, flexible education.
Fantastic learning materials and flexibility to study around other commitments
Great learning experienece in the OU. I would highly recommend to everyone who is thinking about their career change or enhance their skills and confidence,therfore University will require from you to learn independently and complete some tasks on your own, yet they are always ready to help. The materials the OU provides is rich and very insightful.Tutors are very professional and understanding and always ready to listen. The assignmnets guidance are concise and thorough. I am very grateful to be part of the OU family.
The Open University, located online at www.open.ac.uk, is a prominent institution in the education and training sector, renowned for its flexible distance learning programs. The university caters to a broad audience, including working professionals, individuals seeking career advancement or personal enrichment, and those who require the flexibility that traditional campus-based education cannot offer. As a pioneer in distance learning, The Open University provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, leveraging digital platforms to deliver high-quality education accessible from anywhere in the world. The company's approach to education is designed to be inclusive, supporting students from diverse backgrounds and with different levels of prior learning. By offering programs that range from short courses for personal interest to full degrees, The Open University meets the needs of a wide demographic of learners seeking to achieve their educational goals without compromising their personal or professional commitments. This focus on accessibility, flexibility, and comprehensive support makes The Open University a key player in the global education landscape, continuously adapting to the evolving needs of its students.
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