The Open University in Scotland for employers

At The Open University (OU) in Scotland, we promote opportunity by widening access to high-quality learning to all who wish to realise their ambitions – and this includes supporting organisations to address their skills needs through the provision of exceptional workforce development solutions.

As Scotland’s largest provider of flexible part-time higher education, and with over 50 years experience of providing innovative distance learning, we are uniquely equipped to help industries address national skills priorities and support employers to develop a futureproof talent pipeline in an ever-changing world of work.

Scalable

Reaching organisations right across the nation, those with single or multiple sites, from those in remote and rural to urban areas.

Flexible

Innovative online delivery optimises time in the workplace and accommodates business priorities and personal commitments

Work-based

Our high-quality solutions provide learners with skills and experience which can be applied immediately to the workplace.

Learning and development solutions

Undergraduate & postgraduate qualifications

We can provide progression pathways from non-accredited courses, through to certificates, diplomas, undergraduate degrees and Master's degrees, including an MBA which is delivered by the OU’s triple-accredited Business School.

Microcredentials

Microcredentials are designed specifically to enhance professional skills, knowledge and experience in a particular subject area or capability. Funding may be available via the Upskilling Fund.

Short courses

Explore a subject without the time commitment with a short course from The Open University.

Credit transfer

Your employees may be able to gain recognition of prior learning if they have previously studied at SCQF level 7 or above within the last 16 years, and count this study towards an OU qualification.

Open qualifications

Employees can be supported to achieve an OU undergraduate or postgraduate qualification, tailored to business needs.

SAAS Part-Time Fee Grant

To support undergraduate level study, employees may be eligible to apply for funding to cover the cost of course fees if they have a personal income of £25,000 or less per annum.

Study Sustainability

Whether you wish to study for personal interest, professional development, or are looking to gain a qualification, we have a course for you.

What's it like working with The Open University in Scotland?

Working with The Open University allows us to develop our staff via a wide range of qualifications. The quality of the course content, and its availability at affordable costs, meant there was almost no contest when it came to choose the university as our learning partner.
Anthony Mackie
Service Manager at Glasgow City Council

Supported open entry

Many introductory modules do not have academic entry requirements, enabling learners to develop confidence in their academic ability and study skills to prepare them for further OU study.

Modular approach and stackable qualifications

Modules can be undertaken individually and used as stepping stones to qualifications including certificates, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate qualifications.

Study intensity to flex around busy lives

With flexible entry and exit points, individuals can be supported to either increase or reduce their study workload to suit their personal circumstances and work commitments.

Get in touch to find out more

We'd love to hear from you about the learning and development challenges impacting your organisation. Get in touch with us to find out how we can help.

Get in touch