Employee learning and development

The Open University has a rich heritage and proven track record in distance learning, educating workers for over 50 years.

As pioneers of online education, we have a proven platform and pedagogy. Designed specifically for supported distance learning, our innovative approaches have supported two million learners over the last 50 years.

Furthermore, our Business School is part of an elite group of just 1% of business schools worldwide that are triple accredited, delivering transformational education in business and management.

Benefits for organisations include

a unique supported, work-based, blended learning model that delivers immediate results attuned to organisational priorities, culture and working practices
learning on any scale, from individual employees to whole teams and dispersed workforces
flexible study arrangements so that staff can continue to meet their obligations at work
a rapid return on investment as staff apply their new knowledge and skills directly to their own practice

Get involved

Do you need help solving your key business challenges? What role can learning and development play in organisational success?

The Open University regularly releases reports, whitepapers, webinars, podcasts and other resources that bring together expertise and best practice from both within The Open University, and across our partnerships. On our new Knowledge Hub, you will also find details of our upcoming online and face-to-face events where you can gain further insights and find out how the OU can help your organisation succeed.

Discover insights to make your business smarter.

Visit the Knowledge Hub

Case studies

Explore our case studies to find out more about how The Open University Business School is supporting employers with their organisational learning and development challenges and how they are assisting their learners with their career development.

Learning for the whole workforce

Our programmes span everything from microcredentials to MBAs, meaning you can upskill staff at all levels of your business.

Choose from a range of options to suit individual requirements, or design your own tailored programme with our learning experts.

Higher and Degree apprenticeships
Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees (including Open qualifications and standalone modules)
Microcredentials and short courses
Vocational qualifications
Higher Technical Qualifications
Free learning
Content licensing and validation for educational partners
Recruiting OU Students

For individuals, we offer

internationally-recognised qualifications from an acknowledged world leader in supported distance learning
clear progression routes from access level right through to research degrees
the opportunity to balance personal goals with organisational objectives
an exceptional level of study support.

Next steps

See the Business School's undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, and research degrees.
Consider utilising the apprenticeship levy to drive employee learning through degree apprenticeships.