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About us

The Open University Belfast Office on the corner of Victoria Street

The Open University is a unique university created over 50 years ago to open up education to all.

We are open to anyone, anywhere, changing millions of lives across the world and always looking for new ways to help people succeed.

As the largest university in the UK, working across all four nations, we are the most popular choice for part-time undergraduates. Our flexibility means we can meet both the needs of individuals and large employers across the globe.

Over 7,000 students study with The Open University across Northern Ireland and cover every constituency in Northern Ireland.

Over 57,000 people in Northern Ireland have studied with the university since it was setup over 50 years ago in 1969.

Based in the heart of Belfast in an iconic, listed building, we are a dynamic team of approx. 100 people, offering a diverse range of services to support enquirers, students, employers and other key stakeholders in Northern Ireland.

Our door is always open to those who need our help and support. 

Meet The Open University in Ireland Directorate

 
 
A picture of John D'Arcy, he is bald and has thick black glasses and is smiling wearing and suit and tie

John D'Arcy

Director, Ireland

A picture of Michael bower who has fair short hair and is smiling and wearing a suit

Michael Bower

Assistant Director, Student Services & Employer Engagement

A picture of Tara Craig who has dark hair and is smiling wearing a grey sweater

Tara Craig

Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications

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Work with us

The Open University in Northern Ireland has a friendly culture and unique atmosphere, where colleagues have opportunities to come together as a whole.

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Strategy

Find out more about The Open University's strategic plan and objectives.

Three men looking at a laptop on a desk

Equality and diversity

At The Open University we recognise the value of diversity and the strength that it brings and we challenge under-representation and differences in outcomes through positive action programmes.

A lightbulb standing upright on a mound of soil, in the lightbulb a green plant. The soil and plant are being help in the palm of someone's hand of to the right of the image. is sprouting.

Sustainability

The Open University in Northern Ireland is committed to achieveing 'net zero' greenhouse emissions by 2050. Learn more about our sustainability pledges. 

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Our Outcome Agreement

Read about our Outcome Agreement with the Department for the Economy.

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Provision of free Period Products

The Open University have made Period Products available free of charge in all bathrooms designated female, gender neutral and disabled/adapted in our premises in open and accessible storage.