The Open University (OU) is the largest academic institution in the UK and a world leader in flexible distance learning. We work with employers to develop their workforce and help individuals to reach their potential.
We offer flexible, work-based undergraduate courses in social work, social care and healthcare, as well as a range of postgraduate qualifications and CPD courses.
Working with employers to develop their workforce
Our courses support employers across the UK to develop, motivate and retain their workforce. We have over 20 years’ experience of partnering with employers in the social care sector, and over 6,000 people have qualified as social workers through the OU.
We have qualifications at a range of levels, including certificates which enhance the skills of social care support staff, to degree, degree apprenticeship and postgraduate qualifications which enable support staff to qualify as social workers.
Students on our work-based programmes continue to work whilst studying, so they can continue to earn whilst they learn and immediately put their new skills into practice in the workplace. The experience support staff bring to social work study means that when they qualify, they hit the ground running.
Visit us on Stand 24b to find out how working with us can benefit your organisation. In the meantime, find out more about our courses by clicking on the ‘Courses’ tab above, or visit open.ac.uk/health-and-social-care
Helping individuals reach their potential
Whether you’re a qualified social worker or work in a support role, we have a range of qualifications which can boost your skills and help you reach your potential.
Our postgraduate qualifications and CPD courses are ideal if you are a qualified social worker looking to develop your knowledge in a specific area. For social care support staff, our flexible work-based degree, degree apprenticeship and postgraduate qualifications in social work enable you to qualify as a social worker with the support of your employer.
Our courses are flexible, fitting around your work and personal commitments so you can continue to earn whilst you learn. Many employers sponsor their employees on our work-based qualifications, with a range of affordable options available if you are self-funding. We also have a huge range of free materials and CPD courses on our OpenLearn platform.
To talk about how we can help you to develop your skills and achieve you career goals, visit us on Stand 24b. In the meantime, find out more by clicking on the ‘Courses’ tab above, or visit open.ac.uk/health-and-social-care