Open Learning

With over 400 modules to choose from as an Open Learner, there is something to suit everyone's interest. All of the modules are at undergraduate level, so it’s a chance to join classes with full-time degree students while learning at your own pace.

There are no formal entry requirements for Open Learners, but you must demonstrate your readiness to study and manage your own learning experience by engaging fully with the academic resources provided to you. For more information, please take the time to review our Open Learning Readiness Checker and the UCD Student Charter.

As an Open Learner, you will be a fully registered UCD student, have a student card, and be able access to all of the facilities and supports available to other UCD students.

Audit - €375 per 5 credit module
Audit modules are purely for interest or to get a taste of university classes and do not involve any form of assessment, so there's no need to worry about exams.

Credit - €500 per 5 credit module
Credit modules involve completing any of the assessments required for those modules, such as essays, presentations or end of semester exams.

Yes!

Open Learners who successfully complete 30 credits (6 modules)  will be awarded a Certificate.

Open Learners who successfully complete 60 credits (12 modules) will be awarded a Diploma.

Both qualifications are NFQ Level 7 awards and can be used for entry to selected UCD undergraduate degree programmes. 

While there is no formal entry criteria, students are expected to meaningfully engage during their studies, attend lectures, manage their own learning, interact with the academic resources, present their ideas in class alongside peers, and take part in other teaching and learning activities, required by each programme. These expectations are outlined in UCD's Student Charter.

We've also developed some quick self-assessment tools to make sure you know what to expect from studying Open Learning at UCD.

Our Open Learning Readiness Checker will help ensure that you are aware of the commitments and possible challenges of Open Learning at UCD.

To get started, you need to first complete and submit an online application form. 

Applications for our general Open Learning Programme will open on 6th August 2024.

Applications for our Progression Pathway will open on 23rd August 2024.

What do I do once I have accepted my place, and how do I select my modules?

If you are offered a place on either the general Open Learning or Progression Pathways Certificate programme, you will receive an offer letter via your online application.

Once you've accepted your offer, you will receive an email telling you when you can select your modules and confirm your attendance.

Module registration for Open Learning students will begin this year on Thursday 29 August.

You'll then be able to log onto your UCD student account, to select and register for your modules, agree to UCD’s terms and conditions, and to confirm your contact details.

Which modules can I take through Open Learning?

You can browse all of the modules offered to Open Learners on our website. 

Further information on selecting modules is available through UCD Registry.

When will my classes begin?

For students starting in the Autumn Trimester, they will commence from 9th September 2024 and Spring Trimester classes will begin the week of 20th January 2025 (view key dates). Your individual timetable will be available on your online student account (SISWeb).

Where will my classes take place?

UCD uses blended learning, this is a combination of in-person teaching with online learning activities and resources shared using our virtual learning environment, Brightspace. The majority of classes will take place on campus, but some of your lectures may be online. You should ensure that you are familiar with how the class will be taught before completing your registration. You can find this information on the module descriptor for your class.

Financial support may be available to you through the Sanctuary Programme or the Part-Time Student Support Fund.

We have a dedicated team who supports the Open Learning programme:

Jenny Doyle, Centre Operations Manager - (opens in a new window)jennifer.doyle@ucd.ie

Lucy, Irina, Marlene and Ciarán are members of our Operations Team and they can also help you with your queries. Get in touch with us by emailing all@ucd.ie

You can also view a list of our Frequently Asked Questions for answers to most questions.