( abbr the OU )
a British university providing degree courses that students can take at home. It started in 1969 and its main office is in Milton Keynes . Students can be of any age and, if they do not have the standard qualifications for entering university, they take an access course before starting their degree. Teaching is by a mixture of printed materials, and television and radio programmes. Students study at home and send their work to their tutors. Many go to monthly tutorials at study centres in their home town, and they may also attend summer schools . Most students take part-time degree courses lasting four or five years, though there is no time limit. Postgraduate and professional courses are also offered.