At the heart of Oxford Lifelong Learning is a belief that education changes lives. Whether learning for personal enrichment, career development or intellectual curiosity, our students are supported to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the wider world.
Oxford Lifelong Learning, at the Department for Continuing Education, brings the quality of an Oxford University education within reach of everyone. We inspire people across the world to fulfil their potential – whether by studying for a qualification to change direction, enhancing their career with new skills, or learning simply to satisfy intellectual curiosity.
Our extensive range of courses, provided in Oxford and online to over 15,000 students each year, are led by tutors selected for their expertise and dedication to the exceptional teaching expected from a world-class university.
Oxford Lifelong Learning is built on five key pillars that convey the benefits of studying with us:
- Learning, to change
- Providing equal access to unequalled learning
- Experiencing Oxford, anywhere
- Discovering more
- Belonging to a community of curious minds
These pillars reflect our enduring mission, bold vision and deeply held values:
- Our mission is to inspire people locally, nationally and globally by extending access to Oxford’s world-class teaching and resources through flexible and inclusive study and research.
- Our vision is to be a global centre of excellence for lifelong learning, built on exceptional teaching, research, and a vibrant community of students and staff.
- Our values include academic excellence, accessibility, inclusivity, student focus, supportiveness, and transformation.
- Over 15,000 students annually, mostly part-time
- 100s of open access courses offered
- Learn online or in-person
- Founded in 1878
