The Open University (OU) was founded by Royal Charter in 1969 and began teaching undergraduates in 1971. Open University student numbers grew rapidly through the 1970's and by the end of that decade the university was developing a range of other programmes of study, including professional training and updating. Since the first students were admitted over 2 million people have studied with the Open University, achieving over 625,000 qualifications.
In recent years, there has been substantial growth in postgraduate numbers, particularly in taught masters degrees. Overall Open University student numbers in 2005-06 were 225,675 of which more than 21,000 were studying overseas for OU qualifications.
In 1993, Open University Validation Services came into being to continue work formerly undertaken by the Council for National Academic Awards.