Why is Athabasca University described as an open university?

Athabasca University is described as an open university because it adheres to the principles of the open university movement, which prioritizes accessibility to higher education for a wide range of students.

The term "open" signifies that the institution admits nearly any adult, removing traditional barriers to entry and providing opportunities for nontraditional students, such as those who may be disabled, serving in the military, or otherwise unable to attend conventional campus-based programs. Like other institutions in this category, it utilizes distance learning models—often referred to as "supported open learning"—to provide flexibility through prepared academic materials and tutor systems, allowing students to study independently rather than relying on traditional face-to-face lectures.1