University open to everyone? The equalising and unequalising tradition of the Finnish open university education

Open university education in Finland is a unique opportunity that offers possibilities for everyone, regardless of age or prior education. Open university education has grown into a substantial form of activity in higher education institutions. However, its position has been controversial. The relation of the open university to degree education has especially been a disputed issue. Based on previous research, this article describes the open university education system in Finland and discusses the questions related to its organisation, mission, history and students. The article concludes with reflections on the future of open university education and speculates with a possible scenario concerning its position in enhancing the openness of higher learning in Finland.