Open learning is helping democratize education, by making it more affordable, accessible, and attainable to students, no matter their location or income level. It also helps students explore new industries before investing in an often costly, more formal education.

“I think we are just beginning to tap into the opportunities made possible through the open approach,” Matthews-DeNatale says. “Open learning could be a key component to solving some of the hardest problems in education.”In an open education system, every professional can pursue lifelong learning.

If you’re interested in learning more about open learning, explore Northeastern’s Master of Education in Higher Education Administration program or download the guide below to discover other opportunities within the field.