The Free Leadership and Followership Course 2025 by The Open University offers a unique and accessible opportunity for individuals around the globe to develop essential leadership skills and enhance their understanding of team dynamics. In a world where the need for effective leadership and collaborative teamwork is more vital than ever, this Training Program stands out for its inclusive, flexible, and practical design.
Designed for beginners, early-career professionals, students, and anyone interested in leadership development, the course presents both Leadership Programs and followership as equally important for success. It empowers learners not only to lead with confidence but also to support and contribute meaningfully as team members.
With no cost, no formal requirements, and a fully online, self-paced format, this course makes top-quality education in leadership accessible to everyone—regardless of background, age, or location. Whether you’re preparing for a Fellowship, applying for a Fully Funded Scholarship, or stepping into a leadership role, this course offers foundational skills that are universally valuable.
Program Details
Course By:
The Open University
Course Duration:
8 weeks
Course Study Time:
Approximately 3 hours per week
Course Level:
Introductory (Level 1)
Mode:
Online, self-paced
Course Format:
Includes videos, readings, reflection activities, self-assessments, and quizzes
Course Certification:
Digital badge and statement of participation awarded upon completion
The course is hosted on OpenLearn, The Open University’s online learning platform, which has empowered over 100 million learners across the globe. The learning experience is fully flexible, meaning participants can start, pause, and finish the course on their own time without pressure or deadlines.
Benefits
Learn the theoretical and practical fundamentals of Leadership Programs and followership
Reflect on personal leadership experiences and build a development action plan
Gain a free digital badge upon successful completion of course requirements
Receive a free statement of participation as proof of learning
Earn 24 CPD points recognized in professional and workplace development
Study at your own pace with no time restrictions or enrollment deadlines
Learn from academic professionals and real-world leadership examples
Join a global learner community and connect via discussion forums
Improve employability and qualifications without any financial burden
Great foundation for applying to Fellowship, Internship, or Scholarships in USA and abroad
Eligibility Criteria
Open to learners from all countries and regions
No academic qualifications or professional background needed
Suitable for learners aged 13 years and above
No tuition fees or application costs
Open-access model—no limits on the number of participants
Accessible via computers, tablets, or smartphones
Recommended to use Chrome or Firefox for learners aged 13–15, as Safari may present login issues
This course is especially suitable for students preparing for future Scholarships in Europe, international Youth Forums, or those seeking to build leadership credibility for applications in Top Scholarships or Training Programs.
How to Apply
Applying for this free online course is simple and does not require a traditional admissions process. Follow these steps:
Visit the official Open University OpenLearn page for “Leadership and Followership”
Click on the “Sign in” option at the top-right of the page
If you do not already have an account, select “Create account”
Fill in your details (name, email, password) and verify your email
After logging in, click “Start this free course”
Begin learning at your own pace and progress through the modules
Complete all quizzes and reflection tasks
Download your digital badge and statement of participation upon successful completion
There is no application form, fee, or selection process involved. This makes the course an ideal supplement for those engaged in Free Online Courses, Entrepreneurial Programs, or Workshops.
Application Deadline
No deadline — the course is available year-round on a rolling, self-paced basis.
Participants can begin the course immediately after signing up, and complete it according to their own schedule.
Why This Course Matters in 2025
In a rapidly evolving world, leadership is no longer confined to traditional roles. Students, community organizers, early-career professionals, and even high school learners are increasingly expected to demonstrate leadership competencies. Simultaneously, effective followership—often overlooked—has emerged as a critical skill that supports organizational cohesion and ethical decision-making.
The Leadership and Followership Course 2025 provides structured, research-based learning to help you navigate these dynamics. You will explore real-world examples of leadership, unpack complex concepts like authority, influence, and responsibility, and learn how leaders and followers contribute jointly to success.
These insights are increasingly valuable not just for professional development, but also for applications to SDGs-aligned initiatives, United Nation youth platforms, Undergraduate Scholarships, or Research Program leadership pathways.
What You Will Learn
Throughout the eight-week course, learners will engage with various topics:
Understanding the roles and responsibilities of leaders and followers
Differentiating between formal and informal leadership
Recognizing leadership styles and when they are effective
Analyzing power, ethics, and leadership accountability
Applying self-reflection to leadership experience
Building a personalized leadership development plan
Engaging in peer discussions and community insight
Exploring diversity, inclusion, and intercultural leadership
This blend of self-assessment, applied theory, and reflective learning ensures that participants are not just passive learners, but active developers of their own potential.
Who Should Take This Course?
This opportunity is ideal for:
Students preparing for Undergraduate Scholarships or MBA Scholarship applications
Young professionals exploring Leadership Programs
Participants of Fellowship, Conference, or Youth Forums
Volunteers, interns, or team members aiming to understand group dynamics
Educators and mentors seeking to improve leadership strategies
Anyone interested in Free Online Courses for personal growth or career advancement
It is particularly relevant for candidates applying to international opportunities where leadership and teamwork are among the selection criteria, such as the United Nation internships, Government Scholarship programs, or global Training Program residencies.
Accreditation and Certification
Upon successful course completion, learners will receive:
A free digital badge—shareable on LinkedIn or resumes
A statement of participation—verifying learning outcomes
24 CPD points—recognised in professional development frameworks in many countries
This official recognition enhances your professional profile, boosts your applications for competitive Scholarships in USA, Phd Scholarship, or Internship placements, and signals a strong commitment to growth and responsibility.
Final Thoughts
As we move deeper into the 21st century, the demand for ethical, reflective, and collaborative leadership continues to grow. Equally important is the recognition of skilled and supportive followers who drive organizational success behind the scenes. The Free Leadership and Followership Course 2025 by The Open University is a world-class resource designed to equip participants with precisely these skills—regardless of where they come from or where they’re headed.
With no cost, no deadlines, and a supportive community, this opportunity offers one of the most inclusive and impactful learning experiences available online today. Don’t miss your chance to strengthen your future with skills that truly matter.
Application Deadline:
No deadline — enroll anytime and complete the course at your own pace.
