The British Open University (OU) offers university degree programs to adults who are employed and study at home. It does so through a nationwide universal access (open admission) policy. A key feature of this program is that it imposes traditional university standards of excellence. Access is not limited by formal entry requirements, geography, prerequisites, departmental structure, or attendance requirements. The OU courses use a variety of teaching media, including television, radio, tapes, and written materials. A number of administrative problems are engendered by such a program. One problem is that the teacher's role is redefined and academics must work under new conditions, especially as members of teams. Another problem is maintaining a balanced student load in each course or region. A third problem is compensating for variable enrollment. Finally, there is a tenuous balance among excellence, equality, and cost benefit. Since achievement standards are so high, it is unclear whether the program truly does offer universal access to the most disadvantaged students. It is now unclear which component of the program has more impact, universal access or a sophisticated teaching system based on long-distance teaching methods. (Author/JM)