Research - Open Access

What is Open Access?

Open access refers to material that is free at the point of access and licensed for reuse, so readers can use, reuse and share research easily. The University supports the principle of open access scholarship and works with publishers, funders and the higher education community to do so. Oxford Open Access provides systems, tools and guidance to make it as easy as possible for you to upload your work to make it openly and widely available.

You might be considering Open Access because your funder requires it, but there are many other reasons for doing this such as to boost research visibility, for digital preservation, to meet REF 2021 Open Access policy and to provide a comprehensive record for Oxford.

The University's Open Access webpages cover a broad range of guidance and information covering submission, policies, licenses and payments to help you, especially for beginners and those not so familiar with the system. 

Learn more

Why is this important for Social Sciences?

Social Sciences has broad representation across REF 2021, showcasing the breadth of impact the research of our researchers and academics has across all disciplines. In order to submit journal articles and conference papers (in publications with an ISSN) accepted for publication from 1 April 2016 onwards to REF 2021, they must be on Open Access.

Watch our easy five-step video with Professor Heather Viles to help you upload your work