UT was established on the 4th of September 1984, as a single mode state open university that uses distance education system. Since then, UT has continuously improved its distance education system. Despite its significant use of printed learning materials as major learning resource by students, UT has initiated and continuously improved its e-learning systems to enhance students' learning.

The UT Online was introduced in 2001 to support students’ learning through online tutorials. Then, ICT has been further used to support learning and management. For example, a management information system for learning materials, called SIMBA or Sistem Informasi Manajemen Bahan Ajar, has been developed to monitor the life age, progress of development and updating of the learning materials.

UT has increased the number of enrichment learning materials such as online and web-based learning materials. Dry lab for some science courses are provided to facilitate students learning so that students can have computer simulations to replicate or represent actual practicum. Learning materials have been designed in handy and user-friendly size to make it easier for the students to use. UT continuously improves its online learning programs and services. These online programs cover both academic as well as administrative services of UT, such as online academic programs, tutorial, examination, registration, payment, and bookstore. An online bookstore system has been implemented to facilitate the purchase of learning materials by students. UT has started to implement computer based testing (CBT) and online examination as part of the effort to improve services and allow for time flexibility for the students to take alternative semester examination method other than the paper and pencil test.