Open University

BSc (Honours) in Mathematics and Statistics

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study four 30-credit modules from the default or intensive start.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study two 30-credit statistics modules and one 60-credit module from the applied or pure mathematics route.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study three 30-credit statistics modules and choose one 30-credit module from your chosen route.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Default Start

• Discovering mathematics (MU123)
• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)
• Introducing statistics (M140)
• Essential Mathematics 2 (MST125)

Intensive Start

You'll study all three of the following:

• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)
• Introducing statistics (M140)
• Essential Mathematics 2 (MST125)

Choose one from the Stage 1 option modules

Stage 1 is the same in many of our mathematics and statistics qualifications. So, you could change your qualifications at this point if you want to.

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You’ll study two 30-credit statistics modules and one 60-credit module from the applied or pure mathematics route.

Statistics

• Analysing data (M248)
• Practical modern statistics (M249)

Applied Mathematics

• Mathematical methods, models and modelling (MST210)

Pure Mathematics

• Pure mathematics (M208)

Stage 3 (120 credits)

You’ll study three 30-credit statistics modules and choose one 30-credit module from your chosen route.

Statistics

• Applications of probability (M343)
• Applied statistical modelling (M348)
• Mathematical statistics (M347)

Applied Mathematics

Choose one from:

• Complex analysis (M337)
• Computational Applied Mathematics (MST374)
• Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327)
• Graphs, games and designs (MST368)
• Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326)
• Learning and doing algebra (ME322)
• Learning and doing geometry (ME321)
• Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620)

Pure Mathematics

Choose one from:

• Complex analysis (M337)
• Computational Applied Mathematics (MST374)
• Deterministic and stochastic dynamics (MS327)
• Graphs, games and designs (MST368)
• Learning and doing algebra (ME322)
• Learning and doing geometry (ME321)
• Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or at an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this degree, you will have knowledge and understanding of

• A range of simple and more advanced methods for analysing statistical data (including medical applications data, time series data and multivariate data), working with probability models and carrying out statistical inference (including in particular methods for linear and generalised linear models, and Bayesian methods)
• One of
  (a) The elements of linear algebra, analysis and group theory
  (b) The concepts behind the methods of Newtonian mechanics, differential equations, multi-variable functions, vector calculus, linear algebra, numerical analysis and mathematical modelling
• A selection (depending on what you study at earlier stages of the qualification) of advanced topics including
  (a) Pure mathematics: graphs, networks, complex analysis
  (b) Applied mathematics: advanced calculus, fluid mechanics, advanced numerical analysis, partial differential equations, deterministic and stochastic dynamics.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this degree, you will have acquired the ability

• In mathematical and statistical manipulation and calculation, using a computer package when appropriate
• To assemble relevant information for mathematical and statistical arguments and proofs, and/or judgment in selecting and applying a wide range of mathematical and statistical tools and techniques
• To construct appropriate mathematical and statistical arguments of your own
• To reason with abstract concepts
• To create appropriate mathematical and statistical models and draw justifiable inferences
• In qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this degree, you will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

• Apply mathematical and statistical concepts, principles and methods
• Analyse and evaluate problems (both theoretical and practical) and plan strategies for their solution
• Be an independent learner, able to acquire further knowledge with little guidance or support.

Key skills

On completion of this degree, you will be able to demonstrate the following key skills:

• Read and/or listen to documents and discussions that have mathematical or statistical content, with an appropriate level of understanding.
• Communicate information having mathematical or statistical content accurately and effectively, using a format, structure and style that suits the purpose.
• Prepare mathematical or statistical content for a range of purposes, which may include writing for both specialist and non-specialist audiences; writing reports on mathematical or statistical experiments or models; producing and/or delivering a presentation on a mathematical or statistical topic. Preparation of some content may require working collaboratively with others on projects.
• Exhibit a high level of numeracy, appropriate to a graduate in mathematics and statistics.
• Use information technology with confidence to acquire and present mathematical and statistical knowledge, to model and solve practical problems and to develop mathematical insight.

Skills for career development

Mathematics and statistics lie at the heart of many activities, from everyday problem-solving and decision-making to the formulation of economic policy and the advancement of science and technology. Mathematical knowledge is much sought after by a wide variety of employers, as shown by the Government’s initiative to increase participation in strategically important STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

By studying this degree course you’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as education and finance or where they can be applied, for example, in science, social science, engineering and technology. It’s widely accepted that a degree in mathematics and/or statistics particularly enhances the following transferable and much sought-after skills:

• Communicating Mathematical and Statistical Ideas Clearly and Succinctly
• Understanding Complex Mathematical and Statistical Texts
• Working with Abstract Concepts
• Thinking Logically
• Expressing Problems in Mathematical and Statistical Language
• Constructing Logical Arguments
• Working on Open-ended Problems
• Finding Solutions to Problems
• Interpreting Mathematical Results and Statistical Analysis in Real-world Terms
• Conducting Statistical Investigations and Analyses
• Using Relevant Professional Software

Career relevance

Mathematics and statistics graduates are employed in all areas of the public and private sectors, business and commerce, large and small firms, and in positions of responsibility that lead to management. Mathematics and statistics graduates gain skills and knowledge in demand in fields such as finance, accountancy, education, engineering, science, defence, the pharmaceuticals industry and business.

There are some careers for which a degree in mathematics and/or statistics is specified. These include teaching, statistical work (including actuarial work), operational research and development, and some areas of computing.

Other career areas directly related to mathematics and statistics include

• Accountancy
• Banking
• Bioinformatics
• Data Sciences
• Economics
• Financial Services
• Insurance
• Investments
• Market Research
• Quantitative Analysis/Risk Analysis
• Retail
• Stockbroking/Trading

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.