Open University

Certificate of Higher Education in Mathematical Sciences

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this certificate, you will have begun to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Numbers, sequences, functions, transformations, matrices, vectors, simple geometric shapes, calculus and algebra
• Data analysis and statistical methods, and be able to model real-world situations using these methods.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this certificate, you will have acquired (at a level appropriate to the certificate) ability:

• In mathematical and statistical manipulation and calculation, using a computer package when appropriate
• To analyse real-world problems in appropriate contexts
• To appreciate mathematical and statistical arguments
• In qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this certificate, you will be able to demonstrate the following skills (appropriate to the level of the certificate):

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

Key skills

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

• Read and/or listen to documents and discussions having mathematical/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.
• Exhibit a high level of numeracy, appropriate to the level of the certificate
• Use information technology with confidence to acquire and present mathematical and statistical knowledge, and to model and solve practical problems.

This certificate of higher education has one stage, comprising 120 credits.

• You’ll study four 30-credit modules from the default or intensive start.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Default Start

You'll study all four of the following:

• 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)

You'll choose one from:

• Stage 1 option modules

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 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.

Skills for career development

This certificate course provides the skills and knowledge required for jobs in a wide range of fields. It will particularly enhance the following transferable and highly valued skills:

• Communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly
• Explaining mathematical ideas to others
• Understanding complex mathematical texts
• Working with abstract concepts
• Thinking logically
• Expressing problems in mathematical language
• Constructing logical arguments
• Finding solutions to problems
• Interpreting mathematical results in real-world terms
• Using relevant professional software.

Career relevance

Mathematical knowledge is much sought after by a wide variety of employers in fields such as education, engineering, business, finance, and accountancy.

Career areas directly related to mathematics include:

• Banking
• Bioinformatics
• Economics
• Insurance
• Investments
• Market research
• Pensions
• Quantitative analysis/risk analysis
• Retail
• Stockbroking/trading
• Tax.

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.