Open University

Diploma of Higher Education in Mathematical Sciences

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this diploma, you will have knowledge and understanding of:

• The need for rigorous mathematical proof, and the ability to use and understand some of the techniques involved
• At least two of the following three strands:
  (a) The elements of linear algebra, analysis and group theory and understand and use some of the techniques of rigorous mathematical proof
  (b) The basic concepts behind the methods of Newtonian mechanics, differential equations, vector calculus, linear algebra and numerical analysis
  (c) The use and application of a variety of methods for exploring, summarising and presenting data; and a range of methodologies for data analysis.

Cognitive skills

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

• In mathematical and statistical manipulation and calculation, using a computer package when appropriate
• To analyse real-world problems in appropriate contexts
• To select and apply a range of mathematical/statistical tools and techniques, and the ability to create appropriate mathematical or statistical models and draw appropriate inferences
• To reason with abstract concepts
• To interpret the results obtained from the analysis of mathematical or statistical models
• In qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills.

Practical and professional skills

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

• Apply mathematical and statistical concepts, principles and methods
• Analyse 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 diploma, 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
• 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 the level of the diploma
• Use information technology with confidence to acquire and present mathematical and statistical knowledge, and to model and solve practical problems.

This diploma of higher education has two 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 choose one 60-credit module and 60 credits of option modules.

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

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You'll choose one from:

• Pure mathematics (M208)
• Mathematical methods, models and modelling (MST210)

You'll choose 60 credits from:

• Pure mathematics (M208)
• Mathematical methods, models and modelling (MST210)
• Analysing data (M248)
• Mathematical methods (MST224)
• Practical modern statistics (M249)

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

A qualification in mathematics and statistics will always enhance your career prospects. This diploma 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.

The Diploma of Higher Education in Mathematical Sciences provides skills and knowledge required for jobs in a wide range of fields. 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.