Open University

Diploma of Higher Education in Natural Sciences

This diploma of higher education has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• In Stage 1, you’ll study a 60-credit introductory science module and, depending on your chosen route, a 60-credit module or two 30-credit modules.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study 120 credits from your chosen route.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

Introductory Science

You'll study the following:

• Questions in Science (S111)

Multidisciplinary Route

You'll study the following:

• Science: Concepts and Practice (S112)

Physical Science

You'll study the following:

• Essential Mathematics 1 (MST124)

You'll choose one from:

• Essential Mathematics 2 (MST125)
• Introducing Statistics (M140)
• Physics and Space (SM123)
• Technologies in Practice (TM129)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

Multidisciplinary Route

You'll choose 60 credits from:

• Concepts in Chemistry (S218)
• Earth Science (S209)
• Environmental Science (S206)
• Cell and Molecular Biology (S296)
• The Biology of Survival (S295)

Physical Science

You'll choose 60 credits from:

• Physics: From Classical to Quantum (S217)
• Astronomy (S284)
• Planetary Science and the Search for Life (S283)

You'll study both of the following:

• Mathematical Methods (MST224)
• Remote Experiments in Physics and Space (SXPS288)

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.

Knowledge and understanding

Upon completion of this diploma you will have knowledge and understanding of:

• The fundamental facts, concepts, principles, theories, classification systems and terminology used in the main branches of science
• Appropriate methods of acquiring, interpreting and analysing scientific data and information
• Accuracy, precision, uncertainty, ambiguity in the context of science; the limits of current scientific knowledge; and the role of science in the world around us.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this diploma you will be able to:

• Use and correctly apply knowledge and understanding of scientific facts, concepts, principles and theories in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• Describe, critically analyse and interpret scientific information and data presented in a variety of ways, including texts, tables, graphs, diagrams and figures, numerical and mathematical descriptions and computer-based media.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this diploma you will be able to:

• Conduct practical investigations in a responsible, safe and ethical manner taking proper account of risk assessment and health and safety regulations
• Obtain, record, collate and analyse data derived from practical investigations, and interpret and report their significance in the light of underlying theory, practical issues and relevant information from other sources
• Design, conduct and report on investigations that may involve the acquisition of primary or secondary data
• Plan your learning and be adept at time management and organisation so that you can work independently or with others in ways appropriate for continuing personal and professional development.

Key skills

On completion of this diploma you will be able to:

• Locate scientific information from a variety of sources (e.g. textual, numerical, graphical, computer-based), including reviews and primary sources, and use it to address scientific problems
• Prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques, including the use of statistics
• Communicate scientific information accurately and effectively using written, visual and numerical forms in a style that suits the purpose and audience
• Use mathematical skills appropriate to the level and context
• Use ICT to enhance your learning, for data analysis and for communicating scientific information to others
• Work effectively with others to explore aspects of science.

Skills for career development

In addition to specific learning outcomes, this diploma develops a variety of skills that are highly valued in the labour market, such as analytical, numerical IT and communication skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. Many of these translate very smoothly into the modern workplace, which is increasingly concerned with knowledge management and the effective communication and presentation of ideas and arguments. You’ll develop critical thinking and independent research skills, and the ability to take the initiative – all valuable assets in today’s competitive environment.

You’ll also have a good understanding of where your strengths and interests lie, and be well prepared for your next step – whether it’s further study training or employment.

Career relevance

Scientists are in demand in the jobs market, particularly if they also have good interpersonal skills and some workplace experience. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to many roles in the financial, business and public sectors – and employers in all fields put a high value on anyone who can deal competently with a large amount of complex information and turn it to good use. The ability to select and analyse relevant data and to present conclusions concisely and logically is essential in most lines of work, as is the ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing. 

Other careers

People with science qualifications are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment.

In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills. 

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.