Mathematics and Statistics
Mathematics and statistics play a part in almost all daily activities. They are at the heart of advances in science and technology, as well as being indispensable problem-solving and decision-making tools in many areas of life. Forecasting the weather or movements in the stock market, planning travel timetables, or calculating how much water is needed to fill a swimming pool, all rely on mathematics or statistics. Mathematical and statistical knowledge is much sought after by employers for a wide variety of jobs.
You don’t need to have studied mathematics to a high level at school to study one of our degrees of courses in maths. There are modules you can study as part of your degree that will build up your mathematical and statistical knowledge from a starting place that’s right for you.
Where to start in Mathematics and Statistics
If you’re confident about your study skills, and have studied maths successfully at school up to or beyond GCSE (or equivalent), we recommend you start either with Discovering Mathematics (MU123) or Using mathematics (MST121). Either will get you accustomed to OU study and teach you mathematics. For advice on which to take, visit Maths Choices.
If you haven’t studied recently and feel uncertain about your mathematics, we recommend starting with our short Openings course Starting with maths (Y162) which will help build up your study skills, and is particularly appropriate if you think your maths background is weak (if, say, you left school at 16 without a formal qualification in mathematics).
Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.
Degrees
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Computing and Mathematical Sciences
This degree considers the different branches of mathematics along with types of software systems that are now being constructed and used. -
Computing and Statistics
Much modern statistical work is carried out with the help of computers. You’ll gain a good knowledge of statistics and probability alongside good computing skills. -
Economics and Mathematical Sciences
You’ll gain a good grounding in a broad range of mathematical, statistical and computational skills as well as an understanding of economic theory and issues. -
Mathematics
Maths underpins many aspects of our daily lives, from scribbling out a map to calculating your salary cheque. -
Mathematics and its Learning
This degree combines the study of mathematics with the theory of the learning and teaching of mathematics. You will get a grounding in pure and applied mathematics, in statistics, and in the teaching and learning of mathematics. -
Mathematics and Statistics
Mathematics with a focus on probability and statistics, then one strand concentrating on either pure or applied maths. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.
Diplomas
Certificates
Courses in Mathematics and Statistics
See the list of all our individual courses in Mathematics and Statistics.
Postgraduate options
If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Mathematics and Statistics.
Spotlight on Mathematics and Statistics
Where you start
The best place to start your study is with one of our Level 1 maths courses. For advice on which of these courses is best for you, look at our Maths Choices website. You’ll find taster packs there too!
Better back-to-work options
‘I wanted better options when I started back to work, so I enrolled with the OU. With lots of hard work, support from my family and some very understanding tutors, I got an upper second, Computing and Mathematical Sciences. Then I applied to be an OU tutor, and now teach Data, computing and information (M150) and Open mathematics (MU120). I love this work!’ (Karen Cubitt)
History of Mathematics
Learn about how mathematics has developed with The story of maths (TM190). This 10 point course is based on television programmes presented by Prof Marcus du Sautoy of Oxford University in conjunction with the Open University and will complement any mathematics you study.
Got a question?
Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90
