BA/BSc (Honours) Mathematics
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Degree
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Made up of
- 360 credits
Description
From economic policy to scientific advancement, mathematics is indispensable to modern life. This degree course will give you a good understanding of pure and applied mathematics at an advanced level, and enhance your career prospects in a huge array of fields. You’ll cover wide range of topics, from the abstract to how mathematics is used in the real world, and develop a secure understanding of mathematical concepts and approaches. Through your study of the BA/BSc (Honours) Mathematics you’ll gain:
- a broad understanding of, and practice with, basic ideas of modern pure mathematics (including analysis, linear algebra and group theory)
- a broad understanding of, and practice in using, basic tools of applied mathematics (including mathematical methods, mathematical modelling and numerical analysis)
- an appreciation of the role and construction of rigorous proof in mathematics
- familiarity with the use of mathematical software
- experience of communicating mathematical arguments and conclusions.
How to register
Registration is not yet open for this qualification. For an autumn 2012 start, registration opens on 27 March 2012. If you would like to register your interest, you can order our free guide to studying in 2012.
Career relevance and employability
Mathematics lies at the heart of many activities, from everyday tasks, problem solving and decision making, to the formulation of economic policies and advancement of science and technology. A qualification in mathematics will always enhance your career prospects. Mathematical knowledge is much sought after by a wide variety of employers, as shown by the Government’s initiative to increase participation in the strategically important STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). By studying this degree course you'll be equipped with skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as education, engineering, business, finance, and accountancy. It will contribute to you gaining Chartered Mathematician status, which is awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. You can view or download our Recognition leaflet 3.6 for further information.
It is widely accepted that a degree in mathematics particularly enhances the following transferable and much sought-after 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
- Working on open-ended problems
- Finding solutions to problems
- Interpreting mathematical results in real-world terms
- Using relevant professional software.
There is more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OU’s Employability Statement from our Careers Advisory Service. You can also read or download our publication OU study and your career and look at our subject pages to find out about career opportunities.
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
If you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution we may be able to give you credit that you can count towards this Open University qualification. Further details will be available when registration opens for this qualification.
Classification of your degree
On successful completion of the required number and type of modules you will be awarded a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Mathematics degree. Your honours degree will be classified either as first-class honours, upper second-class honours, lower second-class honours or third-class honours. The class of degree is determined by the best grades you achieve in a minimum of 240 credits from post-Level 1 modules listed above. At least 120 of those credits must come from the two sets of Level 3 modules listed above, and at least 60 must come from the first of these two lists. You will have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
Fees 2012
See fees and funding options for study from September 2012.
About this page
An undergraduate qualification in Mathematics and Statistics.
Study explained
- Costs
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- Financial support
- - find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
- Study explained
- - all you need to know about studying with the OU.
Your questions
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