Skip to content The Open University

Mathematics

On this page

Photo: Science Photo Library / Water droplet hitting water / Mathematics / Open University

How do you determine the amount of fuel needed to fly a jet? What’s the best use of resources in the armed forces? How do you tile a sphere with squares? Mathematics provides the key. If you enjoy problem-solving and thrive on logic, then studying mathematics will really appeal to you. As one of the most fundamental and universal subjects, it helps you to think clearly, process information accurately, and analyse and communicate complex ideas.

OU study can equip you with the basic toolkit of mathematical ideas and methods, and offers specialist courses and qualifications in pure and applied mathematics that build on this foundation. You’ll find that an ability to understand mathematical concepts and manipulate numbers is useful in almost any situation or job. And a mathematics degree is highly regarded by employers, opening doors to a host of career choices, especially in engineering, finance, teaching, ICT and scientific research.

Degrees

  • Mathematics
    Gain a secure understanding of mathematics with this degree that looks at topics in mathematics, from pure mathematics to how mathematics is used in the real world.
  • 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, combined with either pure or applied maths.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree is a qualification that gives you a huge choice in terms of subjects and modules that you study to make up your degree.

Diplomas of Higher Education

Certificates of Higher Education

Not sure if you’re ready? Try a short introductory Openings course

If you would like to try Open University study before you commit to a qualification, our Openings courses could be the right place for you to start. These introductory-level courses have been specially designed to help you find out what it’s like to study with the OU, get a taste of a subject area, develop your study skills, and build your confidence. There is also financial support available for these courses. Read more about our Openings courses.

Study a module as a standalone course

You can study a single module on its own for personal interest or to improve your career prospects. See the list of all our individual courses in Mathematics.

Our 2012 Guides to OU Study are out now!
Everything you need to know about the OU and an introduction to our degree courses.

Your questions

We may have already answered it in our frequently asked questions.

Or contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90 +44(0) 845 366 60 35

Employers' questions

Contact Corporate Enquiries
Visit our website for employers or Email us

Get a prospectus

Download or
order