MST12U

Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus 2011/2012
Undergraduate and Postgraduate study
INSPIRING LEARNING
A world apart from any other way of learning

Welcome to The Open University. A place where learning is open to everyone. You can choose from around 600 fascinating courses which allow you to study in a flexible way that fits around you.
Bringing learning to life
Weve taken distance learning to a whole new level by using technology such as podcasts, online forums and interactive media to make learning more engaging and inspiring than ever before. Today, we have a vibrant community of 250,000 students using our unique learning methods to achieve their goals.
Dont let anything stand in your way

Learning can be more affordable than you think last year we helped around 42,000 people with study costs. Worried about taking on too much? Dont be. We offer a choice of levels from introductory and short courses to undergraduate and postgraduate certificates, diplomas and degrees. And if you have a disability or medical condition youll find a range of support services designed with you in mind. Does it work? Our students seem to think so because for the fifth year running theyve ranked us amongst the top three UK universities for student satisfaction1.
Discover Britains favourite university for yourself
National Student Survey 2010.
Contents
Why choose The Open University?
Why study mathematics and statistics with The Open University?
2
5
Becoming an Open University student

Studying with The Open University How much will it cost? How to pay Financial support If you have a disability or additional requirements
36
36 36 37 37 39 39 40
How Open University study works

Your guide to courses Your guide to qualifications
6
6 7
Your guide to careers in mathematics and statistics Undergraduate study

Where should you start? Recommended study pathways Undergraduate qualifications Undergraduate courses
10 12
13 14 15 19
Studying outside the UK What else you should know
Ordering other prospectuses Contact points for advice and registration
41 Back cover
Postgraduate study
Recommended study pathways Postgraduate qualifications Postgraduate courses
28
29 30 32
Open access: other ways to read this publication

You may find it easier to access information from our website at www.open.ac.uk/study. If you would like this publication electronically, please call +44 (0)845 300 60 90 or email us at general-enquiries@open.ac.uk quoting Alternative format in the subject box. Other alternative formats are available on request.
Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

The inspiring thing about studying with The Open University (OU) is not just what you learn but how you learn. Weve taken distance learning to a whole new level. Well connect you with the things that inspire you, wherever you are and wherever youve come from.
A totally different way of learning
We are the worlds leading provider of flexible and inspiring learning. What sets us apart from other universities is that were not campus-based. You can study in a flexible way that works for you whether youre at home, at work or on the move. Our innovative materials bring your course to life in many different ways just imagine learning about your favourite subject through podcasts, downloads and DVDs as well as course books. As the UKs largest university, we offer around 600 courses, leading to more than 250 qualifications. Well challenge you, stretch your understanding and make you question ideas that youve always taken for granted its truly world-class learning.
An excellent reputation
Our many research programmes have helped build the OUs reputation as one of the worlds finest universities. We are constantly pushing back the boundaries of knowledge with discoveries that are benefiting society and helping to change the world. And because of our rigorous academic standards, OU qualifications are universally recognised, at home and abroad. Once youve studied with us, youll share the well-deserved reputation all our students have for their energy and drive. Employers large and small understand that studying part time while managing work and personal commitments shows determination, adaptability, motivation and a high level of organisational and problem-solving skills qualities that they value highly.
OU researchers in complex dynamics have made major contributions in recent years to understanding the intricate structure of certain fractal images known as Julia sets, which show the places where a complex function behaves chaotically such sets are closely related to the well-known Mandelbrot set.
FACT:
Top-class teaching
We have an enviable network of around 9000 tutors across the UK, many of whom are practising professionals with strong academic backgrounds, sector specific skills and practical experience. With study materials written by OU academics who are experts in their specialist fields and in distance learning, we provide leading-edge teaching, born out of extensive research and close links with partners such as the BBC.
Our doors are open to everyone

If you think youve got what it takes to study with us, then so do we. In fact, over 40 per cent of new OU undergraduate students in the UK dont have the formal qualifications theyd need to go through a traditional university application process. Theres no doubt that studying with the OU takes hard work and dedication so you do need determination and commitment but youre in control and nothing else gives you the same sense of achievement.
Youre never on your own

Although you work in your own environment, youll never be on your own. Youll have the opportunity to meet your fellow students in tutorials and online forums, and through OUSA (our student association). Youll be joining the OUs learning community the largest in the world! Our 13 regional and national centres, alongside 350 tutorial venues in the UK alone, ensure you wont feel isolated. We are the largest provider of part-time undergraduate mathematics and statistics courses and the largest provider of postgraduate mathematics courses in the UK.
The level of support is fantastic and the materials are brilliant. Its such a wonderful learning experience.
Beverley Hooper, OU student The OUs partnership with the BBC has included collaboration on high-quality TV series including The Story of Maths, The Virtual Revolution and The Money Programme.
FACT:
FACT:
Choice and flexibility

OU study programmes tend to be less rigid than those at campus-based universities, so you can mix and match courses to build towards a qualification, or just take a single course and not commit yourself any further its entirely up to you. We offer degrees in named subjects but a large number of our undergraduate students graduate each year with an Open degree. This is a BA or BSc where you choose courses from a range of different subjects. It supports study based on personal interest or career development, or both.
Support throughout your studies

As an OU student youll enjoy full support throughout your studies your tutor will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues. Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone. Many of our students whove studied elsewhere have said that theyve been better supported at the OU than at their campus-based universities. We have specially developed online resources to help you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed. To find out more, click www.open.ac.uk/skillsforstudy. If you need to brush up on your study skills, we also offer introductory Openings courses, see page 19 for full details.
I would recommend The Open University to anyone because its so flexible and you can go at your own pace.
Penny Meiers, OU student
Dr Venkatesha Murthy, OU student
Ive thoroughly enjoyed becoming a student again. I found the online aspect really good for helping and learning from other students, and I always eagerly awaited each new podcast.
Value for money

Costs vary from course to course but, unlike some other institutions, our fees include relevant study materials, tuition and assessment. And because your study is flexible, you can earn while you learn.
FACT:
Around 11,000 of our students have a disability or additional requirement.
Help for carers

We support lots of students who are looking after people for a variety of reasons, in a variety of circumstances. For more information about the support available, click www.open.ac.uk/studying-while-you-care.
FACT:
Over 70 per cent of OU students work while they study.
Sometimes there will be books you have to buy yourself or borrow from a local library, but were careful to limit the cost as far as we can. The only additional costs will be for your own personal equipment, such as a computer and its consumables. We also recommend that you budget for travel, for example to tutorials or examinations. Your family and friends can support your study by buying OU gift vouchers for special occasions. To buy or redeem vouchers, click www.open.ac.uk/vouchers.
World-class library
As an OU student youll have free access to the OU library (www.open.ac.uk/library) where information is available to you via the internet, rather than you having to visit in person. This means you can access thousands of online ejournals, ebooks, databases and multimedia resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need it and wherever you are. You can also visit the library at our Milton Keynes campus if youre close enough.
FACT:
Free online resources

openlearn.open.ac.uk offers free access to some of the OUs study materials for you to try for yourself. Units can take between three and fifteen hours of study and you can: follow a structure or dip in and out of materials get support as part of an online learning community use innovative elearning tools. Although it is free to use the site, it will still be necessary to apply separately to the OU if you wish to study the full course with a tutor and formal assessment, and to gain credits. Were one of the first universities to offer free downloadable course materials via iTunes U. In fact, we were the first university to hit 20 million downloaded tracks. For more information, click www.open.ac.uk/itunes.
Financial support
Depending on your current circumstances, even if youre in employment, you could be eligible for financial support to help pay towards your undergraduate course fees, study costs and other expenses. To find out more about what support is available at undergraduate and postgraduate level, see pages 3738 or click www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport where you can use our eligibility checker to find out what support you could be entitled to.
FACT:
Over 42,000 financial awards were made to OU students last year.
FACT:
Support for students with a disability or additional requirements

Our expertise in distance learning, combined with a wide range of multimedia materials and personal support, means that we offer a much more accessible system than traditional forms of study. For more information, see page 39 or click www.open.ac.uk/disability.
Vibrant online community

Platform, our social media website (www.open.ac.uk/platform), gives you the chance to get a flavour of OU life before you sign up for a course. You will find expert comments on issues of the day as well as having the opportunity to meet and chat to the OU community.
Steve McNeice, OU student
When you first apply to the OU, on the form theres a box to tick if youre disabled. I hesitated but when I did tick it the OU machine just kicked in. I received a grant for a special headset and some other equipment I didnt realise was available to aid my studies.
Active alumni association

Once youve gained your qualification, you can join the OU Alumni Association, our vibrant and active alumni community with 280,000 members worldwide. You will enjoy many membership benefits, including regular newsletters, good networking opportunities and access to the alumni website.
Why study mathematics and statistics with The Open University?

Mathematics and statistics are vital in modern society. They are indispensable problem-solving and decision-making tools at the heart of situations, ranging from everyday tasks to economic policies and the latest advances in science and technology. They are also inspiring academic disciplines in their own right. Studying mathematics and statistics will enhance your career prospects knowledge in these areas is much sought after by employers for a wide variety of careers, as evidenced by the Governments initiative to increase participation in the strategically important STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Or you might wish to study for personal interest, or to gain a qualification. Whatever your aspirations, you can achieve them through our comprehensive study programmes. We are the largest provider of part-time university mathematics and statistics education in the UK, with over 12,000 students studying these subjects each year. In the most recent National Student Survey, our mathematics and statistics programmes were ranked in the top three of all UK universities for overall student satisfaction. This high ranking is based not only on our excellent teaching materials, but also on the high quality of personal academic support available to students from over 700 tutors throughout the UK. The Open University is at the forefront of exploring how mathematics and statistics can be taught online, and we continually update our courses to use the latest technologies, such as online assessments and tutorials. We offer a range of qualifications at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. If you dont want to complete a full degree you can opt for a certificate or diploma, or you can choose to study just a single course.
Undergraduate
Our undergraduate qualifications not only equip you with up-to-date mathematical and statistical knowledge, but also enable you to develop many transferable work-related skills that are highly valued by employers. We also offer a unique qualification for teachers, or aspiring teachers, of mathematics or statistics. Students come to us with varying previous experiences of mathematics, so we provide a range of possible starting points see page 13 for advice on choosing the right starting point for you. Our starter courses take into account not only your previous mathematical background, but also the fact that you might have forgotten, or not be confident with, topics that you once knew.
Postgraduate
Our postgraduate mathematics programme is designed for anyone with a science, engineering or mathematics background who is interested in furthering their knowledge of pure or applied mathematics. We have over 500 students studying towards an MSc, which is over a third of all UK taught postgraduate mathematics students. You can choose from a range of courses that cover important and fascinating areas of mathematics, such as fractals, coding theory and the history of mathematics. Employees with a postgraduate mathematics qualification are highly valued in many careers throughout business and industry, for their intellectual rigour and analytical approach to problem-solving. Studying postgraduate mathematics can also be the start of a career in mathematical research.

Your guide to courses
You can study a series of courses which can count as modules towards a qualification, or just take a single course and not commit yourself any further its entirely up to you.
What are courses?

A course is a module of study lasting from twenty weeks to nine months. With each course you successfully complete youll earn a set number of credits. As you progress through the levels of difficulty, youll grow your knowledge and confidence as well as building up credits that you can combine towards a qualification.
A step-by-step guide to a typical OU course

Choose your course
What are course levels?

Levels are used in education to give an indication of how difficult a course is. The various courses youll study are set at different levels. Our undergraduate courses are at Levels 1, 2 and 3, and these are roughly equivalent to studying in the first, second and third year at a campus-based university. For most of our undergraduate degrees, we strongly recommend that you begin at Level 1 and work progressively through the levels to build up your knowledge and skills. See Where should you start? on page 13 for further information.
Register and pay dont forget to check the financial support information on pages 3738 you may be able to study for free
Your study materials will arrive and youll be online and have access to a website where you can contact your tutor and other students on your course
FHEQ, SCQF and NFQI levels

Across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, there are three main systems which are used to define and describe the levels of courses in higher education. Although these different frameworks express complexity in different ways, they are broadly comparable. The table below shows how OU levels correspond to the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) used in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, to the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), and to the National Framework of Qualifications in the Republic of Ireland (NFQI). OU course Typical level of level learning Level 1 First stage of highereducation study Last stage of a foundation degree; second year of a bachelors degree Final year of a bachelors degree Masters degree Doctorate FHEQ SCQF level level 4 5 7 8 or 9 NFQI level 6 6 or 7
You study at home, at work, or on the move Your course may have face-to-face or online tutorials where you can meet other students
Submit your assignments when theyre due your tutor will send you feedback Some students organise informal study groups to support each other
Your course may have a day school or residential school, or an online alternative
Level 2
Nows a good time to start thinking about your next course
Level 3 Masters Doctoral
6 7 8
9 or 10 7 or 8 11 12 9 10
All your assignments are complete and its time to revise
Complete your end-of-module assessment or take your examination
Youve passed!
Choose and register for your next course.
If you have an NVQ or SVQ

If you have an NVQ or SVQ level 4 or above, you may be able to count it towards an OU qualification (see page 9). If you have NVQs or SVQs at levels 1, 2 or 3, you can still study with us, but you wont be able to count these towards your OU qualification. You should probably start with an Openings course (see pages 1920) or other Level 1 course.
Your guide to qualifications

At the OU we have more than 250 highly respected qualifications, made up of undergraduate certificates, diplomas, foundation degrees, honours degrees, and postgraduate certificates, diplomas and masters degrees.
What are credits?

Credits measure the student workload required for the successful completion of a study programme or qualification. At the OU, youll be awarded credits after you have successfully completed a course. The credits system used by the OU is aligned to the national Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) system. The CATS system helps you to move the credits you accumulate from one institution to another. So, if you have completed some previous higher-education study at another institution, you may be able to count it towards your OU qualification.
Not sure which qualification is right for you?

Theres no need to decide your long-term learning goals before you start. You can build up your qualification gradually by earning credits for each course you take, so that as your interests develop you can change your mind along the way. You just need to be sure that the courses you choose, particularly the first ones, are right for you in terms of level, study commitment and meeting your aims.
Are there any entry requirements?

For undergraduate courses in mathematics and statistics you dont need any formal qualifications, or to pass an entry test to study with us. To gain entry to our postgraduate programmes youll normally need an undergraduate honours degree in mathematics or in a subject with high mathematical content, such as physics or engineering. For more information see the relevant qualification description in this prospectus or click www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate-mathsandstats.
How much time does it take?

One credit represents about 10 hours of study. The table below gives you an idea of the timescales involved. Courses Openings course Residential school course 30-credit course Number of credits 1015 1015 Average time to complete a course Approximately 6 hours a week for up to 20 weeks 1 week at residential school (plus some study before and after) 78 hours a week for a 9-month course, or 12 hours a week for a 6-month course 16 hours a week for 9 months
Computers and elearning

Using computers and the internet to enhance your study is an essential part of our study programmes. With the exception of some Openings courses (see pages 1920), youll need a computer and regular and reliable access to the internet.
30
60-credit course
60
English for learning

Our courses are taught in English, so your spoken and written English needs to be appropriate for the level of study. If youre not sure whether you can produce a good standard of academic English for your studies, there is some help and guidance at www.open.ac.uk/skillsforstudy/english.
How much time does it take?

Our qualifications are designed to be flexible. So if you want to vary the amount of time you spend studying from year to year, or even take a break for a while, you can. There is no time limit for completion of many OU qualifications, although the courses that contribute to them may change over time. Qualifications with time limits are usually those where either the subject matter of the courses is liable to date, such as computing or where there are professional requirements to complete within a given timescale such as law. Its easy to underestimate the time and commitment needed for part-time study, so its a good idea not to take on too much at first. As you become more experienced and confident you can always take on more. When you begin your studies, we strongly recommend you take only one course at a time.
An Open degree This is our most popular degree and it lets you choose the combination of courses you study. You can combine a range of courses from similar or different subjects to suit either your particular career or personal interests. For further information please, see pages 1718 or click www.open.ac.uk/study-open. The table below shows a summary of our undergraduate qualifications. Qualification/ Credits total credits at required Level 1 OU certificate 60 (60) OU diploma (120) Credits at Level 2 Credits Minimum required time required at to complete Level 3 9 months 2 years parttime study
What qualifications does the OU offer in mathematics and statistics?

Undergraduate
Certificates A certificate is a first-step qualification in its own right, or a stage to mark your achievements on the way to a degree. Many of our certificates are valued as professional qualifications and can improve your career prospects. Diplomas You can complete a diploma as a qualification on its own, or use it to build towards your degree. A diploma involves more study than a certificate usually at a higher level specialising in one area of study, for example in mathematics or statistics. Degrees An undergraduate or bachelors degree is a widely recognised higher-education qualification that can help you progress in your career. While you are studying for your degree you will learn about your chosen subject(s) and develop your analytical, intellectual and writing skills. Degree-level study will demonstrate that you can understand complex information, meet deadlines, work independently and in a team, solve problems and communicate with confidence. We offer two different types of degree; a degree in a named subject and our popular Open degree. Degrees in a named subject For a degree in a named subject, such as our BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics, youll study mainly in your chosen subject, although you can usually include some courses from other subjects too. Almost all these degrees are honours degrees. A 360-credit honours degree is awarded for study at an advanced level; they are divided into four classes (like grades): 1 (first the highest level), 2.1 (upper second), 2.2 (lower second) or 3 (third).
120 credits from Level 2 and in some cases Level 3 courses 120 60
Degree 120 without honours (300) Degree with 120 honours (360)
5 years parttime study or 3 years fulltime study1 6 years parttime study or 34 years fulltime study1
120
120
The timings assume full-time study is similar to that of full-time education (120 credits per year), with part-time study at half this rate.
1
Postgraduate
We offer postgraduate certificates, diplomas and degrees. To study our postgraduate qualifications you will normally need to have successfully completed an undergraduate degree in mathematics or in a subject with a high mathematical content. You may just opt to take a single course, or study for our postgraduate certificate or diploma as a milestone to achieving our MSc in Mathematics in the future. Certificates A postgraduate certificate is designed to provide you with specialised knowledge and gives you a record of academic accomplishment. You will need 60 credits for a postgraduate certificate. Diplomas A postgraduate diploma will involve more study than a postgraduate certificate and will give you the opportunity to specialise in areas that are of particular relevance to you. You will need 120 credits for a postgraduate diploma. Degrees A postgraduate/masters degree builds on a postgraduate diploma by providing an opportunity to carry out an in-depth study for a project or dissertation. You will need 180 credits for a postgraduate degree. For information on our postgraduate opportunities, see pages 2835 or click www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate-mathsandstats. The table below shows a summary of our postgraduate qualifications. Postgraduate qualification Certificate Diploma Degree
1
Counting previous study towards an OU qualification

Any higher-education level studies youve successfully completed elsewhere may count towards your OU degree or other qualification. We enable you to do this by awarding you a certain amount of transferred credit. By transferring credit gained from previous study, you can reduce the number of credits you need from OU study to achieve your qualification. If you want to transfer credit, we recommend you investigate the option as soon as possible, as transferred credit may affect your choice of courses. To find out whether you are able to use any of your previous study to count towards your qualification, please contact our Credit Transfer Centre. Click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer Call +44 (0)1908 653077 Email credit-transfer@open.ac.uk
Academic credit in Europe

If you are looking to use your OU credit in Continental Europe, you may be interested to know of the existence of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). This is the system commonly used in the EU for measuring study workload. Since the systems dont compare like with like, and ECTS doesnt take account of academic level, direct comparisons are difficult to make. However, broadly, at any given level, 60 OU credits would be worth 30 ECTS points, and 30 OU credits would be worth 15 ECTS points. If you have completed study that is recorded in ECTS points, and you want to count this towards your OU qualifications please contact the Credit Transfer Centre for advice.
Credits required at postgraduate level 60 120 180
Minimum time required to complete 1 year part-time study1 2 years part-time study1 3 years part-time study1
The timings assume full-time study is similar to that of full-time education (120 credits per year), with part-time study at half this rate. As well as these taught postgraduate qualifications, we also offer research degrees. For more information see page 41.
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Your guide to careers in mathematics and statistics

Your route to self improvement, skills development and career enhancement.
Why study mathematics and statistics?
Do you: need numerical and analytical skills to enhance your job performance or prospects? relish the intellectual challenge of learning the techniques and powerful abstract structures used by professional mathematicians and statisticians? want to be one step ahead of your childrens learning? The government is keen to encourage more students to study science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects because it recognises the value of graduates in these subjects to the UK economy. Whatever your reasons for studying, we offer a great choice of courses and qualifications. Our programmes include specialised degrees and other qualifications in mathematics and statistics to complement your studies in areas such as computer science, economics, engineering, physics and mathematics education. Our undergraduate qualifications will also provide you with an excellent grounding for our MSc in Mathematics, which attracts the largest number of students of any MSc in Mathematics in the UK. In turn, our MSc provides a foundation for progressing to doctoral studies.
Career opportunities
Mathematics and statistics graduates are employed in all areas of the public and private sectors, business and commerce, large and small firms, and in positions of responsibility that lead to management, but there are also opportunities for self-employment as a financial adviser, for example. The extent of opportunities is vast and youll be equipped with skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as finance, accountancy, education, engineering, science, defence, the pharmaceuticals industry and business. There are some careers for which a degree in mathematics and/or statistics is specified, for example teaching, statistical work (including actuarial work), some types of research and development and some areas of computing. Other career areas directly related to mathematics and statistics include: banking insurance tax investments stock broking/trading actuarial work accounting economics pensions. To find out more about career opportunities related to mathematics and statistics visit www.open.ac.uk/careers. We advise you to thoroughly research your career choices as early as possible particularly in relation to required experience, differences depending on where you live or where choice of courses may affect future opportunities.
Transferable skills
As well as the specific knowledge gained from studying an OU qualification, youll develop many transferable and workrelated skills that are highly valued by employers (often called employability skills). For mathematics and statistics graduates, these include the ability to: use mathematics and statistics to help develop solutions to practical problems follow complex mathematical and statistical arguments and to develop brief arguments of your own work with mathematical and statistical computer software packages find, extract and analyse data from many sources communicate mathematical and statistical information effectively manage your time and employ good organisational skills work with patience and persistence.
Destination statistics
All UK graduates are invited to complete the Destinations of Leavers Survey six months after they have graduated. Of OU mathematics graduates who responded to the latest survey: 71 per cent were in work. 42 per cent were taking further study. Subjects being studied included mathematics, statistics and teaching. 80 per cent of those who had changed to a new employer reported that their qualification was either a formal requirement or an advantage.
11
Professional recognition
Courses and qualifications can count towards membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) and provide exemption from some of the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) certificates.
Employer sponsorship
Your employer may support your studies in some way. Highlighting some of the key advantages of studying with us will strengthen your case. We can help you make out a case for sponsorship. For more information please call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 .
OU Careers Advisory Service

When you have registered as an OU student you will have access to the full range of support offered by the Careers Advisory Service. Our publication OU Study and Your Career looks at reasons why people study with the OU, the value of OU qualifications, the issues you may want to consider when choosing your course and how to explore your career ideas. You can request a copy from our Student Registration & Enquiry Service or view it on the Careers Advisory Service website at www.open.ac.uk/careers. Registered students or graduates who have studied with the OU within the last three years are eligible for the following services: Careers consultation contact and talk with a careers adviser. Online forums join topic or subject-based forums where you can ask questions and receive replies from a careers adviser and support from other OU students. Employer Showcase find out about employers who are keen to recruit OU graduates. Online vacancy service find a job through our Careers Advisory Service and Graduate Prospects. Click www.open.ac.uk/careers for information about all of the above services.
FACT:
Over 50,000 employers have sponsored their staff on OU courses.
Support for students outside the UK

Our careers advisory service is predominantly UK and Ireland based, but if you are a student in Continental Europe we can help in providing: sources of career information and guidance help to gain recognition of OU qualifications in European countries general information on career planning and job-seeking skills and strategies. Students based overseas and studying through our partner organisations should check with their host organisation what services are available to them.
12
Undergraduate study
Undergraduate study
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 and statistics.
Where should you start? Recommended study pathways Undergraduate qualifications

BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics (B31) BSc (Hons) Mathematics and its Learning (B46) BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Statistics (B36) The Open Programme Other qualifications you might be interested in
13 14 15 15 16 16 17 18 19 20 20 21 21 22
Mathematics education courses Level 3 Statistics courses Level 2 Level 3
25 25 26 26 27
Undergraduate courses
Mathematics courses Level 1 Level 1 Short course Level 2 Level 3
Find out more online Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter the qualification or course code into the search box in the top right-hand corner of our website.
Openings introductory courses to build your confidence 19
B31
Search
Undergraduate study
13
Where should you start?

At undergraduate level, the best place to start for almost everybody is with a Level 1 course. But choosing the right course at Level 1 is very important.
Which type of Level 1 course is right for you? Start with our 10-credit Openings course Starting with maths (Y162) if
you are new, or returning to study, and need to build your confidence and study skills.
Start with the first of our 30-credit key introductory courses Discovering mathematics (MU123) if
you are confident about studying at university level but wish to build your confidence in using and learning mathematics.
Start with the second of our 30-credit key introductory courses Using mathematics (MST121) if
you are confident about studying at university level and have a good understanding of algebra, graphs, functions and trigonometry.
This Openings course: is an ideal starting point for new learners offers a gentle introduction to study helps to build key study skills and confidence for further study gives you lots of help from a personal tutor supports you all the way has no exams lasts a maximum of 20 weeks. See page 20 for details of this Openings course.
Key introductory courses: are a first step towards a qualification give you a firm foundation for study at Levels 2 and 3 provide plenty of support from a tutor develop your skills and subject knowledge last from six to nine months. See page 20 for details of Discovering mathematics (MU123).
This key introductory course is the second in our mathematics entry suite, following on from Discovering mathematics (MU123) and leading on to the Level 2 course, Exploring mathematics (MS221). See page 21 for details of Using mathematics (MST121).
Afterwards, youll be ready to study Discovering mathematics (MU123).
Afterwards youll be ready to study Using mathematics (MST121) or to register for the next module in your chosen qualification.
So before you decide:
Afterwards youll be ready to move on to our Level 2 course, Exploring mathematics (MS221) see page 21
How to decide the best option for you?

The best option for you is one that: is pitched at the right level and pace of learning fits in with the number of hours you can study each week matches your study goals.
visit our website mathschoices.open.ac.uk to see some sample study material, and to try some quizzes to help you to choose your best starting point read through this prospectus select a subject or qualification that interests you.
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Undergraduate study
Recommended study pathways

Start with one of our Level 1 modules depending on your mathematical experience
For more help in choosing your appropriate starting point visit mathschoices.open.ac.uk or statschoices.open.ac.uk Starting with mathematics (Y162) Especially for those who have not studied before and have no previous mathematical experience. It would also provide a firm foundation if you are going on to study mathematics further at Level 1. Discovering mathematics (MU123) For those wishing to build upon literacy and numeracy skills needed in everyday life, this module offers an introduction to mathematics and is excellent preparation for: Using mathematics (MST121) For students with a good understanding of algebra, graphs, functions and trigonometry. If you study two of MU123, MST121 or MS221, you can claim the Certificate in Mathematics (C46) Exploring mathematics (MS221)1
Level 1
Level 2
Mathematics
Pure mathematics (M208) Mathematical methods and models (MST209) Diploma in Mathematics (D23)
Statistics
Analysing data (M248) Practical modern statistics (M249)
Applications of probability (M343) Linear statistical modelling (M346) Mathematical statistics (M347) If you successfully complete four statistics modules you can claim the Diploma in Statistics (D44) Further study leading to degrees in: BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics (B31) = Certificate or diploma
1
Level 3
BSc (Hons) Mathematics and its Learning (B46) = Degree
BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Statistics (B36)
This is a compulsory module for all featured degrees but it does not count towards either diploma.
Undergraduate study
15
Undergraduate qualifications
Whatever qualification youre thinking of, the best place to start for almost everybody is with a Level 1 course. Its the sort of study youd do in the first year at a campus-based university, and you wouldnt expect to skip that! Level 2 study is demanding, and we find our students are most successful when theyve done the groundwork that Level 1 is specifically designed to cover.
For this 360-credit honours degree you require: 190 credits from the following compulsory modules: Level 1 compulsory module Title Using mathematics Level 2 compulsory modules Exploring mathematics Mathematical methods and models Mathematical modelling (residential school module) Pure mathematics Level 3 optional modules Complex analysis Computer algebra, chaos and simulations Graphs, networks and design Groups and geometry M337 MS325 MT365 M336 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 22 22 23 23 23 27 23 24 24 24 MS221 MST209 MSXR209 M208 30 60 10 60 21 22 22 22 Code MST121 Credits Page 30 21
Degrees
BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics (B31)
This degree looks at topics in mathematics, from pure mathematics to how mathematics is used in the real world. You will obtain a secure understanding of mathematics with a good choice of topics in pure and applied mathematics at an advanced level. A qualification in mathematics will always count in your favour whatever you do or plan to do in your career. By studying this degree you'll be equipped with skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as education, engineering, business, finance, and accountancy.
And 60 credits from the following optional modules:
Mathematical methods and fluid MST326 mechanics Mathematical statistics Number theory and mathematical logic Optimization Topology Waves, diffusion and variational principles M347 M381 M373 M338 MS324
Youll also get

You can also achieve a Certificate (C46) and a Diploma in Mathematics (D23) along the way.
Start with
The compulsory module Using mathematics (MST121). Or, if youre concerned about your level of mathematical knowledge, you could start with Discovering mathematics (MU123) or Starting with maths (Y162) and count the credits towards the free-choice element of your degree. Visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) for help on choosing your starting point.
And 60 credits from the list of Level 3 optional modules above or below: Level 3 optional modules Applications of probability Electromagnetism Linear statistical modelling The quantum world M343 SMT359 M346 SM358 30 30 30 30 27
27
And 50 credits of free choice from any OU modules to bring your total number of credits to 360. Within the total, you must ensure that you have at least the required minimum number of credits at each level and no more than 30 from Openings modules or the Short module Science starts here (S154).
Click www.open.ac.uk/study for details.
If you have studied with us before, you can see which discontinued modules count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study.
16
Undergraduate study
BSc (Hons) Mathematics and its Learning (B46)

By studying this degree course, youll gain a grounding in pure and applied mathematics and statistics, an understanding of what it means to learn mathematics and an insight into different teaching approaches. Youll be well placed for a career in teaching mathematics, or for a career that requires communicating mathematically. This degree will also equip you with the mathematical skills and knowledge required for a range of jobs in government, business, accountancy, banking, management and administration, the voluntary sector and teaching. It can also contribute to you gaining recognition from the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA).
Title Electromagnetism Graphs, networks and design Groups and geometry Linear statistical modelling
Code SMT359 MT365 M336 M346
Credits Page 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30
23 23 27 23 27 23 24
Mathematical methods and fluid MST326 mechanics Mathematical statistics Number theory and mathematical logic Optimization The quantum world Topology Waves, diffusion and variational principles M347 M381 M373 SM358 M338 MS324
24 24
Youll also get

You can also achieve a Certificate (C46) and a Diploma in Mathematics (D23) along the way.
Start with
The compulsory module Using mathematics (MST121). Or, if youre concerned about your level of mathematical knowledge, you could start with Discovering mathematics (MU123) or Starting with maths (Y162) and count the credits towards the free-choice element of your degree. Visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) for help on choosing your starting point. For this 360-credit honours degree you require: 210 credits from the following compulsory modules: Level 1 compulsory module Title Using mathematics Level 2 compulsory modules Analysing data Exploring mathematics Mathematical methods and models Pure mathematics M248 MS221 MST209 M208 30 30 60 60 26 21 22 22 Code MST121 Credits Page 30 21
And a maximum of 30 credits of free choice from any OU modules to bring your total number of credits to 360. Discovering mathematics (MU123) is highly recommended. Within the total, you must ensure that you have at least the required minimum number of credits at each level.
Click www.open.ac.uk/study for details.
If you have studied with us before, you can see which discontinued modules count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study.
BA or BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Statistics (B36)

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 problemsolving and decision-making tools in many areas of life. With this degree course, youll gain a good knowledge of probability and statistics alongside choices in pure and applied mathematics. Youll be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for jobs in education, engineering, the pharmaceutical industry, business, finance and accountancy.
And 90 credits from the following optional mathematics education modules: Level 3 optional mathematics education modules Developing algebraic thinking Developing geometric thinking Developing statistical thinking Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 ME625 ME627 ME626 ME624 30 30 30 20 25 26 26 25
Youll also get

A Certificate in Mathematics (C46) and a Diploma in Statistics (D44) along the way.
Start with
The compulsory module Using mathematics (MST121). Or, if youre concerned about your level of mathematical knowledge, you could start with Discovering mathematics (MU123) or Starting with maths (Y162) and count the credits towards the free-choice element your degree. Visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) for help on choosing your starting point, or our Stats Choice website (statschoices.open.ac.uk) for more information on statistics modules.
And 30 credits from the following optional mathematics modules: Level 3 optional mathematics modules Applications of probability Complex analysis Computer algebra, chaos and simulations M343 M337 MS325 30 30 30 27 22 22
Undergraduate study
17
For this 360-credit honours degree you require: 120 credits from the following compulsory modules: Level 1 compulsory module Title Using mathematics Level 2 compulsory modules Analysing data Exploring mathematics Practical modern statistics Level 2 optional modules Mathematical methods and models Pure mathematics Level 3 compulsory modules Applications of probability Linear statistical modelling Mathematical statistics Level 3 optional modules Complex analysis Computer algebra, chaos and simulations Graphs, networks and design Groups and geometry M337 MS325 MT365 M336 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 22 22 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 M343 M346 M347 30 30 30 27 27 27 MST209 M208 60 60 22 22 M248 MS221 M249 30 30 30 26 21 27 Code MST121 Credits Page 30 21
The Open Programme

With an Open qualification a certificate of higher education, diploma of higher education or degree with or without honours you choose what you want to study. Our Open Programme is one of the most flexible programmes of study in the UK, letting you build a qualification thats unique for you. You can: tailor a personal qualification around your interests and career needs get a qualification that focuses on one main subject, but with the freedom to mix in a few modules from other areas use successfully completed credit from previous universitylevel studies elsewhere easily change direction if you started out studying a particular subject but have now reconsidered gain an Open CertHE and Open DipHE, on the way to your Open degree with honours. Each year more than 40 per cent of OU students who graduate do so with an Open degree and many of them are students who have chosen to study mathematics and statistics modules as part of their degree.
And 60 credits from one of the following optional modules:
And 90 credits from the following compulsory modules:
And 30 credits from the following optional modules:
Where to start
Start with one of our 30- or 60-credit key introductory Level 1 modules. For mathematics and statistics students we recommend Discovering mathematics (MU123) and/or Using mathematics (MST121). This will give you a firm foundation for future studies as well as 30 or 60 credits to count towards your qualification. For a full list of our other key introductory Level 1 modules see the Open CertHE at www.open.ac.uk/study-open. If you are a new or less confident learner start with one of our specially designed Level 1 Openings modules (see page 19). You can count the credits you gain from these modules towards the free-choice element of the Open CertHE. Continued on page 18.
Mathematical methods and fluid MST326 mechanics Number theory and mathematical logic Optimization Topology Waves, diffusion and variational principles M381 M373 M338 MS324
And a maximum of 60 credits of free choice from any OU modules to bring your total number of credits to 360. Within the total, you must ensure that you have at least the required minimum number of credits at each level and no more than 30 from Openings modules or the Short module Science starts here (S154). If you have studied with us before, you can see which discontinued modules count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study.
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Undergraduate study
Continued from page 17.
On your way to an Open degree

Open CertHE You will already be halfway towards our Certificate of Higher Education Open (K05) if you complete the compulsory 60 credits of Level 1 study successfully. With an additional 60 credits from any other Level 1 modules, youll be able to claim the certificate. Open DipHE With an additional 120 credits from any Level 2 modules you can go on to gain a Diploma of Higher Education Open (E60) on your way to an Open degree with honours. Level 1 study = 120 credits (maximum) Certificate of Higher Education Open (K05)
Often students find they can transfer more credit to an Open degree than they can to a degree in a named subject. The amount of credit you can transfer will depend on what you have studied previously and what you intend to study in the future. You are advised to investigate this option as soon as possible. To find out more, click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer.
Career relevance and employability

Many employers view an Open degree as a qualification that equips individuals with a broad range of expertise, skills and capabilities. An Open degree could also be considered an advantage given that 70 per cent of graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline. If you would like to use your Open degree to further your career in some way, you should be aware that many employers and postgraduate admissions tutors consider experience of mathematics to be extremely important. Your studies will help you to develop numerical and IT skills, to analyse and solve problems, to critically evaluate texts and to communicate complex ideas. Youll be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as education, engineering, business, finance and accountancy. If your degree contains a high proportion of mathematics/ statistics modules you may be well placed for a career in teaching mathematics, or for a career that requires communicating mathematically. You may also be equipped with the mathematical skills and knowledge required for a range of jobs in government, business, accountancy, banking, management and administration.
Level 2 study = 120 credits Diploma of Higher Education Open (E60)
Level 3 study = 120 credits (minimum)
BA or BSc (Hons) Open Degree
Studying mathematics and statistics modules as part of an Open qualification

Mathematics and statistics are relevant to many other subject areas and can be used within a BA or BSc Open degree. Business and management; computing and ICT; education; engineering and technology; environment; development and international studies; psychology; science; and social sciences can benefit from a good underpinning of mathematics and statistics. Discovering mathematics (MU123), Using mathematics (MST121) and Analysing data (M248) all provide an excellent grounding in numerical, datahandling and problem-solving skills. If you discover a subject that particularly interests you and find you would like to pursue it further, you have the option to either switch to a named degree in that subject or, you might consider completing one of the following qualifications while working towards your Open degree: Certificate in Mathematics (C46) Diploma in Mathematics (D23) Diploma in Statistics (D44). Click www.open.ac.uk/study-mathsandstats for more details.
Your next step

To find out more: click www.open.ac.uk/study-open call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Other qualifications you might be interested in

BEng (Hons) (B65) BSc (Hons) Computing & IT and Statistics (B67) BSc (Hons) Computing & IT and Mathematics (B67) BA or BSc (Hons) Economics and Mathematical Sciences (B15) Graduate Diploma in Mathematics Education (E07) Click www.open.ac.uk/study for more details.
Receiving credit for previous study

Any previous higher-education study youve successfully completed elsewhere could count towards your Open DipHE or Open degree. Through credit transfer you could reduce the number of modules youll need to take, and also make a saving in terms of the cost of your qualification.
Undergraduate study
19
Undergraduate courses
You can study a series of courses which can count as modules towards a qualification, or just take a single course and not commit yourself any further its entirely up to you. But whatever youre thinking of studying, we strongly advise starting with a Level 1 course. Level 2 study is demanding and, like second year study at any university, would be a very challenging place to start. Our students are most successful when theyve done the groundwork that Level 1 is specifically designed to cover. Not every course is presented each year. The current course selection may not continue to be available throughout your studies. Where courses are discontinued, we're committed to offering suitable alternatives. Assessment key TMA CMA EMA iCMA Tutor-marked assignment Computer-marked assignment End-of-module assessment Interactive computer-marked assignment
Timing
Weve made these courses as flexible as possible: most Openings courses start in March, June, September and November each year. Course registrations close up to two weeks before your chosen date, but places go quickly so we advise you to book early each course lasts a maximum of 20 weeks you can fit the course in with your other commitments, as long as you can find approximately six hours a week for study you dont have to go anywhere tutorials are all done by phone.
Tuition and assessment

During the course youll do three short pieces of written work and, if youre studying one of our 15-credit courses, youll also complete an interactive computer-marked assignment (iCMA). Your tutor will send you feedback, and discuss the study material with you in telephone tutorials. You may also be able to keep in touch by email. At the end of the course, youll talk about your progress with your tutor and work together to produce a review of your study plans. There are no examinations with Openings courses, instead youll be asked to submit an end-of-module assessment (EMA) which is the third piece of written work. Successful completion of the course will earn you credits which you may be able to count towards an OU qualification.
Openings introductory courses to build your confidence

How Openings courses work
These short, introductory Level 1 courses have been specially designed to help you: find out what its like to study with us; get a taste of a subject area; develop your study skills; and build your confidence. Openings courses are perfect for new learners with little or no special knowledge or experience of studying. You start with your own general knowledge and interests taking examples from everyday life and gradually build up to the kind of work you could expect at first year university level. Key features include: activities that encourage you to link the discussions in the course to your own experience; core questions and key points that help you to remember what youre reading; and study skills sections that enable you to develop skills such as reading for study purposes, extracting evidence, writing essays and how to reflect on how youre learning. Our new 15-credit courses also provide an opportunity for you to try out learning online; the perfect way to gain the basic computing skills youll need for the next step in your studies.
How to register
If you apply and we have a place on the course you want to study, well accept you. Openings courses are available only to students living in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or those who have a British Forces Post Office (BFPO) address.
Cost
10-credit Openings courses cost 120, rising to 130 from September 2011. 15-credit Openings courses cost 1951. If you rely on state benefits or you have an annual household income of less than 16,845, financial support may be available for free places (terms and conditions apply). If you are resident in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man you will have to pay a higher course fee which is 550 (increasing to 565 from September 2011) for 10-credit courses and 610 for 15-credit courses.
1
For information about registering and financial support: call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on 0845 300 60 90 visit our website at www.open.ac.uk/openings request the Openings Prospectus (see page 41).
20
Undergraduate study
Openings courses
The Openings course featured here is the one that we think may interest you. Starting with maths (Y162) has been designed to lead into Discovering mathematics (MU123).
Mathematics courses
OU study can equip you with the basic tool kit of mathematical ideas and methods, and offers specialist courses and qualifications in pure and applied mathematics that build on this foundation. Youll find that an ability to understand mathematical concepts and manipulate numbers is useful in almost any situation or job. Your choice at Level 1 will depend on your mathematical background and how much time you have available. There are four possible starting points: Starting with maths (Y162) (see left) Discovering mathematics (MU123) Using mathematics (MST121) Using mathematics (MST121) with Exploring mathematics (MS221). Visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) for help on choosing your starting point and to work through diagnostic quizzes. Alternatively, you might want to go on to prepare for study in other areas, such as science and technology, or to consolidate and build on your knowledge as a foundation for further studies in mathematics, statistics and computing.
Starting with maths (Y162)

Credits: 10 at Level 1 (SCQF level 7) Mathematics, as well as being a fascinating subject in its own right, also underpins practically every aspect of modern life. Whether youre keeping tabs on a budget, tackling a DIY project, devising a formula for a spreadsheet or deciding how to present some information graphically, youll need to understand maths. This Openings course introduces a range of key ideas (including using a scientific calculator effectively), to help you tackle everyday mathematical problems at home, work, or in your further studies. Case studies, activities, puzzles, historical snapshots and more recent mathematical discoveries are included, as well as advice on studying generally. From March 2012 we are planning a new 15-credit version of this course code Y182.
Other Openings courses we offer:

Introducing environment (Y181) Making sense of the arts (Y180) Starting with law (Y166) Starting with psychology (Y183) Understanding children (Y156) Understanding health (Y178) Understanding management (Y159) Understanding society (Y177). Click www.open.ac.uk/openings for more information.
Level 1
Discovering mathematics (MU123)
Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 1 (SCQF level 7) 5 TMAs, 5 iCMAs 01 Oct 2011 register by 08 Sep 2011 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
This key introductory Level 1 course will help you to integrate mathematical ideas into your everyday thinking and build your confidence in using and learning mathematics. Youll cover statistical, graphical, algebraic, trigonometric and numerical concepts and techniques, and be introduced to mathematical modelling. Formal calculus is not included and you are not expected to have any previous knowledge of algebra. The skills introduced will be ideal if you plan to study more mathematics courses, such as Using mathematics (MST121). It is also suitable for users of mathematics in other areas, such as computing, science, technology, social science, humanities, business and education.
Undergraduate study
21
Using mathematics (MST121)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 1 (SCQF level 7) 5 TMAs, 3 CMAs 01 Oct 2011 register by 08 Sep 2011 28 Jan 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Level 1 Short course

You may also consider studying this Short course if you are interested in how mathematics has evolved in an historical and cultural context, from the cradle of civilisation to the present day.
The story of maths (TM190)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 10 at Level 1 (SCQF level 7) 2 iCMAs, 1 EMA 01 Oct 2011, 01 May 2012 register by 1 week before course start date 10 weeks
This broad, enjoyable introduction to university-level mathematics shows how mathematics can be applied to answer questions from science, technology, and everyday life. You will study a range of fundamental techniques, including recurrence relations, matrices and vectors, calculus and statistics. Using specialist mathematical software is an integral part of the course, and you will learn how the speed and accuracy of a computer can be employed to solve practical problems. The skills of communicating results and defining problems are also developed. This key introductory Level 1 course and Exploring mathematics (MS221) will together give you a good foundation for higher-level mathematics, science and engineering courses.
Using mathematics (MST121) and Exploring mathematics (MS221)

These two courses studied together provide a complete foundation for higher-level mathematics and physics. If you already have a high level of confidence and fluency in algebraic manipulation it is possible to study them together in a single year, in a manner similar to one 60-credit course. The units and assessment are interleaved. These courses also encourage you to develop more general skills such as communication of mathematical ideas and strategies for improving your learning, which will be useful in later courses. For further advice visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk).
This online course follows the BBC Four programme The story of maths presented by Professor Marcus du Sautoy. It traces the development of mathematics from its origins in Egypt and Mesopotamia 4000 years ago to twentiethcentury Europe and the US. Youll explore mathematical ideas in an historical and cultural context that are explained in an entertaining and accessible way. The television programmes on DVD are accompanied by online and printed commentaries, and Anne Rooneys book The Story of Mathematics. This course can be studied as a one-off, and could be an excellent introduction to further study in mathematics and the sciences. This course is also available for study for students resident outside of the European Union, see course description at www.open.ac.uk/study for details.
Level 2
Exploring mathematics (MS221)
Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 2 (SCQF level 8) 4 TMAs, 1 examination 08 Oct 2011 register by 08 Sep 2011 9 months
Exploring mathematics builds on the concepts and techniques in Using mathematics (MST121) and uses the same software. It looks at questions underlying some of those techniques, such as why particular patterns occur in mathematical solutions and how you can be confident that a result is true. It introduces the role of reasoning and offers opportunities to investigate mathematical problems. Together with Using mathematics this course will give you a good foundation for higher-level mathematics, science and engineering courses. Even if you don't intend to study further, you will gain a good, university-level understanding of the nature and scope of mathematics.
22
Undergraduate study
Mathematical methods and models (MST209)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 60 at Level 2 (SCQF level 9) 7 TMAs, 2 CMAs, 1 examination 28 Jan 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Level 3
We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Complex analysis (M337)

Credits: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 9 months
Solve real problems by finding out how they are transformed into mathematical models and learning the methods of solution. This course covers classical mechanical models as well as some non-mechanical models such as heat transfer and population dynamics; and methods including vector algebra, differential equations, calculus (including several variables and vector calculus), matrices, methods for threedimensional problems, and numerical methods. Teaching is supported and enhanced by use of a computer algebra package. You are assumed to have a sound knowledge of mathematics as developed in Using mathematics (MST121) and parts of Exploring mathematics (MS221).
This course will be available for the next time in October 2012 and following alternate (even-numbered) years. See www.open.ac.uk/study in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. This course develops the theory of functions of a complex variable, emphasising their geometric properties and indicating some applications. Introduction covers complex numbers; complex functions; sequences and continuity; and differentiation of complex functions. Representation formulas covers integration of complex functions; Cauchys theorem and Cauchys integral formula; Taylor series; and Laurent series. Calculus of residues covers residue calculus; winding number and the location of zeros of complex functions; analytic continuation; Eulers gamma function and Riemanns zeta function. Finally, Applications covers conformal mappings; fluid flows; complex analytic dynamics; Julia sets; and the Mandelbrot set. You need a sound knowledge of differentiation and integration of real functions for this course. You are advised to study Pure mathematics (M208) or Mathematical methods and models (MST209) before this course.
Mathematical modelling (MSXR209)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 10 at Level 2 (SCQF level 9) 2 TMAs, 1 EMA 26 May 2012 register by 18 May 2012 1-week residential school and other study
Mathematics is enjoyable and creative in its own right, but can also be a powerful tool for solving real problems. This week-long residential course equips you to tackle data and sensitivity analysis by introducing you to mathematical modelling. You'll learn to use mathematical software and acquire presentation and group-working skills. You'll also be expected to put together a short technical report. Most of the work will be collaborative, carried out in small groups with a tutor. You should have an understanding of applied mathematics and mechanics equivalent to the first half of Mathematical methods and models (MST209).
Computer algebra, chaos and simulations (MS325)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 4 TMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Pure mathematics (M208)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 60 at Level 2 (SCQF level 9) 7 TMAs, 1 examination 28 Jan 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Pure mathematics is one of the oldest creative human activities and this course introduces its main topics. Group Theory explores sets of mathematical objects that can be combined such as numbers, which can be added or multiplied, or rotations and reflections of a shape, which can be performed in succession. Linear Algebra explores 2- and 3-dimensional space and systems of linear equations, and develops themes arising from the links between these topics. Analysis, the foundation of calculus, covers operations such as differentiation and integration, arising from infinite limiting processes. Youll need a sound knowledge of mathematics to study M208 as developed in Using mathematics (MST121) and parts of Exploring mathematics (MS221).
This three-block course will be of interest if you wish to explore and experiment with mathematics using computers. The first block introduces you to computer-assisted algebra techniques using Maple, a software package that allows your computer to symbolically manipulate, numerically evaluate, and graphically visualise mathematical expressions. The second block is about dynamical systems with an emphasis on chaos. Much of this part of the course is taught using traditional pencil-and-paper methods but Maple still frequently comes into play. The final block mainly concerns computer simulations of random processes, again using Maple. You are strongly advised to have successfully completed Mathematical methods and models (MST209) before registering for this course. This course is expected to start for the last time in February 2012.
Undergraduate study
23
Graphs, networks and design (MT365)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 4 TMAs, 4 CMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326)

This course is about using ideas from discrete mathematics to model problems, and representing these ideas through diagrams. The word graphs refers to diagrams consisting of points joined by lines. These points may correspond to chemical atoms, towns, electrical terminals or anything that can be connected in pairs. The lines may be chemical bonds, roads, wires or other connections. The main topics of mathematical interest are graphs and digraphs; network flows; block designs; geometry; codes; and mathematical modelling. Application areas covered include communications; structures and mechanisms; electrical networks; transport systems; social networks; and computer science.
This course will be available for the next time in October 2012 and following alternate (even-numbered) years. See www.open.ac.uk/study in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. Half of this course is about modelling simple fluid flows; the other half is about mathematical methods. You'll learn how to solve ordinary and partial differential equations such as: Laplaces equation, the wave equation and the diffusion equation; some vector field theory; and Fourier analysis. The fluid mechanical aspects of the course will give you a good understanding of modelling in the context of fluids. You should have a sound knowledge of ordinary differential equations, vector calculus, and multiple integrals; basic particle mechanics; and some knowledge of partial differential equations and Fourier series. You are strongly advised to have successfully completed Mathematical methods and models (MST209) before registering for this course.
Groups and geometry (M336)

Number theory and mathematical logic (M381)

This course covers the construction, recognition and classification of geometric entities (tilings, friezes, wallpaper patterns, regular solids, crystal structures) and algebraic entities (symmetry groups, cyclic and Abelian groups, and other groups of low order). The geometry and algebra are strongly interconnected: the geometric classification is done in terms of symmetry groups. After revising the basics and introducing tilings and friezes, Groups teaches you to construct and classify cyclic groups; the finitely presented Abelian groups; and certain other groups. Geometry continues the study of geometric objects using their symmetry groups. You need a good understanding of the basics of group theory, linear algebra and algebraic manipulation, as in Pure mathematics (M208).
This course will be available for the next and last time in October 2012. See www.open.ac.uk/study in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. Number theory looks at some classical problems concerning the integers, including the solution of Diophantine equations; the distribution of prime numbers; the theory of congruences; quadratic reciprocity; and the theory of continued fractions. Mathematical logic sets out to prove Gdels incompleteness theorem, a result of philosophical importance for the limits of mathematical proof. To lay the ground for this theorem we look first at apparently different notions of computability that all in fact coincide, and then discuss a formal proof system for basic number theory. This course requires a level of mathematical sophistication that could be gained by studying Pure mathematics (M208) or Mathematical methods and models (MST209).
24
Undergraduate study
Optimization (M373)
This course will be available for the next time in October 2012. See www.open.ac.uk/study in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. This course will interest you if you need to create mathematical models or if you use numerical software in industry, science, commerce or research. Its concerned with the skills needed to represent real optimization problems as mathematical models, and with techniques used in numerical analysis and operational research for solving these models by computer. Explaining how and when modelling and numerical techniques can be applied, the course covers solutions of non-linear equations; systems of linear and non-linear equations and mathematical modelling; linear and integer programming; and non-linear optimization for unconstrained and constrained minimisation problems. Knowledge of calculus and matrices is assumed, which could be gained by studying Pure mathematics (M208) or Mathematical methods and models (MST209).
Connections between random processes and deterministic diffusion processes are explained. The third section introduces variational principles and calculus through simple problems, such as determining the shortest line between two points on a curved surface. The Euler-Lagrange equation and the Lagrangian re-formulation of Newtonian mechanics are then explored. You are advised to study Mathematical methods and models (MST209) before this course. This course is expected to start for the last time in February 2012.
Planned for 2013

A 30-credit Level 3 course, Dynamics and partial differential equations (MS327), planned to start in October 2013. This course will replace both Computer algebra, chaos and simulations (MS325) and Waves, diffusion and variational principles (MS324) and we expect it to be available annually in October. A 60-credit Level 3 course, Further pure mathematics (M303), planned to start in October 2013. This course will replace Groups and geometry (M336), Number theory and mathematical logic (M381) and Topology (M338), and we expect it to be available annually in October.
Topology (M338)
These courses might also interest you

We also offer a number of other courses that are closely related to this subject, which you may be interested in studying. For further information click www.open.ac.uk/study or see the pages referred to below.
An introduction to topology, this course concentrates on the two strands of point-set topology and geometric topology. In the former, you will study distance and continuity; metric spaces; topological spaces; closed sets; connectedness; compactness; sequences; and completeness. In the latter, you will look at surfaces, subdivisions, and classifying surfaces. You will also explore applications to graphs on surfaces, and fractals. You are expected to have a good basic grounding in real analysis that could be gained by studying Pure mathematics (M208). This course is expected to start for the last time in February 2012.
Level 1
Maths for science (S151).
Level 2
Analysing data (M248) see page 26 Practical modern statistics (M249) see page 27.
Level 3
Applications of probability (M343) see page 27 Developing algebraic thinking (ME625) see page 25 Developing geometric thinking (ME627) see page 26 Developing statistical thinking (ME626) see page 26 Linear statistical modelling (M346) see page 27 Mathematical statistics (M347) see page 27 Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 (ME624) see page 25.
Waves, diffusion and variational principles (MS324)

This course focuses on three areas of applied mathematics. Waves builds your understanding of wave motion using vibrating strings and sound waves as examples. Techniques for solving linear partial differential equations are also developed. The Diffusion section describes heat flow, and the flow of particles which follow random walks.
Undergraduate study
25
Mathematics education courses

You may already be involved in teaching mathematics, or it may be a career path that attracts you. Well qualified and enthusiastic mathematics teachers are in short supply, and government initiatives are at work to raise standards and promote mathematics education at all levels. Whether teaching mathematics is your personal career choice, or youre an educational organisation looking to bring your staffs skills and knowledge right up to date, the OU Centre for Mathematics Education (cme.open.ac.uk) provides flexible and cost-effective study solutions, including: books and resources to develop your own mathematical abilities courses to enhance your teaching approach from the early years through to tertiary education, covering subjects such as algebra, geometry and statistics professional development programmes for schools and local education authorities.
Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 (ME624)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 20 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 2 TMAs, 1 EMA 01 Oct 2011 register by 08 Sep 2011 6 months
This course is designed to help you develop your knowledge and understanding of the teaching of mathematics at Key Stage 3, and broaden your ideas about how people learn and use mathematics. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on two tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. In order to complete the course assessments, you will need access to learners of mathematics. Students on this course have worked with a variety of learners from KS2 pupils to adults. This course is expected to start for the last time in October 2011.
Level 3
These courses are at Level 3 and require an ability to write reports on the work you have done. If you need advice on the level of these courses, please contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90. The courses are modules of our Graduate Diploma in Mathematics Education (E07) and BSc (Hons) Mathematics and its Learning (B46). They are intended for: teachers and teaching assistants interested in continuing their professional development teaching assistants or parents who are interested in the teaching and learning of mathematics at Key Stages 24 teachers or teaching assistants who want to increase their range of pedagogic knowledge. It is advisable that you study Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 (ME624) (or from October 2012 Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620)) before any of the other mathematics education courses, particularly if you have not studied any mathematics for a number of years or your own mathematics knowledge is at GCSE Grade C level or below. If you are interested in postgraduate level study in mathematics education you might consider Researching mathematics learning (ME825) which is also a module in the Graduate Diploma in Mathematics Education (E07). For further information, click www.open.ac.uk/study.
Planned for 2012

A 30-credit Level 3 course, Mathematical thinking in schools (ME620), planned to start in October 2012. This course will replace Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 (ME624).
Developing algebraic thinking (ME625)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 3 TMAs, 1 EMA 01 Apr 2012 register by 08 Mar 2012 6 months
This course is for you if you are interested in developing your knowledge and understanding of the learning of algebra at Key Stages 24. It integrates development of the core ideas of algebra with relevant pedagogical constructs and principles, and will extend your awareness of how people learn and use algebra. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutor-marked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. In order to complete the course assessments, you will need access to learners of algebra at Key Stages 24.
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Undergraduate study
Developing statistical thinking (ME626)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 3 TMAs, 1 EMA 01 Apr 2012 register by 08 Mar 2012 6 months
Statistics courses
Genetics, meteorology and oceanography are typical of the fields where youll find statisticians at work. Yet a background or qualification in statistics can take you in any number of career directions, especially in commerce, education and government. Combining theory and practice, OU study can take you from the basics of analysing data to more advanced statistical methods, such as linear modelling and applications of probability. Throughout business and industry, organisations rely on the work of statisticians to help in decision making about chance and risk. You could, for example, use your statistical skills and experience as: an actuary in an insurance or healthcare company an environmental statistician in a research institute a medical statistician working on trials in a university a market research statistician for a corporate organisation, ensuring products and services fulfil consumers needs and wants. We recommend that you start your statistics study with a Level 1 mathematics course. See page 13 for details or visit our Maths Choices website (mathschoices.open.ac.uk) or Stats Choices website (statschoices.open.ac.uk) for further information about choosing the best place to start.
This course will help you develop your knowledge, appreciation and understanding of the learning of statistics at Key Stages 2 to 4. As well as improving your statistical thinking, youll learn about different teaching approaches, including use of ICT tools such as graphics calculators and computers. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutor-marked assignments and an end-ofmodule assessment. To complete these assessments, youll need access to learners of statistics at Key Stages 24.
Developing geometric thinking (ME627)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 3 TMAs, 1 EMA 01 Oct 2011 register by 08 Sep 2011 6 months
Develop your knowledge and understanding of the learning of geometry at Key Stages 24. This course integrates development of the core ideas of geometry with relevant pedagogical constructs and principles, and will extend your awareness of how people learn and use geometry. There is no formal examination: assessment is based on three tutormarked assignments and an end-of-module assessment. To complete these assessments, youll need access to learners of geometry at Key Stages 24.
Level 2
Analysing data (M248)
Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 2 (SCQF level 8) 4 TMAs, 2 iCMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
This course is an ideal introduction to statistics if you want to understand, and make use of, basic statistical concepts. The emphasis is on the practical side, although underlying theory is also included. MINITAB and other software supplied with the course is used to analyse data and develop your understanding of statistical concepts use of a computer is therefore essential and youll receive detailed guidance for all the computer activities. The course covers exploratory methods for data analysis, models for data, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, regression and two-variable problems. Youll need to have mathematical competence at the level developed by Using mathematics (MST121).
Undergraduate study
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Practical modern statistics (M249)

Linear statistical modelling (M346)

The course provides an introduction to four major topics of modern applied statistics: medical statistics, time series, multivariate analysis, and Bayesian statistics. Its ideal if youve already studied a general introductory statistics course and wish to broaden your knowledge of the field. The course emphasises underlying principles and practical applications rather than technical details. Use of a computer is an essential component the course includes SPSS and WinBUGS software, which youll use to analyse data and develop your understanding of statistics. Youll need mathematical competence at the level developed by Using mathematics (MST121), and statistical competence at the level developed by Analysing data (M248).
This course will be available for the next time in October 2012. See www.open.ac.uk/study in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. This course covers statistical modelling where a response variable depends on one or several explanatory variables: such as how well patients respond to a treatment, given their age and disease severity; or how different strains of wheat compare when grown in various conditions. Taking a practical approach, youll use real problems and data to stimulate analyses and their interpretation. Statistical tools are introduced, and use of the statistical software package, GenStat (supplied) is taught. You need a reasonable understanding of basic statistical ideas, as developed by Analysing data (M248). Youll learn to use the most important methods of analysing data a skill that too few people have.
Level 3
We strongly advise that you do not begin your studies at Level 3. If in doubt, please contact our advisory staff on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
New Mathematical statistics (M347)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 4 TMAs, 14 iCMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
Applications of probability (M343)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at Level 3 (SCQF level 10) 3 TMAs, 3 CMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 05 Jan 2012 9 months
This course introduces models to describe patterns of events that occur in time (such as earthquakes), and in space (for instance, the occurrence of a species of plant). Situations that occur only at discrete time points, including the ruin of a gambler, are studied. Probability models are developed for those situations, such as the spread of an epidemic, in which events may occur at any time. The course ends with other situations involving probability including genetics and changes in stockmarket prices. You are expected to be reasonably competent in basic probability theory, calculus and algebra, such as can be gained by studying Analysing data (M248) and Mathematical methods and models (MST209).
This online course provides you with the mathematical underpinning for statistical methods in general and in particular for other OU statistics courses. You will gain a thorough grounding in mathematical statistics, together with generic skills. You will study distribution theory, leading on to the theory of statistical inference developed under both classical and Bayesian approaches. In the classical case, you will focus on maximum likelihood estimation in particular. Youll also explore the development of these ideas in the context of linear modelling (regression and extensions). Before you start the course, you should understand basic statistical ideas and be reasonably competent in calculus, algebra and matrices, such as could be gained by studying Exploring mathematics (MS221), and statistical competence at the level developed in Analysing data (M248). Please note that not all the TMAs and iCMAs are compulsory for this course. You will be given more information when you begin the course. We also offer a number of courses in business and management, and computing, that are closely related to statistics, which you may be interested in studying. For further information, click www.open.ac.uk/study.
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Postgraduate study
Postgraduate study
Mathematics is at the heart of advances in science, engineering and technology, as well as being an indispensable problem-solving and decision-making tool in many other areas of life. You may relish the intellectual challenge of exploring particular aspects of pure or applied mathematics that interest you, or you may be looking to advance your career with a high-level qualification. Whatever your motivation or ambitions, the OU postgraduate mathematics programme has much to offer you.
Recommended study pathways Postgraduate qualifications

Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics (C90) Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics (E23) MSc in Mathematics (F04)
29 30 30 31 31 32
Find out more online Click www.open.ac.uk/study and enter the qualification or course code into the search box in the top right-hand corner of our website.
Postgraduate courses
C90
Search
Postgraduate study
29
Recommended study pathways

Applied mathematics
Entry
Pure mathematics
Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus (M820) Analytic number theory I (M823)
Intermediate
Applied complex variables (M828) Approximation theory (M832) Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821)
Analytic number theory II (M829) Coding theory (M836) Fractal geometry (M835)
Advanced intermediate
Advanced mathematical methods (M833)
Functional analysis (M826)
You can claim the Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics (C90) after successfully completing any two of the above modules.
You can claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics (E23) after successfully completing any four of the above modules.
Dissertation
Dissertation in mathematics (M840)
You can claim the MSc in Mathematics (F04) after successfully completing any six of the above modules including the dissertation.
Guidance about the order in which the modules should be studied is as follows. You must normally successfully complete: at least one of the entry modules, Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus (M820) or Analytic number theory I (M823), before studying any intermediate module at least one of the intermediate modules before studying any advanced intermediate module Analytic number theory I (M823) before studying Analytic number theory II (M829) four modules before studying the Dissertation in mathematics (M840). Note that some M840 topics have prerequisite modules. Otherwise within each category modules may be studied in any order.
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Postgraduate study
Postgraduate qualifications
Flexible study options
We currently have around 500 students actively studying for our MSc, by far the largest number of students on any mathematics MSc in the UK. However, you may opt to take just a single course, or study for our postgraduate certificate or diploma as a milestone to achieving an MSc in the future. How far you take your studies is up to you. Studying with the OU gives you access to important and fascinating areas of mathematics, such as fractal geometry, coding theory and the history of mathematics. While extending your knowledge, your studies will also refine your abilities to process information accurately, and critically analyse and communicate complex ideas. This enhanced skill set and your postgraduate study experience will be clear advantages in advancing a career in mathematics education or as a professional mathematician. Equally, they may help you to climb the ranks in fields as diverse as computer science, economics, engineering and finance, where advanced numerical and analytical skills are always in high demand.
Certificate
Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics (C90)
For this postgraduate certificate you require 60 credits from the following optional modules: Title Advanced mathematical methods Analytic number theory I Analytic number theory II Applied complex variables Approximation theory Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus Coding theory Fractal geometry Functional analysis Nonlinear ordinary differential equations Code M833 M823 M829 M828 M832 M820 M836 M835 M826 M821 Credits Page 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 34 32 32 33 33 32 33 33 34 33
If you have studied with us before, you can see the discontinued modules that count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate.
Entry requirements
You need a minimum of a second-class honours degree in mathematics, or in a subject with a high mathematical content, although in exceptional circumstances applicants without this qualification may be considered. If you would like some help to assess your suitability for this study programme either try our self-assessment diagnostic quiz (puremaths.open.ac.uk/MScDiagQuiz/MScdiagquiz.pdf) or contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Planning your studies

You need 60 credits for the certificate, 120 credits for the diploma and 180 credits for the masters degree. We recommend that you study no more than one module (30 credits) in your first year and no more than two modules (60 credits) in subsequent years. Not every module is presented each year. The current module selection may not continue to be available throughout your studies. Where modules are discontinued, were committed to offering suitable alternatives.
Postgraduate study
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Diploma
Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics (E23)
For this postgraduate diploma you require 120 credits from the following optional modules: Title Advanced mathematical methods Analytic number theory I Analytic number theory II Applied complex variables Approximation theory Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus Coding theory Fractal geometry Functional analysis Nonlinear ordinary differential equations Code M833 M823 M829 M828 M832 M820 M836 M835 M826 M821 Credits Page 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 34 32 32 33 33 32 33 33 34 33
Degree
MSc in Mathematics (F04)
For this 180-credit masters degree you require: 150 credits from the following optional modules: Postgraduate optional modules Title Advanced mathematical methods Analytic number theory I Analytic number theory II Applied complex variables Approximation theory Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus Coding theory Fractal geometry Functional analysis Nonlinear ordinary differential equations Postgraduate compulsory module Dissertation in mathematics M840 30 34 If you have studied with us before, you can see the discontinued modules that count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate. Code M833 M823 M829 M828 M832 M820 M836 M835 M826 M821 Credits Page 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 34 32 32 33 33 32 33 33 34 33
If you have studied with us before, you can see the discontinued modules that count towards this qualification on our website at www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate.
And 30 credits from the following compulsory module:
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Postgraduate study
Postgraduate courses
The following pages detail the postgraduate mathematics courses we offer. Some courses are more advanced than others, and we advise you to look at our pathways diagram (see page 29) which will give you guidance about the order of study. Our postgraduate courses are also available for study for students resident outside of the European Union, please see the individual course descriptions at www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate-mathsandstats for more details. Assessment key EMA TMA End-of-module assessment Tutor-marked assignment
Analytic number theory I (M823)

Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at postgraduate level (SCQF level 11) 4 TMAs, 1 examination 04 Feb 2012 register by 14 Dec 2011 9 months
Entry level
Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus (M820)
Number theory has its roots in ancient history but particularly since the seventeenth century, it has undergone intensive development using ideas from many branches of mathematics. In spite of the subjects maturity, many problems that are easy to state and understand still exist for example, is there an even number > 2 that is not the sum of two primes? In this course (and in Analytic number theory II (M829)), youll study number theory using techniques from analysis, in particular the convergence of series and the calculus of residues. The course is based on readings from T. M. Apostols Introduction to Analytic Number Theory. If you are a mathematics graduate primarily interested in pure mathematics, this course can be taken as an alternative entry level course to Calculus of Variations and advanced calculus (M820).
Intermediate level
Analytic number theory II (M829)
Credits: Length: 30 at postgraduate level (SCQF level 11) 9 months
The Calculus of Variations, which plays an important role in both pure and applied mathematics, dates from the time of Newton. Development of the subject started mainly with the work of Euler and Lagrange in the eighteenth century and still continues. This is the first module for most students in the MSc in Mathematics programme, develops the theory of the Calculus of Variations. It also introduces other topics including the calculus of functions of several real variables; and ideas of convergence, particularly of sequences of functions and normed vector spaces. These topics are a foundation for the other modules in the MSc in Mathematics.
This course will be available for the next time in February 2013. See www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. This course should be studied after Analytic Number Theory I (M823). It further develops the ideas from that course and is based on the same book.
Jenny Oldroyd, OU tutor
I didnt use my degree until quite a long time after leaving university. Instead I got married and started a family and brought them up. I found spending all day with young children made me want to do something to keep my brain interested. I wasnt interested in getting another degree because Id already got one I was more interested in what I could learn. The Open University was my first choice because I could choose individual courses and I wanted something I could fit around the children.
Postgraduate study
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Applied complex variables (M828)

Fractal geometry (M835)

This course is based on Applied Complex Variables by J. W. Dettman (reprinted by Dover, 1984), and will appeal to scientists and engineers as well as to mathematicians. Complex variable theory pervades a wide variety of important subjects and this course teaches topics that are both useful in the theoretical sciences and of interest in their own right. It deals with subjects that seem to be a natural outgrowth of the study of analytical functions of one complex variable, for example potential theory, the theory of ordinary linear differential equations, Fourier and Laplace transforms and asymptotic expansions.
There has recently been an explosion of interest in the mathematics of fractals sets whose geometry cannot easily be described in classical terms. Theres no simple definition but all fractals have a highly intricate structure. Many fractals contain copies of themselves at many different scales, and computer pictures have shown that such sets (which are often very beautiful) are a very good representation of shapes of natural phenomena such as clouds, mountains and ferns. This course deals with the theory of fractals and their geometry, and looks at examples to which the theory can be applied.
Approximation theory (M832)

Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821)

This course will be available for the next time in February 2013. See www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. Approximation theory is concerned with approximating functions of a given class using functions from another, usually more elementary, class. A simple example is the problem of approximating a function such as ex by means of polynomial functions. The efficient solution of such problems is of great importance for computing, and this course will give you a general introduction to the mathematical theory behind many approximation methods in common use.
Coding theory (M836)

Relevant to scientists and engineers as well as mathematicians, this introduction to basic theory and simpler approximation schemes covers systems with two degrees of freedom. It introduces the geometric aspects of the twodimensional phase space, the importance of fixed points and how they can be classified, and the notion of a limit cycle. Youll develop schemes to approximate the solutions of autonomous and non-autonomous equations to understand how these solutions behave. Periodically forced nonlinear oscillators and nonlinear oscillators with periodically timevarying parameters leading to parametric resonances are discussed, along with the stability of these solutions and tests for obtaining stability.
This course will be available for the next time in February 2013. See www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate in Spring 2012 for more detailed information about starting dates and fees. This course deals with the theory of error-detecting and error-correcting codes. In particular, it investigates their constraints and bounds, and introduces a wide variety of linear and nonlinear codes together with associated encoding and decoding procedures. Youll analyse the structure and properties of these codes, investigate links between the theory of error-correcting codes and other mathematical structures, and examine the applicability of codes to real situations. Youll also look at the concepts of optimal and perfect codes, and examine a wide variety of codes, including some constructed from other mathematical structures.
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Postgraduate study
Advanced intermediate level

Advanced mathematical methods (M833)
Dissertation course
Dissertation in mathematics (M840)
Credits: Assessment: Start: Length: 30 at postgraduate level (SCQF level 11) 2 TMAs, 1 EMA 04 Feb 2012 register by 14 Dec 2011 9 months
This course teaches advanced mathematical methods with the aid of Maple, an algebraic computing language with graphics and numerical capabilities, which youll be taught how to use. Although the emphasis is on mathematical methods, youll use Maple partly to extend the use of these methods, partly to help you to visualise the mathematics and partly to enable you to combine conventional analytic techniques with numerical analysis. Youll explore various forms of approximations, perturbation expansions, accelerated convergence methods including Pad approximants, asymptotic expansions of integrals and some eigenvalue problems.
This course enables you to carry out a sustained, guided, independent study of a topic in mathematics. Currently there are four topics to choose from: History of modern geometry; Advances in approximation theory; Variational methods applied to eigenvalue problems; and Algebraic graph theory. Your study will be guided by course notes, books, research articles and original sources (or English translations where necessary), which are provided. Youll need to master the appropriate mathematics and ultimately present your work in the form of a final dissertation.
Functional analysis (M826)

Twentieth-century mathematics places emphasis on classes of functions, rather than special properties of individual functions. Functions are considered as elements of a set and these sets can usually be given the additional structure of a linear and topological space. The interplay of these structures gives the subject its characteristic flavour. Along with the set of functions, this course considers sets of mappings from the set into various other sets, particularly, linear mappings onto the set itself (operators) and into complex numbers (linear functionals).
One day at school, our physics teacher came in and said: My conjecture is that the world is flat. Prove me wrong.
It was brilliant every argument we came up with, he had an answer for. It made me think hard, and it was the moment that made me start to question everything around me and not take it all at face value. My love for maths, physics and chemistry inspired me to study engineering at the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology in Cardiff. Then I joined the RAF - and stayed there for 16 years, serving in the first Gulf War and Bosnia. Tony Royle, OU student I always wanted to teach, so did my first Open University course in 1988 because I thought it would do me good to get my mind studying again. I chose the OU because it was so flexible my job meant I could be whisked away at a moments notice. I really enjoyed it and I was really impressed by the quality and dedication of the staff, and the diversity and the age range of the students. I got my BA Open degree with the OU in 1993. When I left the RAF in 1999 I was offered a resettlement course, so I took an OU PGCE in Secondary Mathematics with a view to teaching part time alongside a civilian flying job. Unfortunately changes to the induction requirements for newly qualified teachers prevented this from happening. I joined Virgin Atlantic as a pilot and now fly the Airbus A340 all over the world; but Id still love the opportunity to teach. Im now doing a masters in mathematics and am really enjoying it. There are so many good things about The Open University. I love the online resources its excellent that you can retrieve information instantly, and keep in constant email contact with your tutor. But having said that, I love the tutorials I cant emphasise enough how good it is to be able to talk to someone. And the tutors are great. Their care and dedication is wonderful. Nothing is too much trouble for them. Its given me new perspectives on life. Id love to be able to do physics research when I finish my flying career and Id also love to be a tutor and give something back to the OU. Its given me the skills and the confidence to do that.
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Studying with The Open University
Ways to register
Online at www.open.ac.uk/study. Call us: In England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, BFPO addresses outside the UK and all other countries, except the EU, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland: +44 (0)845 300 60 90. In Northern Ireland: 028 9032 3722. In the Republic of Ireland: (01)6785399 or +44 28 9032 3722. In other EU countries, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland: +44 191 477 6100. To sponsor a group of students, email corporate-enquiries@open.ac.uk or call +44 (0)845 366 6053. For help or advice before registering contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service (see back cover) or your OU country representative (page 40).
Computers and elearning

With the exception of some Openings courses, youll need a computer and regular and reliable access to the internet, in order to study with us. We will use email to send you important information about your studies. If you dont have an email account we can provide one for you.
Credit for previous study

If youve successfully completed some higher education study elsewhere, we may be able to give you credit for it. You may then need fewer OU courses to achieve your chosen qualification. For more information see page 9 or click www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer.
How much will it cost?

Course fees depend on what you study and where you live please see the separate Course Fees 2011/2012 leaflet, click www.open.ac.uk/study or, for information about studying outside the UK, see page 39.
UK fees apply if you meet the criteria set out below:

UK national
You are entitled to pay the UK course fee if you are settled1 (see footnotes opposite) in the UK (excluding Channel Islands and Isle of Man) on the first day of your course and you have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the three years prior to the course start date. For those temporarily resident outside the UK, including those eligible to use BFPO addresses, please refer to the Your questions section on www.open.ac.uk/study or contact us on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 for more information. If you are ordinarily resident in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man then you are not eligible to pay UK course fees.
When to apply
Register for your course as early as you can particularly if you are applying for financial support or wish to make a claim for credit transfer. Registration close dates are on our website at www.open.ac.uk/study, or you can call us for information on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Entry and study requirements

There are no formal academic requirements for most of our undergraduate courses, but in order to study at postgraduate level youll usually need an undergraduate degree or equivalent to gain entry. However, even where there are no entry requirements, its a good idea to prepare yourself for study at the appropriate level. The course descriptions at www.open.ac.uk/study will tell you more about our study requirements. If youre studying full time at another institution, you must get written permission from its principal to study with us. You will not be allowed to study more than 120 credits at any one time (including examination resits, deferrals and resubmissions), unless youre attending up to two additional and related stand-alone residential school courses; or if course presentations overlap by no more than one month; or both.
European Economic Area (EEA), Agreed Overseas Territory or Swiss nationals

You are entitled to pay the UK course fee if you are ordinarily resident in the UK; and will be resident in the UK on the first day of your course and have been ordinarily resident in the EEA2, Switzerland or an Agreed Overseas Territory2 for at least the three years prior to the start date of your course; and you are a national of one of these countries.
Dependants and family members of nationals from one of the territories mentioned above
If you are ordinarily resident in the UK, will be resident in the UK on the first day of your course and have been resident in the EEA2 for the three years prior to the start date of your course and are a dependant of a national from one of the above territories, you may be eligible to pay UK course fees. Please refer to the Your questions section on www.open.ac.uk/study or contact us on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 for more information.
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Nationals of areas not mentioned above

If you are not a national of any of the above mentioned territories, including if you are a refugee or asylum seeker, and will be resident in the UK on the first day of your course, please contact us on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 for advice on your eligibility to pay UK course fees. Normally and lawfully resided in the UK from choice without any immigration restriction on the length of your stay in the UK.
1 2
Pay by instalments OUSBA pays your full fee at registration and you repay the loan in monthly instalments over the length of your course, starting a month after your course begins. Currently, interest is charged at 5.0 per cent (APR 5.1 per cent). Find out more at www.open.ac.uk/ousba or by calling +44 (0)8457 697937.
For a list of EEA countries and Agreed Overseas Territories, please refer to the Conditions of Registration on our website at www.open.ac.uk/our-student-policies. You may be required to send in relevant documentation to support your application to pay UK course fees for any of the above scenarios. If you are not sure if you are eligible to pay UK fees, contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
OU gift vouchers
OU vouchers make an inspiring present, ideal if youre looking for an unusual gift for someone special. Or ask family and friends to support your own study by buying vouchers for special occasions. To buy or redeem vouchers, click www.open.ac.uk/gift-vouchers.
Tesco Clubcard reward tokens

You can convert your Clubcard vouchers into reward tokens to pay towards undergraduate courses at Level 1. To find out more about the terms and conditions of this scheme running in the UK and the Republic of Ireland click www.openuniversity.co.uk/clubcarddeals.
You may also need to budget for:

travel to tutorials and residential schools we can sometimes offer a choice of sites but you may need to travel some distance. set texts for most courses, the main teaching texts are included in the fee. Sometimes, those texts are supported by books that you have to buy yourself or borrow from a local library. computer access you need regular and reliable access to the internet and a computer (with the exception of some Openings courses). equipment for some courses you may need use of a television; DVD or audio-CD player; or a scientific calculator.
Sponsorship
If youre studying for vocational reasons your employer may be willing to pay part or all of your fees. Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 for further information and advice.
Financial support
Financial support for students studying undergraduate courses
The OU and the national governments of the UK fund a range of financial support services to help you with the costs of studying. The type and level of support available depends on your household income, whether you receive certain state benefits and where you live (see below). Find out more at www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport where you can use our eligibility checker to find out what support you could be entitled to.
How to pay
Depending on your income you may qualify for some financial support in fact, many of our undergraduate students are able to study for free (see Financial support for students studying undergraduate courses opposite). If you are paying some or all of the cost yourself, you can pay in full when you register, by credit or debit card or by cheque in EU currencies, Swiss francs or US dollars. Its easiest to register online at www.open.ac.uk/study with a credit or debit card. We dont accept Maestro International, Amex or Diners cards. If youve studied with us before we also accept payment by bank transfer.
If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland

Depending on your income and your course of study, youll be eligible to apply for: Fee grant and course grant if you are on certain benefits or have a household income below 30,0001 (plus allowances, where applicable) you can apply for support towards your course fees and study costs. Allowances are given for a partner and dependent children. These are 2000 for a partner, 2000 for your first child and 1000 for each further child. For example, if you have a partner and two children who are financially dependent on you, you could have a household income of up to 35,0001 and be entitled to receive some financial support. Continued on page 38.
Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA)

UK, EEA and Switzerland students can also defer or spread the cost with a loan from Open University Student Budget Accounts Ltd (OUSBA): Register now, pay later OUSBA pays your full fee direct to us. You repay OUSBA interest-free and in full just before your course starts.
38
Continued from page 37.
If you live with your parents, their income will not be included in any assessment of your household income. You will need to be studying between 30 and 120 credits worth of courses to qualify (usually with a minimum of 30 credits for any one course). Access to Learning Fund students with a household income below 28,0651 (plus allowances, where applicable) can apply for assistance from the Access to Learning Fund. This fund is provided to assist students who are facing higher than expected costs as a result of their study. It cannot be used to pay for course fees, but will support course-related costs such as travel, childcare, computer purchase and internet access. Funding may be limited and is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
1
ILA Scotland 200 learner account ILA Scotland is a Scottish Government scheme for anyone aged 16 or over living in Scotland studying at undergraduate level. If your personal income is 22,000 or less a year, or youre on certain benefits, you can claim up to 200 a year towards a wide range of courses, where the amount of study is less than 40 credits. You will need to have successfully opened an ILA Scotland learner account before you register with us and should allow a minimum of 21 days for your account to be set up before the final registration date of your course. For the most up-to-date information, click www.ilascotland.org.uk. Part-time fee grant (formerly known as ILA Scotland 500 learner account) if your personal income is 22,000 or less a year, or youre on certain benefits, you can claim up to 500 a year towards the course fee if you are studying at least 40 credits a year. You will need to have successfully completed the application process for a part-time fee grant before you register with us and should allow a minimum of 21 days before the final registration date of your course. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Student Awards Agency for Scotland website at www.saas.gov.uk. We recommend that you check whether you are eligible for a fee waiver before applying for a part-time fee grant or ILA Scotland learner account. To find the most up-to-date information on the financial support available to students in Scotland visit our website at www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport, email scotland@open.ac.uk or call 0845 300 60 90.
Based on 2010/11 figures. To find the most up-to-date information on the financial support available to students in England, Wales or Northern Ireland visit our website at www.open.ac.uk/financialsupport, email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk or call 0845 300 60 90.
If you live in Scotland

Depending on your income and your course of study, youll be eligible to apply for: Part-time fee waiver if you are studying an OU undergraduate course and are on certain benefits or have a household income of under 16,510 (or more if you have dependants) you could qualify for a course fee waiver, which will cover the total cost of your course fees, so you pay nothing. Allowances are given for a partner and dependent children. These are 2000 for a partner, 2000 for your first child and 1000 for each further child. For example, if you have a partner and two children who are financially dependent on you, you could have a household income of up to 21,510 and the fee waiver scheme will pay your fees. If you are under 25 and not married/in a partnership or with dependent children, we may take your parents income into account if you have not been self-supporting for three years or on benefits in your own right. Students who qualify for the part-time fee waiver, and who are studying a 30- or 60-credit course at Level 1, may also be entitled to a computer provided under our computer provision scheme.
Financial support for students studying postgraduate courses

If you are studying towards a taught masters or doctorate you wont be eligible for financial support towards your course fees or towards most study costs. However, if you are resident in Scotland, we recommend you check with the Student Awards Agency for Scotland whether courses at SCQF level 11 will be eligible for a part-time fee grant (formerly ILA Scotland 500 learner account) for the 2011/12 academic year. For the most up-to-date information, click www.saas.gov.uk.
Other help
If you are an OU graduate, support may be available from the Crowther Fund. In addition, if you have particular financial difficulties, you may be eligible for some course expenses. The Crowther Fund (OU graduates only) The Crowther Fund is intended to help OU graduates build upon their OU degrees, either by formal study or research or by generally broadening their experience through a period of voluntary work. The fund doesnt take account of financial circumstances. The application closing date is 28 February each year. For further information, please email ou-crowther-fund@open.ac.uk.
39
If you have a disability or additional requirements

When you register for a course, well ask you whether you have a disability, health condition, mental-health disability or specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia) that might affect your studies or examinations. If you do, well direct you to more detailed information about the services we offer. For information and advice about all services for students with disabilities, click www.open.ac.uk/disability.
Aland Islands1 Andorra Austria Belgium Bulgaria Channel Islands Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany
1
Gibraltar Greece Hungary Iceland Isle of Man Italy Latvia Liechtenstein1 Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco
1
Norway Poland Portugal Republic of Ireland Romania San Marino1 Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Vatican City State1.
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) UK students only

Disabled Students Allowances help with study costs that result directly from your disability or specific learning difficulty. Allowances are not means-tested and may go towards specialist equipment (such as an adapted computer), non-medical study support (for example, a sign-language interpreter; a note-taker or a dyslexia support worker) or other related expenses. You can also apply for help with study-related travel costs that directly result from your disability. Eligibility and allowances depend on where you live and what youre studying. In England, Wales or Northern Ireland you may be eligible for a DSA if youre studying at least 30 credits towards an OU undergraduate or postgraduate qualification that lasts for more than one year. In Scotland you must be studying at least 60 credits towards an OU undergraduate or postgraduate qualification that lasts for more than one year. If you are eligible for a Disabled Students Allowance the University will only provide study support that cannot be provided by the allowance. If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland: call our DSA Office on 01908 654136 (voice telephone) 01908 659955 (textphone) or email dsa-queries@open.ac.uk. If you live in Scotland: call our Disability and Additional Requirements Team on 0131 226 3851 or email scotland@open.ac.uk.
1
Netherlands
Examination centres not available in these locations.
For more information please contact either your OU country representative (see page 40) or the applicable OU office (see back cover).
Fees
If youre not eligible to pay a UK course fee (see page 36), your fee will be higher than the UK fee. Higher fees are charged if you are a resident of one of the countries/ territories listed above or are a resident of a country anywhere else in the world where OU courses are offered. Fees are higher outside the UK because the University needs to cover the extra costs of operating and supplying services outside the UK. These costs include running offices in Dublin and Brussels and the additional costs of operating in more than one country in respect of all aspects of the University's services to students, including the provision of examinations, additional residential and day schools, retaining students, and additional financial charges. Additional costs are allocated across all students in a given territory, and are not calculated on a course-by-course basis. To work out how much your course will cost, see www.open.ac.uk/study or refer to the separate Course Fees 2011/2012 leaflet.
Tuition outside the UK

Tutorial support will usually be provided by online forums or email. There may be an opportunity for a face-to-face tutorial meeting depending on the number of students in your area, and you may also be able to organise your own informal student support group. Once we know how many students are registered on your course we can confirm tutorial arrangements.
Studying outside the UK

Residence
Most courses are open only to residents of the countries/ territories listed above right. Some courses, however, are available for world-wide study. Where this is the case, it is indicated in the course descriptions in this prospectus.
Examinations
Not all courses have an examination, but for most of those that do theres at least one examination centre in the countries listed above. An overseas examination fee is charged if you do not take your examination at the centre allocated to you. Continued on page 40.
40
Continued from page 39. The overseas examination fee is charged if you: sit your examination at an additional centre closer to your home sit your examination in a country other than those listed on page 39, regardless of the course fee paid have paid UK fees but want to sit your examination at a centre in one of the countries listed on page 39 have paid UK fees but have a home address in Continental Europe. The overseas examination fee will be 204 for examinations held before 31 July 2011. From 1 August 2011, this fee will be 210. For further information and advice, contact The Open University in Europe (see back cover).
What else you should know

Equality and diversity
We are committed to fulfilling our vision of a fair and just society. We are creating an inclusive university community and a society where people are treated with dignity and respect, where inequalities are challenged and where we anticipate and respond positively to different needs and circumstances so that everyone is able to achieve their potential. The Open Universitys equality scheme sets out our policy and commitment and is available from Our policies on our website at www.open.ac.uk/our-student-policies.
Course software
Some course software for use with Microsoft Windows is tested only on UK English versions.
Open University Students Association (OUSA)

You automatically become a member unless you choose to opt out for more information, click www.ousa.org.uk.
OU representatives outside the UK

OU country representatives can give you more information and advice, and coordinate arrangements for tutorials and examinations. Republic of Ireland Enquiry and Advice Centre (01)6785399 ireland@open.ac.uk Austria 01 533 2390 austria@open.ac.uk Belgium 02 644 3372 belgium@open.ac.uk France 02 32 56 65 07 france@open.ac.uk Germany (North) 040 42883 2478 germany-north@open.ac.uk Greece 22970 26069 greece@open.ac.uk Italy 02 813 8048 italy@open.ac.uk Luxembourg 44 40 91 801 luxembourg@open.ac.uk Netherlands 070 360 7443 netherlands@open.ac.uk Spain (91)577 7701 spain@open.ac.uk
Students under the age of 16

Very exceptionally, the University will consider applications from particularly gifted students who are under the age of 16. Applicants will be invited for an informal interview with their parent/guardian at their nearest regional or national centre. Acceptance will be at the discretion of the University.
Our statements of service

These cover careers advice, complaints, queries and appeals against our decisions, support for disabled students, general student support and guidance, and equal opportunities. You can find out more at www.open.ac.uk/our-student-policies.
Data protection
We record your personal information when you contact us and use this to manage registration, study, examination and other student services. When you register, well tell you more about how we process and use your personal information.
Recording phone calls

We may record our phone calls with you to make sure that weve carried out your instructions correctly and to help us improve our services through staff training.
Switzerland Germany (Central) 022 361 5774 0221 1626 235 switzerland@open.ac.uk germany-central@open.ac.uk Germany (South) 089 4583 5354 germany-south@open.ac.uk
Freedom of information
Information about the University can be found in our publication scheme, click www.open.ac.uk/foi. You have a general right to information we hold that is not in our publication scheme.
Enquiries from students in other countries

If you live in an EU country not listed above, please contact The Open University in Europe (see back cover). Wherever you are in the world, you may be able to study some of our qualifications and courses directly with the OU or through one of our educational partners or by buying our course materials from a local distributor. Click www.open.ac.uk/worldwide to find out what is available in your area.
Events near you

Come and meet us at one of our events in the UK and Europe. We host a number of events giving you the opportunity to meet with OU staff and discuss what its like to study with us, and to find out what courses we have to suit your needs. For details of events near you, click www.open.ac.uk/events.
Ordering other prospectuses
41
Ordering other prospectuses

This prospectus is one of a series describing our programmes of study. If you would like to find out more about our other qualifications and courses, and youre living in the UK or any of the countries listed on page 39, please order one of our prospectuses listed below:
Undergraduate Prospectus
An introduction to studying with The Open University This prospectus is a brief overview of the subjects we offer, providing answers to your questions about studying with the OU, and explaining how you can work towards a qualification. However, if you already know which subjects interest you, choose from our range of subjectspecific prospectuses instead.
Subject-specific prospectuses
Arts and Humanities Prospectus Childhood and Youth Prospectus Computing and ICT Prospectus Education Prospectus Engineering and Technology Prospectus Environment, Development and International Studies Prospectus
INSPIRING LEARNING
Undergraduate Prospectus 2011/2012

An introduction to studying with The Open University
Health and Social Care Prospectus Languages Prospectus Law Prospectus Psychology Prospectus Science Prospectus Social Sciences Prospectus The Open University Business School Prospectus
Openings Prospectus
Introductory courses to build your confidence Our Openings programme offers a choice of short, introductory courses covering a wide range of interesting and relevant topics. The courses are ideal if you dont have any experience of higher education or you haven't studied for some time.
Openings Prospectus 2011/2012
Introductory courses to build your confidence
Initial teacher education

INSPIRING LEARNING
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education Prospectus
Short Course Prospectus

In this prospectus youll discover our range of Short courses in arts, business, digital technology, science and social sciences. Theyre fascinating to study in their own right, and can also count towards most of our undergraduate degrees.
Short Course Prospectus 2011/2012
Postgraduate Prospectus
To find out more about our postgraduate qualifications and courses in your choice of subject, choose from our range of subject-specific prospectuses listed above. Alternatively, log on to our postgraduate prospectus online at www.open.ac.uk/postgraduate.
INSPIRING LEARNING
Research Degrees Prospectus

Our Research Degrees Prospectus (PhDs, etc.) is wholly online at www.open.ac.uk/research-prospectus.
To download or order a printed prospectus
www.open.ac.uk/prospectus +44 (0)845 300 60 90 email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk

Contact points for advice and registration

In England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, BFPO addresses outside the UK and all other countries, except the EU, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland
For further information or to register for a course: Click www.open.ac.uk/study or Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on
In other EU countries, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland

For further information: Click www.open.ac.uk/europe Email europe@open.ac.uk For advice before you study contact your country representative (see page 40) or The Open University in Europe on
+44 191 477 6100

To register for a course, call The Open University in Europe on
+44 (0)845 300 60 90

Lines are open (UK time): Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00 Saturday 09:00 to 17:00 Calls are charged at the UK local rate when calling from a UK landline. Email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk
+44 191 477 6100
For Welsh speakers

If you would prefer to discuss your study needs in Welsh, please contact: The Open University in Wales, 18 Custom House Street, Cardiff, CF10 1AP Phone 029
In Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland

For further information or to register for a course: Click www.open.ac.uk/study or In Northern Ireland Call our office in Belfast (110 Victoria Street, Belfast BT1 3GN) on
2047 1170
Email wales@open.ac.uk
I siaradwyr Cymraeg
Os ydych yn siarad Cymraeg a byddain well gennych drafod eich anghenion astudio drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg, cysylltwch : Y Brifysgol Agored yng Nghymru, 18 Heol y Tollty, Caerdydd, CF10 1AP Ffn 029
028 9032 3722

In the Republic of Ireland Call our Enquiry and Advice Centre in Dublin on
2047 1170
(01)6785399 or our office in Belfast on +44 28 9032 3722

Email ireland@open.ac.uk
Ebost wales@open.ac.uk
The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England and Wales and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302). While we have done everything possible to make sure the information in this publication is accurate, it may change due to regulations or policy, or because of financial or other reasons. Designed by DigforFire DMG Printed by Sterling, an ISO 14001 printer, using vegetable based inks on FSC certified paper, www.sterlingsolutions.co.uk Copyright 2011 The Open University. SUP 026966
Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus 2011/2012
Student Registration & Enquiry Service The Open University PO Box 197 Milton Keynes MK7 6BJ United Kingdom
Important information Fee changes in England from 1 September 2012

As you may know, the Government is introducing changes to the way higher education in England is funded. In future, grants will no longer be paid directly to universities; instead there will be increased support for students to help them pay for the costs of their tuition. Starting your OU studies after 1 September 2012? If you live in England and are thinking of taking your first Open University undergraduate module on, or after 1 September 2012, your fees will be changing. For further details, click www.open.ac.uk/fees2012. Already an OU student or starting your OU studies before 31 August 2012? For current undergraduate students, including those who register for modules starting before 31 August 2012, we are committed to helping you complete your studies at a cost and pace consistent with your initial expectations. For further details, click www.open.ac.uk/fees2012. Living in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or outside of the UK? These changes will only affect new and current undergraduate students in England. The University has not yet announced its fees from 1 September 2012 in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and outside the UK. For updates and further information regarding arrangements for fees outside England, click www.open.ac.uk/fees2012.
Mathematics and Statistics Course Fees 2011/2012
INSPIRING LEARNING
Course Fees 2011/2012

The fees for all the courses described in the Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus are supplied in this leaflet. For advice choosing the right course and qualification for you, click www.open.ac.uk/study or call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90 (Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00 and Saturday 09:00 to 17:00 UK time) or email general-enquiries@open.ac.uk. Were here to help. All prices shown are in UK pounds sterling.
Title Advanced mathematical methods (M833) Analysing data (M248) Analytic number theory I (M823) Applications of probability (M343) Applied complex variables (M828)
Start dates 04 Feb 2012
UK () 590
ROI () 975
Other () 1080
04 Feb 2012 04 Feb 2012 04 Feb 2012 04 Feb 2012
400 590 400 590 590
785 975 785 975 975
890 1080 890 1080 1080
How to pay
We have several ways to help you pay fees please see page 37 of the Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to take advantage of our financial support services and apply for a grant for your course fees and for help with study costs please see page 37 for full details.
Calculus of 04 Feb 2012 Variations and advanced calculus (M820) Computer algebra, chaos and simulations (MS325) Developing algebraic thinking (ME625) Developing geometric thinking (ME627) Developing statistical thinking (ME626) Discovering mathematics (MU123) Dissertation in mathematics (M840) Exploring mathematics (MS221) Fractal geometry (M835) 04 Feb 2012
400
785
890
Studying outside the UK

If youre not eligible to pay a UK course fee (please see page 36 of the Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus), your fee will be higher. We accept payment in the currencies of all European Union countries, in Swiss francs and in US dollars. Its easiest to register online and pay with a credit or debit card. Well use the exchange rate which applies on the day we process your registration agreement, except for payments in euros, which are subject to a monthly exchange rate.
01 Apr 2012
510
895
1000
01 Oct 2011
510
895
1000
01 Apr 2012
510
895
1000
01 Oct 2011 04 Feb 2012 04 Feb 2012
400 400 690
785 785 1075
890 890 1180
Key
N/A Not Applicable Other includes all countries outside the UK and ROI where we accept students, see page 39 for more information ROI Republic of Ireland
08 Oct 2011
400
785
890
04 Feb 2012
590 590
975 975
1080 1080
Functional analysis 04 Feb 2012 (M826)
Title Graphs, networks and design (MT365) Groups and geometry (M336) Mathematical methods and models (MST209) Mathematical modelling (MSXR209) Mathematical statistics (M347) Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821) Practical modern statistics (M249) Pure mathematics (M208)
Start dates 04 Feb 2012
UK () 400
ROI () 785
Other () 890
04 Feb 2012 28 Jan 2012
400 700
785 1320
890 1470
26 May 2012
500
880
880
04 Feb 2012 04 Feb 2012
400 590
785 975
890 1080
04 Feb 2012 28 Jan 2012
400 700 130 130 195 195 360
785 1320 N/A N/A N/A N/A 660
890 1470 N/A N/A N/A N/A 755
Starting with maths 01 Sep 2011 01 Nov 2011 (Y162) Starting with maths 01 Mar 2012 01 Jun 2012 (Y182) Teaching mathematical thinking at Key Stage 3 (ME624) 01 Oct 2011
The story of maths 01 Oct 2011 01 May 2012 (TM190) Topology (M338) 04 Feb 2012
205 205 400 400 400 400
395 395 785 785 785 785
440 440 890 890 890 890
Using mathematics 01 Oct 2011 28 Jan 2012 (MST121) Waves, diffusion 04 Feb 2012 and variational principles (MS324)
While we have done everything possible to make sure the information in this price list is accurate, it may change due to regulations or policy or because of financial or other reasons. Student Registration & Enquiry Service, The Open University, PO Box 197, Milton Keynes, MK7 6BJ www.open.ac.uk/study. SUP 026967

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Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus 2011/2012

Undergraduate and Postgraduate study

A world apart from any other way of learning

Dont let anything stand in your way

Discover Britains favourite university for yourself

National Student Survey 2010.

Becoming an Open University student

How Open University study works

Your guide to careers in mathematics and statistics Undergraduate study

Studying outside the UK What else you should know

Ordering other prospectuses Contact points for advice and registration

Open access: other ways to read this publication

Why choose The Open University?

Why choose The Open University?

Why choose The Open University?

Our doors are open to everyone

Youre never on your own

Choice and flexibility

Support throughout your studies

Dr Venkatesha Murthy, OU student

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

Why choose The Open University?

Value for money

Around 11,000 of our students have a disability or additional requirement.

Help for carers

Over 70 per cent of OU students work while they study.

Free online resources

Over 42,000 financial awards were made to OU students last year.

Support for students with a disability or additional requirements

Vibrant online community

Steve McNeice, OU student

Active alumni association

Why choose The Open University?

Why study mathematics and statistics with The Open University?

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

How Open University study works

How Open University study works

What are courses?

A step-by-step guide to a typical OU course

What are course levels?

FHEQ, SCQF and NFQI levels

Nows a good time to start thinking about your next course

Level 3 Masters Doctoral

All your assignments are complete and its time to revise

Complete your end-of-module assessment or take your examination

How Open University study works

If you have an NVQ or SVQ

Your guide to qualifications

What are credits?

Not sure which qualification is right for you?

Are there any entry requirements?

How much time does it take?

Computers and elearning

English for learning

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90

How Open University study works

How much time does it take?

What qualifications does the OU offer in mathematics and statistics?

How Open University study works

Counting previous study towards an OU qualification

Academic credit in Europe

Credits required at postgraduate level 60 120 180

Click www.open.ac.uk/study or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90