Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification, but it is very important that you are well prepared to study mathematics at this level.

Before you register for this qualification, it is essential to check that you have the appropriate mathematical skills.

Take a look at our Maths Help study resources to brush up your mathematical skills in preparation for our Are you ready? quiz.

If you can answer most of the questions, or could do them with a quick reminder (because the topic is familiar to you but you can’t quite remember the details), then you are ready.

If you achieved a very high score, our intensive start route may be an option for you. First complete our intensive start Are you ready? quiz to check if you have the necessary experience and confidence with mathematics.

If you would like more advice and guidance about where to start, please visit our MathsChoices website.

How much time do I need?

• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.

Counting previous study

You could save time and money by reducing the number of modules you need to study towards this qualification, if you have:

• already studied at university level (even if you didn't finish your studies)
• other professional or vocational qualifications such as HNCs and HNDs

Find out more about credit transfer

Skills for career development

On completion of this degree course you’ll be able to construct economic, statistical and mathematical arguments with appropriate and critical use of concepts, theories, models and evidence. You’ll also learn to use modern mathematical and statistical software, and how to carry out a research project using appropriate research methods. These skills are all in great demand in the workplace, and many are highly transferable and applicable to a variety of situations – whether you’re already working, volunteering or changing career.

Career relevance

Opportunities can be found across all sectors and in a number of occupations. Education, central and local government, finance, health and social care, law, the media, public services, campaigning and research are popular career choices.

Other careers include:

• banking
• politics
• journalism and broadcasting
• teaching
• social work
• accountancy
• business management
• advertising and marketing.

Other careers

Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

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

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that most careers will require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree):

Want to see more jobs? Use the career explorer for job ideas from the National Careers Service, PlanIT Plus in Scotland and Prospects across all nations. You can also visit GradIreland for the Republic of Ireland.