Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements, but it's very important you:

• are well prepared to study mathematics at this level;
• are a competent user of the English language – explained on our website;
• have access to learners of mathematics working at Key Stages 2 to 4, during Stage 3 of this qualification.

You need some experience in mathematics – you must be comfortable with the following topics:

• arithmetic of numbers, including negative numbers and fractions;
• scientific notation for numbers (sometimes known as standard form);
• powers of numbers including square roots;
• using your scientific calculator effectively for the above topics, and for working with brackets and π;
• using simple word formulas;
• drawing and interpreting simple charts and graphs.

Check you’re ready with our self-assessed quiz. We’ve study resources to help you prepare.

If you score very highly, consider starting at a higher level and at a faster pace – check you’ve the necessary experience and confidence for the intensive start, with this self-assessed quiz.

There’s lots more advice and guidance at 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

This degree provides good preparation and professional development for those interested in a career in mathematics education, or for jobs that require mathematical communication skills. 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, and the voluntary sector. It is widely accepted that a degree in mathematical subjects particularly enhances the following transferable and much sought-after skills. It will also equip you with highly-valued transferable skills, applicable to a wide range of jobs across all sectors:

• communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly
• explaining mathematical ideas to others
• understanding complex mathematical texts
• working with abstract concepts
• thinking logically
• expressing problems in mathematical language
• constructing logical arguments
• working on open-ended problems
• finding solutions to problems
• interpreting mathematical results in real-world terms
• analysing/interpreting data
• using professional and relevant software.

Career relevance

If you’re thinking about a career in mathematics education, or you already work in education and want to improve or update your skills, this degree course is an excellent choice. Mathematical skills and knowledge are also sought after in fields such as finance, accountancy, engineering, science, defence, the pharmaceuticals industry and business. Other career areas directly related to mathematics include:

• banking
• bioinformatics
• economics
• insurance
• investments
• market research
• pensions
• quantitative analysis/risk analysis. 
• retail
• stockbroking/trading
• tax.

Accreditation

This qualification will contribute to you gaining all grades of membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), from Student Membership to Chartered Mathematician.

Other careers

Mathematics 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. A qualification in mathematics also offers opportunities for self-employment – as a financial adviser, for example.

A mathematics degree can also give you the skills and knowledge to progress on to higher-level study – for example, an MSc in Mathematics (F04), and then even a PhD.

Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline – some 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 some careers may 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.