Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll normally start Stage 1 with a 30-credit introductory module followed by three further 30-credit modules in pure and applied mathematics and statistics.
- Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study 120 credits, choosing to focus on either mathematics or mathematics with statistics.
- Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll study three 30-credit mathematics/statistics teaching modules, and complete your degree with a 30-credit mathematics module.
Optional Access module – visit Entry requirements to find out about starting this course with a preparatory Access module.
Mathematics is a linear subject – it’s important to have a good understanding of the basics before moving on to more advanced topics. You’ll normally begin with an introduction to key mathematical ideas, ideal if you haven’t studied mathematics to an advanced level; or haven’t studied for some time and need to refresh your skills and knowledge.
If you’re confident studying mathematics at university level and, in particular, have a good understanding of algebra and trigonometry, you can skip the first module and choose from a selection of other modules to complete Stage 1.
To facilitate transferring between qualifications, Stage 1 is common to the BSc (Honours) Mathematics, BSc (Honours) Mathematics and Statistics, BSc (Honours) Mathematics and its Learning, Diploma of Higher Education in Mathematical Sciences and Certificate of Higher Education in Mathematical Sciences.
You’ll develop your own skills and knowledge, choosing to focus on mathematics or to combine mathematics with statistics. Specialised mathematics education modules will introduce you to frameworks for analysing and supporting learners’ different approaches to mathematical thinking.
We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 20 March 2019.
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Mathematics and its Learning uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- using and producing diagrams and/or screenshots
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- in some modules undertaking small amounts of practical work and other activities, such as working in a group with other students, writing short reports or preparing presentations
- using specialist mathematical or statistical software.
For more detailed information, see the Accessibility Statements on individual module descriptions. If you feel you may need additional support, visit our Disability support website to find more about what we offer. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your individual requirements, so we can put arrangements in place before you start.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Read the detailed learning outcomes here
Credit transfer
If you have already studied at university level, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – which could save you time and money by reducing the number of modules you need to study. At the OU we call this credit transfer.
It’s not just university study that can be considered, you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where and when and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details of when you will need to apply by and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
Classification of your degree
On successfully completing this undergraduate course, you'll be awarded the BSc (Honours) Mathematics and its Learning degree. The class of degree (first, upper second, lower second or third-class honours) depends on your grades at Stages 2 and 3.
You'll have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
Recognition in your country
If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Read recognition in my country.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
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 a learner or learners who will be pleasantly challenged by secondary school-level mathematics, 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 in that self-assessed quiz, 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 normally 60 credits a year.
- This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
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. It provides the skills of doing, communicating and analysing mathematical activity that are needed to prepare you for teacher training in secondary mathematics. 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, 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, such as teaching or tutoring, 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
- financial services
- insurance
- investments
- market research
- quantitative analysis/risk analysis
- retail
- stockbroking/trading.
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.
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):
- actuary
- auditor
- chartered accountant
- financial risk analyst
- lecturer
- management consultant
- mathematics/statistics educator
- meteorologist
- operational researcher
- pensions administrator
- secondary school teacher
- systems developer.