Want to learn more about numbers and how they are used? We’ve selected some Open University courses that could help you explore things further.

Level 1 courses
(appropriate for people with little or no experience of study at university level)

Starting with Maths (Y162)
This course introduces you to a range of key ideas that will help you to 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. Alternatively you might like to try a taster of this course.

Chance, Risk and Health (SMK184)
This course will introduce you to some of the main ideas of modern statistics, from scratch, in the context of important health issues. It will show you how statistics can shed considerable light on such topics as the controversy surrounding the MMR vaccine and the link between smoking and cancer.

Maths for Science (S151)
This course will particularly help you to gain confidence in using mathematics as a tool in science. Mathematical techniques are explained, and examples from science are included throughout the course.

Open Mathematics (MU120)
This course looks mathematically at matters of general interest including prices, earnings, health, music, art, maps, motion and rainbows. Alongside mathematical skills, it will help you develop communication and learning skills. This is a longer course than those listed above.

Level 2 courses(for people with experience of study at university level)

Analysing Data (M248)
This introduction to statistics emphasises the practical side of the subject, but the theoretical principles are also included. Software supplied with the course is used to analyse data and develop your understanding of statistical concepts. As this is a second level course, you are assumed to have a certain level of mathematical competence, which could be obtained from relevant Level 1 Open University mathematics courses.

Economics and Economic Change (DD202)
This course, dealing with today’s economic issues and problems, should help you to understand economic debates in the UK and in the global economy.

You and your Money (DB123)
This course will improve your financial capability and enable you to make informed financial decisions. It develops your practical financial skills and your understanding of the changing social and economic environment within which financial decisions are made. You’ll explore questions such as: Why do people borrow so much? How can I plan for my retirement? Why do I have to make more financial decisions, and what is the best approach to making them?