This module builds on the statistics introduced at level 1 through the OU module Introducing statistics (M140). It will investigate a wider range of statistical techniques than those introduced at level 1 and provide a deeper understanding of the techniques introduced.
In this module, you will explore the fundamental statistical techniques that can be used to analyse data to answer real, practical questions such as ‘Does drug A work better than drug B?’ and ‘How often do major earthquakes occur?’
The starting point for answering such questions is to model the variation in data: some of the most commonly used models for variation are considered in the first part of the module, and some of their properties are investigated. The module then goes on to develop statistical techniques for using data and models of the variation to draw conclusions and answer questions of interest: the specific statistical techniques studied in the module include estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests and regression.
An essential skill for any statistician is the ability to communicate their statistical analysis clearly to others, both statisticians and non-statisticians. Statistical report writing is considered in one of the final units of the module.
In addition to the module texts, student learning is supported throughout by short video presentations, computer animations and online interactive practice quizzes.
You can find the full content list on the Open mathematics and statistics website.
Successful study of this module should improve your skills in analysing and interpreting data.
The ability to analyse and interpret data is central to many careers in, for example, government, health, business, finance and market research. The material in this module explores the fundamental statistical techniques required for analysing and interpreting data. Statistical software packages are essential data analysis tools for practising statisticians: the use of one such statistical software package is integral to this module. Another important skill practising statisticians require is the ability to communicate the results from their data analyses: this skill is developed through statistical report writing.
This module has been awarded a quality mark by the Royal Statistical Society, providing reassurance that the teaching, learning and assessment within this module is of high quality and meets the needs of students and employers.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
Your module grade depends on the final TMA and the examination. The first five TMAs don't contribute to your final grade; however, you must complete most of them.
We’re using a new examination verification process for this module. We may ask you to attend a 15-minute post-exam video discussion, where you’ll present a photo ID and discuss your answers to a small number of questions with a tutor or member of the module team. The discussion isn’t graded; it’s only to verify that you completed the exam yourself.
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
We also provide physical:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
M248 is a compulsory module in our:
M248 is an option module in our:
Analysing data (M248) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2031.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
There is no formal prerequisite study, but you must have the required mathematical and statistical skills.
You can check you’re ready for M248 and see the topics it covers here.
You should aim to be confident and fluent with the concepts covered in the Are you ready? quiz here, and follow the advice in the quiz.
The key topics to revise include:
Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) is ideal preparation, and Introducing statistics (M140) is also useful.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying M248 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
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There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your income is not more than £25,000 or you receive a qualifying benefit, you might be eligible for help with some of these costs after your module has started.
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.
If your personal income is £25,000 or less, or you’re on certain benefits, you could qualify for a grant and OU top-up funding to cover 100% of your course fees. Apply online at the same time as you register on your module.
For more information on how to apply, visit our Part-Time Fee Grants for students in Scotland page.
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As additional affordability checks are required when processing joint loan applications, unfortunately, an instant decision cannot be given. On average, the processing time for a joint loan application is five working days from receipt of the required documentation.
Read more about Open University Student Budget Accounts (OUSBA).
Studying with The Open University can boost your employability. OU courses are recognised and respected by employers for their excellence and the commitment they take to complete. They also value the skills that students learn and can apply in the workplace.
Over 30,000 employers have used the OU to develop staff so far. If the module you’ve chosen is geared towards your job or developing your career, you could approach your employer to see if they will sponsor you by paying some or all of the fees.
You can pay part or all of your tuition fees upfront with a debit or credit card when you register for each module.
We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Visa Electron.
We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may wish to pay part of your tuition fee with a debit card and pay the remainder in instalments through an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA).
We know that sometimes you may want to combine payment options. For example, you may get support from your employer to pay part of your tuition fee and pay the remainder by credit or debit card.
For more information about combining payment options, contact an adviser.
Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2026. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
