England

Please tell us where you live so that we can provide you with the most relevant information as you use this website.
If you are at a BFPO address please choose the country or region in which you would ordinarily be resident.
Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate the Graduate Certificate in Theoretical Statistics and Probability
Strengthen your understanding of the mathematical foundations of statistics with this graduate-level certificate. You’ll study probability theory and statistical inference, developing the ability to analyse models, understand assumptions, and assess limitations. The programme introduces you to the theory underlying practical statistical methods and concepts, giving you the tools to construct and evaluate probability models. Ideal for professionals seeking to advance in data-focused roles or those preparing for further postgraduate study, this certificate equips you with rigorous theoretical insight into statistical practice.
This theoretical statistics and probability certificate has one stage, comprising 60 credits.
You’ll study two 30-credit modules that provide the mathematical underpinning for statistical methods and introduce stochastic process models to describe patterns of events.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Applications of probability (M343)30Oct
Mathematical statistics (M347)30Oct

By studying this certificate, you’ll:
You’ll be supported throughout by personal tutors, advanced learning materials, tutorials, and detailed feedback.
You’ll be awarded a Graduate Certificate in Theoretical Statistics and Probability upon successful completion.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
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.
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this certificate in one year and have a maximum of 4 years to complete it.
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
You must have an undergraduate degree with substantial mathematical and/or statistical content.
You need a high degree of mathematical competence in the following areas:
In addition, you’ll need a working knowledge of the following statistical topics:
Check you’re ready.
£4,088*
Your course fees cover your tuition, assessment and study materials, but there are still a few additional costs that can come with studying. For this qualification, you'll need:
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to a fee limit, as set out in the University's Fee Rules.

Over 85% of our students in England fund their studies with a Tuition Fee Loan, meaning they pay nothing upfront.
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Combine your payment options to fund your studies the way you want.
If you’re a serving member of the British Armed Forces (or you’ve recently left), you may be eligible to use ELCs to cover up to 100% of your course fees.
You may be eligible for:
If you hold an eligible entry qualification, download, complete and return the Graduate Certificate in Theoretical Statistics and Probability application form with evidence of your previous study. To start in October, you must apply by 31 August.
If you have queries about the application process, email [email protected].
Statistics is an important subject for everyday problem-solving and decision-making. This certificate will equip you with an understanding of the mathematical underpinning of a range of statistical methods, so you'll have the theoretical knowledge to prepare you for work as a statistician. Applications of probability theory include patterns of events that occur in both time, such as earthquakes, and space, for example, the occurrence of a species of plant, as well as areas like genetics and changes in stock market prices.
Qualified statisticians are in great demand in the workplace – in particular, those with the theoretical underpinning to ensure the correct analysis is undertaken are in short supply in all areas, including the sciences, economics, education, engineering, environmental studies, finance, government statistics, logistics, medicine and pharmaceuticals.
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 and 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 where this qualification 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 qualification):
Check you meet the Entry requirements, then see How to apply.
Ask a question
Our prospectus will help you explore your course options, get a feel for life as an OU student, and register for study.
Request a prospectus
Check you meet the Entry requirements, then see How to apply.
content