This key introductory statistics module is designed for people who have not studied statistics before. It focuses on the application of statistics, adopting the attitude that statistics is about solving problems. The module is data-driven. We collect relevant data and analyse it to answer the problems. The methods that are covered are not specific to one field of application alone but apply to all areas in which statistics is used.
Throughout this module, you’ll be looking at statistical data and output, and at times you’ll discuss this with other students. This discussion will involve working in groups asynchronously via online forums.
The materials contain exercises to help you learn and monitor your progress. These exercises involve calculations you’ll do by hand, with a calculator, or using Minitab software, which we’ll supply and teach you to use. Please note that Minitab is only compatible with Windows; other operating systems are not supported. You’ll also develop skills in interpreting and communicating your results, which we’ll assess.
You can find the full content list on the Open mathematics and statistics website.
Successful study of this module should begin to develop your statistical skills and enable you to analyse common forms of data to address practical problems.
You will learn about:
The module contains data from real-world situations based around three themes: economics, education and health.
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:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Additionally, the module website includes:
We also provide physical:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
M140 is a compulsory module in our:
M140 is an option module in our:
Introducing statistics (M140) starts twice a year – in October and January/February.
It will next start in October 2026 and January 2027.
We expect it to start for the last time in January 2032.
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.
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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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Read more about Open University Student Budget Accounts (OUSBA).
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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.
