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Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate Essential mathematics 2 module
This module builds on the concepts and techniques in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) to provide a complete foundation for higher-level mathematics studies. It introduces enjoyable and essential topics, such as proof, differential equations, mechanics and discrete mathematics, and extends your knowledge of calculus and its applications. You’ll also use mathematical software and learn how to typeset mathematics.
There are twelve study units in this module.
In the first unit, you’ll revise and consolidate the mathematics taught in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124).
In the remaining study units, you’ll cover the following topics.
You’ll learn how to typeset mathematics with a choice of typesetting software.
You’ll work mainly from the module books, which are available in electronic formats as well as in print. You can view some of the worked examples in the books in an alternative video format, in which tutors work through and discuss the examples. You’ll use specially designed software applications to help you understand the concepts taught, and the same mathematics computer package used in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124). There are many online interactive practice questions to help you consolidate your learning.
The full content list is on the Open mathematics and statistics website.
In Essential mathematics 2 (MST125), you’ll further develop your mathematical skills and begin to develop new ones:
The practical skills are important for any job that uses mathematics. In addition, you’ll develop the following skills:
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:
This module includes a remote exam you'll take at home or another suitable location. The exam will be invigilated online by ProctorU, a service based outside the UK and with whom you must agree to additional Terms of Service. Find out more about online invigilation.
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Additionally, the 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.
MST125 is a compulsory module in our:
MST125 is an option module in our:
Essential mathematics 2 (MST125) 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 October 2029.
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.
You must have passed, or currently be studying, one of the following modules:
Or be able to provide evidence you have the required mathematical skills.
You can check you’re ready for MST125 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.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying MST125 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.
StartEndRegister byEngland fee
03 Oct 202630 Jun 202710 Sep 2026£2,044
30 Jan 202730 Sep 202707 Jan 2027£2,044
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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.
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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 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
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