In simple terms, we think of a fluid as a flowing substance. Familiar examples are air (a gas) and water (a liquid). All fluids are liquids or gases. The analysis of the forces in and the motion of liquids and gases is called fluid mechanics. This module introduces the fundamentals of fluid mechanics and discusses the solutions of fluid-flow problems modelled by differential equations. The mathematical methods arise from (and are interpreted in) the context of fluid-flow problems. However, they can also be applied in other areas such as electromagnetism and the mechanics of solids.
Because of its many applications, fluid mechanics is important for applied mathematicians, scientists and engineers. Air flow over objects is of fundamental importance to the aerodynamicist in designing aeroplanes and the motor industry in designing cars with drag-reducing profiles. The flow of fluids through pipes and channels is also important to engineers. Fluid mechanics is essential to the meteorologist in studying the complicated flow patterns in the atmosphere.
The module is arranged in 13 units within four blocks.
Block 1
This is the foundation on which the rest of the module is built.
Block 2
The second block starts by investigating the motion of a fluid that is assumed to be incompressible (its volume cannot be reduced) and inviscid (there is no internal friction).
Block 3
This block looks at a class of differential equations typified by the wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace’s equation, which frequently arise in fluid mechanics and other branches of applied mathematics.
Block 4
In this block, you’ll return to applications of mathematics to fluid flows.
If you are considering progressing to The engineering project (T452), this is one of the OU level 3 modules on which you could base your project topic. Typically, you should have completed one of these OU level 3 modules (or be currently studying one) before registering for the project module.
The full content list is on the Open mathematics and statistics website.
Successful study of this module should enhance your skills in communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly, expressing problems in mathematical language and interpreting mathematical results in real-world terms.
The modelling of fluid flows is of significant importance to several disciplines and requires knowledge of a broad range of tools essential in applied mathematics. In this module, you’ll learn important aspects that govern fluid processes, including the mathematical methods for their modelling and analysis and the physical intuition. Mastering this material will help you develop desirable skills in the profile of applied mathematicians, scientists and engineers working in industry and academia.
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:
For this module, we may use an assessment verification process to meet the requirements of relevant accrediting, professional, statutory or regulatory bodies. As part of this process, you may be asked to attend a short post-assessment video discussion, lasting around 15 minutes. During the discussion, you’ll need to show a photo ID and talk through your answers to a small number of questions with a tutor or a member of the module team. The discussion is not graded and is only used to confirm that you completed the assessment yourself.
We regularly review the assessments in our modules, so we may update the examination method used for this module to an in-person exam or a remotely invigilated (proctored) exam. When we are making such a change, we will make it clear on this page. If we need to make a change after you have registered, we will notify you as soon as possible. If you have additional requirements, we will support you to complete your assessments.
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Additionally, the website includes:
You can study this module on its own or use the credits you gain towards an Open University qualification.
MST326 is an option module in our:
Mathematical methods and fluid mechanics (MST326) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 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.
| Start | End | Register by | England fee |
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| 03 Oct 2026 | 30 Jun 2027 | 10 Sep 2026 | £2,044 |
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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.
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Read more about Open University Student Budget Accounts (OUSBA).
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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 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
