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An image to illustrate Contemporary topics in science module
This innovative and flexible module uses OpenLearn and other Open University content. You’ll choose from a list of topics across all science disciplines; you can focus on one topic in depth or study three shorter topics. You might wish to learn about autism, nutrition, chemistry, citizen science – or astronomy with a remotely operated telescope! The end-of-module assessment explores your science understanding and the skills you’ve developed to be a successful science student.
This flexible, wholly online module allows you to focus in depth on a single topic or study three shorter science topics.
Single topic choices include:
Galaxies, stars and planets
This topic explains how the Sun gets its energy, how astronomers observe the Sun and its interior, and introduces the planets and their satellites.
Molecules, medicines and drugs: a chemical story
Focus on the chemistry that underlies the development of drugs and medicines that relieve pain and effect cures. And how drugs interact with and affect their target areas in the human body.
Plants and people
Explore the role plants play in our lives, in food, biofuels, bioplastics and medicines, and their role in combating climate change.
The frozen planet
Explore the wonder of the polar world and learn how ice has shaped and controls our planet.
Alternatively, you can combine any three shorter topics from the following:
An introduction to exoplanets
Consider the planets beyond our Solar System. Could there be life on them? In this topic, you’ll explore the fascinating new era of exoplanet studies.
Astronomy with an online telescope
Develop a hands-on understanding of telescopic observations using the Open University’s robotic telescope facility, COAST. You’ll learn about stars: what they are, how they produce light, and their evolution over time.
Citizen science and global biodiversity
Focus on biodiversity and explore how anyone can contribute to and be involved in identifying and recording wildlife as a citizen scientist.
Discovering chemistry
This topic introduces fundamental chemistry: from atoms, chemical elements, and the Periodic Table to chemical reactions and the formation of large molecules.
Microgravity: living on the International Space Station
Focus on the physics of microgravity environments, including the International Space Station. You’ll discover how microgravity environments are used to study ageing, quantum physics, bacterial resistance and planet formation, and consider moral questions such as the cost of space exploration.
Moons of our Solar System
Learn about the fundamental processes that have shaped moons, the relationship between our Moon and Earth, and the space missions that have taught us about moons. You’ll discover the incredible diversity of moons in our Solar System.
The science of alcohol
Learn the chemistry and biology behind the production of alcoholic drinks. How are flavours generated? How do scientists ensure the safety of what we drink? You’ll explore the long-term and short-term effects of alcohol on our bodies.
The science of nutrition and healthy eating
This topic introduces the biology, chemistry and physics behind nutrition. Are we really what we eat? How do we know what is in our food?
Understanding antibiotic resistance
Explore the history of antibiotics. How do antibiotics work? What is antibiotic resistance, and how does it spread?
Understanding autism
This topic introduces the autism spectrum, how different individuals and families experience it, and why it’s a global concern. You’ll learn how ideas about autism have evolved and explore diagnosis, causes, intervention and life-span development.
This module lets you focus your learning on topics that interest you. Alongside developing your understanding of some key scientific concepts, it will enable you to practice and improve your written communication skills. In addition, as this module is delivered online, your online learning skills will develop. You’ll also participate in reflective practice around your skills development.
By studying this module, you’ll improve your scientific knowledge and skills to communicate science-related information. You’ll also develop your use of digital tools in an online environment. As an independent learner, you’ll demonstrate the ability to plan and reflect on your learning. All these skills are beneficial, not only for further study, but also in interviewing and employment.
Throughout your module studies, you’ll get help from study advisors via the module forum. They’ll help you by:
Course work includes:
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Contemporary topics in science (SXM150) starts once a year – in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
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.
At The Open University, we believe education should be open to all, so we provide high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, you’ll need:
If you’re using printed materials as part of reasonable adjustments to support your studies, note that printed versions of online materials are unavailable for this module.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our disability support pages.
StartEndRegister byEngland fee
03 Oct 202631 Mar 202717 Sep 2026£681
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.
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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