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Accessibility statement
Qualification dates
StartEnd
03 Oct 2026Jun 2027
30 Jan 2027Sept 2027
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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