MSc in Mathematics | Open University

England

Please tell us where you live so that we can provide you with the most relevant information as you use this website.

If you are at a BFPO address please choose the country or region in which you would ordinarily be resident.

Accessibility statement

The first two-thirds of this MSc are the same as our

Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematics (E23)

. The first third is the same as our

Postgraduate Certificate in Mathematics (C90)

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits. You'll choose one 30-credit core module, 120 credits from a range of option modules, and complete your degree with a 30-credit dissertation module.

Modules	Credits	Next start
You'll choose one from:
Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) This calculus module explores advanced topics, including the Gâteaux differential, Euler–Lagrange equation, Noether’s theorem and Sturm–Liouville theory. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
Analytic number theory I (M823) This module introduces number theory, including congruences, arithmetical functions, distributions of primes, quadratic reciprocity and Dirichlet’s theorem. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
You'll choose another four modules from above and/or from the following:
Advanced mathematical methods (M833) This mathematical models module uses analytical pencil-and-paper methods and the Maple computing language to teach advanced mathematical techniques. Next start date: No current presentation See full description	30	No current presentation
Analytic number theory II (M829) This follow-up to Analytic number theory I (M823) covers the second half of Apostol’s Introduction to Analytic Number Theory and prime number theorem proof. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
Coding theory (M836) This module examines error-detecting and error-correcting codes built on algebraic structures with encoding/decoding procedures and cryptography elements. Next start date: No current presentation See full description	30	No current presentation
Fractal geometry (M835) This module examines the geometry of fractals, aesthetically pleasing complex patterns often found in nature, containing self-similar shapes at different scales. Next start date: No current presentation See full description	30	No current presentation
Galois theory (M838) This module explores the relationship between group theory and field theory in problem-solving as described by the young Évariste Galois in the 19th century. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821) This nonlinear ordinary differential equations module emphasises geometrical aspects, approximation schemes and the stability and periodicity of solutions. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
Quantum and statistical mechanics of matter (SM880) This postgraduate module teaches the tools of advanced quantum and statistical mechanics of matter, illustrated using atoms, molecules and exotic states. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026
Subject to regulations, if you’ve passed the discontinued module M431, M822, M824, M826, M827, M828, M830, M832, M841, M860, M861, PMT600 or PMT601, you may count one or more of these instead.
Some option modules start only every two years. M821, M829 and M838 are available in even years – the next start is October 2026. M833, M835 and M836 are available in odd years – the next start is October 2027.
You'll complete the following:
Dissertation in mathematics (M840) This dissertation is the capstone of our MSc in Mathematics, in which you’ll complete a guided, independent study of one of a range of mathematical topics. Next start date: 03 Oct 2026 See full description	30	03 Oct 2026

By studying the MSc in Mathematics, you’ll:

You’ll study flexibly online with expert tutor support, tutorials and extensive digital resources.

You’ll be awarded a Master of Science in Mathematics upon successful completion. You’ll be entitled to use the letters MSc (Maths) (Open) after your name.

Your masters degree may be awarded with a distinction or a merit. The qualification regulations explain the criteria you’ll need to meet to earn one of these classifications.

You’ll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.

If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.

As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.

We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our

Academic Regulations

contact us

Most students study the MSc in Mathematics part-time, completing 60 credits per year over a three-year period. Typically, this translates to 16–20 hours of study per week.

You can also complete this qualification in two years by studying three modules concurrently each year. If you wish to stay at this faster rate, you’ll need to devote 32–40 hours each week to your studies.

The recommended hours include time to work through that week’s online study planner, complete recommended reading, and attend tutorials.

There is no time limit within which you must complete the MSc in Mathematics.

At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.

As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.

Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:

Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.

Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.

For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.

See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.

Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:

The Open University provides advice and guidance to help students who have disabilities, long-term health conditions, specific learning difficulties or mental health difficulties.

For more information, visit our Disability support page.

Discover how the OU’s Disability Support Team helps students with advice, adjustments and resources.

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:

Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.

You should normally have a minimum of either:

If you don’t have such a qualification, your application will still be considered, but you may be asked to complete an entry test. Non-graduates will not normally be admitted.

Whatever your background, you should assess your suitability by completing our diagnostic quiz.

If you’re new to postgraduate study in mathematics, start with at least one of the following modules: Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) or Analytic number theory I (M823).

The fees and the funding information shown below relate to the 2025/26 academic year and are for guidance only.

Modules starting in the 2026/27 academic year are open for pre-booking, which means you can reserve your place ahead of the fees being confirmed.

We’ll publish updated 2026/27 fees and funding information on the 25th of March.

You’ll pay for your qualification one module at a time, rather than the full cost upfront. Since module fees can vary, the total cost of the qualification will depend on the modules you choose. The fee for each module is listed in its description.

£8,730–£8,800*

Your module materials, tuition, assessment and exams are all included in our module fees.

There are some additional costs that aren’t included.

Further information is available in the module descriptions.

*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

Learn more about postgraduate loans and our other funding options below.

Repay in monthly instalments while you study.

Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.

More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.

We’ll show you how you can pay by bank transfer or combine payment methods.

You may be eligible for:

Mathematics postgraduates can be found throughout industry, business and commerce, in the public and private sectors. Employers value the intellectual rigour and reasoning skills that mathematics students can acquire, their familiarity with numerical and symbolic thinking, and their hallmark analytic approach to problem-solving.

There are a variety of reasons for studying mathematics at postgraduate level. You may want a postgraduate qualification to distinguish yourself from an increasingly large pool of graduates. You may find that your undergraduate mathematical knowledge is becoming insufficient for your career requirements, especially if you are hoping to specialise in one of the more mathematical areas, which are becoming more sought after by employers. Or you can move on to a PhD in Mathematics. The range of opportunities is vast, and mathematics postgraduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required for jobs in fields such as finance, education, engineering, science, and business, as well as in mathematics and mathematical science research.

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

This qualification is open for prebooking. Select the module you will study first, read its full description, and follow the instructions to reserve your place. We’ll contact you when you can complete your registration.

Ask a question

Our prospectuses help you choose your course, understand what it's like to be an OU student and register for study.

Request a prospectus