The two Departments of Mathematics & Statistics, and Computing, are constituent parts of the Faculty of Mathematics, Computing and Technology (MCT) which was formed on 1 October 2007 from the former Faculty of Mathematics and Computing and the former Faculty of Technology.

The MCT Faculty is part of The UK Open University (OU) - the acknowledged world leader in providing university education to part-time adult students using supported open learning and distance learning. The University has more than 220,000 students, reaching them wherever they live or work. The OU has a national centre at Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, 10 regional centres, and 3 'Nation Region' centres in Wales, Ireland and Scotland where more than 700 tutorial venues providing a strong local presence. Our open and distance learning modules and qualifications are very highly rated by students.

If you are thinking of studying Mathematics, Statistics or Computing subjects, this site can point you towards possible modules and programmes of study. But you might welcome some guidance before you start browsing too deeply. You can also review the 'Our Study Programme' area on this site. You will also find it useful to contact us through one of our local offices if you want to discuss your options.

• Mathematics and Statistics - Undergraduate:
  If you are new to Undergraduate Mathematics, start with our 'Maths Choices' website. However if you think you may wish to commence your study with a module at Level 2 or 3, then you are advised to contact your local OU Regional Centre for further advice. If you are interested in studying Statistics, then look at our 'Stats Choices' website.

• Mathematics Education:
  If you want to become a Teacher of Mathematics in schools, please look at the University's 'Teaching Mathematics' and 'Becoming a Teacher' pages.

• Mathematics and Statistics Study Skills
  We have prepared a website which is intended for Post Foundation students, though it can be used by anyone with an interest in studying Mathematics. Maths Study Skills Website.

• MSc Taught Masters in Mathematics:
  For Postgraduate students who want to continue their mathematics studies by delving more deeply into particular aspects of pure and applied mathematics, look at our Taught Master's information and also our Pathways in the Mathematics MSc. To help you determine whether you have sufficient mathematical background to enrol on the MSc in Mathematics programme, in particular module M820 The Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus which is designed as a general introduction to the MSc programme, we have developed a Diagnostic Quiz.

• Computing - Undergraduate:
  If you are looking for guidance on a suitable path through our Undergraduate Computing modules, look at the University's Computing and ICT pages first. Most students find that they need relatively little previous background in computing to start studying on the programme.

• Computing - Postgraduate:
  Our Postgraduate Computing website provides information to help you consolidate your computing skills and knowledge while you work.

People choose to study for many reasons - to further their careers, to make up for missed opportunities, to pursue a personal interest or simply to flex their minds.

Around 27,000 students study Maths and Statistics or Computing undergraduate and Masters modules written and presented by the two Departments. They work at a distance using supported Open Learning techniques. These students are supported by over 1400 locally based Associate Lecturers as part of the OU's integrated open learning approach using a range of methods including face-to-face tutorials, computer conferencing, email and telephone contact.

The two Departments of Computing and Mathematics and Statistics,are home to around 170 staff.

We work closely with other areas of the University to offer coherent Programmes of Study and Named Degrees - including the Faculty of Science, and the Open University Business School. Follow the 'Our Study Programme' link above to find out more.

Research
We collaborate with the Institute of Educational Technology, the Knowledge Media Institute, the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Education and Language Studies. Full-time and Part-time students work on Postgraduate Degrees and on Research projects in the Faculty. Follow the 'Our Research' link above to find out more