This economics and mathematical sciences degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- In Stage 1 you’ll be introduced to the basics of economics, mathematics and statistics.
- Next, in Stage 2, you’ll study modules covering economics, statistical analysis and mathematical methods.
- Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll further advance your knowledge of statistics and economics and conclude your degree with a mathematics module chosen from a range of options.
Before you register it is essential to check you have the mathematical skills to study at this level. We have created two quizzes to help determine your mathematical level.
Mathematics is a linear subject – it is important to have a good understanding of the basics before moving on to more advanced topics. You’ll begin with an introduction to key mathematical ideas, ideal if you’re not confident with algebra and trigonometry; if you haven’t previously studied mathematics to an advanced level; or if you haven’t studied mathematics for some time and need to refresh your skills.
We recommend that you study Stage 1 over two years as it provides the underpinning knowledge and skills needed for more advanced study at Stages 2 and 3.
At Stage 2, you’ll study both macro and microeconomics as you explore contemporary economics issues and theories, apply statistical concepts to a variety of situations, and find out how real-world problems are transformed into mathematical models. You’ll use specialised software to help solve more difficult problems and to investigate case studies.
Your study of statistics continues as you work on real problems and data using statistical software. You’ll also learn about the economic theories and techniques used to explain the behaviour of people in different contexts before carrying out a small project. For your final module, you’ll choose from options covering advanced mathematical ideas, skills and methods in mathematics.
We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 18 March 2025.
Accessibility
Our qualifications are as accessible as possible, and we have a comprehensive range of support services. Our BSc (Honours) Economics and Mathematical Sciences uses a variety of study materials and includes the following elements:
- Online study – most modules are online; some have a mix of printed and online material. Online learning resources could include websites, audio/video, and interactive activities
- Pre-determined schedules – we’ll help you to develop your time-management skills
- Assessment in the form of short-answer questions, essays, and examinations
- Feedback – continuous assessment includes feedback from your tutor and using this to improve your performance
- Using and producing diagrams and screenshots
- Finding external/third-party material online
- Specialist software
- Mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
- Online tutorials
- Group-work
Every module has its own Accessibility Statement with more detailed accessibility information – you’ll find these on individual module descriptions. Visit our Disability support page to learn about our services.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Read the detailed learning outcomes here
Credit transfer
If you have already studied at university level, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – which could save you time and money by reducing the number of modules you need to study. At the OU we call this credit transfer.
It’s not just university study that can be considered, you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where and when and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details of when you will need to apply by and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
Classification of your degree
On successfully completing this course, we’ll award you our BSc (Honours) Economics and Mathematical Sciences.
The class of honours (first, upper-second, lower-second or third) will depend on your grades at Stages 2 and 3.
You’ll have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
International recognition
If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Find out more about international recognition of Open University qualifications.
Regulations
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.
There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification, but you must have the required mathematical skills.
You can start with Discovering mathematics (MU123) or Essential mathematics (MST124) depending on your current skills level. You can find out which module is your best starting point here and learn more about the topics they cover.
How much time do I need?
This depends on your level of prior knowledge of mathematics and, in general, we recommend that you build up your pace of study slowly to ensure you gain a good understanding of the more basic topics. How many credits you can complete in a year will depend on your study situation, and this qualification is designed to enable you to vary your study intensity from year to year.
- Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
- This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Find out if you have enough time to study with our time planner
Your full-time equivalent study intensity options in Stage 1 depend on which start you choose.
Default start
You cannot complete Stage 1 in one year. You may only begin Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) after you finish Discovering mathematics (MU123).
Intensive start
If you choose Fundamentals of accounting (B124) as your option module, you must begin in October to complete Stage 1 in one year. You may start your other Stage 1 modules at the same time (or the following February).
If you choose You and your money (DB125) as your option module, you can begin in October or February to complete Stage 1 in one year. You may start your other Stage 1 modules at the same time (or the following February if you start DB125 in October).
Preparing for study with an Access module
Students who start their study with an Access module are more likely to be successful when they advance to Stage 1 of their qualification. They’re specially designed to give you a gentle introduction to OU study, boost confidence in your study skills, and help you gain a broad overview of your chosen subject area.
You’ll also benefit from:
- feedback from your tutor through regular one-to-one phone tutorials
- support from a dedicated team throughout your study
- detailed written feedback on your work.
The Access module we’d recommend studying in preparation for this qualification is our:
Science, technology and maths Access module
What you will study
This multidisciplinary module is an ideal starting point if you have little or no previous knowledge of the sciences, technology and mathematics. It’ll help develop your study skills in advance of your OU qualification, and you get to explore a number of STEM subjects including science, engineering and design, environment, mathematics, and computing and IT.
View full details of Science, technology and maths Access module
Y033
Psychology, social science and wellbeing Access module
What you will study
This multidisciplinary module provides an excellent introduction to studying with The Open University; you'll get to cover a wide range of subject areas, including psychology, childhood and youth studies, health and social care, wellbeing, sport, education and social sciences.
View full details of Psychology, social science and wellbeing Access module
Y034
Skills for career development
On completion of this degree course you’ll be able to construct economic, statistical and mathematical arguments with appropriate and critical use of concepts, theories, models and evidence. You’ll also learn to use modern mathematical and statistical software, and how to carry out a research project using appropriate research methods. These skills are all in great demand in the workplace, and many are highly transferable and applicable to a variety of situations – whether you’re already working, volunteering or changing career.
Career relevance
Opportunities can be found across all sectors and in a number of occupations. Education, central and local government, finance, health and social care, law, the media, public services, campaigning and research are popular career choices.
Other careers include:
- banking
- politics
- journalism and broadcasting
- teaching
- social work
- accountancy
- business management
- advertising and marketing.
Other careers
Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
Exploring your options
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. This includes 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.
In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers will require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree:
- teacher
- journalist
- chartered accountant
- social worker
- economist
- politician
- advertising account manager
- actuary
- engineer
- statistician
- risk analyst
- public administrator
- research scientist
- lecturer
- corporate investment banker.