This course will introduce you to the mathematical skills, knowledge and terminologies required to study at a higher education level, while providing you with the opportunity to progress on to courses that require a higher level of Maths.
It bridges the gap for students who do not currently hold the suitable level or traditional entry qualifications in Maths to access higher education. It is also ideal for those who already have a range of qualifications or experience but may not have previously studied at university level. This course provides you with an opportunity to learn the skills taught at Maths GCSE/AS-level or equivalent, as well as introducing you to academic study skills that will help you with future higher educational courses.
You may also be looking to refresh your general Maths skills as part of your continuing professional development (CPD) or to enhance your career employability and work based skills.
Access to our undergraduate and postgraduate courses
If you are looking to complete a University of Derby Online Learning undergraduate or postgraduate course, we will accept this Introduction to Maths in Preparation for Higher Education Certificate of Credit as evidence that you are able to study at a suitable level of GCSE grade C, which will improve your eligibility for a number of our courses, providing you currently hold IELTS 4.5 and meet all additional entry criteria.
Although this course is not classed as a GCSE equivalent, completion of this course will demonstrate your ability to study at Maths GCSE/AS-level. We recognise that, upon successful completion of this course, you are able to meet the academic requirements required to study at higher education level for many of our undergraduate and postgraduate courses, providing you meet additional criteria.
Gain further skills with the Foundation Certificate in Higher Education
If you are also interested in improving your general English, Maths and study skills for entry into higher education, you may look to take this course as part of the Foundation Certificate in Higher Education. The Foundation Certificate in Higher Education is an online 60-credit, level 3 foundation course designed to provide you with the English, Maths and study skills required in order to study at a higher education (HE) level.
You can study all of the 20-credit modules individually if you chose to but, if you do them individually, they cannot be classed together as the Foundation Certificate. Each 20-credit module can be completed as a stand-alone award and you will receive a Certificate of Credit upon completion of any one of the following courses:
Enhancing your personal development plan (PDP)
This course is also a great way to update your personal development plan (PDP). You will be given the opportunity throughout the course to reflect on your progress through activities set in the academic skills module. The activities will help equip you with the required skills needed in the development of your digital literacy and communication skills and provide you with a foundation for future development in education.
Throughout the course, you will learn how to confidently approach mathematical calculations with whole numbers, decimals, percentages and fractions, the basics of Maths that will allow you to apply your knowledge to any given professional or personal scenario. You will be introduced to some of the fundamental topics within Maths, including statistics, investigations, data charts, data interpretation, correlation, probabilities, number sequences, problem solving, calculations, algebra and more.
The course will help you to:
- Identify and apply mathematical skills and competencies
- Interpret and analyse data
- Perform mathematical calculations with whole numbers, decimals, percentages and fractions
- Investigate and present Maths aspects of real-life problems using graphical and non-graphical methods
- Practice transferable Maths skills that are applicable to real work and personal life scenarios
We will advise you of your study plan when you are invited to enrol.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Pace of study
We recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.
Assessment method
This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports.
Student support and guidance
Whilst we encourage our students to become independent, life-long learners, we also recognise that offering the right support and guidance will help you to achieve your goals. There is a wealth of support available to you at the University, from your dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor, through to our:
All these services, and more, are available to you as an online student at the University of Derby.
English language qualification
International/European students will:
- Have graduated from secondary school in their country, demonstrating a basic level of English to benefit from the programme
- Have a minimum IELTS 4.5 or equivalent
Find out more about our English language requirements
Normally the entry qualification will need to be mapped to the UK equivalent course to ensure access to the appropriate programme level (with a view to progressing to undergraduate level and achieving 60 credits at level 3).
Non-standard entrants
If your qualifications do not match the standard criteria, it may be possible to access as a ‘non-standard’ entrant where there are equivalent/alternative qualifications. You will be required to submit evidence of work experience and have a discussion with the Academic Lead before being offered a place as a direct entrant to ensure that you have the necessary capacity for studying at level 3.
‡2023/24 for new entrants
Starting between September 2023 and August 2024.
| | Per 20 credits | Modules | Cost |
|---|
| UK/EU/International |
£840 |
1 |
£840 |
About your fees
This figure would be the total cost of this course in the current academic year. However, please note that fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase if your course lasts longer than one year.
However, please also note that you can receive a 5% discount if you either:
- Pay your full course fees upfront, or
- When enrolling in September, pay for all of your modules to be studied in that academic year upfront
How to apply
Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.
Students should apply directly to the University.
Apply now
For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.
Documents to support your application
In order for your application to be assessed, you will need to provide the following documents when you apply:
- Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
- Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*
*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:
- Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
- The date of the translation
- The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
- The translator’s contact details
A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.
Please note: failure to submit any documentation when requested, may result in your application being withdrawn.
Application deadlines
All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts. Take a look at information regarding applying for an online course to see full details of deadlines and term dates.
You will develop a range of transferable mathematical abilities through a range of activities and module content that will contribute to your continuing professional development.
Work based skills
Through completing the module within this course, you will gain a range of job-related skills that will assist in developing your study and career plans through the use of digital tools and activities. You’ll develop a broad range of real-life practical skills that can be applied throughout your career, such as communication skills, interpersonal skills and study skills.
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