One of the aims of the Rough Science TV series is to encourage you to take a fresh look at some of the science that's going on around you, and to give you a better appreciation of the scientific principles behind what you see.

If watching the series and reading some of the articles in this booklet have whetted your appetite, you might like to consider registering for one of the science courses offered by the Open University.

The Science Faculty offers more than 30 highly rated courses in science, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. There are also a range of short courses designed as 'tasters' for other Open University science courses. We currently have around 20 000 students studying science with us. They range from people with little or no science background to some who already have science qualifications.

Courses are available at undergraduate level, covering a wide range of subjects from astronomy and planetary science, biology, chemistry, Earth sciences, environmental science, health and human sciences, physics, to science matters of general interest. All our courses provide local, personal support for the student in the form of a tutor appointed to give (optional) tutorials, mark assignments and guide students through the course.

SCIENCE DIPLOMAS
Open University science diplomas currently on offer are:

• Diploma in Natural Sciences
• Diploma in Life Sciences
• Diploma in Molecular Science
• Diploma in Geosciences
• Diploma in Physical Science

HONOURS DEGREES
Open University undergraduate Honours degrees available at present are in Natural Sciences, or Natural Sciences combined with:

• Life Sciences
• Molecular Science
• Geosciences
• Physical Science
• Environmental Studies

HIGHER DEGREES WITH THE OU
The Science Faculty’s postgraduate programme offers a number of taught MSc modules, as well as part-time and full-time research studentships.

The taught MSc is available to students who have completed their undergraduate studies. It offers an opportunity to explore an exciting range of broad scientific topics, either as stand-alone courses or as part of the MSc.

MSc modules currently available are:

• Science and the Public
• Communicating Science
• Imaging in Medicine
• Issues in brain and behaviour

Within the Science Faculty there are a number of world-class research groups and academics, and the link between research and undergraduate courses is a strong one. Research on volcanoes, astronomy and planetary sciences, the brain, fat, the chemistry of drugs and pro-drugs, and catalysts are just a few examples that give an idea of the range of research undertaken at the OU.

Content last updated: 05/09/2006