Statistics

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These fee-paying OU Courses are organised in collaboration with police partners, into categories of interest for all police officers and staff. All courses, except the short course, are credit bearing, which when combined form part of an OU qualification.

Select the duration of study below and you will be taken to resources that match that duration

6 months (part time)

6 months (part-time)

Analysing data

This module explores basic statistical concepts for analysing and interpreting data. The emphasis is on the practical side. MINITAB and other software supplied with the module are used to analyse data and develop your understanding of statistical concepts. The module covers exploratory methods for data analysis, models for data, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, regression and two-variable problems.

Course Code: M248

Credits: 30

Introducing statistics

In this module you will learn how to use basic statistical tools and quantitative methods that are useful in most academic subjects. Topics covered include: summarising data; examining relationships; randomness and sampling distributions; probability; testing hypotheses; and estimation. You will learn practical statistical techniques and fundamental principles, as well as using software and a calculator to analyse data.

Course Code: M140

Credits: 30

Linear statistical modelling

This module covers statistical modelling where a response variable depends on one or several explanatory variables: such as how well patients respond to a treatment, given their age and disease severity. Taking a practical approach, you’ll use statistical tools to explore real problems and data to stimulate analyses and their interpretation. You’ll learn to use the most important methods of analysing data – a skill few people have.

Course Code: M346

Credits: 30

Practical modern statistics

The module introduces four major topics of modern applied statistics: medical statistics, time series, multivariate analysis, and Bayesian statistics. It’s ideal if you’ve already studied a general introductory statistics module and wish to broaden your knowledge of the field. The module emphasises underlying principles and practical applications rather than technical details.

Course Code: M249

Credits: 30

Science, technology and maths Access module

This access course introduces a range of subjects, including science; engineering and design; environment; mathematics; and computing and IT to prepare you for a wide range of qualifications. You’ll study a range of topics in three study blocks – Life, Water and Home. This module will also gently introduce you to computing and online learning; the perfect way to gain the study skills you’ll need for the next step in your studies.

Course Code: Y033

Credits: 30

News

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Evaluation of ‘WeMove’; a mentoring intervention to prevent young people becoming involved in organised crime and violence

Findings from an evaluation of 'WeMove'; a pilot that was funded by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to support children and young people aged 12 to 18 years impacted by serious and violent crime, either as perpetrators or victims. Central to WeMove was one-to-one support by trained mentors. The evaluation conducted by the Open University aimed to assess implementation and early impacts to evidence programme effectiveness.

13th March 2025