This module explores the theory of error-detecting and error-correcting codes. In particular, it investigates their constraints and bounds and introduces various linear and nonlinear codes and associated encoding and decoding procedures. You’ll analyse the structure and properties of these codes, investigate links between the theory of error-correcting codes and other mathematical structures, and examine the applicability of codes to real situations. You’ll also examine a wide variety of codes, including some constructed from other mathematical structures, and look at the concepts of optimal and perfect codes.
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| Start |
End |
Fee
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Register |
| 04 Oct 2025 |
Jun 2026 |
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| Registration closes 11/09/25 (places subject to availability) Click to register
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This module is expected to start for the last time in October 2031.
What you will study
The module is based on the set book A First Course in Coding Theory by R. Hill (Oxford University Press).
You will learn
Successful study of this module should help you to identify appropriate methods for the exchange of information while protecting against transmission errors and ensuring confidentiality. More generally, it should also enhance your skills in communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly, thinking logically and expressing problems in mathematical language.
Entry
You must have passed (or be studying in parallel) one of the following modules:
Preparatory work
You should have some knowledge of linear algebra. Pure mathematics (M208), Mathematical methods (MST224) or Mathematical methods, models and modelling (MST210), and some experience of pure or applied mathematics at third-year honours level should provide adequate preparation.
All teaching is in English and your proficiency in the English language should be adequate for the level of study you wish to take. We strongly recommend that students have achieved an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of at least 7. To assess your English language skills in relation to your proposed studies you can visit the IELTS website.
Qualifications
M836 is an option module in our:
If you have a disability
The material contains small print and diagrams, which may cause problems if you find reading text difficult.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our disability support pages.
Study materials
What's included
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
- a week-by-week study planner
- course-specific module materials
- audio and video content
- a specimen exam paper with solutions
- assessment details and submission section
- online tutorial access
- access to student forums.
You’ll also be provided with printed course notes, which includes a narrative to accompany the module text, additional exercises and solutions.
Computing requirements
- Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer. It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
- Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
- Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
- Operating systems – Windows 11 or latest supported macOS. Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10 as of 14 October 2025.
- Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
- Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended. Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.
Materials to buy
Set books
- Hill, R. A First Course in Coding Theory Oxford University Press £60.00 - ISBN 9780198538035
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
Throughout your module studies, you’ll get help and support from your assigned module tutor. They’ll help you by:
- Marking your assignments (TMAs) and providing detailed feedback for you to improve.
- Guiding you to additional learning resources.
- Providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content.
The module has a dedicated and moderated forum where you can join in online discussions with your fellow students. There are also online module-wide tutorials. While these tutorials won’t be compulsory for you to complete the module, you’re strongly encouraged to take part. If you want to participate, you’ll likely need a headset with a microphone.
Assessment
The assessment details can be found in the facts box.
Students also studied
Students who studied this module also studied at some time:
Future availability
Coding theory (M836) starts every other year – in October.
This page describes the module that will start in October 2025.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2031.
How to register
To register a place on this module return to the top of the page and use the Click to register button.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations which are available on our
Student Policies and Regulations website.