This module deals with the theory of error-detecting and error-correcting codes. In particular, it investigates their constraints and bounds, and introduces a wide variety of linear and nonlinear codes – together with 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 look at the concepts of optimal and perfect codes, and examine a wide variety of codes, including some constructed from other mathematical structures.
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No current presentation
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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
To study this module you must declare the MSc in Mathematics (or another qualification towards which the module can count) as your qualification intention.
Normally, you should have also completed at least one of the entry modules of the MSc in Mathematics (F04), Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820) or Analytic number theory I (M823).
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.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
Qualifications
M836 is an optional module in our:
This module can also count towards M03, which is no longer available to new students.
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 website.
Study materials
What's included
Module notes, other printed materials.
Computing requirements
You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11), or macOS (10.15 or higher).
Any additional software will be provided or is generally freely available.
To join in spoken conversations in tutorials, we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone).
Our module websites comply with web standards, and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.
Our OU Study mobile app will operate on all current, supported versions of Android and iOS. It’s not available on Kindle.
It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook. However, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you’ll also require a desktop or laptop as described above.
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 2023.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2031.
How to register
We regret that we are currently unable to accept registrations for this module. Where the module is to be presented again in the future, relevant registration information will be displayed on this page as soon as it becomes available.
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.