OSSU Math is a self-taught mathematics curriculum that provides a complete path to undergraduate-level mathematical education using free online resources.
The curriculum addresses the challenge of obtaining rigorous mathematical training outside traditional academic institutions. It solves this by curating high-quality courses from leading universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, organized according to undergraduate mathematics degree requirements. Courses are selected based on specific criteria: alignment with curricular guidelines, open enrollment, regular availability ideally in self-paced formats, and strong pedagogical quality. When suitable courses are unavailable, the curriculum supplements with textbooks. The structure assumes learners already have general education outside mathematics and focuses exclusively on mathematical content.
The curriculum suits self-motivated individuals with the discipline to study independently while drawing support from a community of fellow learners. It is designed to be completable in roughly two years with approximately eighteen to twenty-two hours of weekly study. The approach allows flexibility in how students engage: courses can be taken individually or in groups, in the prescribed order or customized based on prerequisites. Core Mathematics courses provide foundational requirements for all students, while Advanced Topics are electives where students select one course per topic area and then specialize deeply in one chosen area. Students can also design custom subjects with community validation. The curriculum acknowledges that some courses may charge fees for graded assignments, tests, or projects, leaving cost decisions to individual learners based on their circumstances.
The project maintains active community engagement through documented channels for getting help, including a FAQ and chatroom. Development is guided by a code of conduct and contribution guidelines, with clear policies about sharing coursework publicly that respect individual course agreements. The curriculum is regularly maintained to ensure courses remain open for enrollment and continue meeting quality standards. The project operates with transparency about its curricular philosophy, publishing detailed guidelines that inform course selection decisions.
