Statistical Science

The MSc in Statistical Science will aim to train you to solve real-world statistical problems. When completing the course you should be able to choose an appropriate statistical method to solve a given problem of data analysis, implement the analysis on a computer and communicate your results clearly and succinctly.

The MSc offers a broad high-level training in applied and computational statistics, statistical machine learning, and the fundamental principles of statistical inference. Training is delivered through mathematically demanding lectures and problems classes, hands-on practical sessions in the computer laboratory, report writing and dissertation supervision. You will have around three months to work on your dissertation with guidance from your supervisor.

You will be assessed on your performance in two written examinations around May, through your work in the assessed practical problems set during the year, and by the quality and depth of your dissertation.

Students take four, or exceptionally five, courses each term. Three courses each term are core courses and students must complete the practical sessions in these courses.

Course modules

The options available will vary from year to year. The core courses available each year may also vary. In 2019-20, the core courses are:

• Applied Statistics
• Foundations of Statistical Inference
• Statistical Programming
• Computational Statistics
• Statistical Machine Learning
• Bayes Methods.

In 2019-20, the options are:

• Stochastic Models in Mathematical Genetics
• Probability and Statistics for Network Analysis
• Algorithmic Foundations of Learning
• Advanced Topics in Statistical Machine Learning
• Advanced Simulation Methods
• Actuarial Science.

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Statistics and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances, a supervisor may be found outside the Department of Statistics.

Graduates of the MSc find employment in financial, economic, governmental, scientific and industrial areas. The MSc can also be a useful stepping stone for doctoral studies, with around a third of students on the course taking this route.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. In certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information, please see our page on changes to courses.

Other courses you may wish to consider

If you're thinking about applying for this course, you may also wish to consider the courses listed below. These courses may have been suggested due to their similarity with this course, or because they are offered by the same department or faculty.

All graduate courses offered by the Department of Statistics

Mathematical Sciences MSc

Modern Statistics and Statistical Machine Learning EPSRC CDT

Statistical Science MSc

Statistical Science PGDip

Statistics DPhil

Statistics MSc by Research

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Entry requirements