MSc Statistical Data Science (International Master's)

The International Master’s in Statistical Data Science develops your practical, statistical and computing skills to prepare you for a professional career in statistics or as a solid basis for further research in the area.

Overview

The programme has been designed to provide a deep understanding of the modern statistical methods required to model and analyse data. You will benefit from a thorough grounding in the ideas underlying these methods and develop your skills in key areas such as practical data analysis and data modelling.

It has been accredited by the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) and equips aspiring professional statisticians with the skills they need for posts in industry, government, research and teaching. It also enables you to develop a range of transferable skills that are attractive to employers within the public and private sectors.

Students whose mathematical and statistical background is insufficient for direct entry on to the appropriate programme, may apply for this course. The first year of the programme gives you a strong background in statistics, including its mathematical aspects, equivalent to the Graduate Diploma in Statistics. This is followed by the MSc in Statistical Data Science.

Teaching and assessment

The programme is assessed by coursework involving: complex theoretical questions, analysis of real-world data using appropriate computing packagse over a range of areas of application; written unseen examinations. In the second year, there is also a substantial dissertation.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

• give you the depth of technical appreciation and skills appropriate to Masters’ level students in statistics
• equip you with a comprehensive and systematic understanding of theoretical and practical statistics, and their uses in finance
• develop your capacity for rigorous reasoning and precise expression

Careers

Students often go into careers as professional statisticians in industry, government, research and teaching but our programmes also prepare you for careers in other fields requiring a strong statistical background. You have the opportunity to attend careers talks from professional statisticians working in industry and to attend networking meetings with employers.

Recent graduates have started careers in diverse areas such as the pharmaceutical industry, financial services and sports betting.