Who is the MSc in Statistics for?
The MSc in Statistics if offered by the School of Mathematical Sciences in UCD. The degree programme is aimed at students who have an undergraduate degree which has a strong focus on statistics and/or mathematics. The purpose of the degree programme is to provide highly numerate students with a thorough knowledge of statistics.
What will I learn?
The MSc in Statistics provides training in both applied and theoretical statistics, and prepares the student well for a career either in industry or in academia. The taught modules in the programme provide a thorough grounding in statistics; the (supervised) research project introduces the students to the area of statistical research. Additionally you will learn how to use to a wide range of statistical softwares.
How will I benefit?
Statistical knowledge has become vital in a wide range of areas as data collection has become quicker, easier and cheaper. Social science, biological science, ecology, economics and political science are just a few areas in which statistical skills are required.The MSc in Statistics will enable you to work as a statistician either in an applied industrial environment or in a research capacity. Key beneficial skills you will learn include data collection methods, statistical method development, analysis of statistical output and statistical research skills. Additionally, working as a statistician typically involves working with computers and you will benefit by being exposed to a wide range of popular statistical softwares.
What is the programme about?
The MSc in Statistics is specifically designed to provide students with a solid theoretical and applied statistical knowledge so that they can be employed either as an applied statistician or a statistical researcher on completion of the degree.
MSc Statistics
Students must select modules with a minimum total of 65 credits some of which are compulsory. The following modules are compulsory :
- MEEN 40670 Technical Communication (sem 1) (5 credits)
- STAT 40320 Mathematical Statistics (sem 2) (7.5 credits)
- STAT 40530 Applied Statistical Modelling (sem 2) (7.5 credits)
Optional modules offered vary from year to year and include:
Actuarial Statistics, Survival Analysis, Stochastic models with actuarial applications, Time Series, Multivariate Analysis, Monte Carlo Inference, Survey Sampling, Statistical Data Mining, Data Programming and Simulation Modelling and Analysis.
These modules are offered and examined at a higher level than for undergraduates. In addition students are required to do a Dissertation/Project (25 credits) under the supervision of a staff member.
Please click here for full module listings for the upcoming academic year.
Where can I go?
Career prospects on completion of the MSc in Statistics are excellent. Many past students embarked on a research career by proceeding to study to for a PhD in Statistics. Careers in industry are also plentiful and varied - a non-exhaustive list of current employers of past MSc in Statistics students include:
- global pharmaceutical companies (eg. Novartis).
- government agencies (eg. Teagasc).
- global financial institutions.
- Irish agricultural companies.
If English is not your native language, unless you have done your primary degree through English in an English speaking country, you must be able to demonstrate sufficient proficiency to undertake the MSc in English. The minimum requirement for English is an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each section or equivalent.
MSc in Statistics:
You will need at least a 2H1 degree (or equivalent) in Statistics or a cognate subject area for entry.
Interested students who do not qualify for direct entry to this programme may qualify by taking the Higher Diploma in Statistics in UCD (a distinction is required for entry to the MSc programme).
Opening date for 2013/2014 applications October 15th 2012
Closing date for EU and NON EU applications June 30th 2013
2nd closing date for (EU applicants only) 20th August 2013 (for programmes that still have places available only)
