MSc in Statistical Science Graduate Open Day – 31 October 2018

MSc in Statistical Science The MSc is a 12-month full-time taught master’s degree running from October to September each year. The course has a particular focus on modern computationally-intensive theory and methods.

Aims The MSc aims to train you to solve real-world statistical problems: choose an appropriate statistical method to solve a given problem of data analysis implement the analysis on a computer communicate your results clearly and succinctly.

Structure Main topics: applied and computational statistics statistical machine learning theory of statistical inference Teaching: lectures and problems classes practical sessions in the computer lab report writing and dissertation supervision

Assessment The MSc is made up of: Two exams (each worth 25%) Assessed practicals (25%) Dissertation (25%)

Timetable Courses in terms 1 and 2 (Oct-Dec and Jan-Mar). Exams in term 3 (Apr-June) – usually mid-late May. Assessed practicals at various points in terms 1, 2, 3. Dissertation project (3 months) – mostly after the exams until early-mid September.

Term 1 = Michaelmas Term Algorithmic Foundations of Learning [These are the 2018-19 courses, future years may differ.] Core courses: Applied Statistics Foundations of Statistical Inference Statistical Programming Optional courses: Probability and Statistics for Network Analysis Graphical Models Stochastic Models in Mathematical Genetics Algorithmic Foundations of Learning Actuarial Science

Term 2 = Hilary Term Core courses: Computational Statistics [These are the 2018-19 courses, future years may differ.] Core courses: Computational Statistics Statistical Machine Learning Bayes Methods Optional courses: Advanced Topics in Statistical Machine Learning Advanced Simulation Methods Topics in Computational Biology

Most lectures are shared with 4th year undergraduates (doing Maths and Maths & Stats degrees) and the MSc in Math Sci (OMMS). BUT practicals, problems classes, supervision, practical feedback, etc, and all assessments are separate. In particular, the MSc has more practicals and a more substantial project. Statistical Programming is not available to students on these other courses. Most students are expected to do 4 courses per term (3 core + 1 option) though you can do additional options if you wish.

Applying Official transcript(s) CV/résumé Personal statement (up to 2 pages) References/recommendation letters (3 overall, at least 2 academic)

Personal statement Explain your motivation, your relevant experience and education. Summarise your background as it relates to applying for the MSc. Summarise the advanced mathematical and statistical content you have covered (or are in the process of covering).

Application deadlines 12 noon UK time (midday) on: Friday 16 November 2018 Friday 25 January 2019 Friday 1 March 2019

Entry requirements A first-class or strong 2.1 result (or equivalent) in a degree course with advanced mathematical and statistical content. However, entrance to the course is very competitive, most on-course students have first-class degrees (or equiv). There is an English language requirement if your first language is not English. For prerequisites, see MSc FAQs: http://www.stats.ox.ac.uk/study-here/taught-postgraduate/msc-in-statistical-science/msc-faqs/ including the PDF document about prerequisites.