1. MSc in Statistical Science Graduate Open Day – 31 October 2018

2. 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.

3. 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.

5. 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

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

8. 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.

9. Term 1 = Michaelmas Term Algorithmic Foundations of Learning
[These are the 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

10. Term 2 = Hilary Term Core courses: Computational Statistics
[These are the 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

11. 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.

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

13. 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).

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

15. 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:
including the PDF document about prerequisites.