University College Dublin

MSc Statistics

Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 90)

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.


There are opportunities for MSc in Statistics graduates in industry, government, IT, economics and finance. On completion of this MSc in Statistics, you will have skills such as the ability to demonstrate in-depth understanding of statistical concepts, apply basic statistical reasoning, techniques and models in the analysis of real data and employ technical computing skills.


Ranked in the top 200 in the world in the QS World University Ranking, and is the only statistics group in Ireland to appear in this ranking.

• The UCD MSc in Statistics is fully accredited by the Royal Statistical Society.

• Wide range of possible taught modules available.

• Exposure to popular statistical software's.


Vision and Values Statement

This programme is aimed at students who have an undergraduate degree which has a strong focus on statistics and/or mathematics, and who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. The programme trains students in both applied and theoretical statistics, and prepares them 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. We expect our students to become autonomous learners and researchers capable of setting their own research agenda. They will be capable of solving relevant problems in the language of statistics. Our graduates will be in demand by employers and academic research institutes for their ability to use the tools they have learned to explain, describe and predict. We value students who are motivated to find the underlying causes and reasons for observations and patterns. We aim to provide a teaching and learning environment that develops confidence and independence through a wide variety of interactive formats, both inside and outside the classroom.


Programme Outcomes

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the key skills required by a practicing statistician, including data collection methods, statistical method development, analysis of statistical output

• Undertake excellent research at an appropriate level, using the statistical research skills learnt in the programme

• Demonstrate strong proficiency in mathematical and computational methods, including computer programming and scientific visualization

• Model real-world problems in a statistical framework

• Use the language of logic to reason correctly and make deductions

• Approach problems in an analytical, precise and rigorous way

• Work independently and be able to pursue a research agenda

• Give oral presentations of technical mathematical material at a level appropriate for the audience

• Prepare a written report on technical statistical content in clear and precise language.

• Undertake excellent research at an appropriate level, using the statistical research skills learnt in the programme

• Use the language of logic to reason correctly and make deductions

• Work independently and be able to pursue a research agenda