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If you enjoy complex data analysis, our Statistical Data Science MSc is for you. Learn the blend of statistical theory and data science techniques, and you’ll be in high demand.
Our course prepares you to integrate and apply your knowledge of statistics and data science. You'll be able to analyse, interpret, and provide well-reasoned solutions to complex challenges, making you invaluable in the statistical data science field.
You'll be well equipped for roles in finance, healthcare, technology or government where data-driven insights are key to decision making.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
Join us on this 1 year full-time programme comprising of taught modules during terms 1 and 2 followed by a Summer Dissertation. The taught modules are assessed using a combination of coursework and end of year examinations for taught modules.
You'll take a combination of 60 credits of compulsory/optional modules across various areas of Statistical Data Science. All examinations will take place during the May/June main examination period.
You'll attend 2 weekly lectures and 1 fortnightly guided study session for each 10 credit module equivalent. There are also regular MSc group tutorial meetings.
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Master diverse programming techniques and machine learning methodologies tailored for real-world applications. We blend core knowledge with practical skills, preparing you to communicate complex statistical concepts and work independently. With a variety of modules, you can specialise and delve into advanced topics, ensuring you're well-equipped for today's competitive job market.
Birmingham is ranked 80th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 12th amongst UK universities.
A curriculum richly augmented with contemporary computational techniques.
Delivered by leading figures in the realms of data science and statistical learning.
Our world-class research and a vibrant, global student community are at the heart of our School of Mathematics. You'll take part tutorials and projects to consolidate your learning. In the third term, you'll work with your personal supervisor to conduct a research project.
This programme is a 1 year full time taught masters degree (180 credits) consisting of 120 credits of taught modules and a 60 credit research project. The dissertation is completed under the direction of a project supervisor which will give you the opportunity to work one-to-one with a leading expert in their field.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Bayesian Inference and Computation | 20 | Semester 2 |
Data Visualisation | 10 | Semester 1 |
Deep Learning 1 | 10 | Semester 1 |
Foundations of Statistical Inference | 20 | Semester 1 |
Largescale Optimization for Machine Learning | 10 | Semester 2 |
Statistical Data Science Project | 60 | Full term |
Statistical Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 2 |
Statistical Modelling | 20 | Semester 1 |
Select 10 credits. Examples of options are below.
If you have already taken Applied Statistics during your undergraduate studies then you will not take the compulsory module Statistical Machine Learning.
Also, if you have already taken Statistical Methods in Finance and Economics during your undergraduate studies then they will not take Statistical Modelling, therefore you are to select alternative modules from the following list in order to have a total of 180 credits:
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Advanced Machine Learning | 10 | Semester 2 |
Computational Statistics | 20 | Semester 1 |
Deep Learning 2 | 10 | Semester 2 |
Medical Statistics | 20 | Full Term |
Nonparametric Statistics | 10 | Semester 2 |
Numerical Methods and Numerical Linear Algebra | 20 | Full Term |
Stochastic Processes | 20 | Semester 1 |
Time Series and Prediction | 10 | Semester 2 |
Staff profile for Dr Xiaocheng Shang, School of Mathematics, University of Birmingham
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
In Mathematics and/or Statistics or a programme with advanced mathematical and/or statistical components.
This programme is aimed at students who have previously completed an undergraduate degree with significant mathematical or statistical content and who wish to pursue postgraduate studies to a master level.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Graduates with an MSc in Statistical Data Science are in high demand for their expertise in data analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning, and big data technologies. You'll be trained in sought after techniques, making you highly attractive for careers in finance, healthcare, technology, and government, where your data-driven insights will be key to decision-making.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.