Ranking
Top 100
QS World Rankings 2025
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Course overview
Propel your career forward by tackling real world challenges through statistical analysis. Enhance your statistical problem solving by developing and applying sophisticated statistical models, and by using computational techniques and advanced statistical software.
Our course offers a blend of statistical theory and practical applications, preparing you for a wide range of careers in finance, healthcare, technology and government.
Course structure
The MSc is a 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 Statistics. 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 eqivalent. There are also regular MSc group tutorial meetings.
Course highlights
Study advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms tailored to various sectors including economics, medicine, finance, insurance, and industrial management. We blend foundational knowledge with practical skills to equip you for success in today's competitive job market. You'll be taught a wide range of modules, allowing you to explore advanced topics such as statistcal modelling and computational statistics.
- Benefit from mastering various statistical software packages for practical analysis, enhancing your ability to use various statistical methods in real world applications.
- Apply a range of statistical techniques to diverse and unfamiliar environments, adapting your skills to tackle novel challenges in various fields.
- Develop a deep understanding of statistical theory, gaining comprehensive knowledge of core concepts, theories, and methodologies essential for informed decision-making.
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.
Be empowered with interdisciplinary research and communication skills needed for a career in statistics.
Course delivery
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.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields.
- Receive tailored guidance and feedback in tutorials, enabling you to tackle specific challenges and enhance comprehension of the material.
- Participate in projects that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing your understanding and retention of concepts.
- Enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through practical assignments that will challenge you to tackle real-life issues independently.
Lecture
Tutorial
Projects
Practical assignments
Module information
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.
2025/26
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Bayesian Inference and Computation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Computational Statistics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Foundations of Statistical Inference | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Nonparametric Statistics | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Statistical Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Statistical Modelling | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Statistics Project | 60 | Full term |
| Time Series and Prediction | 10 | Semester 2 |
If you have already taken Applied Statistics during your undergraduate studies then you will not take the compulsory module Statistical Machine Learning.
Alos, if you have already taken Statistical Methods in Finance and Economics during you undergraduate studies you will not take Statistical Modelling, therefore select alternative modules from the following list in order to have a total of 180 credits:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Data Visualisation | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Deep Learning 1 | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Medical Statistics | 20 | Full Term |
| Numerical Methods and Numerical Linear Algebra | 20 | Full Term |
| Stochastic Processes | 20 | Semester 1 |
Entry requirements
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.
- 2:1 Honours degree
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.
English language requirements
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:
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
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.
Fees and scholarships
- £10,900
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.
Paying your tuition fees
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.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
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.
Scholarships
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.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
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.
Application process
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.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
"Your skills will be highly sought after in a diverse range of industries. Our course gives you specialist skills in data analysis, Predictive modeling and machine learning. This expertise is crucial in sectors such as finance, healthcare, technology and government especially as big data drives decision-making.
This broad spectrum of opportunities and the high demand for statistical expertise opens up a world of opportunities for statisticians in our data-driven world.
Play a play pivotal role in research, public policy, or the burgeoning fields of healthcare and pharmaceuticals, contributing significantly to clinical trials and drug development.
Technology companies and startups are increasingly reliant on graduates' skills for data optimisation and algorithm development.
Student experience
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.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Take a virtual tour
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.