About this course
Learn the theory and application of statistical methods on this MSc Applied Statistics degree at the University of Southampton. Gain in-depth knowledge and skills in analysing large-scale data to solve problems. You'll graduate ready for a career as a statistician in a wide range of sectors, from government to medicine.
On this UK statistics master’s course we’ll teach you how to collect and analyse quantitative social science data and apply it to real-world problems.
Through your choice of modules you’ll be able to adapt the course to your personal interests or career plans.
Typical subjects include:
- survey methods and design
- survey modelling (multilevel, longitudinal, linear)
- analysing complex data sets
You’ll benefit from the research of our expert academics, whose findings feed directly into the course content. Our main areas of expertise at Southampton include:
- sampling
- small-area estimation
- census and administrative data
- analysis of ‘big data’
We’re known for the expertise and international scope of our research and for the application of cutting-edge quantitative and qualitative methods.
We host the National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM), which provides training and capacity building as well as carrying out its own research programme.
Flexible study
If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:
- a part-time master's - study the same course content over 2 or more years
Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Olga Maslovskaya, Lecturer in Social Statistics and Demography within Economic, Social and Political Sciences. Her research interests include survey research, survey methodology, social statistics, quantitative research methods and demography. Read Dr Maslovskaya's staff profile to find out more about her work.
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in a relevant subject such as:
- statistics
- quantitative analysis
- maths
- economics (with emphasis on econometrics)
- physical sciences
- social sciences (with emphasis on quantitative methods)
- geography (with emphasis on quantitative methods)
We’ll also consider non-graduate qualifications, such as the Graduate Diploma of the Royal Statistical Society. Details of statistical training will help us assess your suitability.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
You’ll study for a full 12 months, from September to the following September.
In the week before the start of semester 1, you’ll attend a 4-day induction course which will introduce you to our computer and library facilities.
For the first 9 months (semesters 1 and 2) you’ll study the taught part of the course. This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.
Exams take place at the end of semesters 1 and 2.
You’ll spend the last 3 months of the course working independently on your research project and dissertation.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2020-21
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
You must also choose from the following modules:
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- seminars
- group work
- projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- essays
- a dissertation
- presentations
- seminar discussions
- written exams
Dissertation
You’ll start your supervised research in June and submit a 15,000-word dissertation in September. This will be on a subject of your choice, to be agreed with your tutor.
The dissertation is a chance for you to show in-depth knowledge of a chosen topic.
Past topics include:
- statistical methods for social networks
- multilevel models of class context on voters at the 1983 General Election
- estimation of pay distributions from new earnings survey data
- comparing asset with money metric-based measures of poverty in Malawi
You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process.
Academic Support
You’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Careers
This degree will qualify you to work as a statistician in a range of sectors, including:
- government
- medicine
- social research
- private sector data analytics
You’ll also be in a great position to continue your studies at PhD level.
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £19,850.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
UK students
Applications must be received no later than 4 weeks before the start of the course. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.
International students
We recommend you apply at least 6 weeks before the start of the course to ensure you're able to meet our requirements and apply for a visa in time.
We cannot guarantee students who do not meet these deadlines will be able to begin their course.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
