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 Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
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 all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- 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
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
This module introduces students to the main statistical modelling approaches that can handle hierarchical data structures. The module has mainly an applied scope where basic theory is introduced to ensure understanding. Practical computer sessions using M...
The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the finite-population inference and modelling approaches for survey data.
This module will provide you with guidance and support throughout the writing of your dissertation. From discussing your initial ideas of your dissertation through the process of actually writing the document, this module will provide you with the informa...
This module aims to introduce students to a wide range of statistical models grouped by the unifying theory of Generalized Linear Models: Linear, Logistic, Multinomial, Cumulative Ordinal and Poisson regression, as well as Log-linear models are presented,...
This module develops methods for conducting inference about parametric statistical models. The techniques studied are general and applicable to a wide range of statistical models, including simple models for identically distributed responses and regressio...
This module focuses on practical aspects of research communication skills including oral presentation, scientific report writing, and statistical and demographic consulting.
The aim of this module is to introduce you to the statistical aspects associated with the design and analysis of sample surveys, and to develop your understanding of the principles and methods used to design survey sampling schemes. Basic theory underpinn...
This module consists of lecturers and associated practical sessions. The first part will focus on basic statistical programming in R. The second part will provide an introduction to some modern computational statistical methods and their implementation in...
You must also choose from the following modules:
The module will cover a range of more advanced methods of demographic analysis, including multiple decrement life tables, health expectancies, an introduction to event history analysis, the use of type 1 and type 2 rates in demography and sources of bias ...
This Module provides an introduction to the technical basis of demography. It focuses on concepts and methods underpinning demographic analysis and provides a practical introduction for those professionally engaged with demographic work (in government de...
When planning experiments, it is essential that the data collected are as relevant and informative as possible. The statistical principles for the design of experiments include the choice of optimal or good treatments sets and appropriate replication of t...
This module introduces students to the main concepts involved in epidemiological analyses. The main epidemiological study designs are introduced and two lectures focus on methods used to analyse case-control studies whilst another two focus on cohort stu...
The aim of this module is to develop students' understanding of the nature of studies to monitor and evaluate intervention programmes, using examples from Government and other related areas. There is a particular focus on the contribution of statistical m...
This module introduces key sources of social science data (both UK and non-UK), and the measurement of key concepts using these data, within a range of substantive areas. In doing so it focuses on the analysis of a number of fundamental social issues – i...
This module will look at the dominant traditions in the philosophy of social science and how these have shaped substantive research within the study of the social sciences.
The syllabus for this 10 CATS module will cover an introduction to qualitative methods and a range of qualitative data collection methods. We will consider the defining characteristics of qualitative research and its epistemological underpinnings. The ...
Statistical genetics has played a pivotal role in the discovery of genes that cause disease in humans. This module introduces the basic concepts and terms in genetics and demonstrates the use of statistical models to identify disease genes in humans.
Students taking this module will gain first hand experience in the design and management of survey research projects.
This module introduces some of the fundamental ideas and issues of lifetime and time-to-event data analysis, as used in actuarial practice, biomedical research and demography Co-Requisite: MATH6122
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
Please add at the top of this page right after "fees, costs and funding" and make it in bold: The Department of Social Statistics and Demography can offer up to four scholarships of £2500 each for excellent UK (Home) students, to go towards paying the tuition fees for studying on our postgraduate programmes.
To qualify, you need to have a first-class degree in statistics, maths, economics with emphasis on econometrics, social sciences with emphasis on quantitative methods, geography with emphasis on quantitative methods and strong motivation to study Applied Statistics at the postgraduate level.
To apply, please send a 500-word statement of intent and research interests and a CV to the MSc in Applied Statistics Director Dr Olga Maslovskaya (om206@soton.ac.uk) by Friday the 9th of July. Successful applicants will be notified by Friday the 6th of August.
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £21,000.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
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
Make sure we receive your application at least 4 weeks before the start of the course. This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available.
International students
Make sure we receive your application at least 6 weeks before the start of the course.
This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available. It will also give you time to apply for a visa if we offer you a place.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for any postgraduate taught course that starts in or after September 2021.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, if you're applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree, or if you're applying for a PGCE course via UCAS, you will not need to pay the fee. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
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
