Why study this course?
This course is a rewarding next step for those with a foundation in quantitative elements who wish to gain statistical data analysis skills.
- Gain skills in high demand by the commercial analysis sector
- Work with leading business partners during your studies
- Advance your knowledge of widely used software packages such as Python and R
Teaching
A mix of short, intensive courses and more traditional lectures.
Class sizes
Typically from 15 to 50 students.
Dissertation
MSc students complete a dissertation project during the final three months, often in collaboration with companies and other external bodies.
Assessment
A mix of continuous assessment and end-of-semester exams.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
Graduates typically go on to work as analysts within a company, research body, government, or as statistical consultants.
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. Our Careers Centre can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development.
The University's Entrepreneurship Centre offers start-up support for those looking to freelance as well as create their own business.
Elevate your career
Recent graduates have found employment in large consulting firms and major financial institutions including:
- American Express
- Goldman Sachs
- Scottish and Southern Energy
- Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
Further your education
The MSc in Applied Statistics and Datamining prepares students for further postgraduate studies in statistical data research, and many graduates of the programme continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews or elsewhere.
Accreditation
Graduates of the MSc programme can apply to the Royal Statistical Society for the professional status of Graduate Statistician (GradStat) without the need for further examination.
Why St Andrews?
The School of Mathematics and Statistics has active research groups in:
- Applied Mathematics
- Pure Mathematics
- Mathematical Biology
- Statistics
Events
There are a number of different seminars held each week in the School of Mathematics and Statistics. These include:
Pure Mathematics
- Pure Mathematics colloquia
- Analysis Group Seminars
Statistics
- Statistics seminars
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling seminars
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
“The highlight of studying here is meeting people from all over the world, making lifelong friends and exploring the picturesque town of St Andrews. Don't hesitate to take the opportunity of gaining academic training from knowledgeable and passionate lecturers while experiencing a unique student life.”
- Paphos, Cyprus
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2:1 undergraduate Honours degree in a STEM subject or equivalent professional experience. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- Demonstrable interest or experience in statistical data analysis in an academic or professional setting.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- a one-page personal statement directly addressing entry requirements, including relevance of previous degree or experience and your interests in statistical analysis
- a CV with a history of your education and employment to date
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
- two original signed academic or professional references, ideally one academic reference and a professional reference if experience is to be considered
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £25,900
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 5 March 2025
