Why study this course?
Working under the supervision of experts and leading researchers in the field, you will gain a sound understanding of the statistical foundations of modern methods in statistical ecology, the skills to use these methods effectively, and experience of applying them to real-world problems.
- Learn key statistical concepts and methods used in statistical ecology
- Work with staff at the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), who have more than two decades of experience developing, applying and teaching methods in statistical ecology
- Gain a solid statistical foundation before taking specialist modules later in the course
- Have the option of a placement with partners in the UK and abroad as part of a supervised summer research dissertation
- Choose from flexible dissertation formats, which can include producing a podcast, web page, field report, training materials, or a short film
Teaching
A mix of lectures, one-to-one discussion, seminars and small group tutorials.
Class sizes
Typically from 15 to 50 students.
Dissertation
Flexible formats suited to your strengths or interests.
Assessment
A mix of exams, coursework, tests, presentations, research essays and a research project.
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
Statistical skills are highly valued in ecology and conservation. The course is excellent preparation for a career as a scientist in:
- government environment agencies
- industry
- consultancies
- wildlife, conservation, and environmental organisations
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.
The Careers Centre also offers one-to-one guidance to all students from career choice through to application feedback, as well as bespoke workshops, global vacancies, employer connections, and practical experiences.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development.
Elevate your career
Graduates from Mathematics and Statistics MSc programmes have gone on to work in a variety of organisations, including:
- Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
- NatureScot
- SEED Madagascar
- Nature Conservation and Study Centre (Nepal)
Further your education
The MSc is taught by members of the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), and graduates may continue their education by enrolling for a PhD within CREEM or within statistics, biology, wildlife, ecology, or conservation departments in St Andrews or worldwide.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support, gives you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, and one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
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.
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
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 and including relevance of previous degree or experience along with details of 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: 4 March 2025
