Throughout the emphasis is on statistics as an applied subject, and a particular focus is the use of modern, computationally intensive methods. The language of statistical theory and methods, like any other quantitative science, is largely mathematical. In an applied statistics course it is appropriate that methods and applications are more prominent than mathematical theory, but students with a taste for attractive and challenging mathematics will find plenty to interest them. MSc students take written examinations in June and are also assessed on practical work as well as on a dissertation submitted by mid-September. After covering basic statistical methods, students can specialize in areas such as Complex Stochastic Systems , Medical Statistics , Economic and Social Statistics , and Operational Research .
Students gain experience in analyzing real data through weekly practical classes.
Some of the practicals from the first two terms are written up for assessment, and at the beginning of the third term students are given a week in which to complete a further set of assessed practical exercises. The dissertation is a description of work on an applied project, most of which is usually carried out after the written exams. All students are assigned a supervisor and receive supervision on both coursework and project work. The course usually attracts around 15 students from diverse academic and international backgrounds. A 9 month course leading to a Diploma in Applied Statistics is also available for students with a more practical background.