Statistical Data Science

University College Dublin

Ireland, Dublin

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University College Dublin

Ireland , Dublin

Key Facts

Program Level

Master by Course Work

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake Deadlines25-Sep-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 16 month(s)

Tuition Fee

EUR 22,530 / year

Next Intake 25-Sep-2026

Statistical Data Science

About

The goal of the UCD MSc Statistical Data Science is to train the new generation of data scientists, by empowering them with a broad range of foundational and applied skills in statistics and machine learning. On completion of the MSc Statistical Data Science, you will be able to demonstrate in-depth understanding of statistical concepts, apply advanced statistical reasoning, techniques and models in the analysis of real data and employ technical computing skills. The MSc Statistical Data Science is ideal for students interested in data science careers in industry, business, government, or to those interested in pursuing a subsequent PhD in statistics or in related areas.
The programme trains students in both applied and theoretical statistical data science, and prepares them well for a career as research data scientists. A wide variety of taught modules provides a thorough grounding in statistics and machine learning. Compulsory modules are intended to ensure that all students have appropriate statistical knowledge and experience, while optional modules provide depth and exposure to the diverse range of statistical methods and applications. In addition, students take a supervised research module where they develop an individual project that addresses a present-day statistical problem.

In this programme, you will learn how to design, use and interpret a variety of statistical modelling tools, combining the fundamental theory of statistics with modern computational techniques. The programme is underpinned by several thematic areas:

Data Science: in several of our modules, you will tackle on modern real-world problems, using a variety of advanced techniques that are common in statistics and machine learning. Modules examples: Statistical Machine Learning, Data Mining, Advanced Predictive Analytics.
Computing: you will learn how to design and implement efficient algorithms, through various data science programming languages and software that are commonly used in industry and research. Modules examples: Data Programming, Optimisation, Machine Learning with Python.
Fundamental theory: you will cover the fundamental aspects of mathematical statistics and learn how this is used in data science to develop new methods and concepts. Modules examples: Mathematical Statistics, Multivariate Analysis, Stochastic Models.
Communication: you will learn how to study and interpret statistical analyses, and also how to effectively communicate your conclusions. Modules examples: Technical Communication, Applied Statistical Modelling, Dissertation.

You will have the flexibility to choose your modules from a wide range of statistics topics. In addition, you will take a final dissertation module which provides you with the chance to work extensively and individually on a statistical problem, with potential industry applications or research novelty.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

This programme is intended for applicants who hold a degree in Statistics or a cognate subject area. An upper second class honours, or international equivalent is required.

Those who have been awarded an upper second class honours or higher in the Higher Diploma in Statistics are eligible for the programme.

Alternatively students may qualify for enrolment for the four semester MA in Statistics which brings them to the same level as the MSc in Statistical Data Science.

Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.

Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s Pre-Sessional or International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes. Please see the following link for further information http://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/

School of Mathematics and Statistics Application Process FAQ

These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

English Program Requirements

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Taught Master's: A minimum overall score of 7.0 over all components and a minimum of 6.0 in each band on the Academic Version. The non-academic version is not accepted.

Research Programmes: A minimum overall score of 6.5 over all components and a minimum of 6.0 in each band on the Academic Version. The non-academic version is not accepted.

IELTS Indicator: A minimum overall score of 7.0 over all components and a minimum of 6.0 in each band. This test will be accepted for 2022/23 and 2023/24 intake.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Taught Master's: A minimum score of 100 is required in the Internet based TOEFL (iBT) with a score of at least 20 in each section.

Research Programmes: A minimum score of 90 is required in the Internet based TOEFL (iBT) with a score of at least 20 in each section.

TOEFL iBT Home: A minimum score of 100 is required with a score of at least 20 in each section.

Duolingo Test of English (DET)

UCD has approved the use of the Duolingo Test of English (DET) for the 2024/25 intake.
An overall score of 130 will be accepted with no section below 110.

Please note that this does not apply to the CEMS MiM / MSc in International Management. In the case of the CEMS MiM the Duolingo English Test will not be accepted.

Career

The MSc Statistical Data Science graduates typically pursue careers related to data science as research data scientists, data analysts, and data engineers.
As the demand for data scientists is growing, career opportunities exist in a variety of industries including pharmaceutical companies, banking, finance, government departments, risk management and the IT sector. A number of past students also embarked on a career in academia by proceeding to study for a PhD in statistics, data science, or related fields.
MSc Statistical Data Science graduates are currently working for companies such as Google, Western Union, AIB, Norbrook, Ernst & Young, Novartis, Deloitte, Meta and Eaton. Demand for our MSc Statistical Data Science graduates continues to be very strong both in Ireland and abroad.