Programme in Statistics

Description: The MSc in Statistics at Imperial College London is a highly rigorous and comprehensive program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in statistical theory and methodology. This program covers a broad spectrum of topics, including probability theory, statistical inference, regression analysis, Bayesian methods, time series analysis, and computational statistics. Students will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and learn to apply statistical techniques to real-world problems across various sectors such as healthcare, finance, industry, and academia. The curriculum combines foundational theoretical concepts with practical data analysis skills, using modern statistical software and programming languages like R, Python, and SAS. Designed for graduates with a strong quantitative background, this program aims to produce graduates who are proficient in designing, analyzing, and interpreting complex data sets, enabling them to make informed decisions in diverse professional contexts. Throughout the course, students will undertake a variety of rigorous coursework, project work, and possibly a dissertation, providing hands-on experience in solving real-world statistical challenges. The program also emphasizes the importance of communication skills, ensuring graduates can effectively explain complex statistical ideas to non-specialist audiences. Imperial College London's reputation for excellence in science and engineering, combined with its vibrant and diverse academic community, provides an ideal environment for advanced study in statistics. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in data science, statistical consulting, research, or to pursue further academic studies. connections with industry partners and active involvement in research seminars offer valuable networking opportunities and practical insights into current challenges and innovations in the field of statistics.

PhD research can be either full-time, normally taking between three and four years, or part-time, which takes at least four years. PhD candidates fund their studies in a variety of ways.  UK and European Union students are eligible for EPSRC DTA (doctoral training account) awards, of which the Department has a limited number available for offer: these cover College fees and (for UK students) maintenance.  

Research groups:

• Astrostatistics
• Bayesian Methods and Computation
• Dynamic Networks
• Machine Learning, Data Mining and Big Data
• Publications
• Statistical Genetics, Bioinformatics and Biostatistics
• Statistical Theory and Applied Probability
• Statistics in Retail Financial Services
• Time Series, Spatial Statistics and Signal Processing

In order to carry out research in statistics, you have to apply to the College for admission as a research student in the Department of Mathematics, specifying Statistics as your desired field of research.  We do not expect you to arrive with a fully formulated research programme in hand, but you should put some thought into the kind of topic you might be interested in pursuing, for example by checking the current research of the faculty members in the section, as presented on their home pages.  Members of the section are very happy to have informal discussions with you about current research opportunities.

We maintain close links with industry, and many students have been funded by bursaries provided by external organisations in return for which they spend some time working on projects related to their research.  Other students are funded by scholarships provided by a variety of private foundations, or by funds derived from research contracts. Some candidates are self-funded. 

PhD research can be either full-time, normally taking between three and four years, or part-time, which takes at least four years.