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Graduate (Taught)
Application code:G3U3
Department of Statistics

MSc Statistics (Social Statistics) (Research)

Get high-level training in the theory and application of modern statistical methods, with a focus on methods commonly used in the social sciences.
Discover what it's like to study statistics at LSE.

Overview

Introduction

The MSc Statistics (Social Statistics) (Research) aims to provide high-level training in the theory and application of modern statistical methods, with a focus on methods commonly used in the social sciences.

You'll gain insights into the design and analysis of social science studies, including large and complex datasets, study the latest developments in statistics, and learn how to apply advanced methods to investigate social science questions.

The programme includes two core courses which provide training in fundamental aspects of probability and statistical theory and methods, the theory and application of generalised linear models, and programming and data analysis using the R package. These courses together provide the foundations for the optional courses on more advanced statistical modelling, computational research and statistical computing. Options also include specialist courses from the Departments of Methodology, Geography and Social Policy. You'll also complete a dissertation on an approved topic of your choice.

The research stream is similar to the MSc Statistics (Social Statistics) nine-month programme but involves a compulsory dissertation which replaces one unit's worth of optional courses and extends the length of the programme to 12 months.

Entry requirements

Upper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline, including a substantial amount of statistics and mathematics.

Please select your country from the dropdown list below to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Overseas

English language requirements

The English language requirement for this programme is Standard. Read more about our English language requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this does not guarantee you an offer of a place.

However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out from other students.

Programme content

Year 1

You'll take two compulsory courses, and will choose between three options. In addition, you'll take courses to the value of two units from an approved list of options.

Why study with us

Discover more about our students and department.

Meet the department

The Department of Statistics at LSE is one of the oldest and most distinguished in the UK.

The department has an international reputation for the development of statistical methodology and a long history of pioneering contributions to research and teaching. Many of the world’s most famous and innovative statisticians have been associated with LSE.

Our research spans four main areas – data science, probability in finance and insurance, social statistics, and time series and statistical learning. The department has close links with the Data Science Institute at LSE – an interdisciplinary institute that fosters the study of data science, with a particular emphasis on the social, economic and political contexts.

All aspects of our research were ranked world-leading or internationally excellent in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021), submitted jointly with the Department of Mathematics.

The department’s research strengths are reflected in our teaching curriculum. We have a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and doctoral research opportunities – hosted in a vibrant department with a supportive and friendly community of staff and students.

Our alumni enjoy successful careers in diverse areas, such as banking, accounting, finance, statistics, government and business consulting while others pursue postgraduate study or research. Our alumni frequently return to LSE to share their career experiences with current students.

Learn more about our programmes and research.

Your application

Overview

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students. At LSE, we want to recruit students with the best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of background.

We carefully consider each application and take into account all the information included on your application form, such as your:

  • academic achievement (including predicted and achieved grades)
  • statement of academic purpose
  • two academic references
  • CV.

See further information on supporting documents.

You may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. See our English language requirements.

Personal statement requirements

Your statement should explain why you're pursuing your selected programme and why you've chosen LSE's Department of Statistics. Brief details of your academic background and aspirations are also useful. If your background is outside of mathematics or statistics then you should provide further explanation of how your experience is relevant to the programme applied for.

Your personal statement should be concise and should not exceed 1,000 words.

If you're applying for more than one choice in the Department of Statistics, it's recommended that you submit two separate personal statements. If the two programmes for which you're applying are very similar and you would prefer to combine the information in one statement then you may do so; however, please ensure that your statement clearly addresses your motivations for applying for each separate programme.

1+3 scheme

This programme is available as part of an ESRC-funded pathway onto a PhD programme. The 1+3 scheme provides funding for a one year research training master's linked to a PhD programme and is designed for students who haven't already completed an ESRC recognised programme of research training. An application must be submitted for the relevant master’s programme, including a research proposal for the PhD aspect of the pathway. Applicants must also indicate their wish to be considered for the 1+3 pathway within their personal statement.

Please note: The applications, intake and ratio values below include the MSc Statistics (Social Statistics).

48
Applications
4
Intake
12:1
2023 Ratio

Fees and funding

The table of fees shows the latest tuition fees for all programmes.

You're charged a fee for your programme. At LSE, your tuition fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It doesn't cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Home

£18,300

Home student fee (2025/26)

For this programme, the tuition fee is different for home and overseas students depending on their fee status.

Learning and assessment

How you learn

Graduate destinations

Overview

There is a high demand for graduates with advanced statistics training and an interest in social science applications, and students on this programme have excellent career prospects.

Potential employers include the public sector (the Office for National Statistics, government departments, universities), market research organisations, survey research organisations and NGOs. This programme would be ideal preparation for doctoral research in social statistics or quantitative social science.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

Financial and Professional Services
Information, Digital Technology and Data
Accounting and Auditing
Government, Public Sector and Policy
Insurance
This data is drawn from the 2021/22 Graduate Outcomes Survey, run by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and in full-time employment.

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