MSc Statistics (Research)

The aim of the programme is to foster an interest in theoretical and applied statistics and equip you for work as a professional statistician. This degree offers students who enjoy statistics the opportunity to build on their interests and learn how to apply their knowledge in the real world by analysing and critically interpreting data, building statistical models of real situations, and using cutting edge programming tools and software packages.

The compulsory course will provide you with comprehensive coverage of fundamental aspects of probability and statistical methods and principles. It provides the foundations for the optional courses on more advanced statistical modelling, computational methods and advanced probability theory. Options also include specialist courses from the Departments of Methodology, Mathematics, and Economics. Below are some indicative pathways:

• Statistics route with a broad area of applications such as economics, research methodology and social sciences
• Route tailored towards computational statistics, machine learning and data science
• Route towards applications of statistics to econometrics and finance

The research stream is similar to the MSc 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.

In addition to the compulsory course, you'll complete a dissertation and further courses to the value of two and a half units from a range of options. Options include more advanced statistical modelling, computational methods, statistical computing and advanced probability theory, as well as specialist courses from the Departments of Methodology, Mathematics, and Economics.

Please note that starting from 2026/27, ST460 will replace ST425, with a corresponding change from whole to half unit, as well as changes to content and title. This change is already displayed below, and it'll be listed in the School's Calendar from August 2026, where the courses below are linked.

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.

Department of Statistics

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 (see further information below)
• 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.

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 have not 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.

Statement of academic purpose: specific requirements

Your statement should state why you want to do the programme applied for and why you have chosen LSE. 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; as well as further details of your current studies.

If you're applying to study on a part-time basis, please ensure that you address the following in your statement of academic purpose:

• your motivations to study part-time
• how you'll balance the demands of studying with part-time work (if applicable)
• confirmation that you have the support of your employer (if applicable).

Your personal statement should be concise and shouldn't exceed 500 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 are applying are very similar and you'd 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.

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

Applications for this programme are considered on a rolling basis. This means that applications will close once the programme is full.

There is no fixed deadline. However, if you’d like to be considered for any funding opportunities, you must submit your application (and all supporting documents) by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section below for more details.

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

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

All taught courses are required to include formative coursework which is unassessed. It's designed to help prepare you for summative assessment which counts towards the course mark and to the degree award. LSE uses a range of formative assessment, such as essays, problem sets, case studies, reports, quizzes, mock exams and many others. Most courses are summatively assessed by a two-hour exam in the Spring Term, although some contain an element of course work. The dissertation is an independent piece of research on a subject of your choice.

An indication of the formative coursework and summative assessment for each course can be found in the relevant course guide.

Students on this programme have excellent career prospects. Former students have taken up positions in consulting firms, banks and in the public sector. Many go on to take higher degrees.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

From CV workshops through to careers fairs, LSE offers lots of information and support to help you make that all-important step from education into work.

Many of the UK’s top employers give careers presentations at the School during the year and there are numerous workshops covering topics such as job hunting, managing interviews, writing a cover letter and using LinkedIn.

See LSE Careers for further details.