The goal of the MA Statistics is to train the new generation of Data Scientists, by empowering them with a broad range of skills in statistics and machine learning. Once completed, the MA Statistics brings students to the same level as the MSc Statistics: the degrees are equivalent. However, in contrast to the 1-year MSc Statistics, the MA Statistics is 16 months long, and it includes several fundamental statistics modules in it's core structure. These modules cover the fundamentals of statistics and data science and prepare students for more advanced modules.
The MA Statistics programme is aimed at students who have an undergraduate degree in a discipline with numerate skills, and who have covered some basic topics of statistics.
The MA Statistics programme is an EMOS (European Master in Official Statistics) labelled programme, which means that some students may have the opportunity to take modules and a project on official statistics, and potentially receive the EMOS certification of their degree. The EMOS MA Statistics also includes a research module, which is provided in the form of an internship at an institution whose work involves official statistics. The MA Statistics is the only EMOS accredited programme in Ireland and it is ideal for students who are interested in pursuing a career in official statistics, in Ireland or abroad.
The MA Statistics is ideal for students interested in data science careers in industry, business and government , and to those interested in pursuing a subsequent PhD in statistics or other areas related to data science.
Careers & Employability
On successful completion of the programme, students 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.
Career opportunities exist in a variety of industries including pharmaceutical companies, banking, finance, government departments, risk management and the IT sector. Some past students have embarked on careers in academia by proceeding to study for a PhD.
Graduates are currently working for companies such as Google, Western Union, AIB, Norbrook, Ernst & Young, Novartis, Deloitte, Meta and Eaton. Demand for our Statistics graduates continues to be strong both in Ireland and abroad.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
Expected October 2025
More details
Start date
1 September 2025
UCD College of Science
Room E1.09/E2.09,
UCD O'Brien Centre for Science - East,
BELFIELD,
Dublin,
Republic of Ireland
This programme is intended for applicants with a degree in Mathematics, Economics, Finance, certain Engineering degrees or similar quantitative disciplines where statistics has formed some component of the degree. An upper second class honours, or international equivalent is required.
Applicants who do not meet these requirements but can demonstrate an interest and ability in statistics may be considered.
Alternatively students may qualify for enrolment to the Higher Diploma Statistics from which they can gain entry to the 1-year MSc in Statistics.
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.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by Princeton University:
A minimum score of 600 in the paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL PBT), with Test of Written English at 475 +; a minimum score of 90 is required in the Internet based TOEFL (iBT) with a score of at least 20 in each section.
Cambridge Examinations: English language examinations administered by the University of Cambridge: 176+ on Cambridge English scale (with no less than 169 in each skill and use of English)
Acceptable Examinations:
Proficiency Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2).
Advanced Certificate, Grade C (i.e. CEFR Level C1 or C2)
First Certificate, Grade A (i.e. CEFR Level C1)
Pearson English Language Text: Minimum of 63 and at least 59 for each item of both skills profiles.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
UCD is the most international and diverse university in Ireland, and is the destination of choice for over 10,400 international students.