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Statistics for Data Science at Birkbeck, University of London - UCAS

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2025 - 2026
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Course summary

Our Graduate Certificate in Statistics for Data Science introduces you to methods for the practical implementation of various types of statistical analysis, firmly grounded within the context of the underlying statistical theory and associated mathematics. It is ideal if you are looking to upskill quickly in the theoretical underpinnings and practical implementation of the kinds of statistical analysis that are often required in the practice of data science. It will give you the confidence to ask the right questions when presented with a statistical analysis to check through, and to carry out such an analysis by yourself using a high-level statistical programming language. The philosophy that underpins the training given on this course is that of being both rigorous and applied. You will gain an understanding of some of the main statistical methods that are used in data science and will be able to apply these techniques to the analysis of real-world data sets. You will gain a thorough grounding in the use of R. The course regularly attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds and professions, such as banking, dentistry, investment fund management, local and central government, medicine, retail and teaching. A number of entrepreneurs have gone on to successfully found and run their own statistical consultancies. Highlights

  • A quick way to upskill in the theoretical underpinnings and practical implementation of the statistical analysis required in a large number of data science settings. Rigour, attention to detail, and nuance in particular, are strongly emphasised within the course.
  • Ideal as a way to top up existing knowledge, as preparation for further graduate study or as a stand-alone course.
  • The course can be used as an entry qualification onto our MSc Applied Statistics courses if you have a first degree in a different field and need to gain the requisite expertise in statistical science and mathematics.
  • Our researchers in this area regularly offer insight and expertise to inform business, contribute to economic success and develop groundbreaking technologies.
Careers and employability Graduates can pursue career paths in data collection, research, and analysis, modelling and forecasting. Possible professions include:
  • data analyst
  • data scientist
  • statistical scientist
  • statistician.
We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Modules

For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.

Assessment method

Coursework makes up 20% of the assessment of both modules. The rest of the assessment is by examinations taken in the summer term.

How to apply

International applicants

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree with some introductory statistics as part of it plus A-level mathematics (or equivalent). Some combination of the Birkbeck modules Calculus 1 and/or Probability and Statistics, each of which must be passed with a mark of at least 60, may be offered in lieu of parts of the standard entry criteria. These modules can be studied at a fee which is pro rata that of the BSc Mathematics. A student application link can be sent to you upon request. Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £3900 Year 1
Northern Ireland £3900 Year 1
Scotland £3900 Year 1
Wales £3900 Year 1
International £6780 Year 1

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Statistics for Data Science at Birkbeck, University of London - UCAS