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If you are talented at maths, want to study it further and learn how to use your analytical abilities in a range of careers, statistics may be for you. Statisticians work in finance (some as actuaries) computing, management (some as operational researchers) and medical fields. You’ll study maths in-depth, how to use statistical computer software and ways to apply statistics to solve a range of problems.
Here's a guide to what to expect from the application process - also check individual university entry requirements, as these may differ.
January application
October application
Personal statement
Portfolio
Interview
Entry test
Work experience
Audition
Personal statement advice
Whatever subject you're studying, here are 10 things to be certain to include in your Ucas personal statement to get the attention of university admissions tutors...
The business and research sectors worry that the UK hasn't got enough people with good statistics skills, and as stats are at the heart of so much of the economy, and we only have a few hundred graduates a year in the discipline, this type of degree can be very useful and versatile. More than half of statisticians who are working following graduation go to work in finance, and they're far more likely to be working in London than most other graduates. And who can blame them – statistics graduates starting work in London were earning an average of over £28k just six months after leaving university. There is also demand from the Scottish finance sector in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Last year, statisticians starting work in Scotland were earning nearly £26k on average after six months – less than in London, but perhaps better off overall than their counterparts south of the border when you factor in lower living costs.
Business, research and administrative professionals
Average graduate salary
£26k
HIGH
% of graduates in work or further study
97%
MED
Longer term career paths
Jobs where this degree is useful
Actuary
Management consultant
Statistical modeller
Other real-life job examples
Investment banker
IT business analyst
Economic forecaster
What employers like about this subject
A degree in statistics can give you subject-specific skills like the ability to analyse and interpret complex numerical data; the ability to approach problems rigorously and to formulate and apply theories to solve them and high level IT skills. Transferable skills from maths degrees include project management, problem-solving, team-working and, ideally, communication skills. Some careers in statistics, particularly in research, are likely to need a postgraduate qualification. Employers who recruited statisticians last year included all parts of the finance industry (especially banking, insurance, accountancy and consultancy), the IT industry, schools, the Civil Service, and manufacturing.
