Programme oversight is achieved by the Department's Teaching Committee which meets at least once per term to discuss course evaluation, programme reviews, examination performance and related issues. These discussions also form part of the annual programme monitoring exercise.
Undergraduate
There are three undergraduate programmes in Statistics: Actuarial Science; Business Mathematics and Statistics and Statistics with Finance. These programmes aim to: provide degree courses suitable for students of high quality, combining and relating mathematics, statistics, finance and social sciences, and prepare students for further study, or for professional and managerial careers, particularly in areas requiring the application of quantitative skills. By the end of their chosen programme of study, students should be able to show:
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Competence in the application of mathematical and statistical techniques (all ST and MA courses)
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A sound knowledge of the principles underlying standard applications in the relevant subject
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The ability to think in a critical manner
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Skill in making formal and informal inferences on the basis of statistical data (all ST courses)
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The ability to formulate and develop mathematical arguments in a logical manner
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The ability to understand, formulate and use quantitative models
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Skill in acquiring new understanding and expertise
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The opportunity to gain exemptions from some examinations of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries: This is done either through individual exemptions or through the accreditation system. For details see here [BSc in Actuarial Science only]
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Knowledge and ability in applications of mathematical and statistical techniques
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Competence in the use of statistical software
Taught Postgraduate
There are two MSc programmes in Statistics: Risk and Stochastics and Statistics. In addition, there is a Financial Statistics stream to the MSc Statistics programme which students can apply for. There is also the option to transfer to one of the research branches of the Statistics and Statistics (Financial Statistics) programmes. These programmes aim to provide students with intensive training in statistics; particularly in the areas applicable to their chosen programme and prepare them for further research in statistics or careers in business as professional statisticians or risk analysts depending on their programme of study. By the end of the programme students should be able to show
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Knowledge and understanding of advanced topics in statistics
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Advanced, critical understanding of the main theories and methods within the students’ chosen statistical specialisms
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Appreciation of current areas of research in chosen specialisms
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The ability to work independently, in planning and presenting of succinct, logical arguments and precise statistical analysis
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An advanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of a range of quantitative techniques for empirical research
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IT for general and academic purposes
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Research-report writing
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Oral presentation of research
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Competence in quantitative techniques to an appropriate level
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The ability to analyse and interpret data
For 2015-16, the department will be looking at ways in which the use of technology can enhance the effectiveness of assessment.