About the MSc programme
The MSc Data Science provides training in data science methods, emphasizing statistical perspectives. You will receive a thorough grounding in theory, much of it at a high mathematical level, as well as learn technical and practical skills of data science, enabling you to apply advanced methods of data science and statistics to investigate real world questions.
Your core courses will provide you with comprehensive coverage of some fundamental aspects of data, computational techniques and statistical analysis. You will then choose courses from a range of optional modules ranging from Distributed Computing for Big Data and Statistical Computing, to Financial Statistics and Probabilistic Methods in Risk Management & Insurance. The programme will combine traditional lectures with computer lab sessions, in which you will work with data to complete hands-on exercises using programming tools.
The capstone project or dissertation will assess your ability to take on large-scale data-based problem solving, providing a realistic example of the challenges faced in big data settings by the kinds of organisations for which the MSc programme provides natural training.
Your application
If you are applying for this programme, please note the following specific requirements for your personal statement.
Your personal statement should clearly 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. Applicants coming from a background other than mathematics or statistics should give further explanation of how their background is relevant to the programme applied for and further details of their current studies is necessary. Personal statements for the Taught Masters programmes should be concise and should not exceed the following word limits:
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For MSc Data Science: Up to 500 words in total
However, please note if you are applying for the following combinations of programmes as your first and second choices:
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MSc Statistics/MSc Statistics (Financial Statistics)/MSc Statistics (Social Statistics)/MSc Data Science and Risk & Stochastics:
You must submit a separate personal statement for each programme, adhering to the appropriate word limit as set out above.
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MSc Statistics/MSc Statistics (Financial Statistics), MSc Statistics(Social Statistics)/MSc Data Science/MSc Risk & Stochastics and another related programme which allows a longer word limit:
You must submit a separate personal statement for each programme, ensuring that you adhere to the appropriate word limit for each.
Programme details
A list of courses for this programme in the Programme Regulations section of the current School Calendar will be available shortly.
You must note however that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, some circumstances may cause the School to subsequently change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to circumstances outside of its control. You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee places on its courses. You should visit the School's Calendar, or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the Updated graduate course and programme information page.
Graduate destinations
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. Graduates of the MSc are awarded Graduate Statistician (GradStat) status by the Royal Statistical Society.