Course details

Summary

The Master of Science (MSc) normally takes 12-18 months of full-time study to complete. The degree requires 180 points, which is made up of 90 points in taught papers and a 90-point thesis (research project). This balance of theses to taught papers may be changed subject to permission from the graduate co-ordinator in your chosen discipline.

Study a MSc at Waikato University and you will enjoy more lab and field work, more one-on-one time with top academics and access to world-class research equipment. Our great industry contacts will also mean exciting collaborations with local, national and international companies and organisations.

This is an ideal degree for students wanting to improve their career opportunities, and seeking a qualification that is potentially not so research-heavy.

This qualification is taught at a level significantly in advance of undergraduate study, providing you with the challenges and knowledge needed to prepare for a successful career.

Statistics

Good Statistics graduates who can analyse the growing amount of data available to businesses and turn it into meaningful information are in high demand.

Statistical analysis is used to make informed decisions in most areas of human endeavour, such as agriculture, industry and commerce, law, medicine, forestry, psychology, insurance and economics. The current shortage of Statistics graduates and Statistical Analysts has opened up a vast array of opportunities for graduates. Working as a Statistician often involves working with people from other areas, such those listed above. You will often be acting as a ‘trouble-shooter.’

At the University of Waikato you will learn about the fundamentals of Statistics, such as the organisation and display of data, including the critical examination of the data sources. Modelling the variability in data to calculate the reliability of answers is also part of its science.

Waikato's statistical research reputation is significant. You could have the opportunity to work alongside our leading academics in innovative research such as statistical modelling and population genetics. We also offer all honours and graduate students the benefit of one-on-one interaction with supervisors who have considerable experience in teaching theoretical and applied statistics.

Statistics at Waikato is by no means an isolated study. Students are encouraged to complement Statistics with the other studies including the sciences or finance. Able students should also consider the flexible double major options in Statistics and Computer Science, or Statistics and Mathematics.

Career opportunities

• Biometrics
• Business Analyst
• Government Statistician
• Industrial Statistician
• Insurance and Finance
• Market Researcher
• Medical Statistician
• Operational Researcher

Entry criteria

Admission requires a relevant Bachelors level qualification or equivalent.

If you do not hold the appropriate qualifications required for direct entry, you may be eligible to apply for a pathway via a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma.

English language requirements:

IELTS - 6.5 overall (no less than 6.0 in writing); iBT (internet based TOFEL) - 90 with a score of 22 in writing; Pearson PTE Academic- 65 with English language requirements no less than 58 for each communicative skill; From Waikato Pathways College - Successful completion of Level 8 with a B grade average in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic (CAAE) programme.