Further education (16-19)


Thinking about studying statistics at university? Don’t know which course to choose from? We’ll show you which degree courses involve statistics, what you need to do to apply, what to expect and the many exciting job opportunities a degree in statistics allows.

  • Why choose statistics?

    If you enjoy solving challenging problems, finding out what data really means and understanding ways in which we all make informed decisions, then a statistics or math based career is for you.

  • Where do I start?

    For most degrees leading towards a career in statistics, you need to do quite well at A-level mathematics (or the equivalent in other examination systems). As a professional statistician or mathematician, your skills can be applied in almost any area.

    There are limited opportunities to enter a statistical career as a school leaver as most organisations recruit graduates. Most employers require you to study a strongly based mathematics degree. So, a strong A2 level in mathematics (or equivalent) is likely to be an entry requirement.

    Alternatively, you can take any degree and later follow it up by taking an MSc degree in statistics. Usually your non-statistics undergraduate degree will be quite strongly mathematical or scientific.

    For higher level positions, you can study for a PhD and research in statistics.

  • Useful links

    See our Career Profiles and Types of job pages for the kind of jobs statisticians can do.