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Take a deep dive into statistical theory and its practical applications.

People are using information technology to gather and analyse more data than ever. Studying postgraduate Statistics, you’ll gain advanced expertise in data analysis, discover meaningful patterns in data, and use your insights to guide effective decision making.

You’ll master statistical techniques that will equip you to work in many fields, including biology, medicine, the social sciences, engineering, physics, business, finance and economics.

Available qualifications

Real-world connections

Take advantage of the University’s links with the many government departments, research institutes, and businesses based in the capital. Staff and students are involved in research collaborations with organisations including Statistics New Zealand, the Department of Conservation, Contact Energy, GNS Science, and the Accident Compensation Corporation.

This gives you the chance to build your professional networks and to apply your learning to real-world data. The insights you provide can help make New Zealand and the world a better place.

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I love that I get to combine statistics and marine biology. It’s exciting to apply what I’ve learnt to real-world data.

Yuki Fujita

MSc in Statistics student

Full story

Studying in the School of Mathematics and Statistics, you’ll work with inspiring academics recognised for their research and teaching, many of whom have won awards for their work. You’ll get a wide range of research opportunities, thanks to the School’s success in winning grants.

Choose the qualification that suits

You can concentrate on coursework through the Postgraduate Diploma, follow the research path through an Honours or Master's degree, or you can fast-track your professional career in statistics with the one-year Master of Applied Statistics.

Research topics

View your options for thesis topics and supervisors and get more information about research areas for Statistics at the University.

Careers

There is a growing demand for mathematical and statistical expertise due to the increasing volume of data worldwide, and an appreciation of how this can inform better decision-making.

You’ll be able to work in a diverse range of sectors and organisations. You might join a data science company, research institute, medical research team, government department, market research firm, insurance company, bank, or university.

Our recent graduates work in research, analysis, policy, and management in the education, finance, government, IT, and science sectors. More specifically, graduates have taken on roles as actuaries, meteorologists, risk analysts, and statisticians. They’ve worked in computer-generated imagery development, fisheries management, and digital games, as well as in a range of creative and research organisations.

Community

Postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, University staff, and future colleagues.

Join a school that attracts students and staff from around the world, bringing a lively multicultural atmosphere. You’ll have opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops, and social functions.

The Postgraduate Students’ Association can give you information on study at the University and provides a voice for you on campus.

Wellington is a creative, diverse, and vibrant city. Take advantage of the research opportunities offered by the many organisations based in the capital and relax after a day’s study, enjoying its beaches, bush walks, and busy nightlife.

Scholarships

If you're doing Honours or the first part of the Master’s by coursework and thesis, you can apply for the Wellington Graduate Award.

You can apply for the Wellington Master's by Thesis Scholarship if you’re doing a full-time research-focused Master’s.

If you’re doing a PhD, you can apply for the Wellington Doctoral Scholarship.

You can look for scholarships based on your level of study, subject area, and background.

Tutoring

You can apply for work as a tutor or marker (sessional assistant) for undergraduate classes. Apply online or contact Steven Archer or David Cox for more details.