Statistics and statistical expertise is needed in virtually any field of human activity - in business and industry, in government policymaking and for efficient operation of the public sector.

The availability of reliable, timely and properly interpreted economic data is important for the economy. Quality control and market research, both of which should rely on statistical methods, is important for the profitability of firms. Financial decision making relies on advanced statistical techniques to identify investment opportunities, optimize portfolios or guard against excessive risk. Government policy decisions regarding public health, criminal justice, social equity, education, economic policy and many other issues depend on the availability of statistical data and sound statistical analysis.

Research in the engineering and natural sciences requires careful statistical design and analysis of experimental, observational, and quality control studies. To the extent that uncertainty and measurement error are involved - as they are in most research - research design, data quality management, analysis, and interpretation are all crucially dependent on statistical concepts and methods.

Quality of life and health depend on the understanding of, and use of statistics in biomedical research. Appropriate choice of statistical methods is crucial for the evidence-based decision making process during diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Statistical analysis of occupational, environmental, or transportation issues is vital for promoting safety and efficiency. Sound statistical practice in the fields of sociology and psychology plays a role in promoting mental and social health. Epidemiology relies on statistical modelling to understand the factors that cause, prevent, and reduce diseases by studying associations between disease outcomes and their suspected determinants, e.g. environmental factors.

About the Programme

A focus on statistical practice and statistics as a profession is central to the program. Hence, one key component is the Statistical consulting modules where students meet practitioners and work on real projects. At the same time the program does not compromise on academic rigour and provides a good preparation for students who want to pursue a PhD degree.

The main goal of the program is that the students will gain a solid foundation in statistical theory, methods and practice. The students will be able to independently design and conduct statistical projects and act as statistical consultants to subject matter specialists.

Content

The program is taught entirely in English. The first year consists of required courses and provides a solid foundation in statistical theory and in some of the most frequently used statistical techniques. The second year consists of elective courses with focus on Biostatistics, Econometrics or Official Statistics/Sampling. The thesis work (corresponding to one semester of full time study) is initiated towards the end of the third semester when students take courses in parallel with the thesis work. This mode continues for the first half of the fourth semester whereas the second half is devoted solely to thesis work.

Programme Syllabus

Entry requirements

The applicant must have a Bachelor's degree (a Swedish Kandidatexamen) or equivalent academic qualifications from an internationally recognised university. The university has to be listed in the latest edition of the International Handbook of Universities.

The applicant must have proof of skills in English, the requirement is English course B. This is normally attested by means of an internationally recognised test, e.g. TOEFL, IELTS or the equivalent.

Specific entry requirements
The Bachelor degree must consist of 90 credits in statistics or 30 credits in statistics and 60 credits in mathematics.

Master's level English requirements and exemptions

Selection

The selection of students is performed by ranking the students fulfilling the admission requirements based on their academic merits: content, length, depth, grades and breadth of previous studies. An important factor for the selection is the degree project/independent project. Strong knowledge of English is a merit.

Application and documentation

Applications can only be made on the online application service.

Information about the online application process
Information about supporting documentation

Application deadline

January 17th, 2011

Start date

August 29th, 2011

Issuing department

Swedish Business School at Örebro University

Degree awarded

Degree of Master [Two Years] with a major in Statistics

Degree of Master [One Years] with a major in Statistics

Contact

For information about the programme, please contact the Swedish Business School at Örebro university.
E-mail:

If you have questions about the application procedure please submit your question by filling out the online questionnaire.