Why Study/Key Benefits

The Master of Science (Statistics) is a research-focused postgraduate qualification for students who want advanced statistical knowledge and the ability to undertake in-depth statistical research. Massey describes Statistics as the science of evidence, allowing researchers to quantify risk, analyse uncertainty and support evidence-based decisions.

Key benefits include:

• Advanced understanding of statistical theories and quantitative methods.
• Development of skills for conducting robust statistical analyses.
• A strong research orientation, with the degree available by thesis only.
• Access to academics undertaking research in areas including statistical quality control, geophysical hazard modelling, systems biology and transportation science.
• Exposure to a multidisciplinary scientific environment.
• Preparation for further research, including possible PhD study.

Programme Structure and Subjects/Topics

Unlike a taught master's programme, the Statistics MSc is structured primarily around research and thesis work.

The current programme page lists 120 credits of thesis study:

• 161897 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 – 60 credits
• 161898 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 – 60 credits

The alternative 120-credit thesis course is:

• 161899 Thesis – 120 credits

The thesis involves supervised and guided independent research leading to a substantial scholarly work.

The research topic is developed with an approved supervisor. Possible Statistics research areas are connected to Massey's active research strengths, including:

• Statistical quality control
• Geophysical hazard modelling
• Systems biology
• Transportation science
• Quantitative statistical analysis
• Statistical modelling
• Research involving uncertainty and risk.

Disciplines/Specialisations

The selected specialisation is:

• Statistics

The MSc in Statistics is itself a specialised research qualification rather than a programme offering multiple named sub-specialisations.

The wider Statistics research field can encompass areas such as:

• Statistical modelling
• Statistical quality control
• Biostatistical applications
• Geostatistics
• Data analysis
• Risk and uncertainty
• Computational and applied statistics.

Programme Highlights

• Master of Science specialising in Statistics.
• Postgraduate research qualification.
• 180 credits for the standard MSc.
• Statistics is a thesis-only subject.
• At least 120 credits of the Statistics programme are devoted to the thesis.
• Auckland, Manawat? and distance/online study options.
• International students can study on campus in New Zealand or online outside New Zealand.
• Requires a B-grade average in the relevant Statistics Honours or postgraduate qualification.
• Requires an approved research supervision plan and suitable supervisor.
• Strong links with active statistical research.
• Provides a pathway toward further research such as a PhD.

Career Outcomes

Massey notes that Statistics skills can be applied across almost any industry and identifies opportunities in areas such as:

• Business and economics
• Engineering
• Marketing
• Computer science
• Data mining
• Business analytics
• Physical sciences
• Health and medicine
• Genetics
• Clinical trials
• Epidemiology
• Pharmacology
• Government
• Census and public-sector analysis
• Law and national defence
• Agriculture
• Ecology
• Forestry
• Animal population research.

Latest Updates/Special Requirements

The current programme information confirms several important requirements for prospective students:

• The Statistics MSc is currently thesis-only.
• A relevant Bachelor of Science with Honours or Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology with at least a B average is required.
• A suitable research supervisor must agree to supervise the proposed research.
• An approved research supervision plan must accompany the application.
• Official transcripts from other universities must be supplied.
• Massey can require a research-methods course where the student's previous qualification does not provide adequate research-methods preparation.

International Student Visa Requirements

An international student who intends to physically undertake the MSc in New Zealand will generally require a Fee Paying Student Visa, unless another visa category applies.

Immigration New Zealand currently requires applicants to have:

• An offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Sufficient funds to pay tuition fees or an applicable scholarship.
• Sufficient funds for living costs or an acceptable sponsor.
• Acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Required health and character documentation.
• A genuine reason for studying in New Zealand.
• Evidence that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.