Applied Statistics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for UK Students

Applied Statistics is the use of statistical methods to solve real-life problems, particularly in fields like health, medicine and social sciences. A PhD in Applied Statistics involves a research project that intents to find solutions to problems identified in different field using the methodologies in the area of Statistics.

What’s it like to do a PhD in Applied Statistics?

Using your existing knowledge of Statistics and Maths, you’ll be working on a unique research project that offers significant contribution to the field. As a PhD student in Applied Statistics, you’ll find that what sets it apart from traditional Statistics is the focus on collaboration with other STEM subjects.

Some popular research topics in Applied Statistics include:

• Linear models
• Data mining and analytics
• Statistical process control
• Spatial statistics
• Statistical computing
• Longitudinal analysis s

Your research will probably focus on a particular real-world application of Statistics like in disease mapping, survival analysis or predictive modelling, among others.

You’ll find that most PhD programmes in Applied Sciences are advertised with a research objective already attached. This is the case for most STEM subjects. Even though it is not that common, some universities do consider applicants who want to propose their own research projects provided it meets the overall research objective of the department.

A PhD in Applied Statistics will require you to produce a thesis, around 80,000 words long, to be defended in an oral viva examination.

Entry requirements

A PhD in Applied Statistics will require you to have a Masters with either Merit or Distinction in a subject like Mathematics or Statistics. Some programmes might accept a degree in other fields of study as long as it had a significant mathematical component like Physics or Engineering.

You might also have to prove that you are proficient in the language of instruction at your chosen university.

PhD in Applied Statistics funding options

A PhD in Applied Statistics in the UK is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) which offers fully-funded studentships and a monthly stipend. PhDs which are advertised with it attached offer guaranteed funding if you are successful in your application. If you are proposing your own project, you’ll first need to be accepted by a university to be eligible for the funding.

PhD in Applied Statistics careers

The skills you’ll acquire while completing a PhD in Applied Statistics will definitely prepare you for a career in academia and research. If you don’t see yourself working as a research fellow or in academia, some of the largest employers of Applied Statistics doctoral graduates are firms in fields like finance, forensics and medicine.