What is Statistics?
Statistics in the practice of collecting and analysing numerical data, usually in large quantities, for research purposes. Students interested in careers in statistics will study principles such as sample size, standard deviation, and application of statistical data in their courses.
What 3rd Level Courses are Available?
- Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in the following subject areas:
- Mathematics – the abstract science of numbers, space, and change.
- Statistics – the practice of collecting and analysing numerical data.
- Physics – the study of the nature and properties of matter and energy.
Studying Statistics in College
Most first year study involves an overview of the subject. This will offer students an introduction to the foundational principles of statistics including algebra, data collection, and number theory.
In subsequent years of study, students will combine practical work, written exams, and projects as benchmark assessments of their course progression.
Most undergraduate Statistics courses run for three or four years and in certain cases universities will facilitate work experience.
It is common with all science-based subjects that students are expected to engage in a high number of contact hours with lecturers and tutors, ensuring their successful completion of a rigorous curriculum and preparing them for careers in Statistics after university.
A bachelor’s degree is adequate for some non-research jobs. For example, graduates with a bachelor’s degree may start working as accountants, information technologists, or in business.
Career Options
Graduating from college with a degree in Statistics will serve you well as it equips you with a unique and marketable skill set. A science degree teaches students to think critically and creatively as well as equipping them with invaluable problem solving and communication skills.
Many recent graduates have gone into ‘entry-level’ careers in Statistics working as actuaries, financial advisers, and data analysts.
Other careers in Statistics that require a higher degree of responsibility will typically require further education, training and/or experience to qualify for, eg teaching, research and consulting positions.
Related jobs include:
- Actuarial Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Financial Risk Analyst
- Investment Analyst
- Statistician
- Business Analyst
- Economist
- Insurance Underwriter
- Accountant
Further study
An undergraduate Statistics degree is often the first step to go onto further postgraduate study often involving specialization in particular fields and areas of Statistics and/or undertaking work in new, sometimes interdisciplinary fields.
Visit postgrad.ie for more information.
FAQ
- What points do I need to study Statistics?
- Different courses and different colleges will have different entry requirements. It’s always best that you check with the individual higher education institution which is available on their websites. As a general rule Leaving Cert students should have a minimum of six subjects which should include: Two H5 (Higher Level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary Level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English.
- Many universities also require a Leaving Cert grade H3 in Mathematics.
- Are there any particular qualities you need to study Statistics?
- Students interested in careers in Statistics will need to enjoy math and science as well as their application in the real world. They will need to be innovative, creative, and collaborative as well as being able to communicate their own ideas and opinions.
- Where can I study Statistics?
- Explore your options here
Did You Know?
- Hong Kong consumes more eggs per capita than any city in the world at 20.4 kg per 1,000 inhabitants!
- The average American citizen generates nearly 5 pounds of trash on a daily basis!
- Globally, only about 20% of people wash their hands after using the restroom!
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